This Day With God – A Spiritual Journey | Share The Word

Questions for Reflection in the Study of Zephaniah

Posted on September 30, 2025 by Mark Shields

The journey through Philippians has provided us with encouragement and guidance, setting a solid foundation for the path as we step ahead. As we continue to immerse ourselves in God’s Word, our goal remains to draw wisdom and insight that will empower us to live out our faith in every aspect of our lives—whether at work, at home, or in our interactions with others. This endeavor promises to be a rich and rewarding experience, fortifying our spiritual growth and strengthening our commitment to applying biblical principles in all that we do.

The reading plan below will be used to hold me accountable as I share about God’s Word. To share about Jonah, it’s important to have a plan in place. I am thankful that Jesus is God’s plan for us, and by accepting Christ as Savior, we have taken the essential steps to make each day amazing. This plan will guide our journey, ensuring that we gain a deeper understanding of the scriptures and apply them meaningfully in our daily lives.

Questions for Reflection

Zephaniah 1 – What is the situation in Jerusalem at the time of this prophecy (See v. 5 and 2 Kings 23:13)? What does the Day of the Lord reveal about God’s nature? Why is this day needed?

Zephaniah 2 – How should the people of God respond to warning? What is promised to the remnant of Judah? All things come to an end so before it is too late, what can be done today to spread the gospel?

Zephaniah 3 – What is the religious climate in Jerusalem during this time? What qualities in people does the Lord desire? What is the purpose of God’s judgment? What is the tone of verses 14-20? What do these promises reveal about God’s plan for the future?

Feel free to respond with a thoughtful note or a comment about any of the questions discussed. Additionally, I warmly invite you to share your favorite inspirational videos, photos, or Bible verses that have touched your heart. Please contribute your ideas and reflections in the comments or post them on the dedicated Facebook page: This Day With God – A Spiritual Journey. Together, let’s build a nurturing community that uplifts and supports one another in our spiritual growth and journey through faith. Your voice and inspiration can spark hope and encouragement in someone else’s day!

To store up thoughts that are good for the soul, listen to a sermon. Download the free app in the App Store or on Google Play. Look for First Waco.

Resources and Supplementary Helps Used in Posts

Adeney, Carol. This Morning with God: A Daily Study Guide to the Entire Bible. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1978. Print.

“Sermons.” Sermons | FUMC Waco. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://fumcwaco.org/resources/sermons/>.

“Bible.” The Bible – The Word of God – ChristNotes. N.p., n.d. Web. 2017. <http://www.christianity.com/bible/>.

Nicholes, Lou. “Recent Commentaries.” Family-Times.net – Devotional Commentary Index. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://www.family-times.net/commentary/>.

“Bing.” Microsoft. N.p., n.d. Web. Images >.

“BibleGateway.” BibleGateway.com: A Searchable Online Bible in over 150 Versions and 50 Languages. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://www.biblegateway.com/>.

Posted in Bible Study, Devotionals, Questions for Reflection | Tagged Bible Study, Christ, Faith, God’s Plan, Holy Spirit, Hope, Leadership, Lessons, Life, Love, Prayer, Reflection, Scripture | 1 Comment

The Spiritual Journey Continues Next Through the Book of Zephaniah

Posted on September 29, 2025 by Mark Shields

I’ve just completed the spiritual journey through the book of Joel, and now I’m turning to the book of Zephaniah for fresh insight and encouragement. For your convenience, I’ve included a link to all the devotionals I’ve shared so far, organized by book of the Bible and specific chapter—making it easy to revisit any reflection that speaks to you. My hope is that these devotionals will continue to inspire and uplift you as we grow in faith together. Thank you for walking this path with me—it’s a joy to share the journey.

Index of Devotionals

If you would like to get notified with each new post, I invite you to click on the follow button on the far top right of this page to join me on this spiritual journey. Another way to keep up with my spiritual journey is through the Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God – A Spiritual Journey. Click like and share so friends and family outside of WordPress can view too.

Posted in Bible Study, Devotionals | Tagged Bible Study, Community, Faith, Family, Hope, Journey, Lessons, Love, Prayer, spirituality, Values, victory, Wisdom, Worship | 1 Comment

Statements of Faith from 1 John 5:1-12

Posted on September 28, 2025 by Mark Shields

Here are some statements of faith from the study of 1 John 5:1-12. Say them aloud, write them down, or simply reflect on them. May they uplift and empower you for a great week!

🌟 Brighter Future in Christ

I believe in Jesus, the Son of God, and He is my source of life and light.
I walk boldly into each day, knowing great opportunities are already before me.
The Holy Spirit empowers me to do what seems impossible—nothing is beyond God’s reach.
I begin each morning with prayer, inviting divine wisdom to guide my steps.
My faith grows stronger as I trust the Word to illuminate my path.
I am not alone—God’s presence surrounds me like sunlight on a clear morning.
I step forward with courage, knowing my future is held in God’s hands.
I am chosen, equipped, and called to shine His light in a dark world.
Each challenge is an invitation to trust deeper and rise higher.
I live with purpose, resilience, and joy, anchored in the truth of Christ.

Posted in Statement of Faith | Tagged Boldness, Courage, Empowerment, Future, Guidance, Holy Spirit, Joy, Light, Opportunity, Possibilities, Prayer, Purpose, Resilience, Statements of Faith, Trust, Wisdom | 1 Comment

Thought From Devotional 09-26-2025

Posted on September 26, 2025 by Mark Shields

Photo by Jonathan Petersson on Pexels.com

A thought from the study of 1 John 5:1-12 is that faith begins with believing in Jesus, the Son of God—the true source of life and light. For those who see the Light, the future is radiant with promise, like the brilliance of the sun rising on a cloudless morning. So, walk boldly, for great opportunities are already unfolding before you. Enter each day with prayer and a heart committed to growing in faith, trusting the power of the Holy Spirit to make the impossible possible. As the Word of God illuminates your steps, it reveals the path forward—day by day, moment by moment—guiding you toward a future filled with hope, purpose, and divine possibility.

Posted in Thoughts From Devotional | Tagged Boldness, Faith, Future, Holy Spirit, Hope, Life, Light, Photo, Possibilities, Prayer, Purpose, Thought From Devotional | 2 Comments

Plans to Give You Hope

Posted on September 25, 2025 by Mark Shields

For 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

Some thoughts written in the post “Hope in the Light of God’s Truth” included the fact that there are moments when we tirelessly seek solutions, yet they remain just out of reach despite our greatest efforts. In these times of uncertainty and struggle, hope becomes a lifeline — a quiet strength that allows us to find joy even in hardship. Holding onto hope helps us stay the course, knowing that we are not alone on our journey. Through it all, God is at work, preparing a new path, one that leads to renewal, peace, and a brighter future shaped by His perfect plan.

In God’s perfect timing, just as Jeremy Camp reminds us in There Will Be A Day, we will go to a place where suffering ceases, where every tear is wiped away, and where we finally see Jesus face to face. Until that day comes, we are called to hold on to hope, trusting in His promises and in the eternal peace He has prepared for us. No matter the struggles we face now, we can find comfort in knowing that a future of unending joy and love awaits.