Heavenly Father,
give me a humble heart
that sees beyond my narrow interests.
Help me to stand for righteousness,
justice, and truth.
First,
I want to align my heart and my spirit
with you.
In Jesus’ name, I pray.
Amen.
— — — —
Transcending All Understanding
Rejoice in the Lord always.
I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all.
The Lord is near.
Do not be anxious about anything,
but in every situation,
by prayer and petition,
with thanksgiving,
present your requests to God. And the peace of God,
which transcends all understanding,
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:4-7 NIV)*
Whoever does not love does not know God,
because Godislove (1 John 4:8 NIV)
Pray for enduring peace in Israel and Gaza, and continue to pray for peace to return to Ukraine and Russia!
Volume I of Psalms 365: Develop a Life of Worship and Prayer won the Best Book of the Year Award from The Word Guild and Volume II has won the Best Devotional of the Year Award. For those who love God’s word, this three-book series is an ideal way to daily meet with the Lord. To purchase or for a closer look click here.
Also available from David KitzIs a return-to-Jesus revival possible in our time?
This book points the way forward.
For details click here.
Contend, LORD, with those who contend with me;
fight against those who fight against me.
Take up shield and armor; arise and come to my aid.
Brandish spear and javelin against those who pursue me.
Say to me, “I am your salvation.” May those who seek my life be disgraced and put to shame;
may those who plot my ruin be turned back in dismay.
May they be like chaff before the wind,
with the angel of the LORD driving them away;
may their path be dark and slippery,
with the angel of the LORD pursuing them. (NIV) *
Reflection David was a man acquainted with warfare. Throughout his life, Israel was in a prolonged struggle with its neighbours, even as it is today. From time to time this struggle would flare into open combat. Quite naturally in those times David would turn to the LORD in prayer. Psalm 35 is David’s call for help against his enemies—enemies that may be external or internal.
Who doesn’t want God on their side? The answer is obvious; we all want God’s help when we find ourselves in trouble. Therefore, David cries out: Contend, LORD, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me (v. 1).
But there are some questions we should ask ourselves before we enlist the LORD’s help. Am I being truthful? Is my cause just? Am I in the right? Do I know all the facts in this matter? Am I seeing this issue solely from a narrow personal perspective? Finally, we should ask ourselves if our heart is right. One can be totally right about a matter, but have a heart that is full of hate, bitterness, jealousy, and anger.
God always stands on the side of truth and justice. He knows the full extent of a matter. He sees all sides, not just our perspective. We can’t fool Him or hide from His searching eyes. The LORD examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence, he hates with a passion (Psalm 11:5). Therefore, we need to come before Him humbly with hearts opened wide.
David asks this of the LORD: Say to me, “I am your salvation” (v. 3b).
The LORD will be our salvation—He is on our side—if our hearts are open and humble before Him. David’s confession in Psalm 51 confirms this truth. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise (Psalm 51:17). In other words, God is on our side when we move to His side in honest, humble contrition.
Response: LORD God, give me a humble heart that sees beyond my narrow interests. Help me to stand for righteousness, justice and truth. First, I want to align my heart and my spirit with you. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Your Turn: Has the LORD fought on your side? Did you need to get your heart right first?
Please pray for peace to return to Israel, Gaza, Russia and Ukraine!
Volume I of Psalms 365: Develop a Life of Worship and Prayer won the Best Book of the Year Award from The Word Guild and Volume II has won the Best Devotional of the Year Award. For those who love God’s word, this three-book series is an ideal way to daily meet with the Lord. To purchase or for a closer look click here.
New from David Kitz
James—the brother of Jesus—who was this man? What evidence do we have that this “brother of our Lord” even existed?
David Kitz digs deep into archeology, family dynamics, church history, and the biblical texts. What emerges from his research is a portrait of a decisive, pivotal leader who embodied the will and character of Jesus Christ.
But how did James—James the unbeliever—transform to become a leader who changed the course of world history? In these pages you will uncover the answer and rediscover for yourself the life-changing power of the gospel.
To view further details or purchase directly from the author click here.
Heavenly Father,
I can’t always see
what is genuinely in my best interest,
especially when that involves adversity.
Be my sure help and protection in troubled times.
“May your unfailing love be with us, LORD,
even as we put our hope in you (Psalm 33:22).
In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.
— — — —
Rejoicing in Hard Times
Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. (Habakkuk 3:17-18 NIV)*
Whoever does not love does not know God,
because Godislove (1 John 4:8 NIV)
Pray for enduring peace in Israel and Gaza, and continue to pray for peace to return to Ukraine and Russia!
Volume I of Psalms 365: Develop a Life of Worship and Prayer won the Best Book of the Year Award from The Word Guild and Volume II has won the Best Devotional of the Year Award. For those who love God’s word, this three-book series is an ideal way to daily meet with the Lord. To purchase or for a closer look click here.
Also available from David KitzIs a return-to-Jesus revival possible in our time?
This book points the way forward.
For details click here.
No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength. A horse is a vain hope for deliverance; despite all its great strength it cannot save. But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love be with us, LORD, even as we put our hope in you. (NIV)*
Please pray for peace to return to Israel, Gaza, and Ukraine!
Volume I of Psalms 365: Develop a Life of Worship and Prayer won the Best Book of the Year Award from The Word Guild and Volume II has won the Best Devotional of the Year Award. For those who love God’s word, this three-book series is an ideal way to daily meet with the Lord. To purchase or for a closer look click here.
The photo of Jerusalem on the cover of Psalm 365, Volume II
Available now…
James—the brother of Jesus—who was this man? What evidence do we have that this “brother of our Lord” even existed?
David Kitz digs deep into archeology, family dynamics, church history, and the biblical texts. What emerges from his research is a portrait of a decisive, pivotal leader who embodied the will and character of Jesus Christ.
But how did James—James the unbeliever—transform to become a leader who changed the course of world history? In these pages you will uncover the answer and rediscover for yourself the life-changing power of the gospel.
To view further details or purchase directly from the author click here.
My acquaintance with David Kitz began back in the 1990s.
During those years I was serving with the Canadian Bible Society.
When arranging an evening program, it was one of my goals to
demonstrate the relevance of the Bible to practical living. Is there
any part of God’s Word that better accomplishes this than the writings
of James?
David Kitz
David responded to my needs. He had memorized the entire Epistle of James and honed it into a powerful drama. The audience was always thrilled and challenged by his presentation. The book you hold is the result of years of study, memorization, and reflection by the author. You will learn and be challenged in your faith as you read.
If you were to ask your friends, I dare say most would admit a dislike for history. To extend that survey to a little-known historical character would have comparable results. And yet the book you are about to read will dispel that prejudicial attitude. The author has skillfully woven together relevant facts of history, archeology, and psychology into the context of biblical exposition. This breadth of thinking is typical of the author.
Though I am a lifelong Bible student, I confess to a meager knowledge of the character of James. His name appears frequently in the New Testament—but strangely, we rarely give him the significance he deserves. As the author develops the theme of James’ character, we discover the reasons.
The reader will trace James’ journey from unbeliever and critic to
faithful follower of the Lord Jesus and finally preeminent leader in the
early church. Beyond the Jewish population, he was instrumental in
opening the door of the entire world to the message of the gospel. He
left us a short but challenging epistle, reminding us that the gospel is not
only to be believed but also to be lived.
This book will expose you to the seasoned reflections of a competent
author and biblical scholar. You will be led along paths you had never
considered. You will wonder why you had not previously considered
James and his rightful prominence in the early Christian church. If you
are a serious Bible reader, you will want to have your Bible handy—and a
pencil—as you read and grow!
— Wilf Wight, Pastor, Église de la Nouvelle Jérusalem, Vanier, ON, Canada
Available now…
James—the brother of Jesus—who was this man? What evidence do we have that this “brother of our Lord” even existed?
David Kitz digs deep into archeology, family dynamics, church history, and the biblical texts. What emerges from his research is a portrait of a decisive, pivotal leader who embodied the will and character of Jesus Christ.
But how did James—James the unbeliever—transform to become a leader who changed the course of world history? In these pages you will uncover the answer and rediscover for yourself the life-changing power of the gospel.
To view further details or purchase directly from the author click here.
Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him. Praise the LORD with the harp; make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre. Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy. For the word of the LORD is right and true; he is faithful in all he does. The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love. (NIV) *
Please pray for peace to return to Israel, Gaza, and Ukraine!
Volume I of Psalms 365: Develop a Life of Worship and Prayer won the Best Book of the Year Award from The Word Guild and Volume II has won the Best Devotional of the Year Award. For those who love God’s word, this three-book series is an ideal way to daily meet with the Lord. To purchase or for a closer look click here.
The photo of Jerusalem on the cover of Psalm 365, Volume II
Available now…
James—the brother of Jesus—who was this man? What evidence do we have that this “brother of our Lord” even existed?
David Kitz digs deep into archeology, family dynamics, church history, and the biblical texts. What emerges from his research is a portrait of a decisive, pivotal leader who embodied the will and character of Jesus Christ.
But how did James—James the unbeliever—transform to become a leader who changed the course of world history? In these pages you will uncover the answer and rediscover for yourself the life-changing power of the gospel.
To view further details or purchase directly from the author click here.
Hear my prayer, Lord.
I seek your face.
Be my healer,
my redeemer, and deliverer.
In Jesus’ name,
who defeated death, I pray.
Amen.
— — — —
Weeping Willow in January — photo by David Kitz
Paul Is Comforted
For when we came into Macedonia,
we had no rest,
but we were harassed at every turn—
conflicts on the outside,
fears within. But God,
who comforts the downcast,
comforted us by the coming of Titus, and not only by his coming
but also by the comfort you had given him.
He told us about your longing for me,
your deep sorrow,
your ardent concern for me,
so that my joy was greater than ever. (2 Corinthians 7:5-7 NIV)*
Pray for enduring peace in Israel and Gaza, and continue to pray for peace to return to Ukraine and Russia!
Volume I of Psalms 365: Develop a Life of Worship and Prayer won the Best Book of the Year Award from The Word Guild and Volume II has won the Best Devotional of the Year Award. For those who love God’s word, this three-book series is an ideal way to daily meet with the Lord. To purchase or for a closer look click here.
Also available from David KitzIs a return-to-Jesus revival possible in our time?
This book points the way forward.
For details click here.
Heavenly Father,
thank you for sending Jesus.
Thank you, Jesus,
for laying down your life for me.
Through the sacrifice of your body and blood
I can truly taste and see
that the LORD is good.
Amen.
— — — —
The Last Supper
While they were eating,
Jesus took bread,
and when he had given thanks,
he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.”
Then he took a cup,
and when he had given thanks,
he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant,
which is poured out for many
for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you,
I will not drink from this fruit of the vine
from now on until that day
when I drink it new with you
in my Father’s kingdom.” (Matthew 26:26-29 NIV)*
Pray for enduring peace in Israel and Gaza, and continue to pray for peace to return to Ukraine and Russia!
Volume I of Psalms 365: Develop a Life of Worship and Prayer won the Best Book of the Year Award from The Word Guild and Volume II has won the Best Devotional of the Year Award. For those who love God’s word, this three-book series is an ideal way to daily meet with the Lord. To purchase or for a closer look click here.
Also available from David KitzIs a return-to-Jesus revival possible in our time?
This book points the way forward.
For details click here.
Those who look to him are radiant (Psalm 34:5a).
LORD God,
we look to you.
Today let me shine for you.
Help me to reflect
the love of Jesus
to others.
Amen.
— — — —
The Son Is Superior
The Son is the radiance of God’s glory
and the exact representation of his being,
sustaining all things
by his powerful word.
After he had provided purification for sins,
he sat down at the right hand
of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels
as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs. (Hebrews 1:3-4 NIV)*
Pray for enduring peace in Israel and Gaza, and continue to pray for peace to return to Ukraine and Russia!
Volume I of Psalms 365: Develop a Life of Worship and Prayer won the Best Book of the Year Award from The Word Guild and Volume II has won the Best Devotional of the Year Award. For those who love God’s word, this three-book series is an ideal way to daily meet with the Lord. To purchase or for a closer look click here.
Also available from David KitzIs a return-to-Jesus revival possible in our time?
This book points the way forward.
For details click here.
LORD God,
thank you for choosing me
to be to be one of your people.
Help me to live a life
that is pleasing to you,
my Father.
You watch over me.
You, O LORD,
are my inheritance,
and first and foremost,
I am a citizen of your eternal Kingdom.
Amen.
— — — —
Winter snowfall — photo by David Kitz
Jeremiah’s Confession
Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD. It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is young. (Lamentations 3:22-27 NIV)*
Pray for enduring peace in Israel and Gaza, and continue to pray for peace to return to Ukraine and Russia!
Volume I of Psalms 365: Develop a Life of Worship and Prayer won the Best Book of the Year Award from The Word Guild and Volume II has won the Best Devotional of the Year Award. For those who love God’s word, this three-book series is an ideal way to daily meet with the Lord. To purchase or for a closer look click here.
Also available from David KitzIs a return-to-Jesus revival possible in our time?
This book points the way forward.
For details click here.
Is a return-to-Jesus revival possible in our time?
I love the Psalms 