The Secret to Seeing God More Clearly
Luke 8:1–15 | July 1, 2026
"Father, help me teach the same message of Jesus, 'the wonderful news of your kingdom.'" (v.1)
Not the popular message of condemnation and manipulation found in churches today. It's ironic. They're so afraid of "watering down the message" that they go to the other extreme and lose the whole thing. But the true good news of Jesus fulfills the ache of every human being to know a good God who loves them.
And Lord, thank you for "the women who supported Jesus' ministry from their own personal finances." (v.3) We need more individuals who see the eternal ROI of such an investment. O God, continue to provide for Passion.
I love that Jesus elevated women into a place of honor and respect in spite of cultural limitations. (v.2) He did what was best for them and for the kingdom. Forget what the religious know-it-alls think. Help us find ways to do the same through Passion's ministry.
Okay God... I had a lightbulb moment.
"You have been given a teachable heart to perceive the hidden mysteries of God's kingdom realm." (v.10)
Is this why I know you and see you so much more clearly now? I'm not worried about "being right" or fitting the mold pressed upon me. I just want you, Father. Now I feel like I understand better and have a passion like in the days of my first love.
Before, I was someone who, "even though they listen, they won't receive full revelation." I knew it all. I believed and followed what the blind leaders of the blind taught me.
I created more blind followers.
But now I want to be one of the "lovers of the truth who hear it deep within their hearts. They respond by clinging to your word." (v.15)
If that's not me, make me that! More than just your Word—the Bible—I want every word that comes from your mouth, O God. Help me love it. Help me cling to it. And make so many more lovers of the Word here in the desert!
Keep "the slanderer" away! (v.12) Overpower "the enemy!" (v.13) Don't let him "snatch away what is sown in their hearts to keep them from believing and experiencing salvation." (v.12) Bring them to know you. Bring light. Bring revival. Bring salvation.
Protect the people of the Coachella Valley from "seasons of difficulty and harassment of the enemy that cause them to wither in their faith and fall away." (v.13) Embrace those who say YES to you. Keep them.
And Lord, keep us all from "our own anxious care, the riches of this world, and the fleeting pleasures of this life that keep us from becoming mature and fruitful." (v.14) Grow us. Transform us. Set us on fire!
Bring revival to the Coachella Valley. Use the wonderful news of Jesus to rescue, protect, and grow people. All of them.Raise up 5,000 people on fire for you. Fill us with passion.
Use us to make more and better followers of Jesus!