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A prodigal who encounters Judgment and Compassion

One of the most joyful phrases of the Bible is found in the story of the prodigal son. In verse 17 of Luke 15, it says, “And then he came to himself.” Why is this phrase joyful? It is a realization of wrong and a heart that is ready to repent. The prodigal son realizes he is at his “rock bottom” with no where else to go and if he hangs on to his stubbornness and pride he will starve to death. He realizes that even the servants in his father’s household have plenty to eat while he is ready to eat the muck he’s feeding to pigs. But…then he comes to himself. It’s a point in his story where he makes a life changing decision and returns home and encounters both judgment and compassion..

Do you know a prodigal?

Who do you know in your life that is a “prodigal”? Someone who has turned away to reckless and wasteful living. Someone who has walked away from the Christian faith to live like the world. It might be a child, a relative, a friend, a coworker, or fellow church member. Maybe it’s you. One of the biggest hindrances to a prodigal finding their way home is the fear of being judged, unforgiven, unloved, unwanted, and unwelcomed. But what if that prodigal knew that home was a place of love, compassion, and forgiveness?

A brother of judgment

In Jesus’ parable of the prodigal son, we find a father of compassion and brother of judgment. The older brother in the story was angry the prodigal son had come home and he was even more angry that his father welcomed him with open arms and held a great feast for him. All he could see was how faithful he had been to his father and he knew that all that his father had should one day be his. Perhaps there was some fear that this brother that returned would be given some of what should become his. Instead of celebrating that his brother was safe, alive, and back home, he was full of self-centeredness, judgement and jealousy. The prodigal had come home, but now his brother is the one gone astray due to a heart of unforgiveness.

A father’s concern

Whenever I read this story, I imagine the father walking to the end of his property every morning and every night and taking a long look down the road – looking for his son to come home. I imagine him falling on his knees in prayer, praying for God to keep his son safe and to bring him back home. I imagine how he misses his son, remembers him as a little boy and all the hopes and dreams he had for this son. Can you see the concern and worry etched across his face as he look down the road each day? He doesn’t know if this son is alive or dead…or if he will ever come home.

Perhaps the other son that stayed at home watches every morning as his father makes the walk to the end of his property looking for the son that left. Maybe there is a little bit of hope inside of him that his brother will come home, but based on how he reacts when he does return, he probably is more likely filled with disgust and jealousy that his father longs for this missing son to return.

A father of compassion

I imagine the day the son comes walking down the road, barely alive. Hungry. His clothes torn, dirty and hanging on him with all the weight he’s lost. He’s barely recognizable. But as his father looks down the road just as the sun is setting, about to turn back home, he stops and turns for just one last look and just over the hill comes the figure of a man walking. He recognizes the gait – it shows the man is tired – but it’s his gait.

He looks a little longer, with hope in his eyes. The man gets a little closer. The man’s hair is dirty and matted together. His eyes are tired, sunken into a face that hasn’t eaten in a long time. His feet are dirty – maybe even bloody from the long walk. The father squints, almost afraid to hope. In the man’s eyes he sees regret, fear of rejection, uncertainty.

The prodigal son looks up he sees his father and stops – not sure of how he will be received. The two stare at each other for a moment and as the father realizes that this is indeed his son, he lets out a whelp of joy and runs to his son. Tears of joy stream down his face. He embraces his son, not caring about the filth or stench. He calls his servants and instructs them to bring his son new clothes and to prepare a feast. And he wraps an arm around his son, helping him make the last steps home.

God is a Father of Compassion

Each of Jesus’ parables held a spiritual meaning to them. In this parables, we are like the prodigal son who wanders away from God, squandering everything and then when we hit rock bottom we begin to find our way back to God.

God is like the father in the parable of the prodigal son. No matter how far away from Him we roam and no matter what we get ourselves mixed up in, when we return with a contrite heart and ask for His forgiveness, God will open His arms to us and welcome us home with joy and celebration.

The brother is more like the world who wants to judge all the mistakes and poor choices and then when the prodigal returns they become angry, unforgiving, doubting if the repentance is genuine. And if God should choose to use the mistakes and lessons learned to bring Him honor and glory then the world steps in to say, “how could God ever use them?”

To the prodigal you know, will you be judgment or compassion?

Think back to the prodigal you know. Who will you choose to be more like: the compassionate father or the judgmental son? Would you be the one to wrap your arm around the prodigal and help them make the last steps home? If the prodigal knew that compassion and forgiveness awaited them, would they be more likely to return once they reach the point of repentance?

God, help us to recognize the prodigals – not to judge, but to be the one that helps them find their way back home. Give us hearts of compassion, ready to forgive, and welcome them home with joy. When you choose to use their story for your glory – help us be encouragers and seek ways to help them carry out their calling. 

Revive Renew Redeem logo on self-care post

Now you can enhance your Bible Reading with the Verse Mapping Template

Our Verse Mapping download is FREE and includes 6 pages: 3 pages of instructions for using the template and the 2 page template, plus the cover page. If you’re looking to go deeper into God’s Word, learn more about God and develop a stronger spiritual life, Verse Mapping will help you dig into the scriptures. As you apply God’s Word to your life, you will develop a more intimate knowledge and relationship with God.

[Download not found]

Download our Free 2021 Bible Memory Verse Plan

We’ve put together 52 memory verses for you to hide God’s Word in your heart! You can download the full document for free and then print a new verse each week and as many copies as you’d like. Each verse prints four times on a page so that you can then cut them into index size cards and place them in prominent places where you will see them frequently throughout the day to help you remember to memorize them. Just because you visited our site, they’re yours for free! Download today.

[Download not found]
Bible Reading Plan Download

Download our Free 2021 Daily Bible Reading Plan

With just 30-40 minutes per day, you can read the entire Bible in one year. The One-Year Bible Reading Plan consists of both Old Testament and New Testament readings for each day of the year. The Bible is God’s personal Word to you. What is He saying to you today? Open your Bible and find out!

One Year Bible Reading Plan

Download our Free Self-Care Wheel

The Self-Care Wheel provides ideas for practicing self-care in six dimensions of yourself: Spiritual, Physical, Emotional, Intellectual, Sensory, and Social. NOTE: You will need 11X14 paper to print the wheel.

Want to know more about self-care? Our Self-Care blog series targets people who serve in any ministry position and takes a Biblical approach to self-care.

[Download not found]

This week’s new Christian Tees designs:

#Done 2021

This week, we are celebrating the accomplishments of the class of 2021. If you have a high school, college, or university graduate this year, our #Done 2021 shirts and products make a great gift. View the samples below and other products in this design in our Spreadshop store. Once in the store, you can click on the customize tab and add your school name or graduate’s name!

Class of 2021
Get the “#Done2021” shirts and products here

See our other graduation tees and products:

Graduating Seniors and Class of 2021

Once in the store, you can click on the customize tab and add your school name or graduate’s name!

  • Class of 2021
  • Graduating Seniors

The slide show below highlights some of our favorite Christian Tees designs available in our Spreadshop and Teespring stores.

  • Jesus is our Peace
  • Fight on my knees
  • Godfidence
  • Walk by faith
  • I’m only talking to Jesus today
  • Known Loved Worthy Enough Chosen Child of God
  • 2021 Trailer – All things possible – Be still – It’s fine
  • Large view 2021 Trailer – All things possible – Be still – It’s fine
  • Grace wins
  • Living for the world to see Jesus
  • Way Maker
  • Walk by Faith
  • Script Unstoppable God
  • Print Unstoppable God
  • Unstoppable Force
  • Steps of a Good Man
  • Something New
  • Seek and Find
  • Revive Us Again
  • Resist the Devil
  • Raise a Hallelujah
  • Prayer Warrior
  • Beloved- Mr and Mrs
  • Mr and Mrs – God’s Plan
  • Man of God
  • He Left 99 for Me
  • Cast All Your Cares
  • Giants
  • Faith over Fear
  • Don’t Worry
  • Faith Can Move Mountains
  • Don’t Quit
  • Created to Praise
  • All things are Possible
  • What the Lord Requires
  • All Things New
  • Anything is possible
  • With my song I will praise Him
  • Names of God
  • All things are possible
  • Run with perseverance
  • Blessings head to toe-hearts
  • Revive Us Again, Lord
    Revive us again, Lord
  • Isaiah 41:13
  • Blessings head to toe – roses
  • Jeremiah 29:11
  • Blessings head to toe
  • Be Still
  • Blessings head to toe – floral
  • God’s starting point

Canvas art and posters are available in the Teespring store. Many of our Christian Tees are also available at Teespring.

  • All thing new
  • Amazing Grace Sunset
  • Armor of God
  • Amazing Grace
  • As the Deer
  • Be still and know
  • Come thou Fount
  • Jeremiah 29:11
  • Look to the Lord
  • Lord is my Rock
  • New Mercies
  • Pray
  • Redeemed
  • Seek and Find
  • Wings like Eagles
  • Stand Firm
  • Teach the way of Wisdom
  • New Song
  • Prayer of Blessing

To see the collection of Canvas and Poster Prints

Need some music to get you through the day? Check out one of our Playlists on YouTube

Click here for the Contemporary Christian Playlist
Click here for the Southern Gospel Playlist
Or Click here for the Hymns Playlist

You can also watch our animated devotionals on the YouTube Channel

Click here to watch the animated devotionals

God, Love and Marshmallow Wars by Julia M. Bruce

What’s Inside God, Love and Marshmallow Wars?

God, Love and Marshmallow Wars is a book that includes 365 daily activities and takes you on a guided journey through Biblical principles about Godly marriage that you can then apply to your marriage, as well as helping you talk through concepts that can help you develop a solid relationship. Inside you will find simple, quick activities that include:

  • Scripture to memorize and meditate on.
  • Conversation Starters.
  • Concepts from the Bible on Godly marriages.
  • Romance Builders.
  • Relationship Builders.
  • Personal reflections.
  • Date ideas.
  • Group date ideas for you and other Christian couples.

Available in hardback, paperback and ebook from Westbow Press Bookstore, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. Click the icons below to purchase from your preferred bookstore. Now also available at WalMart online.

WestBow Press logo

Bible Studies, Bibles, Books & More

Christianbook Distributors logo
Everything Christian for less!

Looking for a Bible Study, Bible, book or Christian gift? We are an affiliate with Christianbook Distributors and receive an 8% commission on any item purchased through one of our links. However, the commission never increases your cost of any item. View some of our favorite items by clicking on the logo and thank you for supporting our ministry.

Christianbook Distributors Search:
Christianbook.com

Wellspring Christian Ministries receives an 8% commission on any purchased made from Christian Book Distributors through any affiliate link on this site. Your price for any item is the same as purchasing from CBD directly.

Here’s some of our recent posts.

904.239.8937
A non-profit ministry located in Jacksonville, FL 

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The Pointlessness of Worrying

In Luke 12, Jesus taught that we should not be overcome with worry over the basic needs of life. Yet isn’t that difficult to do when you’re not sure how to make ends meet because you’re laid off work in the midst of a pandemic? How do we not be overcome with worry in the middle of a world-wide pandemic where so many are not just getting sick — but dying?

Giving into worry divides our attention and keeps us from trusting God

When we give in to worry, it divides our attention and distracts us from trusting God. When that happens we have a shift in focus. Instead of focusing on God, we focus on our health, finances, marriage, children, career and make these things our priority. However, we must remember that there is absolutely nothing in this world that can bring about stability, confidence or peace. If you strive after the things of this world so that they are what you live for, then your life will be filled with worry and anxiety. When our priorities and allegiances are founded in the things of this world and we place all our hope and confidence in them, we become unstable and obsessively worry about the things in life that are fleeting.

So how, then, do we shift our focus back to God and strive for living a life of abundant joy? Paul gives us four counter- attacks to worry: Prayer, Ponder, Praise and Prepare. — click to tweet

Paul’s four counter-attacks to worry

Prayer is a counter-attack to worry

“Do not be anxious [do not worry] about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)

For every need we experience, we should immediately bring them to God in prayer. In fact, James 4:2 says “You do not have because you do not ask.” In Isaiah 41:10, God says, “fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” In Luke 12, Jesus taught that if God will make sure the birds of the air are fed, how much more would he ensure that His own children’s needs are met. God might not always meet our needs in a way that we imagine, but God does promise to meet them. So, whatever you are worried about right now, stop and pray. Prayer should always be a first point of attack against worry.

Pondering on what is commendable is a counter-attack to worry. 

Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things. (Philippians 4:8)

We need to ponder over things that are eternal, such as acknowledging the blessings that God has sent us before and remembering the times He met our needs in the past. Pondering on the things of God that have eternal value – things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable – will shift our focus back from a “worldliness” point of view to a “Godliness” point of view. Pondering is our second point of attack because it is just about near impossible to both ponder on the things of God and the things we worry about at the same time.

Giving God praise is a counter-attack to worry.

Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. (Hebrews 13:5) Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
(1 Thessalonians 5:18)

God wants our praise no matter what our circumstances. –Click to tweet

King David puts it this way in Psalm 150:

Hallelujah! Praise God in His sanctuary. Praise Him in His mighty heavens. And Praise him for His powerful acts; praise Him for His abundant greatness. Praise Him with trumpet blast; and praise Him with harp and lyre. Praise Him with tambourine and dance; praise Him with flute and strings. And Praise Him with resounding cymbals; praise Him with clashing cymbals. Let everything that breathes praise the Lord. Hallelujah!

Praise is a counter attack to worry because you can’t worry and genuinely praise at the same time. We can praise God for how he will answer our prayers and respond to our needs even before He does because we can trust Him to keep His promises.

Being prepared is a counter-attack to worry

And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19)

When you pray for God to meet a need, do you say the words but in your heart don’t really expect God to do anything? God said He will meet our every need. It doesn’t mean that we get everything we want, but He will meet our needs. 1 John 5:14-15 tells us: “And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him.” One part of this verse to pay special attention to is the tiny word “if.” This verse tells that IF we ask according to His will, THEN wen can know that He hears us.

In James 4:3, Paul wrote: “You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.” Remember that God’s promise is to meet our needs – not every single desire. God is not a genie in a bottle to grant our every wish. It is true that at times God also graciously  gives us some of our wants, but “wants” are not part of His promise.  So, if we know that what we are asking Him for is a need that lines up with His will, what are we doing to prepare for God to meet that need as we wait expectantly for Him?

When worry does creep in, give it to God

Because we live in a broken and fallen world, there will be times that worry creeps in and tries to steal our focus away from God and the abundant joy that is ours as children of God. However, when we bring these concerns to God in prayer, ponder on things of eternal value as well as God’s grace and goodness in our lives, give Him the praise that is due Him and prepare to receive His divine answer to meeting our needs, then we can defeat worry and grow in our faith and trust of a loving, providing God. 

God, when worry tries to steal our attention away from you, help us remember to pray, ponder, praise, and prepare for your very best that you already have in mind for us. Thank you for meeting our needs. 

Revive Renew Redeem logo on self-care post

Now you can enhance your Bible Reading with the Verse Mapping Template

Our Verse Mapping download is FREE and includes 6 pages: 3 pages of instructions for using the template and the 2 page template, plus the cover page. If you’re looking to go deeper into God’s Word, learn more about God and develop a stronger spiritual life, Verse Mapping will help you dig into the scriptures. As you apply God’s Word to your life, you will develop a more intimate knowledge and relationship with God.

[Download not found]

Download our Free 2021 Bible Memory Verse Plan

We’ve put together 52 memory verses for you to hide God’s Word in your heart! You can download the full document for free and then print a new verse each week and as many copies as you’d like. Each verse prints four times on a page so that you can then cut them into index size cards and place them in prominent places where you will see them frequently throughout the day to help you remember to memorize them. Just because you visited our site, they’re yours for free! Download today.

[Download not found]
Bible Reading Plan Download

Download our Free 2021 Daily Bible Reading Plan

With just 30-40 minutes per day, you can read the entire Bible in one year. The One-Year Bible Reading Plan consists of both Old Testament and New Testament readings for each day of the year. The Bible is God’s personal Word to you. What is He saying to you today? Open your Bible and find out!

One Year Bible Reading Plan

Download our Free Self-Care Wheel

The Self-Care Wheel provides ideas for practicing self-care in six dimensions of yourself: Spiritual, Physical, Emotional, Intellectual, Sensory, and Social. NOTE: You will need 11X14 paper to print the wheel.

Want to know more about self-care? Our Self-Care blog series targets people who serve in any ministry position and takes a Biblical approach to self-care.

[Download not found]

This week’s new Christian Tees designs:

Class of 2021

This week, we are celebrating the accomplishments of the class of 2021. If you have a high school, college, or university graduate this year, our Class of 2021 shirts and products make a great gift. View the samples below and other products in this design in our Spreadshop store. Once in the store, you can click on the customize tab and add your school name or graduate’s name!

Class of 2021
Get the “Class of 2021” shirts and products here

Graduating Seniors

For all the seniors celebrating graduation in a few months. Includes Jeremiah 29:11. If you have a senior graduating, this design makes a great gift.

Graduating Seniors
Find the “Graduating Seniors” shirts and products here

Here are some of our favorite designs

  • Godfidence
  • Anything is possible
  • With my song I will praise Him
  • All Things New
  • Joy of the Lord
  • Way Maker
  • Walk by Faith
  • Script Unstoppable God
  • Print Unstoppable God
  • Unstoppable Force
  • Steps of a Good Man
  • Something New
  • Seek and Find
  • Revive Us Again
  • Resist the Devil
  • Raise a Hallelujah
  • Path of His Commands
  • Prayer Warrior
  • Beloved- Mr and Mrs
  • Mr and Mrs – God’s Plan
  • Man of God
  • He Left 99 for Me
  • Cast All Your Cares
  • Giants
  • Faith over Fear
  • Faith Can Move Mountains
  • Don’t Worry
  • Don’t Quit
  • Created to Praise
  • All things are Possible
  • What the Lord Requires
  • Living for the world to see Jesus
  • Face Masks now available!
  • All things are possible
  • Run with perseverance
  • Revive Us Again, Lord
    Revive us again, Lord

New in the Teespring Store: The Prayer of Blessing

We’ve added a new canvas print to the Teespring Store.

God instructed the Israelite priests to pray the prayer of blessing every day over the people. The prayer is found in Numbers 6:24-26. Hang the canvass in your home or carry the mug, tote bag, or water bottle and let the prayer of blessing impact all those who you meet throughout the day.

Find the canvas print here

We’ve also put this design on a poster, coffee mug, a stainless steel water bottle, phone cases, and a few other products.

Need some music to get you through the day? Check out one of our Playlists on YouTube

Click here for the Contemporary Christian Playlist
Click here for the Southern Gospel Playlist
Or Click here for the Hymns Playlist

You can also watch our animated devotionals on the YouTube Channel

Click here to watch the animated devotionals

God, Love and Marshmallow Wars by Julia M. Bruce

What’s Inside God, Love and Marshmallow Wars?

God, Love and Marshmallow Wars is a book that includes 365 daily activities and takes you on a guided journey through Biblical principles about Godly marriage that you can then apply to your marriage, as well as helping you talk through concepts that can help you develop a solid relationship. Inside you will find simple, quick activities that include:

  • Scripture to memorize and meditate on.
  • Conversation Starters.
  • Concepts from the Bible on Godly marriages.
  • Romance Builders.
  • Relationship Builders.
  • Personal reflections.
  • Date ideas.
  • Group date ideas for you and other Christian couples.

Available in hardback, paperback and ebook from Westbow Press Bookstore, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. Click the icons below to purchase from your preferred bookstore. Now also available at WalMart online.

WestBow Press logo

Bible Studies, Bibles, Books & More

Christianbook Distributors logo
Everything Christian for less!

Looking for a Bible Study, Bible, book or Christian gift? We are an affiliate with Christianbook Distributors and receive an 8% commission on any item purchased through one of our links. However, the commission never increases your cost of any item. View some of our favorite items by clicking on the logo and thank you for supporting our ministry.

Christianbook Distributors Search:
Christianbook.com

Wellspring Christian Ministries receives an 8% commission on any purchased made from Christian Book Distributors through any affiliate link on this site. Your price for any item is the same as purchasing from CBD directly.

Here’s some of our recent posts.

904.239.8937
A non-profit ministry located in Jacksonville, FL 

Follow us on:

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Bible Trivia Answer:

Did you get the correct answer? Check below to see if you were right..

You’ll find the answer in John 15:1. “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.

Do you have a daily Bible reading plan? If not, we invite you to join us as we read the Bible through in one year. Each day we post the selected Scripture to read with links to read it online. Join us in God’s Word today!.

Click here to join our One Year Bible Reading Plan

Today’s verse to meditate on:

2 Chronicles 20:12
We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.”

Read today’s devotional here

Have you learned this week’s memory verse?

Lamentations 3:22-23

Because of the Lord’s faithful love we do not perish, for His mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!

Do you serve in ministry? If so, you’ll want to browse our self-care blogs.

In the series of blogs, we breakdown why people in ministry need to practice self care, explain the differences between stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue, and combine both psychology and Biblical principles to help pastors, missionaries, small group leaders, worship pastors, nursery workers, facility/maintenance staff, religious non-profit staff, and any other ministry staff understand why self-care is crucial to you continuing the work God’s called you to do.

If you can relate to this, then take some time to read our self care blogs.

Click here to find the Self-Care Blog Series

You can check out our Christian t-shirts for men, women, kids and infants in our Teespring and Spreadshop stores. You can also find the designs on mugs, bags, aprons, hats, and more. We also have some Christian themed canvas art available at Teespring. Browse the stores with the links below:

What’s Inside God, Love and Marshmallow Wars?

This book includes 365 daily activities and takes you on a guided journey through Biblical principles about Godly marriage that you can then apply to your marriage, as well as helping you talk through concepts that can help you develop a solid relationship. Inside you will find simple, quick activities that include:

  • Scripture to memorize and meditate on
  • Conversation Starters
  • Concepts from the Bible on Godly marriages
  • Romance Builders
  • Relationship Builders
  • Personal reflections
  • Date ideas
  • Group date ideas for you and other Christian couples

Available in hardback, paperback and ebook from Westbow Press Bookstore, Christian Book Distributors, Amazon, and Barnes & Nobel. Click the icons below to purchase from your preferred bookstore. Now also available at WalMart online.

Westbow logo
Christian book logo
amazon logo
Barnes and Nobel logo
walmart logo


 Join the community of couples on Facebook who are committed to intentionally growing their marriage and learning how to have a marriage that honors God. Here you can post photos of the different activities as you do them, ask questions of other couples, share how God is using this book to strengthen your marriage, and grow with other Christian couples. We’ll see you in the community.

Need a speaker for your next church or ministry event? We’re booking!

(Due to COVID-19, we are only tentatively booking speaking engagements for events after September 2020 based on the recommendations as issued by the CDC and our government officials.)

We are eager to be a part of your next church or ministry event – regardless of size. We can bring one of our ministry programs to your church, or we can tailor a message to your event theme. To request more information or schedule a booking, fill out the online form at the link below. Or call us at 904.239.8937.

Booking now for Speaking Engagements
for church and ministry events

904.239.8937
A non-profit ministry located in Jacksonville, FL 
Follow us on:

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Bible Trivia Question:

Test your Bible smarts and see if you can answer today’s Bible Trivia question.

Think you know the answer to today’s Bible Trivia? Leave it in the comments and then come back tomorrow to see if you are correct.

Do you have a daily Bible reading plan? If not, we invite you to join us as we read the Bible through in one year. Each day we post the selected Scripture to read with links to read it online. Join us in God’s Word today!.

Click here to join our One Year Bible Reading Plan

Today’s verse to meditate on:

John 15:5
I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

Read today’s devotional here

Have you learned this week’s memory verse?

Lamentations 3:22-23

Because of the Lord’s faithful love we do not perish, for His mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!

Do you serve in ministry? If so, you’ll want to browse our self-care blogs.

In the series of blogs, we breakdown why people in ministry need to practice self care, explain the differences between stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue, and combine both psychology and Biblical principles to help pastors, missionaries, small group leaders, worship pastors, nursery workers, facility/maintenance staff, religious non-profit staff, and any other ministry staff understand why self-care is crucial to you continuing the work God’s called you to do.

If you can relate to this, then take some time to read our self care blogs.

Click here to find the Self-Care Blog Series

You can check out our Christian t-shirts for men, women, kids and infants in our Teespring and Spreadshop stores. You can also find the designs on mugs, bags, aprons, hats, and more. We also have some Christian themed canvas art available at Teespring. Browse the stores with the links below:

What’s Inside God, Love and Marshmallow Wars?

This book includes 365 daily activities and takes you on a guided journey through Biblical principles about Godly marriage that you can then apply to your marriage, as well as helping you talk through concepts that can help you develop a solid relationship. Inside you will find simple, quick activities that include:

  • Scripture to memorize and meditate on
  • Conversation Starters
  • Concepts from the Bible on Godly marriages
  • Romance Builders
  • Relationship Builders
  • Personal reflections
  • Date ideas
  • Group date ideas for you and other Christian couples

Available in hardback, paperback and ebook from Westbow Press Bookstore, Christian Book Distributors, Amazon, and Barnes & Nobel. Click the icons below to purchase from your preferred bookstore. Now also available at WalMart online.

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 Join the community of couples on Facebook who are committed to intentionally growing their marriage and learning how to have a marriage that honors God. Here you can post photos of the different activities as you do them, ask questions of other couples, share how God is using this book to strengthen your marriage, and grow with other Christian couples. We’ll see you in the community.

Need a speaker for your next church or ministry event? We’re booking!

(Due to COVID-19, we are only tentatively booking speaking engagements for events after September 2020 based on the recommendations as issued by the CDC and our government officials.)

We are eager to be a part of your next church or ministry event – regardless of size. We can bring one of our ministry programs to your church, or we can tailor a message to your event theme. To request more information or schedule a booking, fill out the online form at the link below. Or call us at 904.239.8937.

Booking now for Speaking Engagements
for church and ministry events

904.239.8937
A non-profit ministry located in Jacksonville, FL 
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2 Kings 12:2-3. A Compliment…But Not A Compliment

May 15 2 Kings 12 2-3 MSG

One of my favorite Disney stories is Cinderella. I’ve always been a person that roots for the underdog, so perhaps that’s why this story has always been a favorite. In the animated movie, there is the scene where Cinderella and her step-sisters learn of the upcoming ball. They are all full of excitement – as any young girl would be – especially when they learn that the prince is to choose a bride from all the eligible young ladies. The mean step-sisters flit around, each thinking so highly of themselves that they would be the chosen girl to marry the prince. As Cinderella mentions going, her step-mother gets an evil glean in her eye and says, “Yes, of course, you can go…” and then she drops a bombshell with one two letter word – “if.” If she got all the chores done. If she had something suitable to wear. If. The evil-step mother sabotaged Cinderella with just the word “if.”

Joash (also called Jehoash) was only seven years old when he was crowned king of Judah. And in our verse for the day, the young king receives a great complement from the writer. The Bible tells us that as long as the priest, Jehoiada, instructed him, the young king did what was right in the sight of the Lord. In the midst of many evil kings, this young king wears the crown and did what pleased God. But then the bombshell drops with “Even so.” The New King James uses just one word – “But.” Joash did what pleased God – Even so, he left the fertility shrines.

As soon as Jehoiada had Joash crowned king, he made a covenant between God, the king, and the people that they would be God’s people and they all went to the temple of Baal and tore it down, broke the altars and images and killed the priest of Baal. They started out well – but they didn’t finish the job. They left the shrines in place and the people still sacrificed and burned incense there, along with many immoral, sexual sins. By not May 15 cttridding that nation of all the idol worship, Joash left a door cracked open for the people to return to idol worship. We might say, “yes, but he was a better king than others that ruled before him.” And that is true. However,anytime we leave the door of sin cracked open, Satan will stick his foot in the crack and swing the door wide open – and that’s what happens to Joash and the people. In 2 Chronicles 24 we learn that as soon as Jehoiada died, Joash and the people “left the house of the Lord God of their fathers, and served wooden images and idols; and wrath came upon Judah and Jerusalem because of their trespass.” (verses 17-18). As a result, Joash’s servants take action and they assassinate him and make his son king in his place (2 Kings 12:20-21).

What started out as a compliment ended up being critical. We should never underestimate the power of small words such as “if,” or “but” or “even so.” We’ve all had those kinds of moments.

She had felt called to be a missionary, but she had to get married and he wouldn’t go.
He would have been promoted, if he had better work attendance.
They could have avoided divorce. Even so, he couldn’t stop flirting with his secretary.
She tried losing weight, but couldn’t resist chocolate.
He felt God called him to the ministry. Even so, he was too afraid to quit his well-paying
job and go to seminary.

If someone were writing this verse about you and said: “[Insert your name] did what May 15 ctt 2pleased God all the days of his/her life. Even so…” how would the sentence be finished for you? We can live all the days of our lives in a way that pleases God, but then not do that one thing or not finish the task and in doing it, we invite sin into our lives. Would you confess the “even so” to God now and ask for His forgiveness? Would you repent and turn away from your “even so?” Would you close the door to it and never go back?

We should also never underestimate the people that God puts in our lives to help steer us in the way we should go. Can you identify a “Jehoiada” in your life? Do you listen to this person of Godly wisdom? If that person was somehow no longer a part of your life, would you continue in the wisdom he or she planted in you – or would you return to the life you had before they entered your life?

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#finishwell #evenso

may divider 2020

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Don’t forget to learn this week’s memory verse:

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Memorize and hide in your heart one memory verse each week in 2020. If you didn’t start the challenge at the beginning of the year, just jump in now and be sure to sign up to get our weekly Memory verse in your email so you don’t miss a week.

This week’s memory verse:

Hosea 14:1-2

Israel, return to Yahweh your God,
for you have stumbled in your sin.
 Take words of repentance with you
and return to the Lord.
Say to Him: “Forgive all our sin
and accept what is good,
so that we may repay You
with praise from our lips.

 #unfailing love #repentance #COVID19 #revival #WCM

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Christian book logoThis week’s featured items from Christian Book Distributors will help you get ready for the Memorial Day weekend. Order early as shipping times are taking a little longer than normal.

Memorial Day Weekend 2020: Event at the Fredericksburg ...

Memorial Day is May 25th: ORDER NOW

At Christian Book Distributors you will find Bible Studies, books, gifts, and more to help you grow your faith and often at discounted prices from other places.
Our organization receives an 8% commission on any item you purchase through these links. However, the product price is the same for you. There is no increase in your cost for us to receive the commission. All commissions received support the work and ministry of Wellspring Christian Ministries. Enter the site through any of the links below and browse the online store. Any item you purchase through ones of our links will qualify for us to receive the commission.
385361: God Bless the USA Heart Plaque God Bless the USA Heart Plaque

By Barbara Lloyd / Blossom Bucket Inc

Red, white and blue Americana Patriotic heart wall sign

  • Names of all the states on the stripes
  • Designed by Barbara Lloyd
  • Bold star embellishment
  • 12″ x 11.75″
  • For home, office, cottage; Fourth of July, Memorial Day, Patriotic event
  • God Bless the USA
46467X: One Nation Under God, Land of the Free, Canvas Framed Art One Nation Under God, Land of the Free, Canvas Framed Art

By Carpentree, Inc
464691: God Bless America, Canvas Framed Art God Bless America, Canvas Framed Art

By Carpentree, Inc

Vintage Patriotic Collection of fine wall art, with frayed natural canvas above a striped art backdrop.13″ x 19″ clean and contemporary dark frameVintage style in trend, patriotic look. Textured appeal. Star-printed shape of the United States of America; God bless AmericaPowerful patriotic wall accent.
254977: Soldier"s Prayer Figure Soldier’s Prayer Figure

By Dicksons

Beautifully detailed figurine, kneeling soldier in prayer on realistic wood-look base, features a plaque with engraved prayer by Alda Maria. Resin figure; 4.5″ x 5.75″; packaged in colored gift box. Hear Our Prayer Collection.A Soldier’s Prayer
When I put on my uniform Lord, please help me be a soldier who’s commited to life and liberty. As I pray for this great nation, and for every soul’s salvation, please equip me, Lord, I pray to fight the good fight every day. Give our leaders wisdom, Lord, if war becomes a must, may they only choose to fight for a cause that’s just. When the day is over, Lord, most of all I pray, that You will keep in perfect peace Your servants in harm’s way. Amen.
035431: John 8:36, Liberty Cross with American Flag John 8:36, Liberty Cross with American Flag

By Carpentree, Inc

Printers’ Block Collection of fine inspirational gifts; wall decor with the raised, dimensional detail of lettering in artisan styles, combined creatively for display in your home.

  • Wall cross with patriotic American flag
  • John 8:36 Liberty
  • 10″ tall
461418: God Bless America, Small Flag God Bless America, Small Flag

By Tina Wenke / Carson Home Accents

  • Art flag God Bless America
  • Tina Wenke
  • Garden Flag; 13″ x 18″
  • Durasoft fabric is extremely durable; Indoor or outdoor use
  • Readable from both sidesPlease note: We have displayed this flag on a stand so our customers can see how it will look. Please order a flag stand separately since it is not included with the flag.
553412: God Bless America, Small Applique Flag God Bless America, Small Applique Flag

By Carson Home Accents

  • God bless America
  • Carson
  • Small Applique Flag; 13″ x 18″
  • Durasoft fabric is extremely durable; Indoor or outdoor use
  • Readable from both sides
  • American pride colorsPlease note: We have displayed this flag on a pole so our customers can see how it will look. Please order a flag pole separately since it is not included with the flag.
089104: God Bless America Tie God Bless America Tie

By Eagles Wings

Proudly show-off your love for God and country with this beautiful patriotic tie! Features God Bless America on a stars and stripes background; 100% silk; dry clean only.
9115250: God Bless America, Photo Frame God Bless America, Photo Frame

By Carson Home Accents

Photo frame in patriotic stars and stripes design

  • Wood composite with glass
  • Velvet easel back for desktop display; sawtooth hanger for wall display
  • 8″ x 8″
  • For 4″ x 6″ horizontal photo
  • God Bless America
243171: God Bless America Pie Plate God Bless America Pie Plate

By Divinity Boutique

Serve up Americana at your summer table. Glossy blue 10″ fluted ceramic pie plate with red, white and blue inspirational design. God Bless America…”Bless is the nation whose God is the Lord. Psalm 33:12. Microwave, dishwasher, and oven safe.American as apple pie, or whatever your favorite is; rustic farmhouse charm for the kitchen.

Patriotic pie plate
243233: America, God Shed His Grace On Thee Hanging Jar America, God Shed His Grace On Thee Hanging Jar

By Divinity Boutique

Decorative mason jar with vintage wire hanger handle, trimmed in rustic red white and blue with stars; patriotic quote God Bless America. Glass jar is 6″ x 3″; may be used as a tealight holder, snacks, or home decorNot for microwave or dishwasher, but a country accent for your counter, shelf, or desktop
043680: God Bless America Wall Cross God Bless America Wall Cross

By Carpentree, Inc
491422: Bless Our Nation (Constitution) Small Flag Bless Our Nation (Constitution) Small Flag

By Russ Cannizzaro / Carson Home Accents

Garden-size flag design, readable from both sides

  • Patriotic motif with checkered border
  • Primitive American flag with quote from the preamble to the Constitution of the United States of America
  • Bless Our Nation
  • By Russ Cannizzaro
  • 12.5″ x 18″ garden size art flag
  • Flag stand shown is for display purposes only.

And of course we’ve included our CEO’s book:

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God, Love, and Marshmallow Wars: 365 Daily Challenges to Grow Your Marriage
By Julia M. Bruce / WestBow Press
There’s no doubt that marriage is hard work. Yet it can also be one of the most fulfilling relationships you can experience, outside of your relationship with God. However, many marriages leave God outside of the relationship. Godly marriages do not happen without cultivating it, investing in it, and putting God first in your individual lives and in your marriage.
This book includes 365 daily activities and takes you on a journey through Biblical principles about Godly marriage that you can then apply to your marriage, as well as helping you talk through concepts that can help you develop a solid relationship. Inside you will find simple, quick activities that include:

• Scripture to memorize and meditate on
• Conversation Starters
• Concepts from the Bible on Godly marriages
• Romance Builders
• Relationship Builders
• Personal reflections
• Date ideas
• Group date ideas for you and other Christian couples

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We’re booking for church and ministry events. (Due to COVID-19, we are only tentatively booking for events after September 2020 based on the recommendations as issued by the CDC and our government officials.)

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