November 24, 2025 -- Ephesians 5:15-17 -- Tempted to wasting time

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called…” – Ephesians 4:1 

Scripture reading: Ephesians 5:15-17

Are you familiar with the term ‘doom scrolling’? My guess is almost anyone 35 or under will immediately recognize the reference. There are so many short media clips, (a.k.a. shorts) available online that a person could easily spend an hour, or hours, just flipping through random clips. It is specifically called doom scrolling, because the scroller consumes content slanted toward sad news, or sensational news which leads people to greater despair and hopelessness.

The days are evil. It is an axiomatic statement (an obvious truth that almost doesn’t need to be stated). As in the days of the Apostle Paul, so in our day also, there are enough activities that are evil and would lead the people of God astray into evil activities. However, the call of Scripture is that believers walk in understanding as to what the will of the Lord is.

To walk with the Lord means to use your time well, to be temperate, not abusing your body with food, alcohol, or drugs. As you read here in Ephesians, to walk with the Lord means that you, as a believer, will not pollute your mind with what you’re watching. Now is an important time to ask yourself if you’re spending too much time on your phone, or computer, or visiting inappropriate websites? To walk with the Lord means that you as a believer use your resources to be a blessing to others, meeting the needs of those who are in poverty. Such poverty can be spiritual, financial, or social.

Suggestions for prayer

Appeal to God to bring revival across our land, that evil will be pushed back and the knowledge of God will increase; that the Spirit of God leads you to act in ways that increase your personal walk with God.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 23, 2025 -- Philippians 3:13-16 -- Welcome to the Sunday celebration

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us.” – Philippians 3:17

Scripture reading: Philippians 3:13-16

Welcome to the Sunday celebration. What a joy it is to rest in the work of Christ our Lord. What a gift it is to gather with the people of God, to sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to the Lord our God. The rest of the Sabbath is a time when the gains in your faith, made through the grace of God, are acknowledged in thankful worship before the King.

Welcome to the Sunday celebration. Paul, by his example of straining toward the upward call of the Gospel, by his desire to take hold of all they’d already attained in Christ, encouraged the people of Philippi. He longed for them to be so united in Christ that the things behind them, their former ways of life and past rivalries would be set aside in view of the greatest goal of serving Jesus, the prize of life, the hope of every longing heart. Is that how you receive the Sunday, as a unifying time where Christ Jesus is your prize?

Welcome to the Sunday celebration, where mature Christians, by the example of their engaged involvement in the worship service, model living faith to those who are young in the faith. How you pay attention, sing, how you show yourself to be in a posture of prayer during worship, all these activities lead others to walk in your example. As you worship God with fellow believers, trust that your presence and your involvement, every Sunday, is an encouragement to other believers around you.

Suggestions for prayer

Give thanks to God for those in your congregation and family who are to you a wonderful example of a mature Christian; bring your thanks to God for some specific ways in which you can see He is leading you to greater maturity.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 22, 2025 -- I Peter 4:12-19 -- Tempted to avoid suffering

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.” – 1 Peter 4:19 

Scripture reading: 1 Peter 4:12-19

Think for a minute about who wrote these words. Yes, Peter who pledged to Jesus that even if all the other disciples abandoned Him, Peter would stand up and defend Jesus. When he saw that Jesus was prepared to suffer for the sake of His Father’s glory, Peter crumbled and ran. Worse, he betrayed even knowing Jesus. Rather than dealing harshly with Peter, surely you can empathize. You know how hard it is to stay true to Jesus while friends mock you. It doesn’t matter if you are 10 or 60, the peer pressure that society lobs against Christians tempts you to go soft in your stance for Jesus.

First, know that suffering will happen for any Christian. Be assured that suffering confirms that you belong to Jesus. Second, do not claim to be suffering for Jesus, when in fact you are suffering for your own bad behavior. Your bad behavior must be punished so that you will be purified. Third, suffering does not bring you shame if you stand firm against it. In Jesus’ high priestly prayer (which is found in John 17), He asked His Father to glorify His Own Name and His people, as He sends them out into the hostile world. Fourth, suffering guards you against thinking salvation and sanctification are an easy street for believers. They are not.

Believers must face suffering. When you suffer, entrust your soul to the care of your Creator, the One Who made you, knowing the purpose for which He designed you. He knows what you can and can’t endure.

Suggestions for prayer

Ask the Spirit of God to make you aware of the times and circumstances where you are avoiding the necessary suffering to which God has called you to endure. For the suffering you already know you have avoided, ask God’s forgiveness and the grace to be prepared for the next round of it.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 21, 2025 -- Deuteronomy 30:11-20 -- Tempted to Drift

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it.” – Hebrews 2:1 

Scripture reading: Deuteronomy 30:11-20

One of the board games our family likes to play still has the rule book in the box. We laughed when we finally got around to reading the rules. The rules tell players they can make up rules, if they are consistent with them, and they apply to all the players. That is, sometimes, how believers treat the Word of God. It is a wonderful instruction book for life; however, those who follow Jesus tweak the rules and decide which ones are important and which are not.

Paul warned the Hebrews not to drift. Drifting from the faith begins when believers play fast and loose with the commandments of God. What He has instituted are designed for the good of His sons and daughters. Some believers neglect to meet every Sunday, and soon they find going to church difficult. Other believers neglect to read the Bible as a family. The Word loses its power and authority. With that parental authority erodes as well. The whole family drifts.

The LORD spoke through Moses, offering His people tremendous clarity. The commandment of God is to keep the Word near to you. The Word of God directs you into life and keeps you in the way that is right. The duo references to life and good certainly foreshadows Jesus’ own words: “I AM the Way, the Truth and the Life”. In Him alone is all the adventure believers ever need. Anchor your mind and heart to Jesus through the reading of the Word, so that you never will drift away from Him.

Suggestions for prayer

Pray that you and your family members will be securely anchored to Jesus through Scripture reading, prayer and times of worship. Think about church members, or people you know who are drifting, and ask God to bring them back to Himself in love.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 20, 2025 -- Acts 2:40-47 -- Tempted to all kinds of idle talk

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“As He was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him. And He did not permit him but said to him, “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how He has had mercy on you.”” – Mark 5:18-19 

Scripture reading: Acts 2:40-47

A friend and I have this routine of going to the Moncton Market every Saturday morning. It is a bustling place with a variety of international foods. A few weeks ago, he startled me with an observation. He said, “We used to get our food, pray, and while we were eating, discuss our walk with God. Why don’t we anymore?” Too true. We’d discuss devotional patterns, lessons the Spirit was teaching through our Scripture readings, or the sermons we’d heard. We sought to discern the hand of God made evident through the events of our otherwise ordinary days.

It’s tempting to lose our focus on God in our daily routines. I believe it is too easy to neglect our conversation about God, and neglect sharing our testimony with others, especially with those close to us. There are so many topics that fill our minds: politics, war, and many mundane things. What grabs my attention in these readings from Acts and Mark is the willingness of new converts to share the gospel. When Jesus returned to the region of the Decapolis, crowds came to Jesus, instead of sending Him away. Surely, the former demoniac had tremendous influence among his countrymen.

New believers are contagious. They can’t help it. In view of their knowledge of Jesus and their joy in Him, they are compelled to share their faith. How are your conversations? Are you talking about Jesus here, there and everywhere? I was glad for my friend’s prompting to return to the practice of Saturdays as a prayer and share time.

Suggestions for prayer

Seek the Spirit’s leading to open doors for conversations about Jesus, and your faith in Him, and that such conversations would happen at home and then among peers, classmates, friends and neighbours. Pray to be bold as were those depicted in today’s passages.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 19, 2025 -- Acts 2:40-47 -- Tempted to stinginess

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed as each had need.” – Acts 4:33-35 

Scripture reading: Acts 2:40-47

When we were married, all my possessions became “our possessions”. The little group in Acts 2 was learning the same lesson. When people join the family of God, their possessions are no longer “my things”. All that believers have, are entrusted to them for their service to God.

New believers were daily being added to the number of Christians. Just weeks before, while Jesus was still about His earthly ministry, to be added to the body of believers meant that family members might disown you (cf John 9, parents of the man born blind, whose eyes were opened). As Jesus had promised, persecution would increase. No doubt, there were still believers in Jerusalem left over from the Day of Pentecost who were being discipled and trained in the faith. So, there were many needs among the new believers.

In view of God’s great gift of Jesus Christ, believers were very open-handed and prepared to share with anyone who was in need. Such past generosity has become complicated for many Christians—Who do we give to? What if they are not worthy? What if I’m taken advantage of in my giving? Legitimate questions.

Start by giving to those within the household of faith, those believers who are genuinely in need. It is obvious that believers knew each other so well, that they were aware of those who had financial need. Beyond this, seek the great grace that is necessary, so that with Spirit-filled discernment you will know how to care for those whom the Father brings into your life.

Suggestions for prayer

As you consider Christmas present purchases, ask the Spirit of God to teach you where you are too self-focused; ask to be led to opportunities to give and be generous close to home as well as toward those far away.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 18, 2025 -- Acts 2:40-47 -- Opening up for hospitality

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” – Hebrews 13:1-2 

Scripture reading: Acts 2:40-47

Someone dear to my heart used to joke around during that dreaded time of COVID-19, “I was made for times like these. I am required to have a six-foot personal bubble, and no one can unexpectedly hug me.” I’d add to the levity by saying, “I am tempted to buy her a doormat that reads: ‘Welcome. Why are you here’”?!

Who visits you? Who do you invite into your home? When was the last time you intentionally hosted people you didn’t know? There are churches that have “host families” designed each Sunday, so newcomers to the local congregation have a place to go for lunch. While that is a good idea, it points to a deeper issue among the family of Jesus Christ. Many church members do not spontaneously welcome outsiders.

How welcoming are you really? The command is for people who are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, who are being made new in Jesus Christ, to extend hospitality. In fact, men should not be leaders in the household of God if they are not demonstrating their commitment to Jesus by showing hospitality to strangers.

In Hebrews such strangers were those who were fleeing persecution, or people who were called by God to the mission field. There were no hotels nor readily available accommodations so church members opened their homes to people they didn’t know, confident that it was the Lord Himself and His messengers whom they were entertaining. What about you? How open is your home and your heart to the people God is sending your way?

Suggestions for prayer

Give thanks to God for those among you who have the gift of hospitality; pray for the Spirit to reveal to you if you are doing well in this area or need to make yourself, your family and your home open to others.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 17, 2025 -- Acts 2:40-47 -- Breaking up the Sunday cliques

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” – Hebrews 13:1-2 

Scripture reading: Acts 2:40-47

Perhaps your church is planning on sending out invitations to your Christmas season worship services. I know of a church that sent out about 1,000 invitations last year, being delivered by church members who did a lot of walking. Why mention this? Many congregations hope that many people who are not used to attending church will show up for Christmas. That is great.

Let me ask you a serious question: Are you prepared? If some family, or a few new people, show up, will you welcome them? At Pentecost about three thousand people were added to the Church! Staggering. No wonder the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship and sharing meals. The new believers needed to be taught about Jesus Christ. Old habits and rituals needed to be replaced by a living relationship with Jesus Christ. Those new believers had come from far away and needed lodging and friendship.

Some thirty-plus years ago, our family’s home congregation had a two-minute rule. The first two minutes after the worship service each member was required to go speak with someone unknown to him. It might be a fellow worshiper who is unfamiliar. It might be a stranger who happened to be attending. The point is, all too often, church members form Sunday cliques, hanging out with the very same people they already know and with whom they are comfortable. New people feel unwelcome. This Christmas season, plan on welcoming all those whom the Spirit of God directs to your local church.

Suggestions for prayer

Start praying now that God will by His Spirit, stir up the hearts of people to attend church throughout December and the Christmas season; pray for an openness of your own heart to receive those whom God will send.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 16, 2025 -- Philippians 3:12-21 -- Hold tight those citizenship papers

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you.” – Philippians 3:14-15 

Scripture reading: Philippians 3:12-21

Safely through another week, God has brought us to the blessedness of Sunday, the day in which in addition to daily family and personal devotions, believers have the privilege of gathering with His people and worshiping Him. All such worship is the dress rehearsal for glory. As Paul stated so clearly, our citizenship, right now, is in heaven. We look forward to Jesus Christ’s return from glory and being caught up with Him to the new heavens and the new earth.

As Paul wrote, we know the prize of life right now is to walk in close communion with Jesus Christ. Whatever teaching and instruction the Spirit has given in the past will be added to by continuing to hear the Word preached. By this the believer’s sanctification will be increased. Sundays remind the believer that his life is not his own. There is no such thing as “free time” or “me time”. All your days are lived under the gracious, watchful gaze of the Lord of heaven and earth. He is bringing your life here to perfection in Christ, so that at the moment of His choosing, you will be brought to Him.

Christians realize life is more than money, politics, houses, vacations, retirement or time with family. While we live on earth now, we are refugees, displaced people, longing for the eternal dwellings with the Father. Public worship unites you with others who also hold tightly the citizenship papers given in Jesus Christ. One day soon He will return. What holy joy awaits!

Suggestions for prayer

Pray that public and private worship today will inspire in you a longing for fuller life with Jesus now, and greater anticipation of life with the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit in eternity.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 15, 2025 -- Proverbs 4:1-9 -- Children, youth, what is worth striving after?

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you.” – Philippians 3:14-15 

Scripture reading: Proverbs 4:1-9

The worst thing in life might be this: to achieve your goal of amassing money, or great power, or having tremendous influence over many people and then, having achieved it, find that it is meaningless and empty. So many powerful and influential people who seem to be on the top of the world reach for the next goal, the next prize, the next thing. Why? Because each achievement that one thought would be awesome and make life good, turns out to be so empty.

Little children, sons and daughters of wise parents, the Bible is filled to overflowing with all that is meaningful and worthwhile. In the Bible, wisdom is personified as a woman who teaches and guides you all your life through. Jesus was guided by wisdom all His life. Even when people rejected Him, when crowds wanted to stone Him and authorities persecuted Him, He walked with confident hope in the pathways of God His Father, because He was directed by wisdom.

The screens of this world offer so many tantalizing images of what you should strive for. The sad truth is, if you achieve it, then tomorrow there will be some new prize, some new necessary, unworthy achievement. To all perfection I see a limit, but Your commands are boundless (Psalm 119:96 paraphrased). The point is, the closer one draws to God, the fuller one’s commitment to life submitted to Him, the greater, wider and higher will be his boundless joy, boundless blessing and boundless confidence. Following Jesus has boundless adventure and purpose.

Suggestions for prayer

Parents and children and youth, pray that Jesus will become the prize of your life and your highest joy; ask God to reveal the things or activities in your life which are keeping you from effectively striving for the goal, the upward call of God which leads you to call Jesus your greatest treasure.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 14, 2025 -- II Timothy 3:1-9 -- Children, who is your teacher?

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.” – 2 Timothy 2:25b-26 

Scripture reading: 2 Timothy 3:1-9

You know we are living in the end times. The clearest sign is that children are disobedient to their parents. This is precisely what Paul wrote to Timothy. It is a sign that godlessness has so increased in the land that parents have neglected their duties, and not taught their children the fear of the LORD.

There are many men I minister to who have never heard about God, creation, love or sin. There is a vast ignorance where there should have been youthful instruction in the Bible, and through it teaching about Jesus. Once in a great while I’ll hear of a man who, when he comes to Bible study of his own accord, credits a praying grandmother, or mother, for his interest in the things of God.

In an over-used cliche, a movie or TV show depicts a child in the family as smarter than his dumb parents. He is witty, abusive, rebellious and ungrateful. It is almost as if the script writer read II Timothy to script the ideal child who is in rebellion against God and headed for hell.

The world says be different, but then, ironically demands conformity to its ways by wearing brand name jeans, or buying the it cologne. The Bible teaches that if you’d be truly unique, then be lovers of God. If you want to live and know that your life has meaning, then listen to and obey the teaching of your godly parents. Such children escape the snares of the devil, who seeks only to destroy and kill.

Suggestions for prayer

Repent, children, if you have been in rebellion against God and your parents. Ask the Spirit of God to give you a willing, humble and teachable heart.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 13, 2025 -- I Timothy 1:3-7 -- Do not disregard the role of women

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“For this child I prayed, and the LORD has granted me my petition that I made to him. Therefore I have lent him to the LORD. As long as he lives, he is lent to the LORD.”” – 1 Samuel 1:27-28 

Scripture reading: 2 Timothy 1:3-7

The breakdown of our society includes the tearing down of and the disrespecting of the role of women. The very same society that says women are important is the one that allows abortion to kill daughters in favour of a future son. It is an abomination. In the Bible, God created Adam and Eve, male and female, in His image. Both male and female image bearers are precious in His sight.

Consider the women in Timothy’s life: Grandma Lois and Mom Eunice. These women taught Timothy to know the Lord Jesus. Or, Hannah, who longingly prayed for a son, and with great compassion, the LORD answered her prayer, giving her Samuel. As you continue reading you learn God gave her three more sons and two daughters. It is obvious that she is a faithful mother in Israel, while Eli the priest, was an unfaithful father. Hannah’s children were a blessing from the LORD. To honour God, she lent Samuel to the LORD. While Eli’s lack of discipline, and his lack of contact with the LORD (as I Samuel 3:1 implies) meant his sons were wild.

The role of women is critical in the household of faith. Women train up children in the way of the LORD. Women are a godly influence, whose work is critically important when, as in the case with Timothy, his dad was not a believer. A godly wife is a great influence on her husband. Women, single or married, can also disciple other women, so that the whole household of faith is built up.

Suggestions for prayer

Give thanks to God for women in your life and in your congregation who shine the light of Jesus Christ. Pray for these women, married or single, that they too will be blessed and enriched in our precious faith.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 12, 2025 -- Deuteronomy 6:1-25 -- Are you faithful leaders, fathers?

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“Hear my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teaching.” – Proverbs 1:8 

Scripture reading: Deuteronomy 6:1-25

Yesterday, the topic was nations; today, it is on the building block of nations: the family. Look at the focus of Deuteronomy 6 where it is commanded that the family spends its time and energy teaching the children of the household to know the LORD. When you walk, you point out the beauty of creation and the power of God. When you return home, you point out the security of your home, and your heart is entrusted to God the Father. When you celebrate, you remind your children that God rescued His people from slavery in Egypt and set them free.

As New Testament Christians this lesson is vital. With the same attention to constancy and persistence, take every opportunity to teach your children about the manifold love of God demonstrated in Jesus. The sublime act of salvation in the Old Testament was the Exodus, Moses leading the people out of Egypt foreshadowed Jesus, who leads His people out of the Egypt of sin, into the Promised Land. As we follow Him, we are blessed, being adopted as sons and daughters of God. As we travel, Jesus the Prince of peace, protects and guards His people by the Spirit.

Dads, are you feeding your own soul, so that you can teach your children? Dads, are you so focused on knowing Jesus that from the overflow of your heart you can’t help but speak of Him, your Deliverer? It doesn’t matter if your children are ten years old or forty, married or single; you need to be a godly leader.

Suggestions for prayer

Confess the times and ways in which you, dads, have neglected your duty of being a spiritual leader in your household; pray to be reinvigorated in the joy of the Lord, and share this gift of salvation starting at home and going out from there.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

November 11, 2025 -- Daniel 4:28-27 -- The Temptation of Nations

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Scripture Reading: Daniel 4:28-37
II Chronicles 20:21 And, when he had taken counsel with the people, he appointed those who were to sing to the LORD and praise Him in holy attire, as they went before the army, and say, “Give thanks to the LORD, for His steadfast love endures forever.”
 
This devotion was written November 12, 2024. On November 11, 2024, I had several short flights in the United States. Before each flight took off, the cabin crew took a moment to thank the active military men and women for their commitment to their country. There were flags all over the airport. I thought of Nebuchadnezzar and his pride in his country. His achievements. His power. As Christians, we know God sets up kings and thrones and prime ministers and leaders and He also can depose them.
 
Nebuchadnezzar’s pride became his downfall. As soon as he boasted of his prowess and his power he was humbled. Juxtaposed to that is King Jehoshaphat, whose small army was confronted with a vast enemy army. In humility he turned to the LORD of Hosts Who assured Jehoshaphat that he would not even have to fight. The LORD would fight for him. So, with the counsel of Levites and the people, he appointed singers to praise God, going out before the army. It is a beautiful picture. It is stunningly clear that it is not by might, nor by any earthly power, but by the Spirit of the LORD that kings rise and fall, and nations flourish or disappear.
 
What are the lessons for us on this Remembrance Day? God guards the borders of lands and nations. He uses means, like soldiers and weapons, but ultimately the victory belongs to Him alone. The people of God are wise to acclaim Jesus as Head over all, the King Supreme.
 
Suggestions for Prayer: give thanks to God for the freedoms you enjoy; pray for all the branches of the military, that they will know (or be taught by Christian chaplains) their defeat or success is solely because of the LORD of Hosts. Pray also for the leaders of your country, that in every rank, at every level, they will acknowledge the Lord God.
 

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 10, 2025 -- Isaiah 66:1-2 -- Pride and humility

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“Thus says the LORD; “Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool; what is the house that you would build for me, and what is the place of my rest? All these things my hand has made, and so all these things come to be, declares the LORD. But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.”” – Isaiah 66:1-2 

Scripture reading: Proverbs 28:26

Last year I travelled to Ontario, so that I could celebrate my parents’ anniversary with them. There was light-hearted banter as we sat outside in the beautiful September day sunshine, and waited for the restaurant to open. Note that we were hungry. My mom asked my opinion on creationism versus evolution. I gave a very definitive answer—solidly on the side of creationism. Somewhat surprised, my mom responded, “Do you always have to be right?” A little snide in my response, I replied, “I get that from my maternal genetics.” Dad, unable to conceal his smirk, nevertheless, moved away slightly.

Humility. It is not a trait that is honoured in society today. People gladly give their unsolicited opinions on sports or politics, movies and stars, and so on. Such blather is often encouraged by various media platforms, where the opinionated one is egged on to further extremes of language and opinion by the number of “likes” given.

God alone is most high. He is all-knowing. He is glorious. Upon whom does He cast His eye? Those who are humble. Those who are contrite. Notice that these two traits must go together. To be humble means one is teachable. If one is teachable, and he has, by the Word, by the Spirit, or by others, been made aware of his sin or wrong doing, he must confess it. That is contrition. He who is humble will also tremble at the Word of God. By the Word, the humble-wise one is instructed by God.

Suggestions for prayer

As you read the Word, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas in your life and recent situations where you have not been humble. Having been so instructed, confess it to God and ask to be contrite and learn to tremble at His Word.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 9, 2025 -- Isaiah 12:1-6 -- Praying Scripture

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“And call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall honor me.” – Psalm 50:15

Scripture reading: Isaiah 12: 1-6

It is common for believers to bring prayer requests to elders and pastors and ask them to include such in the congregational prayer (also known as the pastoral prayer). Psalm 50 reminds believers that our faithful Father invites His people to call on Him, but He also commands His people to thank Him for prayers answered. It seems this is an aspect of prayer that can easily be neglected or overlooked. Today I’ll type out a sample prayer, based on Isaiah 12, that puts into practice some things examined in the last few days.

There are two blank lines where you can insert your reasons for thanking God, for giving Him the glory, and why you would make His Name known.

We give You thanks, O LORD, for though You were angry with us, Your anger has turned away and You have given us comfort in Christ our Lord. With the eyes of faith we see You, God Who is salvation, and we trust You and are not afraid. You, LORD God, are our strength and our song, You have become our salvation. With joy we are drawing water from the wells of salvation. We give thanks, LORD, for ________________________________. Joining Your people through every generation, we make known Your deeds____________________________.

We proclaim that Your Name is exalted. Sing praises to the LORD, for He has done gloriously;

let this be made known in all the earth. Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.

Suggestions for prayer

Take a verse or two from your favorite Psalm and turn it into a personal prayer, expressing thanks, or lament, or putting into words what God has placed on your heart.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 8, 2025 -- Psalm 47:1-9 -- Tempted to Lazy Praying

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us what is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” – Hebrews 13:20-21 

Scripture reading: Psalm 47:1-9

Use your imagination for a moment. Imagine your name is Bob. I am your friend asking you for something. “Hi Bob. Well, Bob, I have a favour, Bob, to ask of you Bob.” No doubt, if you were hearing this, you’d be driven to distraction by the repeated use of your name. Listening to some parents, elders, or ministers pray, you’d get the same weird sensation. There is an over-use of a name, like, LORD, or God. It is repeated. Repeated. Repeated, so often like it is a comma.

Now look at Psalm 47 once again. God is addressed as: The great King over all the earth. (What a glorious title!). The psalmist calls Him “Our King” and “The God of Abraham”. He is the One Who is highly exalted”. Now consider Hebrews, where He is the “God of peace”. Jesus is “The great shepherd of the sheep.” Jesus is also called “Jesus Christ” meaning the One anointed by God for holy service.

The Bible is filled with the names of God. Rather than lazy praying, using one name repeatedly, consider Who you are addressing as you bring His people before Him. Call out to the God of peace to help a family who is in marital conflict. Confess Him as “the great King” when seeking forgiveness for the rebelliousness of people who so often strain against His rule. Looking for, and longing for Jesus’ return, name Him the “great King over all the earth” Whose glory will be revealed when He returns with all His holy angels.

Suggestions for prayer

Keep a notebook handy as you read the Bible, personally and as a family, so you can write down names for God. Then try to incorporate those names into your personal and family prayers. He has revealed Himself by His names, so that you can approach His throne of grace and find grace and mercy in your time of need.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 7, 2025 -- Proverbs 11:41-43 -- Vision and Prayer

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and whoever captures souls is wise.” – Proverbs 11:20 

Scripture reading: I Kings 8:41-43

At the dedication of Solomon’s temple, the king prayed that foreigners drawn in by the report of the great Name of God and His mighty works would be received by the LORD. Already at that point in Israel’s history, it was clear that the people of God were meant to be a beacon shining into the darkness of this world, shining the glory of God.

As stated in Proverbs 11, believers are to be soul-winners. The prayers of believers are to be persistent, urgent, so filled with love that they are continually imploring God to bring their friends, neighbours, co-workers and people from every tribe and nation and language into the kingdom of God.

Dear fellow believers, is this the urgent prayer of your heart? Do you long for people near and far to know the great Name of Jesus, in Whom salvation is alone found? Therefore, it is a critical matter of prayer that saints call out to God for the work of missionaries and ministers, evangelists and parents, teachers and preachers to be effective, that many will come to Jesus.

Dear fellow ministers, if your congregational prayers don’t reflect this as much as they might, I’d encourage you to broaden your congregational prayer, so that in accord with the command of Scripture, you faithfully, regularly model prayer for missions and for the harvest to come in. Dear fellow believers, examine your personal and family devotions. Are you praying for workers in the harvest field and for many to be brought in?

Suggestions for prayer

Get a prayer card from church, and regularly pray for the missionaries your local congregation supports. Go to the website “The Joshua Project: People Groups of the World” and learn about unreached people groups and tribes, and begin praying in an informed way.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 6, 2025 -- Luke 6:12-16 -- Tempted to Prayerlessness

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit.” – I Thessalonians 5:16-19

Scripture reading: Luke 6:12-16

Let that sink in. Before choosing the disciples, Jesus spent a whole night in prayer, no doubt, imploring His Father in heaven to grant Him the right men. As a man, Jesus needed wisdom and direction from the Father to make right choices. Jesus was given the Holy Spirit without measure (John 3:34). In the strength of the Spirit’s power, Jesus yielded Himself fully to His Father, and asked for the answers He needed. The Gospel of Luke records over a dozen instances of Jesus going away to a desolate place and praying.

You are likely tempted to prayerlessness. Excuses include: No time; too busy; don’t know what to pray for. The reading in I Thessalonians is a helpful guide. Prayer includes rejoicing. Recite Isaiah 12. It is a brief passage that shows what rejoicing looks like. (Go ahead. Read it.) Pray with thanksgiving. Here are some reasons for thanksgiving: life in Christ; new hope; your family in Christ. At different times all day, give thanks to God. Ask the Spirit, as the day progresses, for discernment to make morally right decisions at work, to do what is good in contrast to what is popular or easy at school, to show yourself faithful to God in daily life.

How did Jesus avoid evil? How did Jesus not step into the temptation traps carefully laid out for Him by the devil? He persisted in prayer. Put reminders in your phone to pray at different times in the day. As you pray, you will find talking to God easier.

Suggestions for prayer

Ask the Spirit of God to open your mind and heart so that you don’t stop the Spirit’s work in your life; look for reasons all through the day to give thanks to God, then offer these up to God in prayer; requesting that God give you the motivation to be a believer who prays without ceasing.

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.

November 5, 2025 -- Colossians 4:2-6 -- Banality and Prayer

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

Today's devotional was written by me and is posted on the website, Reformed Perspective. The devotional Nearer to God is posted there every day of the year. There are different authors each month.

“The LORD sets the prisoners free; the LORD opens the eyes of the blind. The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down; the LORD loves the righteous. The LORD watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.” – Psalm 146:7b-9 

Scripture reading: Colossians 4:2-6

The Psalms are the prayer-book of God’s people. They teach believers to pray. The 150 Psalms give topics about which believers can pray. Even the short quotation from Psalm 146 gives a wide variety of prayer topics. Such prayers will help young believers overcome the banalities often spoken in prayer.

Believers use cliches, like, “Bless the hands of those who prepared this meal.” A favorite of mine is “we lift him before the LORD (I won’t reveal my weight, but I can assure you most people praying for me can’t lift me!) You might hear the phrase “be near to” and then the name of the person in prayer is mentioned. God is always near to His people. So, then what is this request?

Paul taught believers to pray for doors to be open to the Gospel. He urged people to petition God that he (and all those who testify to Jesus) would be clear as they testify to Jesus. Believers who follow Jesus need His power to walk in wisdom. There are many things which fill our time; a former prayer partner often prayed, “Lord, help me to make the best use of my time for Your kingdom”. It is tempting to pray sloppy, aimless prayers. Examine yourself relative to how you pray.

Those who belong to God and know Him, will grow in their prayer life. Prayer is the lifeblood of our relationship with the King. The more believers know Him, the more intimate and fuller the scope of the matters they bring to Him will be.

Suggestions for prayer

For the Spirit of God to stir up in you, as believers, a holy awareness of various matters that can be brought to God in prayer; for a deeper intimacy with God.

*Banality means flavorlessness, or staleness

For over six years already, Rev. Vander Vaart has served as the Atlantic Region Representative of Redemption Prison Ministry. He does so as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.

Copyright © 2025 Sh'ma Christian Ministries, All rights reserved.