Devotional
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.
Thoughts on Today's Verse...Yes, many of us don't like things about our governments, no matter where we may live. However, God has truly blessed many of us so that we can enjoy the protection of the authorities where we live. Paul is reminding believers to honor our governments and the laws under which we live. That said, like the first disciples, we also live in the time of some of the worst persecution ever known in the Christian era. Brothers and sisters in many parts of the world face opposition, persecution, and prejudice. In those cases, believers must honor God before their national and local laws. So, as we pray for our leaders and thank God for our freedoms, let's not forget the persecuted church all over the world. Let's pray for their deliverance, protection, and perseverance.
My Prayer...O great Deliverer, God of the Exodus, we thank you for your intervention and protection of your people throughout history and today. We thank you for those of us whose Christian freedoms our governments and laws protect. We believe you have shown your power and deliverance to your people in the past, when the laws they lived under did not coincide with your will. So we ask for wisdom on how we should live, and we also ask that you intervene today and bless every believer persecuted for their faith in Jesus. Please bless these oppressed children with tenderness, healing, and love. Please tangibly assure them of your presence. In the powerful name of Jesus, we join together and ask this for believers all over the world. Amen.
The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware. Questions or comments can be sent to help@verseoftheday.com.© 1998-2026, Heartlight, Inc. Verseoftheday.com is part of the Heartlight Network and is maintained by Infinite Publishing. | Privacy PolicyAll scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.
Disclaimer: Content provided by Heartlight, Inc. is for informational and inspirational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for church, pastoral guidance, or professional counseling. Readers are solely responsible for their use of this material.
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Christian Today
SIMPLE COOKING IDEAS

Everything you love about enchiladas, minus the fuss! This super flavorful, cheesy vegan enchilada skillet comes together in about 30 minutes with simple methods, minimal dishes, and no need to fill or roll tortillas.
This easy, nourishing dish features tender cubed sweet potato or winter squash, fiber- & protein-rich black beans, and a rich red enchilada sauce. Everything gets simmered in 1 pan and topped with a melty cashew “cheese” that makes it SUPER satisfying and delicious!
Cheesy Vegan Enchilada Skillet (30 Minutes!) from Minimalist Baker →

Honey almond snack cake!? You know you want to jump in on the fun! This GORGEOUS loaf is perfectly moist with a lightly floral flavor and beautiful sponge texture. Bonus? It’s made without gluten or dairy, but no one will know.
It’s the perfect cake for afternoon tea, brunch gatherings, and beyond! Just 10 ingredients, 1 bowl, and simple methods (no mixer) required. Let’s bake!
1-Bowl Honey Almond Snack Cake (Gluten-Free) from Minimalist Baker →

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Even better? It’s a breeze to make — just 1 pot required!

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Not only are they incredibly delicious, but these fritters are vegan, optionally gluten-free, and SO easy to make! Grab your mixing bowl and 10 basic ingredients, and you’ll be enjoying fritters in 30 minutes or less.
RECIPES IDEAS

This homemade mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food. It stars a creamy homemade cheese sauce, tender macaroni noodles, and a breadcrumb topping that becomes crisp and golden in the oven. My kids (and husband) love this baked mac and cheese for dinner, and it’s also a crowd-pleasing holiday side dish. Made with 3 types of cheese, it’s rich, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a hit! Homemade Mac and Cheese Ingredients Here’s what you’ll need to make this homemade baked mac and cheese: Macaroni, of course! This cute elbow pasta is perfect for cradling the cheesy sauce. Feel free […]

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LIFE BALANCE
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"I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Gives Me Strength"

