Friday, February 13, 2026
Bible in a Year: Psalms 33-35 | Acts 14
After a week of powerful devotions, meaningful conversations, and moments that stirred our hearts, it can be tempting to think that spiritual growth only happens in big, unforgettable moments - the kinds that leave us inspired, emotional, and ready to “do better.”
But Ecclesiastes gently reminds us that faith isn't sustained by mountaintop experiences alone. It's lived out in ordinary days.
Ecclesiastes 3:12-13
So I concluded there is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can. And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God.
Solomon tells us that joy, goodness, and contentment in our daily work are gifts from God. They’re not rewards for getting everything right or signs that life is perfect.
This means our adventure with Jesus doesn't pause when we leave a fun weekend of competitive preaching services, or when the schedule returns to normal. It continues in carpools and meetings, in laundry piles, in late nights, in conversations with others, and in quiet prayers.
Preach Off week highlights the beauty of different voices, stories, and perspectives - all pointing us back to the same faithful God. Each message we heard or have read this week reminds us that God meets us right where we are and invites us to follow him right where we live.
So what does that look like now?
It looks like choosing joy in the middle of responsibility, doing good when no one is applauding, and trusting God with both our purpose and our calendar.
Today, I hope you find joy in the journey and peace in knowing that every faithful step matters. The excitement of Preach Off may be over, but the story God is writing in you is still unfolding.
Questions:
Where do you need to choose joy in the middle of your responsibilities?
In what way do you need to receive the gifts God offers you, trusting him with your calendar, and schedule some time to enjoy yourself?
Next Steps:
Each day, pause once - maybe in the morning, at lunch, or before bed - and name three things from your day that were gifts from God.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for meeting us in ordinary moments and faithful routines. Help us see your goodness in the small things, and open our eyes to the ways you are present, even when life feels repetitive or overwhelming. Teach us to choose joy, not because everything is easy, but because you are with us. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.
This post was written by Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content for the Daily LivingItOut.