In step

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — Romans 12:1-2

Be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is. . . .
Romans 12:2

Every January, people focus on external changes—better diets, improved finances, new routines. But a transformation that lasts always begins within. Our thoughts shape our actions, and our mindset affects the way we respond to life.

I used to think that change started with doing more. But I’ve learned that true, lasting transformation comes from aligning my perspective with God’s truth instead of cultural noise. That’s what Paul is getting at here. This is not just about avoiding worldly patterns; it’s about inviting God to reshape how we see everything. When I start my day with Scripture instead of social media, peace comes more easily. When I focus on gratitude rather than complaints, my heart softens.

Renewing your mind is a daily choice—like resetting a compass so that you don’t drift off course.

God wants to guide us, but we need a clear mental space so that we can hear his voice.

Let today be a turning point: less conformed, more transformed.

Spirit of God, renew my mind with your truth each day. Clear out the clutter of fear, comparison, and negativity. Align my thoughts with yours. In Jesus, Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Leaving The Past Behind​ By Darrell Delaney — Tuesday, January 13, 2026 Scripture Reading — Philippians 3:13-14 Forgetting what is behind . . . I press on . . . to win the prize for which God has called me. . . . Philippians 3:13-14 Some memories cling to us like shadows—our failures, our regrets, our missed opportunities. We replay them over and over, wondering what we could have done differently. But the truth is that we can’t change the past. Even so, we don’t have to let it shape our present and our future. Paul had a past too. Before becoming an apostle, he persecuted the church. If anyone had reasons to carry guilt, it was him. But instead of being paralyzed by his past, Paul focused forward—not because he was perfect but because he was forgiven. The Lord’s amazing grace gives us permission to let go. Leaving the past behind isn’t about denial. It’s about refusing to let it define you. God is doing something new, and looking backward too long can make you miss what’s right in front of you. So if you're carrying baggage from last year—or from the past decade or more—lay it down. God is not finished with you yet. In fact, he’s just getting started. Jesus, help me to let go of what I cannot change. Free me from shame and regret, and fix my eyes on what lies ahead in life with you. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy . . . for he will freely pardon.
Isaiah 55:7

There’s something powerful about a fresh start. Whether it’s a new year, a new chapter, or a new morning, we all long for the chance to begin again. But sometimes we wonder if God is really willing to give us that clean slate. Especially when we’ve messed up so many times in our lives.

Isaiah 55 reminds us that starting again isn’t just possible—it’s beautiful. God doesn’t just tolerate our return; he welcomes it with mercy and pardon. That word is key. It means we don’t have to earn our way back or prove ourselves. We just need to turn around and come home.

God is not stingy with second chances. He is generous with grace. If you have strayed, or doubted, or simply gotten stuck, this is your invitation to start again—not because you’re strong, but because God is merciful.

There is beauty in starting again—not because everything in it is perfect, but because God is present in the process.

And that is more than enough.

Lord, thank you for the mercy that meets me every morning. Give me the courage to start again, trusting that in your grace you will carry me forward. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — Psalm 118:24-25

This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. (NRSV)
Psalm 118:24

Some mornings don’t feel worth rejoicing over. The weight of yesterday’s worries or the dread of today’s challenges can steal our joy before the day even begins. But Psalm 118:24 gently calls us back to a deeper truth: every single day is a gift crafted by God’s own hands.

When the psalmist says, “This is the day that the LORD has made,” it’s not just about sunny skies and good vibes. It’s a declaration that no matter what the day holds, it is still God’s. It means that God’s love, mercy, and faithfulness are already waiting for you in this day. Even when life feels unpredictable, God’s love doesn’t waver.

Rejoicing doesn’t mean pretending that everything is fine. It means choosing to trust the One who made the day—and who holds you in it. Each morning brings a new opportunity to rest in God’s love, to find joy not in perfection but in God’s presence.

You don’t have to carry yesterday's weight into today. God’s love is new each morning—and it will meet you again tomorrow.

Jesus, thank you for this day and for your unfailing love in it. Help me to rejoice in your presence and to trust you in all that lies ahead. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — Romans 6:1-4

Just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
Romans 6:4

One of the most powerful truths of the Christian faith is that we don’t have to stay the same. Through Jesus, we’ve been given the gift of new life—right here, right now. We aren’t just slightly improved versions of our old selves. We have been made new from the inside out.

Paul’s words in Romans 6 remind us that just as Jesus was raised from the dead, we too are invited into resurrection living. That means the habits, thought patterns, and shame that once held us back no longer have to define us. The past no longer has the final word. Grace does.

Of course, walking in newness doesn’t always feel instant. Often it means taking one small step of faith at a time. But every step forward in obedience is a declaration that you belong to the risen Christ and that your life is a living testimony to his transforming power.

You are not who you used to be. And, by God’s grace, you’re becoming more of the person he has called you to be.

Lord, thank you for the new life I have in you. Help me to walk each day with purpose, knowing that I have been raised to live differently. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — Hebrews 8:6-13

“I will make a new covenant with the people. . . . I will forgive their wickedness and remember their sins no more.”
Hebrews 8:8, 12

I can still remember the first time I really understood the gift of God’s grace. I had been used to the idea of “earning” favor and approval from people, and that extended into seeking approval from God. It was a familiar pattern: Perform well, and you will be rewarded. Fail, and you are left with guilt and consequences.

But grace is not like that. It depends not on our performance but on God’s promises—sealed through Jesus.

The writer of Hebrews contrasts the old covenant, which was based on laws and rituals, with the new covenant of grace established by the sacrifice of Jesus. The old covenant required continuous sacrifices for sin, but Jesus, through his sacrifice of himself once for all, made it possible for us to draw near to God, being loved and forgiven.

The new covenant means that we no longer need to fear God’s judgment. We are invited into an intimate relationship with God, marked not by our obedience but by God’s perfect love. No matter what our mistakes are, God’s grace is always greater. This is the good news of salvation—the new covenant in Jesus.

As we reflect on all this, let’s embrace the freedom that comes with grace. No longer bound by old rules, we can live in hope and peace, knowing God has made a way for us to be fully loved and forgiven.

Jesus, thank you for establishing the new covenant of grace. Help us fully to embrace your love and to live in the freedom you have given us. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — Jeremiah 29:10-14

“I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11

I remember a time in my life when everything seemed uncertain. It felt as though the world was moving by on fast forward and I was left standing still. I had goals, dreams, and desires, but they seemed far out of reach. Fear and doubt crept in, and I wondered if I’d ever truly be able to step into the future I hoped for.

We all have moments of uncertainty. Maybe you are facing a challenging season or questioning where your life is headed. It’s easy to forget, when we're in the midst of struggle, that God has a purpose and plan for our lives. He sees the bigger picture, and his plans are always good. In Jeremiah 29:11, God’s promise to his people—despite their exile—is one of hope, not despair. It’s a promise that echoes through history to us today.

Even when the path ahead seems unclear, we can hold on to the assurance that God is at work, weaving the pieces of our lives together with purpose. The future may not always look the way we might expect, but in God’s hands it will always be better than we could have imagined.

In this new year and every year, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that God is leading us toward a hopeful future.

Lord, thank you for your promise of a hopeful future. Help me to trust you with the unknowns and to rest in the assurance that you are guiding me. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — Isaiah 40:28-31

Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.
Isaiah 40:31

The challenges of life can feel overwhelming at times. I remember when I was faced with a difficult decision that required more energy and wisdom than I felt I had within me. I tried to rely on my own strength and resources, but it quickly became apparent that I was running on empty.

This is where God’s promise of renewal comes in. It’s not about having strength to do it all on our own; it’s about trusting in God, whose strength is limitless. In the same way that an eagle soars with ease, we have the strength to rise above our struggles when we hope in God. We don’t have to fight through our challenges on our own power. God equips us with what we need for the journey ahead.

As we step into the newness of each day, let’s remember that we don’t need to face life’s challenges alone. The Lord’s strength is made perfect in our weakness, and he promises that when we place our trust in him, he will renew our strength and empower us to face whatever comes our way.

Lord, thank you for renewing my strength when I feel weak. Help me to trust in your provision and power as I face the challenges ahead each day. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — Matthew 7:24-27

Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.
Matthew 7:24-25

When I reflect on times in my life when things seemed uncertain or challenging, I realize that what truly made the difference was the foundation I had. Often I had tried to stand on shaky ground—things like my own abilities, opinions of others, or fleeting circumstances. But none of those things provided a solid foundation. I always fell.

Building on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ is essential. Jesus didn’t promise that storms wouldn’t come, but he did assure us that when we build on him—the Rock—we will stand firm. Just as a house built on rock will stand against winds and floods, when we place our trust in God’s Word and live according to his teachings, we gain the strength to withstand life's difficulties.

The newness God offers is not just about external changes; it’s about laying a fresh foundation within ourselves—one that is grounded in his truth, grace, and love. As we build this foundation, we can trust that he will see us through any storm.

Lord, help me to build my life on the solid foundation of your Word. May I always stand firm, trusting in your strength to carry me through the storms. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — Ephesians 2:8-10

We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Ephesians 2:10

As I think about the new year and fresh starts, I’m reminded of the deep truth that each one of us has a purpose—a purpose that was ordained by God long before we even knew it.

There’s a sense of peace that comes with knowing that we are not just random beings, that our lives are filled with intention. But the real challenge is in living out that purpose, day by day.

I’ve often thought about what it means to live out my calling. The truth is that it’s not always easy. Distractions, fears, and doubts often come up and get in the way of living as God intends for us. But one thing I know for certain is that the work God has set before me is good work. And the same is true for you.

God calls us to live not just for ourselves but for others, to do the work he has already prepared for us to do. And in embracing the newness of life in Christ, we are also embracing the mission God has prepared for us. Our purpose in him brings fulfillment, direction, and joy.

Lord, guide me in discovering and living out the purpose you have prepared for me. Help me to engage in the good works you have set before me, and to work at them with courage and joy. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — 2 Timothy 1:6-10

The Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
2 Timothy 1:7

Fear is one of the greatest obstacles to embracing newness. It can hold us back from stepping into the new chapters of our lives, from trusting God’s promises, and from becoming the people he has created us to be. Fear often whispers to us that we are unqualified, incapable, or unworthy of the changes that God wants to make in us.

But the Bible tells us that fear is not from God. Instead, God has given us his Spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. It’s not about us having enough courage on our own; it’s about relying on the strength and presence of the Holy Spirit. When we lean into God’s power, we can face the unknown with confidence, knowing that the Lord is already ahead of us.

I’ve had many moments in which fear has threatened to paralyze me from pursuing something new. Yet in those moments I’ve come to realize that God’s “perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18). Embracing God’s Spirit within me means rejecting the lies that fear tries to tell me, and walking forward in the boldness of new life that God provides. Surrounded by God’s love, we can let go of fear and walk into the space God has provided for his new work in our lives.

Lord, thank you for your Spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. Help me to let go of my fears and to embrace all the new things you have in store for me. Amen.

Written by: Darrell Delaney

 

[RiverOL]

The Power of a New Perspective​ Scripture Reading — Colossians 3:1-11 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:2 In the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to become consumed by the distractions and stresses of the world. Our focus often shifts from eternal perspectives to temporary, earthly matters. We become fixated on problems, failures, and the pressure to perform, but all of that can limit our vision and steal our peace. The apostle Paul encourages us to set our hearts and minds “on things above, not on earthly things.” When we do, we gain a new perspective. We are reminded that our identity is in Christ and that our hope is in the Lord, who rules over all things in heaven and on earth. The troubles of today become smaller when we shift our gaze upward, realizing that we are citizens of a kingdom that is unshakable. I remember a time when I was overwhelmed with anxiety about my future and the things I could not control. But when I started to focus on God's promises and his eternal plan, I could put my worries into perspective. Life became less about immediate outcomes and more about fulfilling God's purpose. It was a powerful shift, giving me peace in the midst of chaos. God, help me to focus on you and the eternal promises you have given me. Shift my perspective so that I can embrace the newness you are bringing into my life. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — Revelation 21:1-5

He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!”
Revelation 21:5

Have you ever felt like you’ve missed an opportunity or that life has passed you by? Maybe you have faced setbacks, disappointments, or closed doors. It can be easy to feel that your chances for new beginnings are over, but the truth is that, with God, there is always an opportunity for something new.

In Revelation 21 we get a glimpse of the ultimate renewal God has in store: “a new heaven and a new earth.” And even today God is at work making things new in our lives. Whether it's a new relationship, a new calling, a new season of growth, or even a new perspective on the circumstances we find ourselves in, God is always offering new opportunities.

I remember a time in my life when everything seemed to be falling apart. Relationships were strained, work was stressful, and I felt as if I had nothing left to offer. But in the midst of that I felt a deep pull to start fresh, to rebuild, and to pursue something new. As I stepped out in faith, God opened doors that I never expected, and he renewed my heart, mind, and spirit in ways that I could not have imagined.

If you feel stuck or as if the best parts of life are behind you, know that God is the God who makes all things new. His opportunities never run out, and his plans for you are always fresh and full of hope.

Lord Jesus, thank you for the new opportunities you bring into my life. Help me to trust you and to embrace the newness you have in store for me. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

[td] Every so often, a news story really gets to me. This week, that story was anti-ICE protesters entering Cities Church in St. Paul, visibly rattling worshipers during their Sunday service (catch up here).​ ​ [td] I have issues with fear on Sunday mornings to begin with—I’ve written about more church attacks than is healthy for a person. So, it was unnerving to see parents shielding their kids at a church that seemed quite similar to the one I call home. ​

[td] Let’s pray for courage and justice in our sanctuaries and among the most persecuted:​ ​ [td] [td] [td] Gracious Father, You are our sanctuary and refuge in moments of fear and uncertainty. Your strength is unmatched, Your victory over death and darkness is sure, and You are for us. Grow our confidence when fear settles in, so that in moments of chaos, our faith points others to our Rock. God our Refuge, As Minneapolis wrestles with unrest, may Cities Church and others be beacons of light, graciously and patiently bearing with their neighbors, pursuing justice while leaving vengeance in Your capable hands. We remember those around the world who fear for their lives every time they gather for worship. Give them courage and endurance to press on through fear and anxiety, confident that the prize of worshiping You among Your people is worth any risk. Protect them from any who would harm them— may their enemies become brothers and sisters, turning to Christ, or may they be cut off, never to threaten Your people again. Provide for the needs of the persecuted and their families and bring justice. In a world that’s often hostile and scary, we trust that You are at work for our good, leading us along a narrow path to a home free from trouble and turmoil. May the peace of that kingdom rule in our hearts as we wait. Amen.​

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[td]

But as is so often the case, my search for Scripture to encourage TPO’s audience ended up engraving the Lord’s comfort on my own heart:​

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“My enemies will turn back in the day when I call.
This I know, that God is for me.
In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise,
in God I trust; I shall not be afraid.
What can man do to me?...
For you have delivered my soul from death,
yes, my feet from falling,
that I may walk before God in the light of life.”
Psalm 56:9-13 (ESV)​

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This one’s going in the memory bank, because I need to wake up every morning and call to mind that my deliverance is already complete. I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?​

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[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — Philippians 1:3-6

He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 1:6

When we set out on a new journey or season, it can be easy to feel discouraged, as if the process of change is taking too long or the work isn’t happening quickly enough. Sometimes we wonder if the growth we desire in our lives will ever truly take place.

I’ve been there—often questioning if I would ever truly grow past certain struggles. But Philippians 1:6 is a reminder that God is not finished with us yet. He began a good work in us, and he is faithful to complete it.

This reminds me of a time in my life when I was overwhelmed by all the changes that I felt were needed in my life. I tried to rush things, but the harder I pushed, the more frustrated I became. It was during those moments of struggle that God gently reminded me that he is the one doing the work, not me. God’s timing is perfect, and he works in ways that I can’t always see or understand.

Take comfort in knowing that God is working in you. Your transformation might not happen overnight, but God will complete the good work he has started in you. Trust in his process and know that, as you walk with him, you will become the person he created you to be.

Lord Jesus, thank you for the work you are doing in me. Help me to trust your timing and to believe that you are faithful to complete what you have started. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
2 Corinthians 12:9

Life has a way of humbling us. Whether that takes place through physical illness, personal struggles, or unexpected challenges, we often find ourselves in places where we feel weak and incapable.

But in those moments of weakness, God’s power is made evident.

I’ve learned that in times when I feel I have nothing left to give, God’s strength rises within me. I remember a situation in which I was trying to balance my personal life, work, and ministry, feeling overwhelmed and worn out. I wasn’t sure how much longer I could keep going.

Yet, through prayer, God reminded me that in my weakness, he could show his power. Instead of pushing through on my own, I began to lean into God’s strength, trusting that he would carry me.

When you feel weak, remember that God doesn’t expect you to be strong on your own. His grace is more than enough. His strength in your weakness is the very thing that will carry you through and make you stronger than you ever imagined.

Holy Spirit, thank you for being my strength in times of weakness. Help me to rest in your power and trust in your sufficiency. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — 2 Corinthians 5:17

If anyone is in Christ, that person is a new creation. The old has gone, the new is here!
2 Corinthians 5:17

Becoming a new creation in Christ is one of the most beautiful transformations we can experience. But it doesn’t always feel like a sudden change, does it?

I’ve found that, at times, I don’t always see the immediate evidence of my transformation, and that can lead to discouragement. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “I’m still the same person I was before.”

But here’s the truth: When you come to faith in Christ, you are a new creation, and that is the beginning of a radical shift. The old ways, the old habits, the old mindset—these things begin to fade away. You are not just improving on who you were; you are becoming someone entirely new.

I remember when I first came to this realization. I was trying to change my behavior to match what I thought Christ wanted from me. But it wasn’t until I embraced my new identity in him that I started to experience real change. Instead of striving in my own strength, I learned to rest in the truth that Christ had already made me new.

Embrace your new identity in Christ. When you’re tempted to go back to old patterns, remind yourself that the old has passed away. The new has come, and you are a new creation in him!

Lord, thank you for making me a new creation in Christ. Help me to fully embrace my new identity in you and to live out the transformation you have begun in me. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — John 13:34-35

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”
John 13:34-35

When Jesus gave this new command to his disciples, he wasn’t simply telling them to show kindness or to be nice to each other. No, Jesus was calling his followers to something deeper—a radical, sacrificial love that mirrors his own.

This is a love that goes beyond feelings and extends into actions. Jesus’ love is the kind of love that says, “I will put your needs above mine, even when that is difficult.”

Think about how often we hear of “love” in the world today. It’s talked about in the context of self-love, romantic love, and the love we feel for family and friends.

But what sets the love of Christ apart is its foundation in sacrifice. Jesus loved us to the point of laying down his life for us all. This is the love he calls us to show to others.

This command is new in the sense that it is not about loving people as we want to love them, but as Jesus loved us—unconditionally and without limit. It’s a love that challenges us to love the unlovable, to forgive when that is hard, and to extend grace when it seems undeserved.

When we walk in the love of Jesus, we bear witness to the world about who Jesus is and the transformation he brings.

Let’s love as he has loved us.

Jesus, thank you for showing us what true love looks like. Help me to love others with the same sacrificial love you have shown me. And may my actions reflect your love. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — Psalm 126:1-6

Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.
Psalm 126:5

The journey of life isn’t always easy. We face struggles, setbacks, and moments where it feels like our efforts are in vain. But the beautiful truth of Psalm 126:5 is that God does not waste our pain. The tears we shed are never in vain, for they are like seeds being sown for a harvest of joy.

I remember a time when I was going through a season of difficulty. It felt like everything was falling apart, and I couldn’t see how any good could come from it. Yet, looking back, I realize that those moments of struggle were the very things that cultivated a deeper joy in me. God used the pain to refine me, teach me, and ultimately bring me to a place of greater peace and happiness.

We are promised that, even in our sorrow, God will bring forth joy. The joy doesn’t always come immediately, and at times we have to endure some hard moments. But when the harvest comes, it’s sweeter than we could have imagined. It’s a joy that only God can bring—a joy that comes from knowing that he is with us through it all.

As we walk through life, let’s remember that the joy that follows the tears is a new joy. It’s a joy that comes from trusting God with our struggles and waiting patiently for his work to be completed in us.

God, thank you for the promise of joy in our life’s journey. Help me to trust you through the difficult times and to hold on to the hope that we will be filled with joy in you. Amen.

 

[RiverOL]

Scripture Reading — John 3:16-21

God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

The newness we celebrate at the start of each year pales in comparison to the ultimate newness we receive through Christ. Eternal life isn’t just about a future promise; it’s about a present reality that transforms how we live today. When we embrace the newness of eternal life, we accept that we are part of something far greater than ourselves—an unshakable kingdom that will never fade.

I remember when I first understood this truth fully. It wasn’t until a hard season in my life that I truly grasped what it meant to have eternal life through Jesus. I realized that no matter what happened in the world or in my circumstances, the gift of eternal life could not be taken away. This profound shift in perspective gave me the peace that surpasses understanding. I knew I had a hope beyond what this world could offer.

Eternal life changes everything. It shifts our values, our priorities, and even the way we see hardship. Each day becomes a step closer to the fulfillment of God’s promises. So when the trials of life come, we can face them with the confidence that we are secure in the love of God, which never ends.

As we conclude this devotional journey, let’s remember that the newness we experience now is just a foretaste of the life we have in Christ that will never fade but last forever!

Lord, thank you for the gift of eternal life. Help us to embrace your love and the hope you have given us, trusting in your promises. Amen.