DEVOTIONALS | INSPIRE VERO

Have you ever wondered what really happens when we give in church or ministry? Many people quietly think, “Isn’t this just to pay the staff and pastor’s salary or cover church expenses? And if that’s the case, why should I keep giving?” It’s easy to slip into that mindset. Sometimes even leaders unintentionally make it sound that way—focusing on bills, rent, or salaries. But when giving is reduced to paying expenses, it loses its joy. It feels like paying dues instead of participating in God’s mission. The truth is, giving is never just about keeping an organization alive. It’s about moving God’s work forward. Pastors and missionaries are not the end-users of our gifts—they are simply vessels. When supported, they can devote themselves fully to teaching, discipling, evangelizing, and caring for God’s people. And when they do, the whole Body of Christ benefits—including us, the givers. That’s why giving is not about paying back. We don’t give because we “owe” the church for all the pray...

“the miracle that set the course for Jesus’ life and ministry” John 2:1-12 In this familiar story, Jesus attends a wedding in Cana where the wine runs out. At Mary’s instruction, the servants obey Jesus’ command, and He turns water into wine—a powerful sign of His divine authority. This passage teaches us several important truths about faith, obedience, and the nature of Christ’s work. First, Jesus was invited to a wedding. Today, weddings occur more frequently than ever, yet many lack the true holiness that comes when Jesus is at the center of the union. The phrase “holy matrimony” often becomes merely a label, missing the vital communion between the couple and God. Just as “In the beginning, God...” shaped all creation, so must God be the foundation of every marriage. Without inviting Jesus into the relationship from the start, the union lacks its true strength and purpose. Second, Mary directs the servants to Jesus. She was known not only as His mother but as the one who bore ...

At times, we feel less committed to our faith. In those moments, it's essential to remember that God always invites us back into a deeper relationship with Him. A powerful verse to reflect on is: “ Come near to God and He will come near to you.” — James 4:8 This promise encourages us to take even the smallest step toward God, knowing that He is ready and eager to draw near to us in return. In the midst of academic responsibilities, social life, and personal goals, it's easy to lose sight of spiritual priorities. Yet, Jesus reminds us of the importance of putting God first in all we do:  “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” — Matthew 6:33 When we place God at the center of our lives, He faithfully provides for our needs and leads us on the right path. Spiritual growth doesn’t happen by accident—it requires intentionality. One of the Bible’s key principles for spiritual focus is found in:  “Be still, and know that...

Someone told me not long ago, “What if I train them so well that I am no longer required?” I instantly replied, “That’s the goal.” The goal of leadership is not only to build ourselves up, but to equip others to go further, do better, and carry the mission beyond us. True Christian leadership is not a competition—it is about lifting one another. Even Jesus said, _“The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve”_ (Matthew 20:28). Barnabas encouraged Paul and even spoke on his behalf when no one else trusted him. He also mentored John Mark, who would later write the Gospel of Mark. Yet Barnabas remained in the background, lesser known than the ones he empowered. Likewise, Eli mentored Samuel, who went on to become a great prophet and judge of Israel. These men weren't seeking the spotlight—they were faithfully building others up. Nobody becomes greater by pulling others down. We rise by lifting each other. As John C. Maxwell puts it _"Leaders become great not because of ...