Thursday, August 13, 2026

New Testament Reading Plan: Leviticus 22-24 | 1 Corinthians 8

We live in a world where having a platform of followers, accomplishments, recognition, and promotions matter. Many of us chase after those attributes. It’s okay to want them, but the gain can’t fill us up when the suffering comes. You lose when the main focus becomes growing your platform more than deepening roots in places they really matter.  

As a writer, I too fall victim to worldly matters because the line between platform and roots is often invisible. One isn’t necessarily sinful, but one must always feed the other. Is it different when it comes to writing about faith? Not if the focus shifts to “Will people read this?” instead of “Has God read me?” It happens when my words matter more than the Word. The Bible becomes research material instead of the gift that feeds me. Truth runs parallel to my being right, which causes my tank to run empty.

I usually manage to curb the enthusiasm of my voice by letting go of what I’ve written. That requires that I trust God. And trusting him is the one condition of God’s love. It invites Jesus in.

Ephesians 3:17
Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.

A platform is the part of your life that others notice - your accomplishments, recognition, and the ways you share your story. But a true platform isn’t just about what’s visible. It’s also shaped by the unseen: your brokenness, healing, and the grace you receive and share. When we invite Jesus to make his home in our hearts, he transforms us from the inside out. Building a platform, then, is less about outward success and more about letting Jesus dwell within us, making our lives his true home.

Our roots are the lifeline to God. Too often, we invite Jesus in as a guest to our heart - one room at a time. The “prayer room” fits our needs and the generosity and hope we have for others. The “forgiveness room” offers a chance to heal emotionally. The “Sunday room” checks that weekly Christian box. The “emergency room” reminds us that Jesus is necessary during a crisis.

Jesus can’t be a house guest. Allow your roots to grow deep in him to store memories in the attic, deliver daily bread in the kitchen, and offer rest in the bedroom. Welcome Jesus home into your heart.

Questions: 
What are you rooted in today? 

When do you trust God the most? When do you struggle with trusting God?

Next Steps: 
Be honest, and ask Jesus what rooms of your heart remain locked.

Start trusting without needing to understand by asking God for focus through acts of obedience. This may include forgiveness, generosity, or saying no. 

Develop a daily rhythm of prayer, serving others, resting, and reading Scripture. These are a few things that strengthen your roots. 

21 Days of Prayer | Today’s Focus: For Our World 

Prayer: 
Dear God, you alone deserve all honor, glory, and praise. You are the only true solution to the problems that plague the world today. God, we pray that you fill this world - every region and every people group - with your love. Empower the local church around the globe, igniting within them a deep passion for your mission and for your message to reach every corner of the earth. We pray for your protection over Christians who are at risk simply for following you and sharing the love of Jesus. Watch over them and encourage them through your Holy Spirit. We pray this in Jesus’ name, amen. 

Series Theme Verse:

John 13:35
“Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” 

Written by Jaron Camp, a regular contributor to the Daily Devotional.