Friday, August 29, 2025
New Testament Reading Plan: Philippians 4
John 4:34
Then Jesus explained: “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.”
I'm just guessing here, but when the disciples urged Jesus to eat earlier in this chapter (John 4:31), his response probably would have surprised them. He told them that his satisfaction - his very nourishment - came from doing the will of his Father. For Jesus, living on mission wasn't an extra activity or that once-a-week serving role; it was the source of his strength and joy.
That same truth applies to us. We often find ourselves surrounded by voices promising joy in comfort, possessions, or status. But unshakeable joy doesn't come from consuming more. Unshakeable joy comes from living out God's love in action by fully aligning our lives with his mission: to love him and love others.
We are called to reflect God's love in ways that are bold, selfless, and real. Jesus demonstrated compassion that transcended cultural barriers and went past convenience and into sacrifice. That's the kind of love the world still longs for and desperately needs to see.
When we root our lives in God's unfailing love, we don't burn out or lose heart. Instead, we find ourselves nourished and sustained, just as Jesus was, by doing our Father's will.
So today, ask yourself: What truly fills me? What do I rely on for satisfaction?
If the answer is anything other than God's love and mission, it will eventually leave you empty. But when you love boldly, serve faithfully, and live out God's calling, you'll find a joy that can't be shaken.
Let's live like Jesus - nourished by the Father's will, fueled by his love, and doing the good work he has placed before us.
Questions:
What truly fills you?
What do you rely on for satisfaction?
How are you making a difference in the lives of those around you?
Next Steps:
If you’re ready to discover how God has uniquely wired you to live on mission, GrowthTrack is the perfect place to start. It’s designed to help you uncover your gifts, understand your purpose, and find the best way to live out God’s love in action.
Don’t just hear about God’s mission, step into it!
Prayer:
Jesus, thank you for showing us what it looks like to live with unshakeable joy. I long to follow your example and stay fully connected to you. Thank you for your patience as I step into the work you’ve placed in front of me. Let my efforts reflect your love in bold and selfless ways, just as you demonstrated. I love you, I trust you, and I worship you. Amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Psalm 16:11
You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.
This post was written by Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content for the Daily LivingItOut.