Blog - Guided By Grace

April 8, 2026April 8, 2026

YOU WILL NOT BRING THIS COMMUNITY INTO THE LAND / NUMBERS 20:12

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Numbers 20:12

And the Lord spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.

YOU WILL NOT BRING THIS COMMUNITY INTO THE LAND / NUMBERS 20:12

Moses was forbidden to lead God’s people into Canaan because he had not carefully followed the Lord’s command (compare Numbers 20:8 with Numbers 20:11). Moses was the spiritual leader of God’s people, the one through whom God gave the law. His responsibility to obey the Lord’s word was greater because of his greater position and influence (James 3:1).

Moses’ sin was twofold. First, he spoke rashly as if God’s glory and power had their source in himself and Aaron (Numbers 20:10; Psalms 106:33). Second, he then acted rashly by angrily striking the rock twice rather than speaking to it as God had instructed (Numbers 20:11).
By speaking and acting rashly, Moses showed that he did not trust God with his whole heart (Numbers 20:12) and thus “rebelled” against His command (Numbers 20:24). At that critical time, Moses lacked faith and obedience. Faith and obedience are always the appropriate response to God’s word (Deuteronomy 9:23; 1 Samuel 12:15; 1 Kings 13:21; 2 Kings 17:14; Psalms 106:33). In addition, Moses failed to treat God as the holy and worthy God, choosing not to fear Him and not to obey His command.
Through these verses, God reminds all ministers of the gospel that their responsibility to obey the Word of God is greater because of their position and influence. Just as Moses disqualified himself from leading the people into Canaan, ministers today can permanently disqualify themselves from certain areas of leadership by their unfaithfulness to God’s commands (1 Timothy 3:1-7).

Bible Study Tools I Use

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Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog post! May the words inspire and uplift all who read them. Your support and interest mean the world to me, and I’m grateful for every moment you spend here. Stay tuned for more, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!

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April 8, 2026April 8, 2026

SPEAK TO THAT ROCK / NUMBERS 20:8

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Numbers 20:8

Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink.

SPEAK TO THAT ROCK / NUMBERS 20:8

God commanded Moses and Aaron to speak to the rock, not to strike it as God had commanded Moses to do at Horeb (Exodus 17:1-7).

Bible Study Tools I Use

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Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
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April 8, 2026April 8, 2026

IN THE FIRST MONTH / NUMBERS 20:1

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Numbers 20:1

Then came the children of Israel, even the whole congregation, into the desert of Zin in the first month: and the people abode in Kadesh; and Miriam died there, and was buried there.

IN THE FIRST MONTH / NUMBERS 20:1

The events in this chapter begin in the fortieth year after the exodus from Egypt (Numbers 20:22-29; 33:38). The people had wandered in the desert for thirty-nine years. Most of the first generation had died because of their unbelief without receiving what was promised Numbers 13 -14). Soon their children would enter the promised land.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
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www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
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April 5, 2026April 4, 2026

HOPPY EASTER 2026

Hoppy Easter 2026: Celebrating Renewal, Joy, and New Beginnings

This Sunday, April 5, 2026, families across the world will gather to celebrate Easter—a day filled with colorful eggs, chocolate bunnies, spring flowers, and profound hope.

Whether you’re marking the religious significance or simply enjoying the arrival of spring, Easter is a beautiful reminder that after every winter comes renewal.

The Heart of Easter: A Story of Hope and Resurrection

For Christians, Easter is the most important holiday of the year. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his crucifixion on Good Friday.

The empty tomb at sunrise symbolizes victory over death and the promise of new life. It’s a time of reflection, gratitude, and renewed faith.

Many families begin the day with a sunrise service or church gathering, followed by a special meal shared with loved ones.

Fun Easter Traditions Around the World

Easter blends ancient spring celebrations with Christian meaning. Here are some beloved traditions:

Easter Eggs: Eggs symbolize new life and rebirth. The tradition of decorating them dates back centuries, with beautiful Ukrainian pysanky eggs being one of the most artistic examples.
The Easter Bunny: This fluffy legend originated in Germany and was brought to America by immigrants. The bunny “hides” eggs for good children— a playful way to celebrate spring!
Egg Hunts & Rolls: From backyard hunts to the famous White House Easter Egg Roll (started in 1878), rolling or hunting for eggs is a favorite family activity.
Hot Cross Buns & Brunch: Sweet spiced buns marked with a cross are a Good Friday treat, while Easter brunch often features ham, deviled eggs, and fresh spring vegetables.

Fun Fact: In 2026, Easter falls on the later side of the calendar (April 5), giving us plenty of time to enjoy blooming daffodils and tulips!

Simple Ways to Celebrate Easter This Year

Host a Family Egg Hunt — Hide plastic eggs filled with treats or notes of encouragement.
Decorate with Pastels — Bring spring indoors with fresh flowers, dyed eggs, and bunny-themed decor.
Bake Together — Try hot cross buns, carrot cake, or homemade chocolate eggs.
Reflect & Give Thanks — Take a quiet moment to appreciate renewal in your own life—new goals, fresh starts, or healed relationships.
Spread Kindness — Surprise neighbors with a small basket of treats or a kind note.

A Heartfelt Easter Wish

May this Easter fill your heart with peace, your home with laughter, and your days with the fresh energy of spring.

Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or quietly on your own, remember the powerful message at the center of it all: hope always rises.

Happy Easter 2026!

May your basket overflow with joy, and may the miracle of new beginnings touch every part of your life.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
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April 4, 2026April 4, 2026

APOSTLES’ TEACHING … FELLOWSHIP … BREAKING OF BREAD … PRAYER / ACTS 2:42-47

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:42-47

APOSTLES’ TEACHING … FELLOWSHIP … BREAKING OF BREAD … PRAYER / ACTS 2:42-47

Many churches today desire to pattern themselves after the New Testament in hopes of experiencing the same power, growth and effectiveness that it had. This passage gives a general overview of the things that gave the New Testament church the ability to experience God’s miraculous power (Acts 2:43) and consistent growth (Acts 2:47). Remarkably, these things were quite plain and practical.

1. Apostles’ Teaching (Acts 2:42). The first Christians were deeply devoted to Christ’s message. For that reason, they paid close attention to those who had been directly commissioned by Jesus to deliver His original message and establish the church. Some of these teachings later became a part of our New Testament Scriptures (God’s inspired and authoritative Word as found in the Bible). As a result of their deep hunger for God’s Word, the early Christians were spiritually nourished and grew strong in their faith. They were a Word-centered church.

2. Fellowship (Greek koinonia; Acts 2:42). Not only were Christ’s followers in the early church devoted to their primary relationship with God, but they also were committed to building open, honest and spiritually encouraging relationships with God’s people (Ephesians 4:3; Ephesians 4:13; Ephesians 4:14). They spent much time together and depended on one another. They were unified in love and purpose. They were a relationship-building church.

3. Breaking of Bread (Acts 2:42, 46). This common expression in Acts and the early church seems to have several applications. It could refer simply to sharing meals in one another’s homes. It could also refer to the agape love meal (1 Corinthians 11:21) or to the Lord’s Supper (communion) itself. This was simply a means of expressing thankfulness toward God and each other. They enjoyed each other’s company and were a caring and sharing community. They were people of gratitude and hospitality.

4. Prayer (Acts 2:42; Acts 1:14; Acts 4:23-31). Prayer was clearly a high priority and a major part of life for the early church. In Acts, where there is much prayer. They recognized prayer as the source of intimacy with God, which gave them sensitivity to His direction and allowed His power to work through them.

As a result of the Christian disciplines mentioned above, the early church experienced the following powerful and effective ministry results:

A. Miraculous Signs and Wonders (Acts 2:43). Miracles were an important aspect of the presence and power of the Holy Spirit among God’s people. These supernatural signs often accompanied their mission to spread Christ’s message to those who did not yet know Him (Acts 3:1-10; 4:30; 5:12-16; 6:8; 8:6).

B. Community and Generosity (Acts 2:44-47). God created people to function and thrive in a community environment – in the right relationship with Him and with others. The early church in Jerusalem experienced a sense of community and purpose that has been experienced by only a few people on the earth. They practiced selfless generosity by sharing their possessions and taking care of one another’s practical needs. Their actions showed their love and gratitude to God.

C. Growth and Discipleship (Acts 2:47). As a result of the early Christians’ faithful devotion to Christ and one another, God honored and blessed them with spiritual and numerical growth. People were coming to know Jesus, growing in their faith and becoming active participants in the church. They were actively and effectively fulfilling Christ’s Great Commission to “go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19).

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
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www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
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April 4, 2026April 4, 2026

LORD AND CHRIST / ACTS 2:36

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:36

Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made the same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

LORD AND CHRIST / ACTS 2:36

The Greek phrase is kurion kai christon. Jesus as “Lord” means more than “Master.” He is the exalted Lord – Ruler and Leader with authority overall. He is the One we must depend on for spiritual salvation. He is the full revelation of God to humankind (Philippians 2:9). “Christ” is the New Testament name for the Old Testament Messiah, both of which mean “Anointed One” and Savior. The events of Pentecost were evidence on earth that Jesus was now exalted as “Lord and Christ” in heaven.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
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April 4, 2026April 4, 2026

IMPOSSIBLE FOR DEATH TO KEEP ITS HOLD / ACTS 2:24

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:24

Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.

IMPOSSIBLE FOR DEATH TO KEEP ITS HOLD / ACTS 2:24

With God anything is possible. He has control over all things – including life and death. But there is another spiritual reason that death could not hold on to Jesus. It has to do not only with who Jesus is, but how He lived as a human. Jesus’ miraculous resurrection was inevitable, or guaranteed, because death had no claim on Jesus’ life. Death has a claim on all our lives because it is the penalty for sin (Genesis 3:16-19; Romans 6:23). But Jesus lived a sinless life – never rebelling or offending God His Father in any way – so death had no claim on Him. Because death had no right to Jesus’ life, it basically overstepped its bounds and lost its power to keep Him in the grave. It is a spiritual reality that death could not hold on to Jesus. Speaking of His own life Jesus said, “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again” (John 10:18).

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

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April 3, 2026April 3, 2026

THE LAST DAYS / ACTS 2:17

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:17

And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:

THE LAST DAYS / ACTS 2:17

1. In the Old Testament, “the last days” were considered the time when God would act in a powerful way to judge evil and save His people (Isaiah 2:2-21; 3:18 – 4:6; 10:20-23; Hosea 1 – 2; Joel 1 – 3; Amos 8:9-11; 9:9-12).

2. The New Testament reveals that “the last days” began with the first coming of Christ (by birth) and the first outpouring of the Spirit on God’s people. These last days will end with the Lord’s second coming (Mark 1:15; Luke 4:18-21; Hebrews 1:1-2). This specific time is characterized as the age of judgment against evil, authority over demons, opportunity for salvation from the human race and the presence of God’s kingdom (His power, purposes and way of life both on earth presently and into eternity). At the conclusion of this age, the Lord will remove His church from the earth (1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 5:3) and bring His most sever judgments on the world (Matthew 4:21-22; Revelation 6 – 19).

· God’s work in these “last days” will be accomplished by the power of the Spirit (Matthew 12:28).

· “The last days” involve God’s power working through Christ’s followers to invade the realm of Satan, to destroy the devil’s work and to reclaim lives for God. But the warfare has only begun; it is not yet completed. Satan’s evil activity is still present in a powerful and destructive way (Ephesians 6:10-18). Only the second coming of Jesus (when He literally returns to earth at the end of the tribulation period) will bring to an end the activity of evil forces and complete “the last days” (1 Peter 1:3-5; Revelation 19)

· “The last days” represent a time of bold evangelistic ministry that will spread Christ’s message of spiritual salvation to those throughout the world who do not yet have a personal relationship with Him. It is a time of calling everyone to turn from their own rebellious way, to put their faith in Christ and to experience the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8; 2:4, 38-40; Joel 2:28-32). During this time, Christ’s followers must do all they can to communicate and show the saving work of Christ through the power of the Spirit, keeping in mind that a final judgment is coming (Romans 2:5) – “the great and glorious day of the Lord” (Acts 2:20). We must be alert at all times for the day when Christ will return to free His people from the sinful world (John 14:3; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17).

· “The last days” officially bring the active presence and activity of the kingdom of God, which now comes with full power (Luke 11:20). We must experience and use that full power as we face spiritual warfare (2 Corinthians 10:3-5; Ephesians 6:11-12), opposition and suffering because of our devotion to Christ (Matthew 5:10-12; 1 Peter 1:6-7).

SONS AND DAUGHTERS WILL PROPHESY

Peter associates the speaking in other tongues (Acts 2:4,11) with prophecy (Acts 2:17-18). This means that speaking in other tongues is one form of prophesying, which basically is using one’s voice for the service and glory of God under the direct influence of the Holy Spirit. In the book of Acts:

1. The 120 “were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them” (Acts 2:4).

2. The Holy Spirit came on Cornelius and his household, and Peter “heard them speaking in tongues and praising God” (Acts 10:44-47).

3. The disciples at Ephesus, when “the Holy Spirit came on them, spoke in tongues and prophesied (Acts 19:6).

4. Other signs or expressions of the Spirit through Spirit-filled people include prophetic dreams and visions (Acts 2:17; 10:9-23; Joel 2:28).

5. The Spirit will be given to empower all of God’s people (Christ’s followers) without respect to age, gender or status (Acts 2:18).

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

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April 3, 2026April 3, 2026

SPOKEN BY THE PROPHET JOEL / ACTS 2:16

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:16

But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel;

SPOKEN BY THE PROPHET JOEL / ACTS 2:16

The baptism in the Holy Spirit and the spiritual signs and expressions that went along with this experience are a fulfillment of Joel 2:28-29.

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

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April 3, 2026April 3, 2026

PETER’S PENTECOST SERMON / ACTS 2:14-40

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Acts 2:14-40

PETER’S PENTECOST SERMON / ACTS 2:14-40

Peter’s sermon at Pentecost, along with his message in Acts 3:11-26, contains a good pattern for communicating the gospel – the “good news” of forgiveness, new life and an eternal relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ.

1. Jesus is both Lord and Christ – crucified, raided from the dead and exalted with God the Father (Acts 2:22-36; 3:13-15). He is the only one qualified to be Savior (Christ, the Forgiver of our sins) and Lord (the Leader and absolute authority of our lives).

2. Now at the right hand of His Father (the place of highest honor), Jesus Christ has the authority to grant spiritual salvation to people and to pour out the Holy Spirit on all His followers (Acts 2:16-18, 32-33; 3:19).

3. In order to receive spiritual salvation (a personal relationship with God), everyone must place his or her faith in Jesus as Lord and repent of sin (admit and turn from their own God-defying way), then begin following Jesus and His purposes. Baptism in water serves as an outward public testimony to the inward cleansing of spiritual salvation (Acts 21:16; Romans 6:4). Though baptism does not save a person spiritually, it is a clear instruction given in connection with forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:36-38; 3:19). True repentance and faith, however, are the conditions for receiving forgiveness and salvation (Acts 2:38; Mark 16:16).

4. Believers must expect the promised gift of – or baptism in – the Holy Spirit after they have repented and surrendered their lives to Christ (Acts 2:28-39).

5. Those who hear and receive Christ’s message in faith must separate themselves from the corrupt beliefs, behaviors and lifestyles that are common in the world (Acts 2:40; Acts 3:26).

6. Jesus Christ will return to restore God’s kingdom completely (Acts 3:20-21).

Considering Peter’s bold message on the day of Pentecost, notice the difference that the baptism in the Holy Spirit made in his life. Less than two months before, Peter had denied even knowing Jesus (Luke 22:54-62) and had turned away from his few accusers like a coward. But now he boldly confronts thousands – many of whom had demanded Christ’s execution. As a result, three thousand people responded and accepted Christ that day (Acts 2:41).

Bible Study Tools I Use

NIV Bible
King James Bible
www. biblegateway.com
www.biblestudytools.com
Map Pencils
Strong’s Concordance
College Ruled Spiral Notebook
Ballpoint Pens
Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

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