Our Scripture reading for today is Matthew 6:5-8.

[5] And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward. [6] But when you pray, go into your inner room, shut your door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 

[7] And when you pray, do not babble on like pagans, for they think that by their many words they will be heard. [8] Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. 

From reading our text today, here are five great truths. 

1. Prayer should be genuine and not a performance.
[verse 6] But when you pray, go into your inner room, shut your door, and pray to your Father.

2. God values the intent behind prayer more than its eloquence
[verse 7] And when you pray, do not babble on like pagans, for they think that by their many words they will be heard.

3. God does not reward public pretentious prayer.
(Verse 5) Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward.

4. Faithful prayer reflects trust in God.
This is the truth behind every praying person and it is absent in every person who does not pray as they should.

5. God knows our needs before we ask.
Jesus plainly says this in verse 8, “Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.” 

For our devotional thought, I urge you to consider this last point. If that is true (and it is), that God knows our needs before we ask, then why should we even pray? Since God already knows, then what is the point?

The answer to that question goes to the question of why we pray. Here is the short answer: While God indeed knows our needs before we ask them, prayer is not merely about asking for things. It is about developing a deeper, more intimate relationship with the Creator, and aligning our hearts with His. It’s a spiritual discipline that shapes us, comforts us, and connects us more profoundly to the heart of God.

In short, prayer is a relationship. At its core, prayer is about cultivating a personal relationship with God. It’s a means of communication that helps us grow closer to Him, understand His heart, and align our will with His. In any relationship, communication is key to intimacy; through prayer, we enter into an act of communication with our Father. 

Lonnie Davis

Our Bible reading for today is Matthew 6:1-4

[1] “Be careful not to perform your righteous acts before men to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. 

[2] So when you give to the needy, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward. [3] But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, [4] so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 

From these verses, Jesus teaches us two great lessons on giving.

The Secret of Generosity

Lesson #1: Give without seeking recognition.

As we follow the instructions of Jesus on selfless charity, we learn an essential lesson: the importance of pure motivation. Our hearts tend to crave recognition for our good deeds. But Christ calls us to a higher purpose when serving others – to give freely out of authentic care and compassion. Rather than trumpeting our generosity from street corners and on social media platforms fishing for likes, we must conduct acts of quiet kindness without expectation of reward or credit. In secrecy, we build treasures in heaven. This humility pleases God, the only audience that ultimately matters.

Lesson #2: The Father Sees what we do in secret.

As we give, pray, or do good deeds, it can feel at times as though our personal acts go unnoticed. Yet we must remember that our Heavenly Father sees and knows everything. He even knows our hearts and what we think. Though human eyes may overlook these private moments where we honor God, we can find assurance that He bears witness to the offerings of our heart. This thought anchors us in an intimate bond with the One who knows our true nature better than any person ever could.

Lonnie Davis

Day 52

Sermon: Law of Love

Matthew 5:43-48

Our Scripture for today is, Matthew 5:43-48

[43] You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor’ and ‘Hate your enemy.’ [44] But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, [45] that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. [46] If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Do not even tax collectors do the same? [47] And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even Gentiles do the same? 

[48] Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

From these verses, I call your attention to two amazing teachings. I call this article:

God’s Radical Call for Love

Teaching #1: Love your enemies.

Loving those who oppose you challenges you to reflect God’s unconditional love. It’s easy to love those who love us back, but true spiritual maturity is shown when we love those who stand against us. Jesus adds to this thought when he says, “Pray for your enemies.” Prayer for our persecutors not only seeks their well-being but also purifies our hearts, helping us release anger and embrace forgiveness. This act changes us, aligning our hearts closer to God’s nature. It causes us to examine the depth of our love.

Teaching #2: Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

At the end of this call to love and pray for our enemies is the little verse, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” This teaching is not out of place here. It’s not about moral flawlessness but about striving for wholeness and integrity in our love for others. The call to perfection here is a call to complete and mature love, reflecting God’s character in our actions and attitudes. 

Lonnie Davis

Sermon on Mount: Retaliation

[38] You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’ [39] But I tell you not to resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also; [40] if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well; [41] and if someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. [42] Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

These few word contain many great lessons for our heart. Among the many are three, that I would call to your attention. Jesus teaches:

1. Turn the Other Cheek

In the heart of Matthew 5:38-42 lies a profound lesson on the strength of gentleness: to turn the other cheek. This directive, far from advocating weakness, reveals the depth of our courage when we choose not to retaliate against aggression. It’s a moment of divine wisdom, inviting us to reflect Christ’s peace and patience in our lives. By embracing this call, we transform moments of potential conflict into opportunities for grace, teaching us that true strength lies in the choice of peace over vengeance.

2. Go the extra mile.

This principle urges us to go beyond our limitations and serve others with a generosity that mirrors the heart of God. This teaching isn’t just about fulfilling duties; it’s an invitation to pour out our love and kindness in abundant measures, to willingly give more than is expected of us. It’s a testament to the life-changing power of love that seeks to uplift and heal, showing that in the kingdom of God, the path of true discipleship is paved with acts of selfless giving. This call challenges us to embody God’s lavish grace in every interaction, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary expressions of divine love.

Lonnie Davis

Text: Matthew 5:33–37

[33] Again, you have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill your vows to the Lord.’ [34] But I tell you not to swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; [35] or by the earth, for it is His footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. [36] Nor should you swear by your head, for you cannot make a single hair white or black. [37] Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ Anything more comes from the evil one. 

From today’s reading, there are three important lessons for our lives.

1. Be trustworthy in what you say.

In a world where people often resort to elaborate promises or oaths to prove their sincerity, Jesus calls us back to the simplicity and power of truthful speech. When we say ‘yes’ or ‘no,’ it should carry the full weight of our commitment. People should not feel the need to say, “You swear,” because we are known to always tell the truth.

2. Be known for your truthfulness. 

No oath at any level is necessary for a man or woman who is known for their truthfulness. We don’t swear by heaven, or earth, or even God. It may seem unnecessary to say this, but we have been trained to feel the need to enhance our truthfulness. As children, we heard, “I pinkie swear, or cross my heart and hope to die.” That is childish, but Jesus said that we are not to live this way. Our word is always good.

3. Be honest! 

Keeping your word is about honesty. As God’s children, we must be honest and be known as someone who tells the truth. There are people in my life who, if they told me something that turned out to be false, my impulse would be to say they did not know at the time. I would not go to “They lied to me.” No, live your life so that others feel that way about you.

Lonnie Davis

Matthew 5:27-32; cf. 19:9; Mark 10:11; Luke 16:18

A Summary of Our Text:

Jesus teaches about relationships in these verses. He says even lustful thoughts are like cheating, committing adultery in the heart, and urges us to guard our hearts. Marriage vows are vital, not just legally but spiritually, so don’t say “I do” without meaning it. He goes beyond just rules, calling us to transform our inner selves and build relationships with love and commitment. When you’re tempted by a fleeting glance or an easy promise, remember: being spiritual is about cultivating purity, compassion, and love in all you do. That’s where true happiness lies!

Our devotion for today is called:

 Promises & Glances

Our world, steeped in fashion, urges us to desire and covet. We can see this in movies, TV, or along certain streets. Jesus, through his Sermon on the Mount, equates lust with adultery, a challenging notion from Matthew 5:27–32 that underscores purity as a matter of heart and mind, not just actions.

Just as a mere look can spark desire, a thoughtless word might lead one astray. In Matthew 19:9, Jesus highlights the sanctity of marriage, stressing the profound significance of our words and commitments. The casual “I do” bears a promise of lifelong fidelity. We promise one another, till death do us part.

Jesus exhorts us to strive for a heart that is filled with love and understanding rather than merely adhering to the minimum requirements or rules.

We’re invited to foster purity, not just in action but in thought and speech, cultivating relationships built on love, respect, and unwavering commitment.

So, when you’re tempted by a glance or a hasty promise, remember these teachings. Let them steer you towards a heart filled with purity, compassion, and love, where true fulfillment lies.

Lonnie Davis

Day 48: Anger Matthew 5:21-26

For today’s devotional, we will read verses 21–22 together.

[21] “You have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not murder’ and ‘Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ [22] But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment.

Here is a devotional I titled,
Anger Danger

Have you ever felt the hot ember of anger ignite within you? A simmering frustration at a perceived slight, or perhaps a slow burn of resentment towards someone who’s wronged you? If so, then you’ve walked a path well-trodden by humanity. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus throws open the shutters on the hidden depths of anger, revealing consequences we might not have considered.

He doesn’t just condemn the act of murder but delves deeper, declaring, “Whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment.” This statement shatters the illusion that our internal flames remain unseen. Jesus equates the harboring of anger with the act of violence itself, forcing us to confront the truth: our hearts, just as much as our hands, are subject to God’s moral law.

Yet, amidst this sobering truth, Jesus offers a path towards healing. He instructs, “Leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” This seemingly simple act elevates reconciliation above giving, reminding us that God desires the sincerity of our hearts and authentic relationships more than outward displays of piety. Our gifts to God, however precious, pale in comparison to the offering of peace with God’s creation, our fellow human beings.

Jesus urges us to pursue peace. He encourages being “reconciled quickly,” emphasizing the importance of addressing conflict before it escalates and not just waiting for the other fellow. This approach may seem daunting, but remember, Jesus doesn’t call us to impossible tasks. He offers his grace and guidance on this journey, reminding us that true peace is built brick by brick, with each act of forgiveness and understanding.

So, the next time the embers of anger stir within you, remember these words. Don’t let them fan into a consuming fire. Instead, choose the path of reconciliation, speak with kindness, and actively pursue peace. In doing so, you might just transform those seeds of anger into beautiful blossoms of understanding and love.

Lonnie Davis

Day 47: Jesus and The Law
Our text today is Matthew 5:17-20;

Let’s read verse 17 together.

[17] Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them.

From these words, let’s think about:
Jesus and Moses’ Law

During the life of Jesus, the Jewish leaders had great fear that Jesus was trying to overthrow the Law of Moses, that is, ’The Law.” In today’s text, Jesus assures the Jews that he is a keeper of the Law, but more than that, he came to fulfill the Law that predicted his coming. Isaiah 53 clearly teaches that Jesus is coming. Of course, once he came and died, it was fulfilled and was no longer needed. As Paul wrote in Colossians 2:14, Jesus “wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. He has taken it away, nailing it to the cross.”

Jesus did not destroy the Law, he fulfilled the Law by coming and then dying on the cross. While he lived, every detail, every seemingly rule of the Law, held significance. As Jesus said, in verse 19: “whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” True greatness doesn’t come from mere knowledge but from embodying the Law by the way they live and sharing its wisdom with others.
Here’s the crucial point: Jesus doesn’t just say “practice,” he adds “and teaches.” This implies a responsibility, a call to illuminate the path for others. We are not meant to be isolated islands of righteousness; we are called to be beacons, sharing the light with the world.
If that was true of Moses’ Law, how much more is it true for Christians and the Law of Christ? It is a call to move beyond the letter and embrace the heart of God’s will, allowing it to guide us on our journey toward true greatness by keeping and sharing the Law of Christ.
Lonnie Davis

Day 46 – Salt and Light

Matthew 5:13-16

[13] You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its savor, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. 

[14] You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. [15] Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they set it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. [16] In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. 

From these verses, I invite you to today’s devotional thought: I call it:

Brighten the Corner Where You Are

As we think about salt and light in Jesus’ words in Matthew 5, we’re reminded that the purpose of our lives extends far beyond ourselves. Like salt that flavors and preserves, we’re meant to positively influence, add value, and make a lasting impact on the world around us. Like a lamp that sheds light into darkness, our character and actions should illuminate others’ paths with spiritual truth and care. 

Even if we used to struggle with an insecure, people-pleasing mindset, hiding our real selves undermines our capacity to help make a change for the better. As we’ve grown more confident in our identity in Christ, we’ve seen how even small acts of love and courage can help others.  

God’s word requires that we walk in truth and love, demonstrating what we believe with kindness, integrity, and care for others. 

Openly letting our light “shine before others” can feel uncomfortable at times, but as Jesus promised, when outsiders notice Christ shining through our good works, it points them to our Father in heaven. 

In a world crying out for meaning, what greater purpose could there be than by living our lives in such a way that we help others find a home in heaven?

Our actions may not sway crowds or dismantle evil overnight. But flavoring our corner of the world with the salt and light of Jesus matters.

So, we will fix our eyes on Jesus, asking Him to work powerfully through us to let His redeeming light brighten the darkness through us. 

Lonnie Davis

Day 45
Sermon: The Beatitudes
Matthew 5:1-12; Luke 6:20-23

“Beatitude” is a word that comes from the Latin word “beatus,” which means “blessed” or “happy.” My oldest daughter and I were looking at a video of my 15-month-old granddaughter. She was toasting her cup against her mother’s. Janet bought those cups as a gift, and so she told me the backstory. The large cup that Ann Maries (the mother) held had the word “Blessed” written on it. The small cup held by baby Emma said, “Blessing.” What a wonderful way to view the thoughts of the Beatitudes in Matthew 5! God gives us a blessing corresponding to our quality of spirit. When we get the blessing, we are blessed.

If you are merciful, God will give you the blessing of finding mercy with him.
When you are pure in heart, God will bless you by letting you see him one day.
When you are a peacemaker, God will bless you by calling you His child.

That is just a start. There are more beatitudes in our verses for today.
Most writers will say that there are eight beatitudes in the Sermon on the Mount. That is true, but I am going to list them as seven. Let me explain. The eighth beatitude is about what happens to you when you are wrongly treated. The first seven are about what you are to become and thus receive the blessing. Let’s look at them:

Blessed are:
The poor in spirit.
Those who mourn.
The meek.
Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.
The merciful.
The pure in heart.
The peacemakers.

When you become those things—meek, merciful, etc.—then God will bless you.

I know that these few words only start to tell us about the beatitudes, but let this be an encouragement for you to find a little time today, open your Bible to Matthew 5, underline each beatitude, and think about the meaning of each. You will end this day having accomplished something special.

Lonnie Davis