Devotion for Saturday, May 23, 2026

“But be on your guard; for they will deliver you to the courts, and you will be flogged in the synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them.  The gospel must first be preached to all the nations” (Mark 13:9-10). 

You may think that we do not flog anymore, and if you’re thinking of a whip on the back in public, you may be right.  But consider what happens if you dare to say anything that is deemed unacceptable by the public?  Believers are constantly castigated for their words of faith.  The point is that the world hates God, and you have been called by Him to be a witness.  Will your life witness His presence and purpose?

Lord, it may not carry the price of physical pain, but social media and public discourse has greatly limited what it considers acceptable.  Help me to be bold in humility, simply stand the ground You have given me and speak the truth.  The world may hate You, but You have called me into the truth.  Let me life become a proclamation of the Gospel at work through me.

Lord Jesus, You humbly went from village to village proclaiming salvation.  You were sent to the cross after having been flogged.  By Your example, teach me that the truth is always better than the lies of this age.  Guide me into all truth and lead me by Your example to humbly walk where You lead me, sharing the Good News that You have come, and as many as believe need not perish, but have true life.  Amen.