Explore every episode of the podcast Be Still: Daily Devotional

No reading today. The Examen is a practice of prayerful review, looking back with God over what has been, noticing where you were drawn toward life and where you were drawn away from it.

Give it the quiet it asks for.


Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today's reading: 1 Samuel 20

Closing song: "Be Still"
Written by Jason Phillips; Casey Corum
© 2019 Mercy/Vineyard Publishing (ASCAP). World Wide admin Vineyard Music USA. Used by permission. CCLI 7126279
Listen: https://youtu.be/l1gofYxnWpE

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today's reading: 2 Corinthians 4

Closing song: "The Hidden Place"
Written by Harmony Smith; Krissy Nordhoff; Mitch Wong
© 2020 Integrity Worship Music/Vineyard Songs (UK/EIRE)/PRS; Integrity's Alleluia! Music/Nordinary Music Publishing/SESAC; Integrity's Praise! Music/BMI (adm worldwide at CapitolCMGPublishing.com; excluding the UK & Europe which is adm by Integrity Music). Used by permission. CCLI 7160466
Listen: https://youtu.be/XZVqo-FuvwM

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is November 11.
  
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.    
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”     
    
Today’s reading is from Psalm 113.


1 Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord, you his servants; praise the name of the Lord.  
2 Let the name of the Lord be praised, both now and forevermore.  
3 From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised.  
4 The Lord is exalted over all the nations, his glory above the heavens.  
5 Who is like the Lord our God, the One who sits enthroned on high,  
6 who stoops down to look on the heavens and the earth?  
7 He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap;  
8 he seats them with princes, with the princes of his people.  
9 He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of children.  
  

Psalms 113-118 are often known as the Egyptian Hallel, mainly because of their connection with Passover celebrations which commemorate Israel’s deliverance from Egypt in the Exodus narrative. The psalms were sung as part of the Passover ceremony by all the Jews thereafter. There is no doubt that these exact words were sung by Jesus and his disciples during the Passover meals. As you come to prayer today, consider that you are entering into the presence of ‘a great cloud of witnesses’ in the faith. Take a moment to become aware of the long history of our faith.  
    
Listen to this Psalm once again – the very words that Jesus himself sang: consider how Israel – the poor, needy and lowly are lifted by God who is over all things. Think of where you might feel poor, needy and lowly and think of the God who sits enthroned on high above heavens and the earth.  
    
The Psalmist declares that the unchanging God never becomes unworthy of our praise. For the child of God with open eyes, time only reveals even more reasons to praise God. For the Psalmist, what amazes him is that God is exalted so high that he stoops low to see not only the earth but also the heavens, and yet at the same time he cares for the every day person. Can you receive this truth in your heart today? In whatever areas you are feeling poor and needy, express your heart to God and know that this almighty God knows you and cares for you.

Music: "You're Worthy of My Praise" - Vineyard Worship (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is November 10

May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from the book of Acts, chapter 13.

36 “Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed. 37 But the one whom God raised from the dead did not see decay. 38 “Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. 39 Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses.

The resurrection of Jesus sets everyone who believes free from the power of sin and death. This is the great “Therefore” of scripture, the great transition from sin to salvation, from death to deliverance, the great message of the kingdom of God… that decay has been overwhelmed and overcome by God’s plan of salvation. Consider what this ‘therefore’ means to you today…

The gospel of Jesus interrupts our decay, and the decay of the world. It puts us on a new course, a new trajectory. We are interrupted by freedom from sin, and justification through Christ. Listen to this scripture again and consider how this truth has interrupted your life.

Decay is a word that feels resonant to me these days. Even as our society trumpets great progress – we cannot keep ‘decay’ away forever. For that, we need not just progress, or some new technological advancement. We need an interruption into the very nature of things. We need God’s rescue. I need it. You need it. His great Kingdom interruption. As we end our time of prayer, take some time to remind yourself of your great need for God.

Music Credit: “
When You Come" - Samuel Lane/Vineyard Worship (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

This is a version of the five-step Daily Examen that St. Ignatius practiced.

1. Become aware of God’s presence.
2. Review the day with gratitude.
3. Pay attention to your emotions.
4. Choose one feature of the day and pray from it.
5. Look toward tomorrow.

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is November 7 

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.  
 
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”   
 
Today’s reading is from the book of Acts, chapter 11.  
 
19 Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews. 20 Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. 21 The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.  
22 News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. 24 He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.  
25 Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.  
  
This is a very encouraging passage, except when we consider the catalytic event that led to this spread of the gospel: the murder of Stephen and persecution that caused the early church to run for their lives. The Bible speaks quite a lot about persecution. The New Testament church is filled with persecution narratives. What feelings does that thought stir up in you? 
  
Listen to the scripture again, paying attention to the end results of the initial scattering that the author speaks of… 

Barnabas encouraged the believers in Antioch to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. As you end your time of prayer today, can you hear this encouragement as something spoken directly to you? That you would remain true to the Lord with all your heart? Make this your prayer today… 
 
Music: "Nothing Is Too Hard For You" - Vineyard Worship 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sv61EA2CW5U  

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is November 6 

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.  
 
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”   
 
Today’s reading is from the gospel of Mark, chapter 13.  
 
32 “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. 34 It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch.  
35 “Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. 36 If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. 37 What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’ 
 
There is so much in this life that we do not know. But we do know this: Jesus tells His followers to stay alert… to stay watchful for Him. Are you feeling particularly, spiritually alert today? Do you feel like you are being attentive to spiritual realities in you, and around you? Or are you feeling sluggish? Or distracted? Talk to the Lord about this.  
  
What emotions does this passage bring up for you? When Jesus says to you: “keep watch!” – what does that bring up? Listen to the passage again and think about how it would really feel to have Jesus speaking these words directly to you, with energy and urgency in His voice.  

This text is a part of a longer discourse, where Jesus is explaining with some urgency what is to come. He’s preparing them for what he calls the last days. And he reminds them: you’re not going to know what that is. But you do know what to do, regardless: remain alert, pray, and steward the work before you with faithfulness. A lot of Christians get caught up in conversations about the end times, or the last days. We don’t know the day or the hour. But we do know our posture as we wait: Remain alert. Remain prayerful. Remain faithful. What does this look like for you? What is Christ speaking to you today? Try and keep that front of mind and heart as your walk through your day.  

Music: "Everything" - Vineyard Worship 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jF3h5wJJ5eA 

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is November 5.
  
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.   
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”     
    
Today’s reading is from Psalm 18. 


25 To the faithful you show yourself faithful to the blameless you show yourself blameless,  
26 to the pure you show yourself pure, but to the devious you show yourself shrewd.  
27 You save the humble but bring low those whose eyes are haughty.  
28 You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.  
29 With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall.  
30 As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him. 


This reading reminds me of some parts of the Sermon on the Mount: For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. What do you think the psalmist is saying about how God interacts with us, and about how we experience God?   
    
It is not insignificance that this Psalm was written to celebrate David’s victory over Saul. It speaks of David’s trust in the Lord throughout the tough relationship that he had with Saul. Listen again to the Psalm in the light of David’s struggle against a mighty king coming for his life and his utmost trust in God through all the challenges.  

What are some challenges you’re facing today? What circumstances seem just impossible to you in this season? Which relationships are bringing pain? If you are navigating some rough waters – will you pray this Psalm over your heart today? Will you turn your trust in the Lord today? Can you work to surrender the temptation to be devious and haughty?

Music: When We Call Your Name - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is November 4.
  
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.    
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”     
    
Today’s reading is from the book of Romans, chapter 12.   


17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.   
18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.   
19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.   
20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”  
21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.  
  

Today’s reading uses a weighty word, the word evil. The Apostle Paul assumes the reality of evil in our world and in our lives. How do you feel about that word? And where might you see evil in the world around you, or in your life?   
  
Increasingly, our culture makes two mistakes about evil. On the one hand, we deny evil. Things or people aren’t evil, we reason. People are broken, but not bad. Bad things may happen but not evil things. On the other hand our culture wants to make evil things or evil people unredeemable. It’s a way of making something or someone unforgiveable.  But the Apostle Paul denies both approaches. On the one hand, he says, “yes evil things happen, sometimes by evil people.” On the other hand, he says, we are to respond by trusting in God, even showing love and goodness to evil people. As you hear the passage again, consider your own response to evil in the world today.   
  
The word for evil is both personal and moral. When you experience evil, it hurts personally. And we inherently know it’s wrong, it’s bad! It’s normal to respond with hurt and anger when you experience evil or sin. But the Gospel invites us to not allow our hurt and anger to be the final word about those experiences. It invites us to a deeper work of trust in God, of forgiveness, and love. As we close our time of prayer today, consider someone who you may feel hurt or anger toward because of something they have done. Can you move toward a work of trust, forgiveness, and love through the power of Christ? 

Music: Make Us Like Jesus - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is November 3

May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from Psalm 9.

7 The LORD reigns forever;
he has established his throne for judgment.
8 He rules the world in righteousness
and judges the peoples with equity.
9 The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed,
a stronghold in times of trouble.
10 Those who know your name trust in you,
for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.
16 The LORD is known by his acts of justice;
the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands.
18 But God will never forget the needy;
the hope of the afflicted will never perish.

Welcome to prayer. Take a few extra moments right now to quiet yourself a bit more deeply. If you need help staying focused, pray: “the Lord reigns forever” as you breath slowly in, and out. It is good for us to quiet ourselves before the Lord.

Listen again to this Psalm, and listen for one phrase that stands out. Write it down, or simply commit that phrase to memory. Regardless, I’m going to invite you to take time through your day today to stop, take a deep breath, and repeat the phrase. In this way, you’ll practice reorienting yourself to God’s word, and to God’s character, throughout your day.

The phrase I will be repeating today is: “God will never forget the needy”. This is so different than we are. We forget the needy all the time. The needy are forgotten all the time. Today, I’m going to ask God to remind me of those around me in need. I’m going to pause each hour to stop, take a deep breath, and say “God will never forget the needy”. And then I’m going to look for a way to serve or support or meet the needs of those around me. I’d like to invite you to do the same.

Music Credit:
"Form Us" - Vineyard Soul (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

This is a version of the five-step Daily Examen that St. Ignatius practiced.

1. Become aware of God’s presence.
2. Review the day with gratitude.
3. Pay attention to your emotions.
4. Choose one feature of the day and pray from it.
5. Look toward tomorrow.

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 31 

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.  
 
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”   
 
Today’s reading is from the book of Acts, chapter 8.  
 
14 When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to Samaria. 15 When they arrived, they prayed for the new believers there that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 because the Holy Spirit had not yet come on any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. 
  
Samaria is north of Jerusalem, a little over 100km away. Googlemaps says it would have taken about 25 hours to walk from one place to the other. And yet, Peter and John set out – walking day and night – so that they could pray for the new believers in the Lord Jesus Christ. We often read this passage and think about it in light of baptism of the spirit… but would you instead reflect on their sacrifice for other believers in Jesus. What would it take for you to consider walking 25 hours to lay hands on and pray for someone? What comes to mind as you consider this intentional, encouraging visit from an established church, to a new community of believers? 
  
Listen again, and put yourself in the place of these new believers in Samaria. They’ve given themselves to the name of Jesus… but in some sense, it seems they’ve not yet fully understood the implications of that, or what it meant to be filled with the Spirit. Imagine their joy at seeing Peter and John, walking into town. Consider their increase of faith as they received prayer, and were drawn into this fellowship of believers. Listen to the scripture again, and pay attention not only to the words, but to what the experience itself must have been like. 
 
Because Christians become a part of a new body – the body of Christ – we are called to not only the Lord, but to one another. To walk toward one another, and towards fellowship. As we close our time of prayer, ask yourself, How deeply connected are you to Christ’s body? How often are you praying for others or receiving prayer through others? Speak to the Lord about your own desires or hesitations about being connected to the body of Christ. Some of you may thank God for the relationships you have. Some might feel hurt or wary. Talk to God and ask him to show you your place in the body of Christ.  
 
Music: "Familia" - Vineyard Worship 
FAMILIA [Official Live In Studio] | Feat. Tina Colón Williams | Vineyard Worship 

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today's reading: Psalm 50

Closing song: "You Are God"
Written by Dana Masters; Casey Corum; Tina Colón Williams
© 2021 Mercy/Vineyard/ASCAP; Integrity Worship Music/ASCAP (all adm at IntegrityRights.com). Used by permission. CCLI 7178153
Listen: https://youtu.be/ag4DYWGFJvc

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 30 

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.  
 
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”   
 
Today’s reading is from the gospel of Mark, chapter 10.  
 
13 People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” 16 And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.  
  
I love what this story tells us about the heart of God. As we begin to enter into prayer today, center yourself on this phrase, spoken by Jesus, to his very followers: “let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them….” Imagine you’re in the crowd, watching this situation unfold. How do you respond to Jesus?  
  
I also love what this story shows us about the heart of God. Imagine again, this crowd. Imagine unruly kids running around. Imagine the disciples, trying to get everyone under control. Now imagine Jesus: not just speaking into the situation, speaking welcome to the kids… but then actually leaning down, getting himself low, and lifting up one of the wild kids in his arms. Imagine a huge smile on his face as he holds this child. Imagine hearing his quiet word of blessing spoken over him or her. Listen again, and enter the story…  
  
Receiving the kingdom of God like a little child means receiving the kingdom through grace: not through our own works, but through the work of Jesus. Jesus did all the work necessary for us to come to him, and for us to enjoy the welcome of His kingdom. As we end our time of prayer today, invite God to give you a fresh experience of His Father’s heart – for you, and for the least… the last… and the lost around you…   
 
Music: "As Children" - Vineyard Worship 
AS CHILDREN [Official Lyric Video] | Vineyard Worship feat. Sarah Elmer 

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 29.


The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.   
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”     
    
Today’s reading is from the book of Acts, chapter 9.   
  

32 As Peter traveled about the country, he went to visit the Lord’s people who lived in Lydda. 33 There he found a man named Aeneas, who was paralyzed and had been bedridden for eight years. 34 “Aeneas,” Peter said to him, “Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and roll up your mat.” Immediately Aeneas got up. 35 All those who lived in Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.  
  

The book of Acts are about the acts of the disciples after Jesus’ ascension to heaven. You could also call it the acts of the Holy Spirit because God continued to act through signs and wonders, including healing like the one in this passage. When you read about stories of healing in the Bible, what is your reaction? Is it belief? Is it faith? Or is it doubt?  

Miracles are indeed a spectacular way that one can come to believe but was not necessary for one’s faith and trust in Jesus. In fact, we see that Jesus was sometimes frustrated by people seeking miracles as proof of his authenticity. Yet there were many who were “never healed” yet believed in Jesus. Let’s listen again and consider the purpose of the miracle in this story.  
    
All those who saw turned to the Lord. Miracles like healing were called “signs” because they were pointers to the reality of God. All of us doubt and struggle to believe. Where is it you need a pointer today to the reality of God? To the reality that he loves you? To the reality that he is active in your life? As we close our time, ask God to again show you a sign today that he is with you and that he loves you, so that your heart might be turned toward the Lord again in faith and trust.

Music: Now Until Forever - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 28.
  
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.  
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”     
    
Today’s reading is from Psalm 28.   
  

      1 To you, LORD, I call;   
         you are my Rock,   
         do not turn a deaf ear to me.   
         For if you remain silent,   
         I will be like those who go down to the pit.   
      2 Hear my cry for mercy   
         as I call to you for help,   
         as I lift up my hands   
         toward your Most Holy Place.   
       3 Do not drag me away with the wicked,   
         with those who do evil,   
         who speak cordially with their neighbors   
         but harbor malice in their hearts.   
      4 Repay them for their deeds   
         and for their evil work;   
         repay them for what their hands have done   
         and bring back on them what they deserve.   
       5 Because they have no regard for the deeds of the LORD   
         and what his hands have done,   
         he will tear them down   
         and never build them up again.   
       6 Praise be to the LORD,   
         for he has heard my cry for mercy.   
      7 The LORD is my strength and my shield;   
         my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.   
         My heart leaps for joy,   
         and with my song I praise him.   
       8 The LORD is the strength of his people,   
         a fortress of salvation for his anointed one.   
      9 Save your people and bless your inheritance;   
         be their shepherd and carry them forever.  
  

The text today shows the Psalmist crying out for justice against his enemies. We might ask, didn’t Jesus command those who follow him to not avenge themselves or try to "get even?" Aren’t we told to “love our enemies?” Revenge is simply not an option for us – right? The answer, is yes – and the Psalmist today sheds light then how we might respond to injustice: He calls out to God for mercy and justice.  
    
We see throughout scriptures in the Old and the New Testaments that God has always declared his intention to make things right in the world. To demonstrate true justice. The Psalmist points us to trust God's timing and power to deliver justice as he sees fit. Do you feel the strength, and the challenge, of that call to trust? Listen to the text again and pay attention to the psalmists emotional intensity, as well as the direction of that intensity toward God.  
   
The Psalm ends with a surrender to trust in God and find joy and strength in God. It simply points us to trust that God knows all and will not remain silent toward injustice. Can we trust in such a God today? Who has dishonored you and caused pain unjustly? Where have you felt slighted or offended lately? Can you bring those things to God, as the psalmist teaches us to do? 

Music: Faithful One - Vineyard Worship - YouTube

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 27

May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from the gospel of Mark, chapter 8.

34 Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 35 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. 36 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?

How do the words ‘deny yourself’ feel to you? Start your prayer today by thinking about the discipline of self-denial… and do a bit of evaluating regarding yourself, and how well you engage in this particular discipline. If you’re like me, you’re not very good at it! Allow the Lord to search your heart for places where he is inviting you to deny yourself.

I often think how funny it is that we followers of Jesus love to read his words as metaphor. Ah, they may be thinking as they listen to him: ‘take up our cross’. Okay… that means we’ll do some difficult stuff. Imagine how they felt a few years later, remembering these words, as they watched Jesus stumble through the streets, beaten and bloody, carrying His cross. Listen again, and try to put yourself in their place. How would that moment of reality shift their metaphorical understanding of this text?

“Whoever lives their life for me and for the gospel will save it…” Let’s recall: what is the gospel? How would you summarize it up for yourself? If you can, take time to remind yourself of the gospel. If you have trouble finding the words, then ask yourself, How has the good news of Jesus changed my life and how can I live for him today?

Music Credit:
"This Is Love" - Vineyard Worship (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

This is a version of the five-step Daily Examen that St. Ignatius practiced.

1. Become aware of God’s presence.
2. Review the day with gratitude.
3. Pay attention to your emotions.
4. Choose one feature of the day and pray from it.
5. Look toward tomorrow.

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 24.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.  
 
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”   
 
Today’s reading is from the book of Acts, chapter 3.  
 
3 One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. 2 Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. 3 When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. 4 Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” 5 So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.  
6 Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” 7 Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. 8 He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. 
  
Welcome to prayer today. As we begin, take time to consider how you are showing up today... are you showing up like the man who was lame... aware of your own weakness and infirmity? Are you showing up like Peter and John, clearly filled with gifts of faith? OR are you showing up like everyone else... going about their day without a lot of thought... 
  
I love how this text pulls both weakness and faith into the same space. The two meet in this unnamed man, at the gate called Beautiful. Listen again and consider a place in your life that feels weak, or infirm.... and then consider a place where you feel filled with faith.  
                                
“Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong.” Do you notice that this healing doesn’t happen until AFTER Peter & John help the man up? When they reached down to help him up, he was still lame. Can you imagine that moment of faith and trust in the power of God? Can you invite that kind of faith and trust into your life today?  
 
Music: "Invitation Fountain" - Vineyard Worship 
Vineyard Worship | Invitacion Fountain (ft. Kyle Howard & Alexandria Faison) [Official Live Video] 

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 23.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.  
 
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”   
 
Today’s reading is from the book of James, chapter 1.  
 
19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. 21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.  
22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.  
 
Sometimes, even when we try to enter into times of attentiveness, we struggle to actually pay attention! What do you recall from the scripture we just heard? Can you recall the main theme, a phrase, or word? Our minds are often full! And we are so often distracted! Take a moment to get present to what’s on your mind right now. As you get present to that thing, I want you to close your hand around it as if you’re holding on to it.  
 
Now, I want you to open your hands and release that thing, or those things to God. Say, “I give this to you, Lord and ask you for an exchange. What I have for what you have.” As we read the scripture again now, so take a moment and prepare yourself to really pay attention. Ask God to draw your attention to these words from James.  
  
James tells us that it is the ‘word planted in us, that can save us’.  Christ Himself is the word who is planted in us. And scripture, when breathed full of life by the Spirit, is the word which is planted in us. James reminds us that ‘looking intently’ at these things brings freedom. Would you consider a question today: What is a word that he has planted in you? What might it mean for you to take time today to cultivate the word of God that he has planted in you? Carry that word in your heart today.  
 
Music: "I Bless The Lord" - Vineyard Worship (UK) 
I BLESS THE LORD [Official Lyric Video] | Vineyard Worship feat. Jodie Alexander-Frye

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 22.


The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.   
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”  
    
Today’s reading is from the book of Hebrews, chapter 6.   
  

13 When God made his promise to Abraham, since there was no one greater for him to swear by, he swore by himself, 14 saying, “I will surely bless you and give you many descendants.” 15 And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised.   
16 People swear by someone greater than themselves, and the oath confirms what is said and puts an end to all argument. 17 Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath. 18 God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. 19 We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, 20 where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.  
  

In this passage… which is about covenant, keeping promises, and the trustworthiness of God, we heard: ‘we have his hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure’. As you come to prayer this morning, how would you describe the state of your soul? We’ll take a bit more quiet time than usual now… so settle in, maybe close your eyes, and take a deep breath. Ask the Lord to help you be still, and aware of your spiritual condition this morning  
  
The writer of today’s passage is concerned that the persecuted Christians he is writing to are in danger of running out of patience in their race of faith amidst persecution. These Christians might be doing okay for now, but there is a danger they might lose confidence in God’s promises. The writer is reminding them that God is absolutely trustworthy. That we can anchor our hope in Him. Listen again to the text and be attentive to a single word or phrase that stands out to you.  

All of us wrestle with spiritual doubt; everyone struggles at times to trust God. God is firm and secure, scripture tells us – so we can hold to him in the midst of our own times of spiritual tenderness, struggle, and doubt. If we ignore those things in our own souls, we are holding a part of ourselves away from God. Instead, we are to bring our full selves to Him, so that He might be our anchor. God tells us the unchanging nature of his purpose: to seek and to save that which is lost. To be our firm foundation in times of trouble. As we end our time of prayer today, bring your full self to God.

Music: This Is Love - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 21.
   
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.  
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”     
    
Today’s reading is from Psalm 75.   
  

      1 We praise you, God,   
         we praise you, for your Name is near;   
         people tell of your wonderful deeds.   
       2 You say, “I choose the appointed time;   
         it is I who judge with equity.   
      3 When the earth and all its people quake,   
         it is I who hold its pillars firm.   
      4 To the arrogant I say, ‘Boast no more,’   
         and to the wicked, ‘Do not lift up your horns.   
      5 Do not lift your horns against heaven;   
         do not speak so defiantly.’ ”   
      6 No one from the east or the west   
         or from the desert can exalt themselves.   
      7 It is God who judges:   
         He brings one down, he exalts another.   
            9 As for me, I will declare this forever;   
         I will sing praise to the God of Jacob.   
  

This Psalm describes God as the ultimate judge – a judge who is righteous, fair, holy and most importantly, trustworthy. The Psalmist declares that God is the only one we can trust to always do the right thing without partiality. When you consider the wrongs in the world, or in your own life, how does it make you feel to hear that there is a perfect judge?   
    
This God, contrary to popular understanding, isn’t a spiteful God who wields his power from heaven favorably toward people who does what he says and destroys people who are disobedient and sinful. If that were the case, there would be no one left on earth. Listen to the Psalm again and see if you can hear what the Psalmist is declaring.   

The Psalm draws us over and over again to hope. No matter what injustice you have experienced or may be experiencing even now, God is the perfect Judge and he will one day overturn every wrong and make everything right and good again. Think about one thing today that you’d like to be put right again, and as we close our time, can you put your hope in God to make that thing new again, in his time?  

Music: Who Can Compare - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 20

May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from the book of Isaiah, chapter 2.

2 In the last days
the mountain of the LORD’s temple will be established
as the highest of the mountains;
it will be exalted above the hills,
and all nations will stream to it.
3 Many peoples will come and say,
“Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD,
to the temple of the God of Jacob.
He will teach us his ways,
so that we may walk in his paths.”
The law will go out from Zion,
the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.
4 He will judge between the nations
and will settle disputes for many peoples.
They will beat their swords into plowshares
and their spears into pruning hooks.
Nation will not take up sword against nation,
nor will they train for war anymore.

As we open our hearts to the word, take a minute to think about what you just listened to. Imagine this world ruled by absolute righteousness. Imagine a world where people from every country seek the love and mercy of Jesus Christ. People will flock to see, and learn, and know Him, and all will live in accordance with the scripture, trying their hardest to walk the same path Jesus walks. Conflict will still exist, but will be resolved according to the laws of Zion, not the whims of humans. With a peaceful, uniform way to deal with conflict, there will be no more war, or need to defend ourselves from outsiders, because if someone is wronged, there will be true justice.

As you listen again, think about the equality and compassion that will exist between every man woman, and child.

There are things that can be used for both good and evil. Words can be used as both weapons and tools. So can knowledge or information. As you move through your day, look for times when you can choose to use something as a sword or as a ploughshare, and make a conscious effort to make the Christlike choice, even if you don’t want to.

Music Credit:
"They Are Yours" - Vineyard Worship (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

No reading today. The Examen is a practice of prayerful review — looking back with God over what has been, noticing where you were drawn toward life and where you were drawn away from it.

Give it the quiet it asks for.

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

This is a version of the five-step Daily Examen that St. Ignatius practiced.

1. Become aware of God’s presence.
2. Review the day with gratitude.
3. Pay attention to your emotions.
4. Choose one feature of the day and pray from it.
5. Look toward tomorrow.

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 17 

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.   
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”    
  
Today’s reading is from Psalm 119.   
  
      9 How can a young person stay on the path of purity?   
         By living according to your word.   
      10 I seek you with all my heart;   
         do not let me stray from your commands.   
      11 I have hidden your word in my heart   
         that I might not sin against you.   
      12 Praise be to you, LORD;   
         teach me your decrees.   
      13 With my lips I recount   
         all the laws that come from your mouth.   
      14 I rejoice in following your statutes   
         as one rejoices in great riches.   
      15 I meditate on your precepts   
         and consider your ways.   
      16 I delight in your decrees;   
         I will not neglect your word.   
   
Can you remember getting your drivers permit? Do you remember the test you had to take, just to be able to get behind the wheel with a parent? If you have your driver’s license you took the test. How hard did you study for that test? Harder than for any other test on your life? You knew you needed the freedom of your license, so maybe you locked those rules into your heart and mind, and you still use them every day, if you still drive. Think for a moment about the word of God, and God’s law? Do you find it easy or hard to study and put into your mind and your heart?  
 
In a way, similar to driving, if you have God’s laws locked away in your heart and your mind, you can learn to just let go and drive. When you really know God’s laws you have the freedom to let go and be yourself, because you know the laws you’ve memorized are there to keep you on the road. As you listen to the passage again, think of the freedoms that come with really knowing God’s laws. Do you find yourself rejoicing in it?  

As you go through you day, pay attention to times you can naturally do the right thing at the same time letting go of the pressure to always be right, because you have rules memorized well enough to keep you on the path to Christ.  
  
Music: "All Things Rise" - Vineyard Soul 
ALL THINGS RISE [Lyric Video] | Vineyard Soul [feat. Tina Colón Williams | Vineyard Worship

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 16 

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.   
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”    
  
Today’s reading is from 1 John, chapter 4.   
  
7 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.   
 
As we come to prayer, think about how often you do things with love. How much of your day do you spend filled with the love of the Holy Spirit, spreading it to those around you. Do you show love while you're working, in the Starbucks line, or in traffic? Sometimes it's difficult to be loving. How do you make the love that is flowing through you obvious to others? 
 
It’s easier to love someone when you see the best side of them, but not everyone is always at their best, including you. That’s what God does – he sees us through Jesus. What do you see when you look at people? Listen again.  
 
How can you focus on the positives of everyone you meet today? Can you recognize others through the grace of Christ… Can you show God’s love to all of his creations?  
  
 Music: "All The Same" - Vineyard Worship 
ALL THE SAME | Live from Anchour Studio feat. Joshua Miller | Vineyard Worship 

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 15.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from the book of Revelation, chapter 8.


1 When he opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. 2 And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them. 3 Another angel, who had a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer, with the prayers of all God’s people, on the golden altar in front of the throne. 4 The smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of God’s people, went up before God from the angel’s hand. 5 Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and hurled it on the earth; and there came peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning and an earthquake.


This passage from Revelation describes the kind of worship that is happening in heaven. I love how it begins… there was a silence in heaven for about half an hour. In our noise filled world, we usually think of worship as something full of sounds—voices and choirs, instruments and melodies, building into a crescendo. But here worship is silence … for 30 minutes. Let’s take just 30 seconds right now and be silent.

What do you notice when you are silent? Maybe you notice the noise around you. Maybe you notice the noise within you. The distractions. The pull to today’s to dos. It takes practice to learn how to worship God through silence. Because we are first learning to quiet the noise within our own soul. After you hear the passage again, I want to again pause for thirty seconds, and this time I want you to pay attention to the noise within your soul, and try to put a name on what that noise is.

What did you notice? Could you put a name to it? A lot of times it feels frustrating that there is so much noise in our soul. But instead of being frustrated by it, just quietly bring that noise to God and ask God to quiet that noise with his peace. As you continue through your day, could you take one or two more moments of silence: bring noise of your soul to God, and to ask him to meet you there.

Music: All For You Jesus - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 14.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from the book of Job, chapter 26.


Then Job replied…: 7 He spreads out the northern skies over empty space; he suspends the earth over nothing. 8 He wraps up the waters in his clouds, yet the clouds do not burst under their weight. 9 He covers the face of the full moon, spreading his clouds over it. 10 He marks out the horizon on the face of the waters for a boundary between light and darkness. 11 The pillars of the heavens quake, aghast at his rebuke. 12 By his power he churned up the sea; by his wisdom he cut Rahab to pieces. 13 By his breath the skies became fair; his hand pierced the gliding serpent. 14 And these are but the outer fringe of his works; how faint the whisper we hear of him! Who then can understand the thunder of his power?


Job is meditating on the transcendence God through the vastness and power of the natural world. Can you recall the times when you gazed out into the immense beauty of a sunset, or looked upon the magnificent face of mountains, or surveyed the endless sea of stars in the sky? Have you looked out into the ocean in a terrifying storm to be reminded of our utter small-ness? Call to mind the last time you sensed or were interrupted by God’s presence through the natural world.

Job has experienced immense pain and utter loss. In the midst of his suffering, he stops to consider the vastness of the universe and endless stories of the past in a way that seems to create perspective… but he does not shrink from the reality of His suffering. Instead, he allows himself to experience his real suffering alongside the truth that there is so much he cannot understand about the character and power and way of God. Job allows two things to exist at the same time: the unimaginable power of God, and his own unimaginable suffering. This is a hard thing for me to hold… as you listen again, allow yourself to respond honestly and freely to God…

My friend, there are things of God that are so difficult for us to hold, and impossible for us to understand. Scripture tells us that God pursues us with ‘hesed’ – his loving kindness that endures forever… and also that in this world we will have trouble. We know we are to set our eyes to eternity, and to the fulfillment of God’s perfect kingdom come. And yet: There is so much we do not understand. Do you know you can bring that disorientation to God? He is our maker, and we are the made. Talk to the Lord as we end about whatever feelings have come up for you.

Music: They Are Yours - Vineyard Worship (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 13.

May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from the book of 2 Kings, chapter 4.

15 Then Elisha said, “Call her.” So he called her, and she stood in the doorway. 16 “About this time next year,” Elisha said, “you will hold a son in your arms.” “No, my lord!” she objected. “Please, man of God, don’t mislead your servant!”

17 But the woman became pregnant, and the next year about that same time she gave birth to a son, just as Elisha had told her.

18 The child grew, and one day he went out to his father, who was with the reapers. 19 He said to his father, “My head! My head!”

His father told a servant, “Carry him to his mother.” 20 After the servant had lifted him up and carried him to his mother, the boy sat on her lap until noon, and then he died. 21 She went up and laid him on the bed of the man of God, then shut the door and went out.

22 She called her husband and said, “Please send me one of the servants and a donkey so I can go to the man of God quickly and return.” 28 “Did I ask you for a son, my lord?” she said. “Didn’t I tell you, ‘Don’t raise my hopes’?”

32 When Elisha reached the house, there was the boy lying dead on his couch. 33 He went in, shut the door on the two of them and prayed to the LORD. 34 Then he got on the bed and lay on the boy, mouth to mouth, eyes to eyes, hands to hands. As he stretched himself out on him, the boy’s body grew warm. 35 Elisha turned away and walked back and forth in the room and then got on the bed and stretched out on him once more. The boy sneezed seven times and opened his eyes.

Imagine for a moment being in the shoes of the woman in this story. She was childless and her husband was old. She faced an uncertain future. She would receive no social security benefits, and would have nobody to rely on. But Elisha prayed for her and announced to her the unimaginable— she would have a miracle child! “No, my lord, don’t mislead your servant.”

Maybe the words, "too good to be true," crossed her mind. And then the unthinkable happened. Her beloved son died. She goes to find Elisha and says, “Didn’t I tell you? Don’t raise my hopes!” As you think about her experience, think about something in your own life of something you’ve hoped for but didn’t see or received and then lost? How did you feel in that moment?

Disappointment is an emotion and we do not easily control our emotions. We can't actually control the disappointment we feel when we lose something, but we can choose how to respond in the midst of disappointment. As you listen to the passage again, think of a disappointment in your life right now, and ask what might it look like for you to choose your response?

In the Old Testament, ordinary people would have to appeal to God through powerful spiritual mediators—in this passage Elisha was called a Man of God. We know that because Jesus is our mediator, we can go straight to God through him and make our appeal. As you walk through your day today, is there an appeal that you’d like to make to God through your powerful mediator, Jesus? Approach his throne of grace with confidence today.

Music Credit:
"Expectation" - Vineyard Soul (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

This is a version of the five-step Daily Examen that St. Ignatius practiced.

1. Become aware of God’s presence.
2. Review the day with gratitude.
3. Pay attention to your emotions.
4. Choose one feature of the day and pray from it.
5. Look toward tomorrow.

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 10  

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.   
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”    
  
Today’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 26.  
   
69 Now Peter was sitting out in the courtyard, and a servant girl came to him. “You also were with Jesus of Galilee,” she said.   
70 But he denied it before them all. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said.   
71 Then he went out to the gateway, where another servant girl saw him and said to the people there, “This fellow was with Jesus of Nazareth.”   
72 He denied it again, with an oath: “I don’t know the man!”   
73 After a little while, those standing there went up to Peter and said, “Surely you are one of them; your accent gives you away.”   
74 Then he began to call down curses, and he swore to them, “I don’t know the man!”   
Immediately a rooster crowed. 75 Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly.  
 
Everyone seemed to know who Peter was. Everyone but Peter. Jesus had caused quite a stir among the people, especially the ones of a lower social class. He was so famous that even his entourage got noticed. Peter had no idea what to do, and yet he undoubtedly thought he should be doing something to help Jesus. Have you ever felt completely helpless, alone, and at a loss for what to do? How long did you search for the solution by yourself before asking for help from Jesus?  
  
In this scripture, Peter is fulfilling the prophecy that he would deny Jesus three times before the morning. Immediately, after his third denial of Jesus, he heard a rooster crow, and he realized in that moment, that everything Jesus had ever said was true. Again. Even Peter lost himself for a while here, yet the church is built on him. As you listen again, consider what it means for you that Peter saw miracle after miracle, and stood in the actual presence of Jesus, but he still spent time helpless, cursing and denying that he even knew Him? 
   
Why was it so difficult for any of the twelve to remember all the promise of what was to come. How difficult is it for you to remember? As you go through your day, pay attention to the times you forget that everything Jesus has ever said is true. Notice the times when you are not living that truth, and allow Him to show you how.  
 
Music: "Wear the Crown" - Vineyard Worship 
WEAR THE CROWN [Lyric Video] | Vineyard Worship 

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 9 

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.   
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”    
  
Today’s reading is from the book of 2 Chronicles, chapter 20.   
  
2 Some people came and told Jehoshaphat, “A vast army is coming against you from Edom, from the other side of the Dead Sea. 3 Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the LORD, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah. 4 The people of Judah came together to seek help from the LORD; indeed, they came from every town in Judah to seek him.   
 “LORD, the God of our ancestors, are you not the God who is in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. Power and might are in your hand, and no one can withstand you. 7 Our God, did you not drive out the inhabitants of this land before your people Israel and give it forever to the descendants of Abraham your friend? 8 They have lived in it and have built in it a sanctuary for your Name, saying, 9 ‘If calamity comes upon us, whether the sword of judgment, or plague or famine, we will stand in your presence before this temple that bears your Name and will cry out to you in our distress, and you will hear us and save us.’   
12 Our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.”   
 
As we enter into prayer today, bring to mind an army that is attacking you. What is uncontrollable and is threatening your peace right now? Maybe it’s that you have too many people relying on you, more work than you can finish, or that you’re being treated poorly by someone?  What do you do to try to fix it, knowing you can't? When do you get frustrated and finally cry out, and let God take over? Jehoshaphat didn’t hesitate to go to God. Are you able to bring the thing that is attacking your peace before the Lord today?  
 
"For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” The entire nation cried this out to the Lord. They faced an army so large they knew there was nothing they could do. There was no hope for them but God. It's a lot more difficult to give up when the army is more subtle, and only threatening your mind, not your life. As you listen again, put yourself in this story and imagine how you would like to handle the battle that you are in. 

“But our eyes are on you.” Today, when the army invades, pause and fix your eyes on the Lord. At the first sign of trouble, before you are overtaken, ask Him for help and see how he moves.  
 
 Music: "I Lift My Eyes Up" - Vineyard Worship  
I Lift My Eyes Up (Psalm 121) 

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 8.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from Psalm 112.


1 Praise the LORD. Blessed are those who fear the LORD, who find great delight in his commands. 2 Their children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. 3 Wealth and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever. 4 Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous. 5 Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice. 6 Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever. 7 They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the LORD. 8 Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes. 9 They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor, their righteousness endures forever; their horn will be lifted high in honor.


Good morning, and welcome to prayer. Consider this passage, and all the blessings it speaks over those who delight in the Lord. And what does it look like to delight in the Lord? It’s those who are “gracious and compassionate and righteous; those who are generous and lend freely; those who conduct their affairs with justice.” Does that seem like a tall order? Maybe even impossible? Talk to the Lord about this beautiful, and seemingly impossible, vision he invites us into… and how you feel about your capacity to engage with it this morning.

Fortunately for us, these aren’t a list of to-dos for us to attain God’s blessings. In fact, if you’re like me – you know that this list is not often lived up to in our day to day. We find similar refrains over in Matthew in Jesus’ famed sermon of the mount. Blessed are those who… The list is great and overwhelming to perform. How do you understand your sense of blessedness by God? Or do you sense yourself striving, or marked with shame, or overwhelmed... as you try to follow his pathways? Listen to the passage again and try to listen through the lens of it as an invitation toward something, not as an impossible expectation.

As we end our time of prayer today, can you hold both the darkness and weightiness in the world around you, and perhaps even in your own heart…. While you also hold the redemption and blessing of God? As the psalmist wrote: Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous. Today, would you make this your prayer: even in darkness, light dawns…? Is there a person, or situation, you might pray this specifically toward today? This is my prayer for you today. What darkness are you present to right now? Could you hold that before the Lord?

Father God, would you accompany my sister or brother now with a light that is not overwhelmed or overcome by the darkness? Would you encourage their spirit by your presence? Would you guide and guard your child today? Amen.

Music: Reign in Me - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

**After much prayer and reflection, we want to share that Be Still will conclude on February 17, 2026. Since 2023, it has been a gift to walk together through daily moments of Scripture, prayer, and stillness. We are deeply grateful for every listener who has made space to meet with God through this devotional. The full archive of episodes will remain available as a resource for anyone who wishes to continue engaging with Be Still. While new episodes will no longer be released, we trust the Lord will continue to use these moments to draw hearts closer to Him. Thank you for being part of this journey.**
______

Today is February 17th.

May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from the book of Genesis chapter 47.

"1 Joseph went and told Pharaoh, “My father and brothers, with their flocks and herds and everything they own, have come from the land of Canaan and are now in Goshen.” 2 He chose five of his brothers and presented them before Pharaoh.
3 Pharaoh asked the brothers, “What is your occupation?”
“Your servants are shepherds,” they replied to Pharaoh, “just as our fathers were.” 4 They also said to him, “We have come to live here for a while, because the famine is severe in Canaan and your servants’ flocks have no pasture. So now, please l
5 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Your father and your brothers have come to you,6 and the land of Egypt is before you; settle your father and your brothers in the best part of the land. Let them live in Goshen. And if you know of any among them with special ability, put them in charge of my own livestock.”
7 Then Joseph brought his father Jacob in and presented him before Pharaoh. After Jacob blessed Pharaoh, 8 Pharaoh asked him, “How old are you?”
9 And Jacob said to Pharaoh, “The years of my pilgrimage are a hundred and thirty. My years have been few and difficult, and they do not equal the years of the pilgrimage of my fathers.” 10 Then Jacob blessed[b] Pharaoh and went out from his presence.
11 So Joseph settled his father and his brothers in Egypt and gave them property in the best part of the land, the district of Rameses, as Pharaoh directed. 12 Joseph also provided his father and his brothers and all his father’s household with food, according to the number of their children."

The story of Joseph is long and full of family drama including deceit, pain, jealousy, disappointment, and finally... after a long time...redemption. Think about your own family situation. Is there family drama? Or perhaps you wish you had some family drama, because you aren’t connected to family and feel alone. Take a moment to bring your feelings about your family situation to God

As you hear the passage read again… pay attention to Jacob, Joseph’s father. He tells Pharaoh “my years have been difficult”. Jacob had watched his children struggle, and watched them fight, and had probably experienced disappointment as a result. Perhaps Jacob wondered what he could have done differently... Can you identify with that sentiment?

"1 Joseph went and told Pharaoh, “My father and brothers, with their flocks and herds and everything they own, have come from the land of Canaan and are now in Goshen.” 2 He chose five of his brothers and presented them before Pharaoh.
3 Pharaoh asked the brothers, “What is your occupation?”
“Your servants are shepherds,” they replied to Pharaoh, “just as our fathers were.” 4 They also said to him, “We have come to live here for a while, because the famine is severe in Canaan and your servants’ flocks have no pasture. So now, please let your servants settle in Goshen.”
5 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Your father and your brothers have come to you,6 and the land of Egypt is before you; settle your father and your brothers in the best part of the land. Let them live in Goshen. And if you know of any among them with special ability, put them in charge of my own livestock.”
7 Then Joseph brought his father Jacob in and presented him before Pharaoh. After Jacob blessed[a] Pharaoh, 8 Pharaoh asked him, “How old are you?”
9 And Jacob said to Pharaoh, “The years of my pilgrimage are a hundred and thirty. My years have been few and difficult, and they do not equal the years of the pilgrimage of my fathers.” 10 Then Jacob blessed Pharaoh and went out from his presence.
11 So Joseph settled his father and his brothers in Egypt and gave them property in the best part of the land, the district of Rameses, as Pharaoh directed. 12 Joseph also provided his father and his brothers and all his father’s household with food, according to the number of their children."

This passage ends with Joseph forgiving and providing for his family, even after they had caused Joseph great pain. Joseph didn’t respond out of anger to his family’s faithlessness, but he responded out of God’s faithfulness. As we end our time of prayer, what is God’s wisdom to you for your own family situation? Ask God for grace to response in the ways that he is leading you.

Lord God, Almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought me in safety to this new day: Preserve me with your mighty power, that I may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all I do, direct me to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Music Credit:
Take Me With You - Vineyard Worship/Samuel Lane (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 7.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from the book of Job, chapter 8.


20 “Surely God does not reject one who is blameless or strengthen the hands of evildoers. 21 He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy. 22 Your enemies will be clothed in shame, and the tents of the wicked will be no more.”


This is a word of encouragement and strengthening to Job, who experienced unimaginable suffering and loss. We all experience suffering and loss in life. As we begin our reflection today, call to mind your own suffering and loss. What is a loss that comes to mind as you think about something that you’ve lost or an experience where you’ve suffered harm. Take a moment and consider how the place of suffering or lost impacted you. What did it do to you spiritually, psychologically, physically, relationally?

Sometimes our past can feel overwhelming. We don’t want to face our pain or loss because it’s too difficult. Sometimes we minimize it, thinking, Well, at least I’m not Job. But in the Bible pain isn’t minimized. And at the same time pain isn’t futile. Over and over again the scriptures offer us hope in the midst of our struggles. As you hear the passage again, can you allow the hope of God to begin to fill your soul?

He will yet fill your mouth with laughter. I love to laugh. People tell me all the time that they know I’m coming because they can hear my laugh. It’s a great antidote, and it’s a promise of God to those who are in pain. You will laugh again. Weeping endures the night but joy and laughter in the morning. As you go through your day today, ask God for moments of joy in your heart and laughter from your mouth.

Music: This Joy - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 6

May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from the book of 1 Peter, chapter 4.

8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Take time as we begin to contemplate this famous verse: love covers over a multitude of sins. What does that speak to you, today?

There is a lot in these few verses: about love, hospitality, being grumpy, service... listen again to the text and think about what particular part of it connects with you today? What do you think the Lord wants to say to you? Is there a particular situation or person he’s reminding you to ‘love deeply’?

Above all, Peter writes, love each other deeply. Is that easy for you? Difficult? Do you ever think about the nature or quality of your love for other Christians? How about, for other Christians that you disagree with? As we end this week of prayer, ask God to fill you with His love, that you might overflow with Him and not have to rely on your own human strength to love others.

Music Credit:
"What You Ask" - Vineyard Worship/Samuel Lane (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

This is a version of the five-step Daily Examen that St. Ignatius practiced.

1. Become aware of God’s presence.
2. Review the day with gratitude.
3. Pay attention to your emotions.
4. Choose one feature of the day and pray from it.
5. Look toward tomorrow.

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 3 

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.  
 
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”   
 
Today’s reading is from Psalm 84.  
 
      1 How lovely is your dwelling place,  
         LORD Almighty!  
      2 My soul yearns, even faints,  
         for the courts of the LORD;  
         my heart and my flesh cry out  
         for the living God.  
      3 Even the sparrow has found a home,  
         and the swallow a nest for herself,  
         where she may have her young—  
         a place near your altar,  
         LORD Almighty, my King and my God.  
      4 Blessed are those who dwell in your house;  
         they are ever praising you.  
  
As you draw near to God today, how aware are you of your need for him? The psalmist writes that their soul yearns, even faints... for the presence of the Lord. Can you take time to become aware of the presence of God with you now?  
  
How settled do you feel, today? Does the picture of a sparrow finding a home feel resonant to you? Do you feel at home, right now, with God? Or perhaps, do you feel far from home? Listen to the psalm again, and allow it to lead you to consider your sense of nearness to... or distance from... God.  
   

Blessed are those who dwell in your house. Take time as we end today to form a mental picture of what it could mean to dwell in the house of the Lord. Do you imagine a nest? Do you imagine a kitchen table? Do you imagine a mansion? Take some time to settle on an image, and invite God to meet you in it as you contemplate dwelling in the Lord’s house today. 
 
Music: "Your Dwelling Place" - Vineyard Worship  
Your Dwelling Place | Live from Anchour Studio feat. Anabeth Morgan | Vineyard Worship 

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is October 2 

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.  
 
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”   
 
Today’s reading is from the book of 1 Peter, chapter 1.  
 
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.  
  
Peter writes with such a vigorous hope – what he calls his ‘living hope’. As we begin with prayer today, take a few moments to reflect on the state of your own hopefulness? Or perhaps, your lack of hope about something in particular? Bring it all to the Lord. 
  
Peter also calls us to rejoice - ‘though now for a little while you may have to suffer grief’. He seems so able, at least in this text, to hold this tension between the hardships of this world, and the promise of the next world. Listen again and allow the spirit to draw your attention to a particular word or phrase....  
  
The phrase that stands out for me is ‘in his great mercy’. Especially in times of present hardship, or grief, or testing... it is sometimes difficult to find our footing in the mercy of God. But God IS merciful. He shields you by his power. And He loves you with an everlasting love. Consider for a while what it means for you to be found in His great mercy.  
 
Music: "Your Love" -Vineyard Worship  
Your Love (feat. Tim Brown) 

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is September 30.


The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.   
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”    
   
Today’s reading is from the book of Esther, chapter 4.  
  

5 Then Esther summoned Hathak, one of the king’s eunuchs assigned to attend her, and ordered him to find out what was troubling Mordecai and why.  
6 So Hathak went out to Mordecai in the open square of the city in front of the king’s gate. 7 Mordecai told him everything that had happened to him, including the exact amount of money Haman had promised to pay into the royal treasury for the destruction of the Jews. 8 He also gave him a copy of the text of the edict for their annihilation, which had been published in Susa, to show to Esther and explain it to her, and he told him to instruct her to go into the king’s presence to beg for mercy and plead with him for her people.  
9 Hathak went back and reported to Esther what Mordecai had said. 10 Then she instructed him to say to Mordecai, 11 “All the king’s officials and the people of the royal provinces know that for any man or woman who approaches the king in the inner court without being summoned the king has but one law: that they be put to death unless the king extends the gold scepter to them and spares their lives. But thirty days passed since I was called to go to the king.”  
12 When Esther’s words were reported to Mordecai, 13 he sent back this answer: “Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”  
15 Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: 16 “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”  
17 So Mordecai went away and carried out all of Esther’s instructions. 
  

Imagine today that you are in Esther’s place… having to stand up to the King in a time of great trouble for your entire people, fasting and praying and scared.... The task before you is all risk:  You are frightened, in over your head, and alone. . Esther is hungry, frightened, clear about the risks before her… and brave. Take a few moments to identify with what that may have felt like. 
   
Recall a time the Lord called you to obedience to Him, even though it felt like a risk. Listen to the story again with your own experience in mind. Pay attention for a word or phrase that stands out to you.  
   
As we end our time of prayer, consider any position of leadership, or authority, or privilege you may have. Do you ever consider that you have been placed where you are in order to walk out in bravery? What does it mean to you, that perhaps you have come to your own position ‘for such a time as this’? 

Music: Anything and Everything - Heaven and Earth - YouTube

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is September 29

May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from the book of Revelation, chapter 12.

10 Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say:
“Now have come the salvation and the power
and the kingdom of our God,
and the authority of his Messiah.
For the accuser of our brothers and sisters,
who accuses them before our God day and night,
has been hurled down.
11 They triumphed over him
by the blood of the Lamb
and by the word of their testimony;
they did not love their lives so much
as to shrink from death.
12 Therefore rejoice, you heavens
and you who dwell in them!
But woe to the earth and the sea,
because the devil has gone down to you!
He is filled with fury,
because he knows that his time is short.”

This week, our scriptures have been focused on facing trials, rebuilding walls and towns, restoring relationships, and having God as our fortress. Consider how often scripture speaks to those of us who follow Jesus, and assumes we’re in a place of hardship, distress, or need. Revelation paints a prophetic picture of this last battle – and points to the triumph of Christ overall. What emotions does all of this bring up in you? Bring one of those emotions before the Lord.

It’s often easy for the language of our faith to become commonplace, to devolve from true faith into shallow religion or ritual. Revelation reminds us that our faith in Christ has implications that we can barely get our minds around: That God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son – and through Him – the salvation, power, and kingdom of God, and the authority of the Messiah has broken into the world to save that which is lost. Listen again and ask God to allow it to rightly orient you to the mystery of your faith.

Our faith in God’s power will often come into conflict with our faith in worldly power. Worldly power coerces, but faith in Christ leads us to consenting to God’s power. Worldly power brings conflict, but faith in Christ bears peace that passes understanding. Worldly power uses might and the sword... but faith in Christ is made up of a reconciliation born out of humility and sacrifice. As we end our time of prayer today, allow these truths to draw you toward Christus Victor – Christ who is victorious in all and overall.
Music Credit:
"You Give Us Peace" - Heaven & Earth (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

This is a version of the five-step Daily Examen that St. Ignatius practiced.

1. Become aware of God’s presence.
2. Review the day with gratitude.
3. Pay attention to your emotions.
4. Choose one feature of the day and pray from it.
5. Look toward tomorrow.

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is September 26  

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.   
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”    
  
Today’s reading is from the book of James, chapter 1.   
  
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.   
  
As we enter our time of prayer, take a moment to think of a way you are persevering; something you are doing despite the desire to give up. Does it test your faith?  
  
What is it that keeps you going?  Is it God?  
 
How present is God to you in the times you want to quit? How close do you allow Him to get when you're gritting your teeth?  Sometimes, we don't even understand why we are persevering. How close do you feel to the Holy Spirit then? Are you persevering willingly in those moments?  
   
As we close our time of prayer, ask God for the wisdom to persevere. Maybe you need to know why you have to work so hard to be mature and complete. Maybe you need to know how to keep going. Ask for some of the generous knowledge He offers. It’s always available.  
  
Music: "You Don't Have to Lose Heart" Vineyard Worship  
You Don't Have To Lose Heart | Official Lyric Video | Vineyard Worship 

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

**After much prayer and reflection, we want to share that Be Still will conclude on February 17, 2026. Since 2023, it has been a gift to walk together through daily moments of Scripture, prayer, and stillness. We are deeply grateful for every listener who has made space to meet with God through this devotional. The full archive of episodes will remain available as a resource for anyone who wishes to continue engaging with Be Still. While new episodes will no longer be released, we trust the Lord will continue to use these moments to draw hearts closer to Him. Thank you for being part of this journey.**
______

Today is February 16th.

Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from Romans chapter 1.

"16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”

Paul says that He is not ashamed of the Gospel. As we begin, take a few moments to think about how you would define ‘the gospel’ message? The word gospel itself means ‘good news’.
If someone asked you today 'what is the good news that Christians talk about’, think about how you could answer them, in your own words, and in your own experience?

This phrase ‘righteousness of God that is by faith from first to last...’ has a lot of meaning packed into it. For Christians, righteousness means to be without sin, to be fully right with God, and to demonstrate his just and right ways in the world. Paul tells us here that the gospel makes us right with God by faith from first to last! So the good news is that it’s our faith in Christ – and only our faith in Christ – that confers on us God's righteousness. Not anything we do, or any action we take. As you hear the passage again, thank God that you are fully right with Him because of Christ.

"16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”

Does it seem easy for your faith in Christ to take on a religious sensibility? For your faith to be expressed more in dos and don’ts, or rules and ritual, or apathy, than in your actual, thoughtful, emotional and spiritual awareness of the powerful thing Christ has done for you? Sometimes our faith needs to be stirred up. Sometimes we forget that we actually believe the gospel is true, and that it has power. As we end of our time, ask God to increase your faith so that you might know the power of the Gospel again.

Lord God, Almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought me in safety to this new day: Preserve me with your mighty power, that I may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all I do, direct me to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Music Credit:
No Longer Strangers - Vineyard Soul (YouTube)

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is September 25  

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.   
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”    
 
Today’s reading is from the gospel of Matthew, chapter 18.   
  
15 “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. 16 But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ 17 If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.   
18 “Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.   
19 “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”  
  
In this verse, Jesus very straightforwardly tells us exactly how to deal with conflict. He doesn't even use a story to get this point across. It's that important. How do you deal with the sins of your fellow Christians? Do you point out flaws like Jesus would, talk privately, and then let God do the work in their heart? Or do you ask another person their advice, let the person know publicly, and then angrily cut them out of your life forever? 
   
"Treat them as you would a pagan or tax collector." As you hear the scripture again, consider how Jesus treated the pagan and the tax collector; like enemies? Like lost sheep in need of saving. He didn't condemn or shame. He forgave, freed and loved even people who betrayed Him, if they had faith and turned to God, because if someone is truly focuses on Him, they show up and do their best in this life to glorify Him, even though they can’t be perfect.  
   
As we close our time of contemplation think about this: 
Do you have the faith to be forgiven for your sins by turning toward God?  
Is it harder to forgive or be forgiven? Try doing one or the other today.   
  
Music: "Throne of Grace" - Vineyard Worship  
Throne of Grace 

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is September 24.


The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.  
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”    
   
Today’s reading is from the book of Ecclesiastes, chapter 4.  
  

      9 Two are better than one,  
         because they have a good return for their labor:  
      10 If either of them falls down,  
         one can help the other up.  
         But pity anyone who falls  
         and has no one to help them up.  
      11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.  
         But how can one keep warm alone?  
      12 Though one may be overpowered,  
         two can defend themselves.  
         A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. 
  

Welcome to prayer. Let’s begin by getting oriented to the Lord’s presence. HE is near to you, even now, wherever you find yourself. Invite Him to draw you further into awareness of His goodness.  
   
Our reading today is a well-known passage from Ecclesiastes, that speaks to the goodness of life in community. Two are better than one, the author says. But for so many in our world today, loneliness feels like more of a reality than community does. How do you come to prayer today? Do you feel ‘kept warm’ by community? Or do you feel alone? Talk to the Lord about this as we read the passage again. 
   
“Pity the one who falls and has no one to help them up…” do you know someone who is feeling particularly alone right now? Are you ever in a place to be present to someone who has ‘no one else to help them’? our world is full of lonely people. As we end our time of prayer today, ask God for eyes to see those who need a friend. And for those who feel lonely, invite the Lord into that as a conversation, and allow Him to minister His presence to you. 
 
Music: Dwell - Vineyard Columbus - YouTube

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa

Today is September 23.


The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.   
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”    
   
Today’s reading is from Psalm 128.  
  
  
      1 Blessed are all who fear the LORD,  
         who walk in obedience to him.  
      2 You will eat the fruit of your labor;  
         blessings and prosperity will be yours.  
      3 Your wife will be like a fruitful vine  
         within your house;  
         your children will be like olive shoots  
         around your table.  
      4 Yes, this will be the blessing  
         for the person who fears the LORD.  
       5 May the LORD bless you from Zion;  
         may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem  
         all the days of your life.  
      6 May you live to see your children’s children—  
         peace be on Israel. 
  
  
Four times this Psalm speaks blessing. God’s desire and heart is blessing. In the Bible, blessing is the flourishing and multiplication of life. Take a moment and settle yourself in the reality that God desires to bless, to bless, and not to curse. To cause your life to flourish and multiply.  
   
Blessing is practical and multi-dimensional. In this Psalm it’s the flouishing of family, of relationship, of provision, of prosperity, and of peace. As you listen to the Psalm again, ask the Lord to draw your attention to a particular phrase that you can hold onto today, an area where you would like to see the blessing of God in your life. 
   
Blessed are all those who walk in obedience to the Lord, the psalmist writes. As we end our time of prayer today, would you invite God to draw you further into obedience? What is one area where the Lord is asking for you to trust and obey him? Pray for grace today that you might persevere in obedience and experience the overflow of his blessing.  

Music: All Things - Heaven and Earth - YouTube

Be Still: Daily Devotional with Eric and Julia Pickerill.
Originally produced at Vineyard Columbus and republished by permission.

Subscribe: Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-still-daily-devotional/id1662156224 | Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1vRcmmVmxUU579ZsOFcT1X | Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c57a529f-db23-427f-87fb-e01cb8ca6b78

More at pickerill.casa