https://open.spotify.com/playlist/12NLScbOXfI2YMesXHDwk5?si=JVkTidpmRMOWAEleLCmG9Q

JOHN SHIRK -Today’s Word of Encouragement is Excellence.

One definition of Excellence is the quality of being outstanding or extremely good.

The Bible tells us to focus our thoughts on that which is excellent.

God will take our work that is carried out in excellence to significant places. Proverbs 22:29 asks the question, “Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.” God can give us a voice of influence through acts of service committed in excellence.

When we talk about excellence, we also have to bring love into the conversation. This is the most excellent way described in First Corinthians 12:31. “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs….Love is the most excellent way.” Love adds excellence to our skills and service opportunities.

Find encouragement in the excellence of serving God with love from the heart in the Year of Endurance.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of Endurance, today’s Daily Challenge motivates us to give to God with a cheerful heart.

Second Corinthians 9:7 tells us that God loves a cheerful giver.

The Gospel motivates us to give out of delight rather than mere duty.  That’s because God gave His very best to us when He sent Jesus to the world. Jesus went to the cross and offered His grace willingly, not  begrudgingly.

God’s love for us moves our heart to places of gratitude, praise, and giving to others in need.

Second Corinthians 9:11 says, “You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” That’s how cheerful giving can bless others and lead us to a place of blessing.

Take the daily challenge to walk as a cheerful giver on the journey of faith.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5Efi7xO2eNw3u512oFiRmv?si=XKrXykxyTdy1wkrzp-cZRA

The latest guests on WJTL’s Praise & Worship Podcast are Tiffany and Davide of Elevation Rhythm! They were so fun-sharing their hearts on collaborating as a team, songwriting for youth, processing the past year and telling stories behind their latest singles “Quiet”, “IYKYK” and “Walk On Water”. Plus, Davide shares tips you can use to up your dance moves and even broke out into song several times in the interview! Watch the interview below or find the link to your favorite podcast platform: Spotify & Apple Podcasts & SoundCloud & Google Podcasts

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMqVs2tJ5X8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTeuW-1XduU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uz0z8JWLbSA

JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of Endurance, today’s Daily Challenge motivates us to spread good news rather than keep it to ourselves.

In the Old Testament, there is a story of 4 lepers who came to a camp deserted by Israel’s enemies. They said to each other in Second Kings 7:9, “We’re not doing right. This is a day of good news and we are keeping it to ourselves.”  They decided to report what they found at the royal palace.

The Gospel is a message of God’s grace. This good news is bearing fruit around the world wherever people put their faith in Jesus Christ for salvation.  This is what motivated Paul the Apostle to get out of bed in the morning.

In Acts 20:24, he talked about his goal to finish his race and complete the task the Lord Jesus had given him-the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.  Who do you know that might benefit from hearing about God’s grace today?

Take the daily challenge to spread good news on the journey of faith.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Word of Encouragement is “right.”

One of the definitions of “right” is “that which is morally correct, just, or honorable.”

The Bible tells us to focus our thoughts on that which is right.

When we think about Jesus, we are focusing on the Only person who always did what was right and never sinned. He is the Righteous One. We need His righteousness to be accepted by God, and thankfully, His righteousness is available to us when we trust in Him to forgive our sins.

Romans 3:22 tells us that this righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.

Jesus is the right solution for anyone who has done what is wrong before a holy God. His grace motivates us to change course and do what is right in the eyes of God.

Find encouragement in the righteousness of Jesus Christ in the Year of Endurance.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of Endurance, today’s Daily Challenge motivates us to stay connected with Jesus every single day.

The importance of relying on Jesus for each step of faith is highlighted in John 15:5. Jesus said to His followers, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

One of the ways that we remain connected to Jesus is through prayer. Relationships thrive through open communication. Prayer is how we can have a conversation with God.

Another way to have a conversation with God is to read the Bible. That is where God’s Word communicates to us and tells us how to live a life that pleases Him. When we follow through on God’s plan for our lives, there is fruit that brings glory to God.  Jesus said in John 15:8, “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”

Take the daily challenge to stay connected with Jesus every single day, every step of the way on the journey of faith.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of Endurance, today’s Daily Challenge motivates us to walk with Jesus for the light that we need.

Jesus said to the people in John 8:12, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”

This is an open invitation for us to join Jesus on a journey of faith. He is qualified to lead us in the pathway of life.

This is a new life that brings us a fresh start. Our sins are washed away in forgiveness, and we have a new focus to glorify God.

This is an abundant life that overflows with grace, gratitude, and hope.

This is the way of eternal life that leads us to our home in heaven.

Take the daily challenge to walk with Jesus in the light of life on the journey of faith.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com