First15 Devotional

As we enter the middle of our series on God’s promises, today we’re going to look at his promise of freedom. Every day this world tries to chain us to its ways, holding us down where God is trying to lift us up. But in Jesus, we’ve been offered total and complete freedom. And in the Spirit we’re offered a continual pathway to exercise that freedom. Whether it’s fear, lust, pride, or something else, God has real freedom for you today in his presence. May chains break today in light of God’s glorious grace.Help keep First15 free!More from First15Read today's devotional or listen to today's worship song at First15.org/todayDownload the First15 appDonate to First15 at supportfirst15.orgShare a testimony or feedback at [email protected] First15 is a brand of Denison Ministries.

Transcribed - Published: 11 July 2024

As we reach the middle of our week-long focus on stirring up our affections for God, today we’re going to create space to simply delight in God’s love.Oftentimes focusing on the simple, foundational aspects of our relationship with God will produce more fruit than trying to journey beyond them. And I pray that God reveals his love in a tangible and fresh way today for you and me as we open our hearts to meet with him.More from First15Read today's devotional or listen to today's worship song at First15.org/todayDownload the First15 appDonate to First15 at supportfirst15.org First15 is a brand of Denison Ministries.

Transcribed - Published: 4 April 2024

As we continue our focus on simply stirring up our affections for God this week, today we’re going to take time to focus on the fact that God is present in our lives. Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, God is with you in and through it all. And his presence, his nearness is the foundation on which we are meant to live as his people. May we develop a greater sense of his nearness today and learn how we can live our life in light of the goodness of his presence.Download the First15 App!More from First15Read today's devotional or listen to today's worship song at First15.org/todayDownload the First15 appDonate to First15 at supportfirst15.org First15 is a brand of Denison Ministries.

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2024

As we arrive in the middle of this week-long focus on hearing from God, today we’re going to look at the role of Creation in God speaking to us as his children. Throughout human history mankind has gone to nature to get a deeper sense of the divine. And I believe that when we open our ears to hear what God is declaring to us through that which he’s made, we’ll find a wonderful avenue to stay in communication with our heavenly Father.May God reveal his heart today to speak through his Creation. And may our hearts be stirred to listen.More from First15Read today's devotional or listen to today's worship song at First15.org/todayDownload the First15 appDonate to First15 at supportfirst15.org First15 is a brand of Denison Ministries.

Transcribed - Published: 28 March 2024

God’s goodness over our lives far exceeds anything we’ve experienced. We’ve only yet splashed around in the shallows of God’s deep love and mercy. In order to dive deeper into the fullness of life available to us, we must learn how to posture our hearts. May your relationship with God be enriched this week as you position yourself to receive all your loving heavenly Father has to give.More from First15Read today's devotional or listen to today's worship song at First15.org/todayDownload the First15 appDonate to First15 at supportfirst15.org First15 is a brand of Denison Ministries.

Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2024

As we end our week today on abiding in the True Vine, today we’ll explore how to abide in God’s promised joy. What does it mean for us to walk in joy and be people marked by joy in this world? How do we even go about doing that? May we be filled afresh with joy today as we seek these answers out.More from First15Read today's devotional or listen to today's worship song at First15.org/todayDownload the First15 appDonate to First15 at supportfirst15.org First15 is a brand of Denison Ministries.

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2024

As we start to wrap up our week on different ways we are to abide in the true vine of God, today we’ll look at how God prunes us in his love. Discipline can often be a tricky subject, but it’s my hope our hearts would remain soft and open today as we remember how good and loving the God is that we serve.More from First15Read today's devotional or listen to today's worship song at First15.org/todayDownload the First15 appDonate to First15 at supportfirst15.org First15 is a brand of Denison Ministries.

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2024

Today we will look at what it means to be a friend of God. Friendship with God is a beautiful, sought after thing. And he has made his friendship fully available to us. What a gift! May you fall deeper in love with God today as you learn what it means to abide in God’s friendship.More from First15Read today's devotional or listen to today's worship song at First15.org/todayDownload the First15 appDonate to First15 at supportfirst15.org First15 is a brand of Denison Ministries.

Transcribed - Published: 1 February 2024

As we end our week on Jesus’s High Priestly prayer, today we’ll dive into his desire for us to know the Father’s great love. Knowing the love of God for us is essential to healthy Christian living. God’s love is fundamental to our identity as his children and the sacrifice of Jesus. If we aren’t rooted and grounded in the unconditional love of God, we will be like untethered buoys being tossed about in the sea. It may seem elementary that God loves you, but I’d encourage you to open your heart afresh to this reality, that God could reveal his love to you in a real and new way today. Our Scripture for today comes from John 17:25-26. Today's worship is Goodness of God by Jenn Johnson. Thank you so much for listening to our final podcast on Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer. I hope and pray that this week has encouraged you. Even now, Jesus sits at the right hand of the Father, and prays for us. God sees you right where you are, knows your triumphs and struggles, and looks at you with eyes of love. May the reality of Jesus’ prayer over you guide you into greater depths of relationship with God. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 10 December 2023

We live in the reality that there is both light and darkness around us at all times. This world has both good and evil, right and wrong. As believers we must grow in both our acceptance of this reality and our pursuit of the light. We must allow God to mold and shape us into those who rid ourselves of any darkness, become fully known to God, and allow his light to transform us into reflections of his Son. May the Lord open our eyes to see the glorious light before us this week. Our Scripture for today comes from Ephesians 5:14, and today's worship is Father of Lights by Elevation Worship. – Thanks so much for listening to today’s podcast! I’m Craig Denison, author of First15. My prayer is that as we focus on this week’s topic of light, God illuminates every part of our life that he could mold us more into his likeness. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 11 September 2023

Today we’re going to explore God’s healing for our past wounds and present scars. There is so much power in forgiveness, so much healing in reconciliation. May you find healing today for any wounds or scars you’ve been carrying, whether big or small. And may you find a greater measure of abundant life as the result of God’s presence and mercy. Our Scripture for today comes from 1 Peter 2:24, and today's worship is Healer by Casting Crowns. – Thanks so much for listening to today’s podcast on God’s desire to heal past wounds and present scars. How amazing is it to have a God who sees our need, and meets that need, with his compassion and love. Before you go, I want to encourage you to take just a few moments to reflect on what the Lord did in your heart today. Reflect on the reality of his healing. And let that time of reflection spur you on towards greater openness to the healing touch of God’s presence. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him. - We are so excited to announce our very first First15 Kid’s Devotional book, My Time With God. Get your copy of First15’s first ever devotional book for kids today! My Time with God is a 20 day devotional written for young readers, ages 6-12, to help encourage and equip them to establish a lifetime of learning and walking with God through daily scripture reading and reflection. Each day of this 20 day devotional includes scriptures, activities, and prayers to help growing believers learn how to connect more deeply with God and about how spending time with God helps us live the life he’s called us to. This resource is foundational, answering questions such as, What is a devotional? What is prayer? Why spend time with God? What does it mean to enjoy God’s presence? “When we choose to love God and let ourselves experience his love, he also teaches us how to love others. Living for love means living like Jesus did. He was always thinking of others.” Request your copy of First15’s new kids devotional, My Time With God, today by going to supportfirst15.org, and help your kids explore spending time with God each and every day! Again that is supportfirst15.org. The link is also in the podcast description.

Transcribed - Published: 16 August 2023

God’s grace is the foundation of our freedom, a sure gift made available to us again every morning. Every mistake we make is covered. Every sin is forgiven. And my hope is that as we center our hearts and minds around God’s grace, that his forgiveness and mercy open a pathway to true freedom for us today. Our Scripture for today comes from 1 Corinthians 15:56-57, and today's worship is Freedom by Jesus Culture. -- Thanks for listening to today’s First15 Podcast. My name is Ryn, and I’m a part of the First15 Team. If you haven’t downloaded our brand new First15 app, make sure to click the link in today’s show notes to check it out! One of the new features that you can enjoy when you download the app is our Guided Prayers. We are adding new prayers to our library every month, so if you need a moment of peace with God, let these prayers be your guide! In today’s prayer, our friend Hannah Smith helps us remember that trusting God when our situation doesn’t look like we think it should gives us an opportunity to reveal his faithfulness toward us in every area of need. As she points us to scriptures that help us to remember the encouraging invitation of our Lord to all who are weak and heavy laden, she also leads us in a prayer of repentance as she helps us to see through our own frustration so that we can truly see goodness of God toward us in every situation.

Transcribed - Published: 8 August 2023

Grace is a gift most of us don’t know how to receive. We’ve been so inundated with the earthly systems of give-and-get and work-and-earn that grace is a concept few ever fully grasp. Yet it’s grace alone that has the power to transform lives. Grace alone has the power to bring freedom to the captives. By grace alone we are saved. Today we’re launching a new series, taking time every day to discover and receive the grace of our good and loving Father. Our Scripture for today comes from 2 Corinthians 12:9, and today's worship is Getting There by Steffany Gretzinger. – Thanks for listening to today’s podcast. If this space is meaningful for you, if it’s producing fruit in your life, and if you’re able to give right now financially, your support will make the difference in our ability to put this podcast in the hands of another believer just like you. There’s a link in the description below to give. Whether by listening, praying, sharing, or giving, thank you for being a part of this space we’re making for God’s presence. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 7 August 2023

For the last day of our weeklong focus on being the child of God, we’re looking at how our status as God’s child can never been taken away from us. May God give you confidence and joy today in your new identity in him. And may you see how powerful his sacrificial love is today as we make space to see and live out our identity as eternal children of a good God. Our Scripture for today comes from John 10:28. Today's worship is Father of Lights by Elevation Worship. – Thanks for listening to the First15 podcast. The end of July is fast approaching, so I wanted to reach out with a quick reminder about the $216,584 summer initiative. Reaching this goal by July 31st will help produce new printed books this year and next to help believers connect with God more deeply; produce a children’s version of First15 to help the next generation learn more about Jesus; and produce new Guided Prayers. So click the link in the show notes or go to supportfirst15.org to help First15 continue offering free resources that offer life change for people around the world. I can’t thank you enough for all of your prayers and support as we continue seeking God this year! Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 6 August 2023

As we near the end of our weeklong focus on being children of the most high God, we’re going to take time today to create space to discover and receive the blessings of our Father. Our God is good, and loves to bless us in countless, wonderful ways. May we taste and see God’s goodness today as we open our hands and hearts to receive the gifts of his love. Our Scripture for today comes from James 1:17, and today's worship is The Father's House by Corey Asbury. -- Thank you for listening to today’s podcast. As you go about your day today, look for one or two opportunities to simply connect with someone around you in a meaningful way. One of the best ways we can be Jesus’ hands and feet is by asking good questions, and listening. So take the opportunity before you today to truly love someone as Jesus did, by laying aside distractions and connecting with others in a meaningful way. Make sure to subscribe to the podcast if you haven’t already, and make sure to give First15 a fresh rating and review. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 5 August 2023

Today we continue our weeklong focus on being a child of God, by looking at how God guides us throughout our life. All of us long for, a need a guide through this life. In this journey, there are so many twists and turns, so many unknowns, so many roads we can take, we need a good, omniscient, and omnipotent guide to help us know which way to go. May you sense the leadership of your loving Father today as we create space to receive his guidance. Our Scripture for today comes from Psalm 32:8-9, and today's worship is Captain by Hillsong United. -- When you give to our Summer Initiative, you’re helping with upcoming projects like: Writing and editing of our brand new product line, First15 devotionals for kids, Translation of more resources into Spanish through Primeros15, Continued development and expansion of our website and app, and Production of the First15 podcast. And your gift will help us reach our goal of $216,584. So please give to help us meet the Summer Iniative goal!.

Transcribed - Published: 4 August 2023

In the heart of our week on being the child of God, we’re going to take time today to look at how we can position ourselves to receive the wealth of Fatherly affections God has for us. God’s love changes everything. Wherever you need a sense of his love, wherever you have need, I pray that the Father gives you a profound revelation of his love there today. Our Scripture for today comes from Psalm 36:5, and today's worship is Our Father by Matt Gilman. -- Thank you so much for listening to today’s podcast. As you go about your day today, look for one more time that you can set aside five minutes to simply rest in the Holy Spirit. Developing touch points with God throughout the day, where you can set aside every other care and burden, and simply rest in the Spirit, is such a lifegiving way to maintain communion throughout the day. Make sure to rate, review, and subscribe. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 3 August 2023

In our third day focusing on what it means to be the child of God, we’re going to look at how we can live with childlike faith. One of the wonders of being children of the Creator and Sustainer of all, is our ability to let go of fear, and live with trust. May you experience peace and courage today as you allow God to take burdens off of your shoulders, and live with childlike faith. Our Scripture for today comes from Mark 10:15, and today's worship is Ever Be by Bethel. – Thank you for listening to today’s devotional. It’s hard to believe we are halfway through the year! Summer is here and I wanted to share a special request with you. First15 has set a $216,584 goal to be reached by July 31 so that together, we can end the summer strong and help more people connect with God and go deeper in their relationship with him. So I want to ask you to give a generous gift to help reach the goal knowing it will be DOUBLED by a generous $20,000 Matching Grant offered by some amazing friends of First15. Doing so will help First15 produce new printed books this year and next to help believers connect with God more deeply; produce a children’s version of First15 to help the next generation learn more about Jesus; and produce new Guided Prayers. Click the link in the show notes or go to supportfirst15.org to give today. That’s supportfirst15.org. Thank you for your support, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 2 August 2023

In our second day looking at what it means to be the child of God, we’re going to take time today to look at a new bloodline of freedom we’ve inherited as God’s children. May we live unchained to the terrible effects of sin today as we learn to walk out our new identity in Christ. Our Scripture for today comes from 1 John 3:2-3, and today's worship is Freedom Song by Christy Nockles. -- Thanks for listening to today’s First15 Podcast. My name is Ryn, and I’m a part of the First15 Team. If you haven’t downloaded our brand new First15 app, make sure to click the link in today’s show notes to check it out! One of the new features that you can enjoy when you download the app is our Guided Prayers. We are adding new prayers to our library every month, so if you need a moment of peace with God, let these prayers be your guide! In a world where confusion has the potential to be as pervasive as it is contagious, centering ourselves around God’s truth is essential if we are to maintain clarity of thought in any regard. In this prayer, Dr. Jerome Van Kuiken helps us not only seek a lack of confusion, but a deep and abiding relationship with God through acknowledgement and confession of our need for him and adoration for who he is. He is the God who offers peace and direction freely to all who ask for it. May this prayer be a guide to you as you learn to trust in the God who has made a way for us.

Transcribed - Published: 1 August 2023

As children of the Most High God, we have been granted access to unconditional, tangible, and perfect love. All we need we have in relationship with our Father in heaven. He longs to reveal himself to us as a loving, real Father. He longs for us to live in the fullness of restored relationship with him. He longs for us to experience his vast and limitless affections. May we grow in our understanding and experience of God as our good and loving Father this week as we look at what it is to be his child. Our Scripture for today comes from 1 John 4:9-10, and today's worship is I Don't Have Much by Mission House. – Thank you for listening to today’s podcast. I’m Craig Denison, author of First15. As you go about your day today, look for opportunities to practice the reality that true life comes from living in the knowledge of God. When you face a challenge today, try and think about how knowing God changes the reality of that challenge. When you’re looking for direction, how will knowing God’s heart and will impact the path you choose to walk down? Make sure to rate, review, and subscribe if today’s devotional was meaningful for you. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 31 July 2023

As we end our week on knowing God’s heart for us, we’re going to focus on the call to action that God’s heart doesn’t just stop with us, but is meant to be carried through us into the lives of those around us. When you are operating out of God’s love daily secure in his affections for you, God can do miraculous things through you. Just imagine how God could use you to bless and enrich the lives of others – the possibilities are endless. Our Scripture for today comes from 1 John 4:7. Today's worship is I Don't Have Much by Mission House. . – Thanks for listening to the First15 podcast. The end of July is fast approaching, so I wanted to reach out with a quick reminder about the $216,584 summer initiative. Reaching this goal by July 31st will help produce new printed books this year and next to help believers connect with God more deeply; produce a children’s version of First15 to help the next generation learn more about Jesus; and produce new Guided Prayers. So click the link in the show notes or go to supportfirst15.org to help First15 continue offering free resources that offer life change for people around the world. I can’t thank you enough for all of your prayers and support as we continue seeking God this year! Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 30 July 2023

God is such a good, loving Father that he wants us to live with a foundational understanding of his affection toward us. He wants the knowledge of his unconditional love for us to be so deeply rooted within us, that all striving ceases and we live in total freedom as his children. Today we’re going to further explore that concept as we begin to finish up our week on knowing the heart of God. Our Scripture for today comes from Ephesians 3:17-19, and today's worship is Your Love Is A Well by First15 Worship feat. Rachel Denison. -- Thank you for listening to today’s podcast. As you go about your day today, look for one or two opportunities to simply connect with someone around you in a meaningful way. One of the best ways we can be Jesus’ hands and feet is by asking good questions, and listening. So take the opportunity before you today to truly love someone as Jesus did, by laying aside distractions and connecting with others in a meaningful way. Make sure to subscribe to the podcast if you haven’t already, and make sure to give First15 a fresh rating and review. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2023

One of the most influential ways I believe God wants to reveal himself and his heart is through others. No one is perfect like him, of course. But we all carry unique aspects of our Father’s character. God wants to use others in your life to show you more about himself on a daily basis. If we’ll open our hearts to those around us, the possibilities are unlimited to what God can do. Our Scripture for today comes from 1 Peter 4:10, and today's worship is More Than Anything by Breakaway Worship. -- When you give to our Summer Initiative, you’re helping with upcoming projects like: Writing and editing of our brand new product line, First15 devotionals for kids, Translation of more resources into Spanish through Primeros15, Continued development and expansion of our website and app, and Production of the First15 podcast. And your gift will help us reach our goal of $216,584. So please give to help us meet the Summer Iniative goal!.

Transcribed - Published: 28 July 2023

Today we’ll explore who the Holy Spirit is, and what that means for knowing the heart of God richly in our daily lives. The concept of God’s Spirit is often seen as elusive, but it’s my hope today we’ll come to know him as a person—just as we have Jesus. The Spirit longs to have a beautiful, deep friendship with you. And all it takes is opening our hearts to him. Our Scripture for today comes from John 16:13, and today's worship is Holy Spirit by Kari Jobe. -- Thank you so much for listening to today’s podcast. As you go about your day today, look for one more time that you can set aside five minutes to simply rest in the Holy Spirit. Developing touch points with God throughout the day, where you can set aside every other care and burden, and simply rest in the Spirit, is such a lifegiving way to maintain communion throughout the day. Make sure to rate, review, and subscribe. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 27 July 2023

As we seek to know the heart of God this week, today we’ll look to his word as a steady, ever-present guide to God’s feelings toward us. If you’re ever feeling lost or confused about his heart, look no further than his word. May we begin to turn to the Bible as our source of truth and direction first and foremost, rather than the world around us. Our Scripture for today comes from Hebrews 4:12, and today's worship is Psalm Ninety-One by Kendrian & Lauren Dueck. – Thank you for listening to today’s devotional. It’s hard to believe we are halfway through the year! Summer is here and I wanted to share a special request with you. First15 has set a $216,584 goal to be reached by July 31 so that together, we can end the summer strong and help more people connect with God and go deeper in their relationship with him. So I want to ask you to give a generous gift to help reach the goal knowing it will be DOUBLED by a generous $20,000 Matching Grant offered by some amazing friends of First15. Doing so will help First15 produce new printed books this year and next to help believers connect with God more deeply; produce a children’s version of First15 to help the next generation learn more about Jesus; and produce new Guided Prayers. Click the link in the show notes or go to supportfirst15.org to give today. That’s supportfirst15.org. Thank you for your support, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 26 July 2023

As we continue our week on knowing God’s heart, today we’ll explore the idea of continually seeking God in our day to day lives, rather than living off of one-time experiences. God is always available to us, and as his children, we have his Spirit speaking to us as all times, in all places. May we walk away today more inclined to listen and more open to finding God in unexpected ways. Our Scripture for today comes from 1 Chronicles 16:11, and today's worship is Revelation Song by Kari Jobe Carnes. -- Thanks for listening to today’s First15 Podcast. If you haven’t downloaded our brand new First15 app, make sure to click the link in today’s show notes to check it out! One of the new features that you can enjoy when you download the app is our Guided Prayers. We are adding new prayers to our library every month, so if you need a moment of peace with God, let these prayers be your guide! In a world where confusion has the potential to be as pervasive as it is contagious, centering ourselves around God’s truth is essential if we are to maintain clarity of thought in any regard. In this prayer, Dr. Jerome Can Kuiken helps us not only seek a lack of confusion, but a deep and abiding relationship with God through acknowledgement and confession of our need for him and adoration for who he is. He is the God who offers peace and direction freely to all who ask for it. May this prayer be a guide to you as you learn to trust in the God who has made a way for us.

Transcribed - Published: 25 July 2023

One of the greatest privileges as a child of God is that we can have the heart of our heavenly Father. We don’t have to wonder how he feels about us. We don’t have to wonder if he will guide us. We don’t have to question whether he loves us or cares about us. Through the Holy Spirit we have continual, free access to the heart of God. May your relationship with God go deeper and become freer as you build trust and learn how to have God’s heart this week. Our Scripture for today comes from Psalm 46:10, and today's worship is Good To Me by First15 Worship feat. Taylor Zebracki. – Thank you for listening to today’s podcast. I’m Craig Denison, author of First15. As you go about your day today, look for opportunities to practice the reality that true life comes from living in the knowledge of God. When you face a challenge today, try and think about how knowing God changes the reality of that challenge. When you’re looking for direction, how will knowing God’s heart and will impact the path you choose to walk down? Make sure to rate, review, and subscribe if today’s devotional was meaningful for you. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 24 July 2023

In the final devotional in our series on experiencing God’s promises, today we’re going to look at what it means to live for God’s glory. There is a wealth of promises that can only be experienced when we choose to lay down our own glory, and live for the glory of God instead. We weren’t created to live for our own advancement, and attachment to advancement only breeds pain and suffering. But if we’ll choose instead to seek God’s glory, to lift him up and lead others to him, we’ll find life, purpose, peace, and joy. Our Scripture for today comes from Romans 11:36. Today's worship is You Get The Glory by Jonathan Traylor. . -- A First15 reader, Kim, recently shared with us, “Thank you for this blessing. It is like a balm to my soul. You are bringing the love of Christ to me.” When you help reach the $216,584 Summer Initiative goal, you’ll be a part of connecting more people like Kim with God. When you help reach the $216,584 Summer Initiative goal, you’ll be a part of connecting more people like Kim with God. If you haven’t given yet — or you’re led to give again — please do so today.

Transcribed - Published: 23 July 2023

As we near the end of our week-long series on experiencing the promises of God, today we’re going to look at how living with faithful action, being the hands of feet of Jesus, position us to experience more of God’s promises. May God guide us to into a work birthed from the place of abiding in him, that our lives would be marked by the fruit of God’s promises coming to fruition every day. Our Scripture for today comes from 2 Corinthians 5:18-19, and today's worship is If We Are The Body by Casting Crowns. -- Thank you for listening to today’s podcast. As you go about your day today, look for one or two opportunities to simply connect with someone around you in a meaningful way. One of the best ways we can be Jesus’ hands and feet is by asking good questions, and listening. So take the opportunity before you today to truly love someone as Jesus did, by laying aside distractions and connecting with others in a meaningful way. Make sure to subscribe to the podcast if you haven’t already, and make sure to give First15 a fresh rating and review. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 22 July 2023

In today’s devotional, we’re going to look at how being wise with our time, and investing it in the place of meeting with God face to face, positions us to more fully experience God’s promises every day. May God open our eyes to see the true value of our time, and how deeply he cherishes when we choose to spend it on him. Our Scripture for today comes from Psalm 37:7, and today's worship is You Are My Joy by Will Reagan. -- When you give to our Summer Initiative, you’re helping with upcoming projects like: Writing and editing of our brand new product line, First15 devotionals for kids, Translation of more resources into Spanish through Primeros15, Continued development and expansion of our website and app, and Production of the First15 podcast. And your gift will help us reach our goal of $216,584. So please give to help us meet the Summer Iniative goal!.

Transcribed - Published: 21 July 2023

As we continue our series looking at how we can position ourselves to experience the fullness of God’s promises, today we’re looking at how we can cast off negativity, so that we, right here and now, can experience to greater depth the joy that’s available to us in God. May God grant us the courage and perspective to choose life over death today as we seek to live the abundant life wholly available to us in Christ. Our Scripture for today comes from Proverbs 18:21, and today's worship is Ever Be by Kalley Heiligenthal. -- Thanks for listening to today’s podcast, casting off negativity. As you go about your day today, try and notice when you feel negativity taking over. Maybe it’s when you drive, maybe it’s a certain person at work. And rather than seeking to wrestle with it right away, try to calmly notice the negativity, and then invite God to meet you there with his wisdom and presence. Make sure to rate the podcast today if this episode was meaningful, and write a review if God is doing something in your life through this space. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 20 July 2023

In today’s devotional, we’re going to go deeper into the place of trust, seeking to open more of our hearts to our good and loving Father, so we can experience more of his promises, moment by moment. Without trust, we’ll miss out on so many of the gifts God wants to give us every day. Without trust, our hearts will be closed off to the fullness of what this life has to offer us. May we as God’s children trust him more fully today in response to his trustworthiness. Our Scripture for today comes from Isaiah 26:3, and today's worship is I Shall Not Want by Audrey Assad. – Thank you so much for listening to today’s podcast. As you go about your day today, continue to stay open and honest about areas in your life that you don’t trust God. Maybe it’s your finances, maybe it’s your emotions or decisions, whatever it is, begin by simply noticing it, and then taking time to process it with God. God wants all of your heart for your sake and his. He wants you to experience the fullness of what this life has to offer you. Simply seek to trust him more, and watch as your daily experience is marked with a greater measure of abundant life. If today’s episode was especially meaningful for you, take an additional 30 seconds to write a review and give a rating. And make sure to subscribe if you haven’t already, so you won’t miss an episode. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 19 July 2023

In our second devotional positioning ourselves to more fully experience God’s promises, today we’re going to look at the role of renewing our minds in opening our heads and hearts to receive all God longs to give. May God do a mighty work today as we make space for him to fill. Our Scripture for today comes from Romans 12:2, and today's worship is God's Got a Reason for Everything by Jason Upton. -- Thanks for listening to today’s First15 Podcast. If you haven’t downloaded our brand new First15 app, make sure to click the link in today’s show notes to check it out! One of the new features that you can enjoy when you download the app is our Guided Prayers. We are adding new prayers to our library every month, so if you need a moment of peace with God, let these prayers be your guide! In today’s First15 Podcast, we want to provide a preview of a new Guided Prayer that our friend Peyton Garland wrote, titled, “Purpose in Pain.” Peyton shares that while pain is a heavy, unavoidable burden, God uses our suffering as a tool to till our hearts, breaking ground for the person we will become. Through God’s promise to forever abide with us, we can rest in the knowledge that he has a harvest of blessings and beauty for us despite the pain.

Transcribed - Published: 18 July 2023

In today’s devotional, we’re launching a brand new series seeking to position ourselves to receive more of the reality of God’s promises every day. There is so much available to you and to me in God that we fail to tap into. And today we’re looking specifically at how waiting on the Lord, sitting patiently and intentionally at his feet, positions us to receive God’s promise of strength. May God guide us to a better understanding, and deeper experience, of his promises today. Our Scripture for today comes from Isaiah 40:31, and today's worship is But I Know You by Jillian Edwards. – Thank you for listening to today’s podcast. As you go about your day today, look for opportunities to wait on the Lord. Rather than rushing out into a decision, emotion, or perspective, take a moment to re-establish connection with the Spirit, and move in tandem with him. If you’re just joining us, make sure to subscribe so you won’t miss one of these free guides to God’s presence. And if today’s episode was meaningful for you, consider taking 30 seconds to leave a rating so someone else can find this space we’re making for God to fill. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 17 July 2023

In the last devotional of this series on God’s promises, today we’re looking at the promise of his return. The suffering and pain we’re experiencing right now is not for forever. There is a conclusion to this story, to all of our stories. And that conclusion is being written by a God so good, so loving, and so powerful, that we know this story of humanity ends triumphantly. So may God fill us with hope, peace, and passion today as we take time to focus on his return. Our Scripture for today comes from John 14:2-3. Today's worship is Come Again by Come Again | Elevation Worship & Maverick City. . -- A First15 reader, Kim, recently shared with us, “Thank you for this blessing. It is like a balm to my soul. You are bringing the love of Christ to me.” When you help reach the $216,584 Summer Initiative goal, you’ll be a part of connecting more people like Kim with God. When you help reach the $216,584 Summer Initiative goal, you’ll be a part of connecting more people like Kim with God. If you haven’t given yet — or you’re led to give again — please do so today.

Transcribed - Published: 16 July 2023

As we near the end of the series on God’s promises, today we’re going to look at the promise of his presence. The nearness of God is always to our good. In every situation, good or bad, challenging or easy, it’s so good to be near to God. So wherever you are today, lay down every other pursuit, just for the next few minutes, and focus simply on resting on God’s presence. Our Scripture for today comes from Psalm 139:9-10, and today's worship is Where You'll Find Me by First15 Worship feat. Mark Alan Schoolmeesters -- Thanks for listening to today’s podcast. Tomorrow we’re wrapping up our series on God’s promises by looking at the promise of his return. The second coming of Christ is meant to be a cornerstone of our faith, a real event we look towards as God’s people where everything will be set right. Make sure to subscribe to the podcast if you haven’t already, so you won’t miss an episode. The link to today’s worship song is in the show notes below, and make sure to rate and review. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2023

In today’s devotional, we’re continuing our series focusing on God’s promises by looking at his promise of comfort. We serve a God of all mercy and comfort, a God who knows our pain, weeps with us, and has a perfect plan to lead us to abundant life even in the midst of it all. Let’s come to God today open-hearted, ready and willing to receive his comfort, that we might be nearer to him as the result of our time together. Our Scripture for today comes from 2 Corinthians 1:3, and today's worship is Morning by Morning by Pat Barrett feat. Mack Brock. -- When you give to our Summer Initiative, you’re helping with upcoming projects like: Writing and editing of our brand new product line, First15 devotionals for kids, Translation of more resources into Spanish through Primeros15, Continued development and expansion of our website and app, and Production of the First15 podcast. And your gift will help us reach our goal of $216,584. So please give to help us meet the Summer Iniative goal!.

Transcribed - Published: 14 July 2023

As we enter the middle of our series on God’s promises, today we’re going to look at his promise of freedom. Every day this world tries to chain us to its ways, holding us down where God is trying to lift us up. But in Jesus, we’ve been offered total and complete freedom. And in the Spirit we’re offered a continual pathway to exercise that freedom. Whether it’s fear, lust, pride, or something else, God has real freedom for you today in his presence. May chains break today in light of God’s glorious grace. Our Scripture for today comes from Galatians 5:1, and today's worship is Bye Bye Babylon by Elevation Worship. -- Thanks so much for listening to today’s podcast on trusting God with your plans. If in meeting with God today you realized a real struggle with trusting God with your plans, try picking one plan you have today and trusting him with it. Lay that plan down before it happens today, and ask him to guide you into the fullness of what he has for it. And pay attention to any ways it changes. I hope God gives you a clearer sense of how you can trust him throughout your day today. May God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 13 July 2023

Today we’re going to look at God’s promise of compassion. Few things draw me nearer to God, faster, than a fresh revelation of his compassion. In a world that judges us so quickly, and so often fails to offer second chances, compassion is in short supply. May we not only get a revelation of God’s compassion in our own lives today, but may God mold and fashion us into his likeness, that we would be a people of compassion. Our Scripture for today comes from Isaiah 54:10, and today's worship is Run to the Father by Cody Carnes. – Thanks for listening to today’s podcast, God promises his compassion. As you go about your day, look for one opportunity to show yourself compassion when you fail, and one opportunity to show someone else compassion that needs it the most. There’s no greater culture in which we can share the gospel, than one of giving and receiving compassion. If today’s episode was meaningful, make sure to give us a rating. And check out the worship song today by clicking the link in the show notes. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 12 July 2023

In today’s devotional, we’re continuing our series of taking hold of God’s promises by looking at his promise of strength. Every day I wake up, I’m reminded of my weakness. No human has ever lived a perfect day. But the goodness of this promise lies in that God promises his strength when we are weak. In his grace, you and I can live with the real, meaningful, and powerful strength of our God. Our Scripture for today comes from Isaiah 41:10, and today's worship is Power Made Perfect by Covenant Worship feat. Nikki Moltz. -- Thanks for listening to today’s First15 Podcast. If you haven’t downloaded our brand new First15 app, make sure to click the link in today’s show notes to check it out! One of the new features that you can enjoy when you download the app is our Guided Prayers. We are adding new prayers to our library every month, so if you need a moment of peace with God, let these prayers be your guide! In today’s First15 Podcast, we want to offer a preview of a new Guided Prayer that our friend Peyton Garland wrote, titled, “Forgiven to Forgive.” Peyton shares her struggle to forgive others, tallying their wrongs, yet she is reminded that forgiveness is an undeserved gift we receive from God each day. Her prayer encourages us to put aside scorecards and allow a heart of thanksgiving and forgiveness to deepen our intimacy with God and others.

Transcribed - Published: 11 July 2023

In today’s devotional, we’re launching a brand new series looking at various promises our heavenly Father makes towards us, and creating space to take hold of them a little bit more every day. Today we’re looking at how God promises us his will, and how we can live our lives in connection to his desires and plans for us. May God stir our hearts to surrender anything that isn’t best for us, and may he empower us to take hold of his passion, and his desires, that we might align our lives with his will. Our Scripture for today comes from Ephesians 1:9-10, and today's worship is Promises by Maverick City Music. – Thank you for listening to today’s podcast, the first in our weeklong series looking at the promises of God. Taking hold of God’s promises can be really challenging, especially if there’s been a time where we felt like God didn’t come through for us. So if you feel like your heart is blocked up at all this week as we focus on this subject of God’s promises, I want to encourage you, before you press plan on this podcast, to take a moment and ask for God’s healing. Sometimes just his nearness, a revelation of his goodness, can help soften those parts of our hearts that have become hardened over time. Make sure to rate and review the podcast if this episode was meaningful for you, and subscribe if you’re just joining us so you won’t miss one of these free guides to God’s presence. And make sure to check out today’s worship song to spend some time putting God at the center of your day. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 10 July 2023

As we have learned this week, our God is fully trustworthy. Placing our trust in his hands is the wisest thing we could ever do. As we finish up our week on trust today, we’ll explore how trust plays a role in our sanctification and maturing as believers. As we commit to walk with and trust the Lord, may he bring forth a harvest of righteousness in our lives. Our Scripture for today comes from Psalm 37:5-6. Today's worship is New by Craig and Rachel Denison. . -- A First15 reader, Kim, recently shared with us, “Thank you for this blessing. It is like a balm to my soul. You are bringing the love of Christ to me.” When you help reach the $216,584 Summer Initiative goal, you’ll be a part of connecting more people like Kim with God. When you help reach the $216,584 Summer Initiative goal, you’ll be a part of connecting more people like Kim with God. If you haven’t given yet — or you’re led to give again — please do so today.

Transcribed - Published: 9 July 2023

As we begin to wrap up our week on trust, today we’ll look at the idea of trusting God for provision. May we find rest and peace today as we remind ourselves of our infinite Father’s ability to provide each and every need—big or small. There is rest available for God’s children today in the place of toil and striving. Your good Father wants to assure you of that today. Our Scripture for today comes from Psalm 37:25-26, and today's worship is Mighty One by Todd Dulaney & Maryanne J. George. -- Thank you for listening to today’s podcast. Tomorrow we’re wrapping up our series on the marks of a true Christian by exploring how we can overcome evil with good. Make sure to subscribe so you won’t miss this wrap up of our series. And if this series has been especially meaningful for you in some way, consider taking a moment to write about your experience in a review. Ratings and reviews are how people find this free space for God’s presence, and your story could be just what someone needs to start spending meaningful time alone with their Creator. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2023

Today we’ll explore how emotional health and trust are linked. We are all emotional beings and how we’re doing emotionally affects us all on a regular basis. God has something to say about your emotional health, and it is my hope you are encouraged and feel afresh how deeply you’re loved by the Lord as we focus in on this truth. Our Scripture for today comes from Psalm 33:21, and today's worship is God of Peace by Nikki Moltz. -- When you give to our Summer Initiative, you’re helping with upcoming projects like: Writing and editing of our brand new product line, First15 devotionals for kids, Translation of more resources into Spanish through Primeros15, Continued development and expansion of our website and app, and Production of the First15 podcast. And your gift will help us reach our goal of $216,584. So please give to help us meet the Summer Iniative goal!.

Transcribed - Published: 7 July 2023

Today we’ll be discussing the plans we make for our lives. So often, our plans symbolize control. Giving up control of our life’s direction can be scary and feel unsafe. But this is all part of growing in trust of our heavenly Father. As we continue in that direction today, may you feel encouraged and motivated to place your plans in the hands of a capable, trustworthy Father who has your best interest in mind, always. Our Scripture for today comes from Proverbs 19:21, and today's worship is Whatever Your Plan Is by Bethel Music feat. Josie Buchanan. -- Thanks so much for listening to today’s podcast on trusting God with your plans. If in meeting with God today you realized a real struggle with trusting God with your plans, try picking one plan you have today and trusting him with it. Lay that plan down before it happens today, and ask him to guide you into the fullness of what he has for it. And pay attention to any ways it changes. I hope God gives you a clearer sense of how you can trust him throughout your day today. May God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 6 July 2023

Today we’ll explore how leaning on the Lord for truth and understanding relates to trust. Where do you look for wisdom? God promises us that when we look to him, he will deliver all the wisdom and understanding we need for any circumstance. May you find the understanding you need for your situation today as you learn to trust the Father and lean into him. Our Scripture for today comes from Proverbs 3:5, and today's worship is Lean Back by Capital City Music ft. Dion Davis. -- God is the only One who can bring lasting transformation to our world as he transforms people’s hearts into the likeness of Christ. It’s for this reason that we pray you’ll help reach the $216,584 Summer Initiative goal — knowing a $20,000 matching grant will DOUBLE your best gift to usher more people into God’s presence so they can be transformed by his grace and truth. So please give today and please pray for our Summer Initiative!

Transcribed - Published: 5 July 2023

As we focus this week on growing in trusting God, today we’ll explore the concept of obedience. Trust and obedience are directly related. Willing, joyful obedience comes from a place of deep-rooted trust in the character and intentions of your God. When we learn to trust the heart of the Father, obedience is a natural response to whatever he asks. May you grow today in your willingness and excitement to quickly obey the Lord as you learn of his love and goodness. Our Scripture for today comes from Isaiah 1:19, and today's worship is I Have Decided by Forerunner Music feat. Jaye Thomas. -- Thanks for listening to today’s First15 Podcast. If you haven’t downloaded our brand new First15 app, make sure to click the link in today’s show notes to check it out! One of the new features that you can enjoy when you download the app is our Guided Prayers. We are adding new prayers to our library every month, so if you need a moment of peace with God, let these prayers be your guide! In today’s First15 Podcast, we want to offer an excerpt of a new Guided Prayer that our friend Peyton Garland wrote, titled, “Anxious About Life’s Extras.” Peyton reminds us of Matthew 6:30, when Jesus encourages his followers to remember that if he clothes the flowers of the fields, he will provide for his beloved too. Today’s fast-paced society often leaves us anxious about finances and future plans, but this prayer encourages believers to not be consumed with pursuing overabundance and trust God’s perfect, balanced provision instead.

Transcribed - Published: 4 July 2023

Trust is something we are not created to give away lightly. We value trust like we value our own lives, constantly scrutinizing others to see if they’re worthy of our trust. But still we are made to do life with help. We are made to place our trust in that which will provide us with more life, joy, and peace. I pray that this week you and I will discover how trustworthy our heavenly Father is. I pray that we will willingly hand over control of our lives to a capable, loving, and near God. And I pray we will experience the abundant life that can only come through placing our trust in a God who gives up everything for relationship with us. Our Scripture for today comes from Psalm 22:4-5, and today's worship is I Will Trust by Red Rocks Worship. – Changed Lives = A Changed Culture. This is what our First15 Summer Initiative is all about! First15 has just launched a $216,584 Summer Initiative with the goal of connecting more people to God. And today your gift can be DOUBLED up to a total of $20,000! We hope you will help us reach our goal of $216,584!

Transcribed - Published: 3 July 2023

As we wrap up our week on God’s heart to meet with man, today we’ll look at the encouraging story of John on the island of Patmos. Right when we think we’re unusable, a season is too dry or we’re past our prime, God comes and speaks fresh life and vision. If you find yourself like John on Patmos today, I pray God brings a new word of courage and life to you despite your season. Our Scripture for today comes from Revelation 1:17-19. Today's worship is Communion by Bryan McCleery. . -- A First15 reader, Kim, recently shared with us, “Thank you for this blessing. It is like a balm to my soul. You are bringing the love of Christ to me.” When you help reach the $216,584 Summer Initiative goal, you’ll be a part of connecting more people like Kim with God. And when you give today, your gift can be DOUBLED up to $20,000! When you help reach the $216,584 Summer Initiative goal, you’ll be a part of connecting more people like Kim with God. If you haven’t given yet — or you’re led to give again — please do so today.

Transcribed - Published: 2 July 2023

As we near the end of our week on God’s heart to meet with man, we look today at Pentecost. The day of Pentecost was a major fulfillment of God’s desire to meet with us. On that day, his Holy Spirit flooded the earth and was poured out on ordinary people, just like you and me. We see God’s desire to dwell with a people satisfied as his Spirit fills them and remains with them forever. May you be encouraged today as you look more deeply at God’s overwhelming desire to be one with you in your day to day life. Our Scripture for today comes from Acts 2:1-4, and today's worship is Come Again by Elevation Worship & Maverick City. -- Thank you for listening to today’s podcast. Tomorrow we’re wrapping up our series on the marks of a true Christian by exploring how we can overcome evil with good. Make sure to subscribe so you won’t miss this wrap up of our series. And if this series has been especially meaningful for you in some way, consider taking a moment to write about your experience in a review. Ratings and reviews are how people find this free space for God’s presence, and your story could be just what someone needs to start spending meaningful time alone with their Creator. Have a wonderful rest of your day, and may God bless you as you seek him.

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2023