Quest For The Journey - November Devotions

November 1: Enter with Thanksgiving (Psalm 100:4- 5)

Psalm 100:4 (KJV)

“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.”

A few weeks ago, our family traveled to Washington, D.C., for a special educational trip with our grandchildren. While riding the subway, my wife accidentally left her phone on the seat. By the time she realized it was missing, the train had already departed!

We tried to find an attendant, but no one was available. Then I decided to call her phone. To our surprise, a young lady answered! She kindly insisted on riding the subway back to our station to return it.

About 30 minutes later, we met this wonderful young lady and recovered the phone. What a blessing to encounter someone with such honesty and integrity! We thanked her, but more importantly, we thanked the Lord. We believe God intervened and used this young lady to bless us.

Every day, God blesses us in ways we often overlook. Sometimes we’re so busy asking God for things that we forget to thank Him for what He has already done.

I love to begin my prayers by telling the Lord how good He has been to me. Psalm 100:4 reminds us to enter His presence with thanksgiving and praise.

Remember the words of that old hymn: “Count your blessings, name them one by one.” When we count our blessings, we begin to realize just how good God has been!

Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your goodness, protection, and countless blessings. Help me never to take Your faithfulness for granted. May I always come into Your presence with thanksgiving and praise. Amen.

Challenge: Before asking God for anything today, thank Him for five specific blessings in your life.

November 2: Give Thanks in Everything (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

Back in the mid-1990s, while working with a group of young people, Debbi and I came up with an unusual way to bring more kids to youth group. With their parents’ permission, we would surprise the kids by showing up and “kidnapping” them for youth group!

One of those young people was Chuck Carr. Years later, Chuck wrote a book in which he shared how Debbi and I had helped lead him to the Lord and encouraged him to grow in his faith.

Recently, Chuck wrote another book titled I Was Afraid to Die. In it, he shares how he overcame his fear of death and found peace through his faith. That peace was later tested when he experienced a terrible accident and a near-death experience.

I recently spoke with Chuck, and something he said really touched my heart. Although he still lives with physical limitations from that accident, he is thankful it happened because it has drawn him so much closer to the Lord and strengthened his faith.

The Bible doesn’t tell us to be thankful that everything in life is good. It tells us to give thanks in every circumstance, knowing that God can use even our greatest difficulties to accomplish His purposes.

Sometimes our greatest trials produce our greatest spiritual growth.

Prayer: Lord, help me to trust You even when life is difficult. Teach me to recognize Your goodness in every circumstance and to thank You for the ways You are working in my life. Amen.

Challenge: Think of a difficult situation you’ve faced. Can you identify three blessings God brought out of it? Remember: We may not always understand what God allows, but we can always trust His goodness!

November 3: Bless the Lord, O My Soul (Psalm 103:1- 2)

The word bless means to praise, honor, or bestow goodness upon someone. God even tells us to bless those who curse us and pray for those who despitefully use us (Luke 6:28).

Unfortunately, some people treat God like Aladdin’s genie in a bottle. They pray, expecting God to appear and say, “Your wish is my command!” And when their prayers aren’t answered the way they want, they wonder, “Why bother praying at all?”

I remember visiting a patient in the hospital. With a room full of family members, I prayed over the patient and the family. After I left, one family member complained that my prayer had been a waste of time because God wasn’t going to answer it. How sad that we sometimes misunderstand the purpose of prayer!

Prayer is so much more than asking God for things. It is a time of worship and praise, a conversation with our Heavenly Father with whom we have a personal relationship. It is a time to seek His guidance and discernment, examine our hearts, and simply bless His holy name.

God is not a genie waiting to grant our wishes. He is our loving Heavenly Father who desires a relationship with us. David said, “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.” Sometimes we need to preach to ourselves and remind our hearts of God’s goodness.

We shouldn’t pray only because we want something from God. We should pray because we love Him!

Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times I’ve treated prayer as simply a way to get what I want. Help me to seek Your presence, praise Your name, and remember all Your goodness. Amen.

Challenge: Begin your prayer today without asking God for anything. Simply bless His name and thank Him for who He is and what He has done.

November 4:The Giver of Every Good Gift (James 1:17)

I remember November of 2001, shortly after we purchased the Teen Quest Ranch. We invited people to an open house and about 200 came to see what God was doing. That day, we gathered a large group together for a special prayer of dedication. Our purpose was simple: We wanted to give the Ranch back to the Lord. Every building, every acre of land, and every student who would someday stay at the Ranch was committed to Him. We recognized that it all belonged to God.

My wife and I have tried to do the same with our home and possessions. We realize that we don’t really own anything permanently. We’re simply stewards of what God has entrusted to us. Our time on earth is temporary, whether the Lord returns or calls us home to be with Him.

A few years ago, I discovered that I had macular degeneration in my left eye. Today, my right eye is much stronger, although I’m thankful I can still see out of both eyes. It’s amazing how much more you appreciate something when you begin to lose it!

Something as simple as eyesight is a tremendous gift from God, yet how often do we take it for granted?

James reminds us that every good and perfect gift comes from above. Our homes, families, friends, health, possessions, and even the breath we breathe are blessings from our Heavenly Father.

Life itself is a gift, and everything that comes with it should remind us of God’s goodness. Don’t wait until you lose a blessing to appreciate the One who gave it to you.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for every good gift You have entrusted to me. Help me never to take Your blessings for granted. Remind me that everything I have belongs to You. Amen.

Challenge: Choose one everyday blessing—your eyesight, a warm home, food, water, or your family—and intentionally thank God for it today.

November 5: The Sacrifice of Thanksgiving (Psalm 50:14-15)

God wants us to give thanks in all circumstances: the good, the bad, and even the ugly! It’s easy to thank Him when everything is going well, but when troubles come, thanksgiving becomes much more difficult.

Because Teen Quest is a faith-based ministry, we depend on the generous gifts of people who believe in our work. Almost every year, around the end of August, our donations become very low. Those can be challenging times as we wonder how the financial needs will be met.

Through the years, I’ve learned not only to trust the Lord during these difficult seasons but also to thank Him. I’ve often prayed, “Lord, what are You trying to teach us through this challenge?” Even when donations look bleak, we have learned to give thanks.

I’m not thanking God for the financial struggles. I’m thanking Him for what He is teaching me through them. Each challenge becomes another opportunity to strengthen our faith and learn to depend more completely on Him.

I have a friend whose wife left him. It was a painful experience, yet through those difficult circumstances, his relationship with the Lord grew stronger. Sometimes our greatest spiritual lessons come through life’s hardest experiences.

Psalm 50 reminds us to offer God the sacrifice of thanksgiving. When everything is going well, thanksgiving comes easily. But when life becomes difficult, praising God requires faith and trust. The sacrifice of thanksgiving is choosing to praise God, not because everything is good, but because God is good in everything. We may not understand our circumstances, but we can trust the One who holds our future.

Prayer: Lord, teach me to have a thankful heart in every circumstance. When troubles come, help me to trust You and recognize what You are teaching me. May my thanksgiving always bring honor and glory to Your name. Amen.

Challenge: Think of a difficult situation you’re facing. Thank God for His faithfulness in the midst of it and share with someone how He has helped you through a challenge

November 6: God in Prosperity (Deuteronomy 8:10-11)

I remember a young boy who was in fifth grade when I taught a sixth-grade Sunday school class. He had trusted Christ at an early age and was beginning his walk with the Lord.

Years later, he became an assistant to his father, the president of a large Christian university. His father was a highly successful man, yet he remained humble, generous, and deeply concerned for others. He was a genuine Christian whose faith was evident both in public and in private.

When his father suddenly passed away, the son became president of the university. What an incredible opportunity to continue his father’s godly legacy! But sadly, I watched him slowly change. Wealth, prestige, and recognition seemed to capture his heart. Little by little, he appeared to take God off the throne of his life and put himself there instead. It was heartbreaking to watch. I have often wondered how his father would have felt seeing what was happening. Eventually, his choices brought disgrace, and he was forced to leave the ministry. As far as I know, he has never fully recovered.

In Deuteronomy 8, Moses warned the Israelites as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. After forty years of depending on God in the wilderness, they were about to enjoy abundance, beautiful homes, and prosperity. “And you shall eat and be full, and you shall bless the LORD your God for the good land he has given you.” - Deuteronomy 8:10 (ESV)

When life is difficult, we cry out to God. But when everything is going well, we can slowly begin to forget Him. We start believing our success comes from our own abilities rather than His goodness. There is nothing wrong with prosperity. But we must never allow God’s blessings to become more important than God Himself.

Prayer: Lord, keep my heart humble and grateful. Whether I have little or much, never let me forget that every blessing comes from You.

Challenge: Before enjoying your next meal, pause and sincerely thank God. Remember the One who has provided everything you have.

November 7: Blessed to Be a Blessing (Genesis 12:2–3)

When God blessed Abraham, He had a greater purpose in mind. His blessings were never intended for Abraham alone. God wanted to use him to bless others.

Recently, during Teen Quest’s 50th Anniversary Celebration, a man returned whom we had not seen in thirty years. He described the experience as stepping into a time machine. So much had changed, yet the memories of his teenage years came flooding back.

As he listened to the testimonies of lives changed through Teen Quest, he realized the incredible impact of fifty years of ministry. He later wrote that he had come to celebrate what God had accomplished through Mark and Debbi, but instead, he found himself being blessed all over again.

Before leaving, he shook Mark’s hand and said, “Because of what you did, my life was changed.” At fifteen years old, through Mark’s influence, he had made the greatest decision of his life to trust Christ as his Lord and Savior and thirty years later, that decision was still making a difference!

His words deeply touched my heart and reminded me of God’s promise to Abraham. God blesses us so that we can bless others.

For fifty years, God has blessed Teen Quest in countless ways. But our greatest blessings are not the buildings, property, or programs. The greatest blessings are the lives that have been changed for eternity.

The true measure of God’s blessings is not what we keep for ourselves, but what we pass on to others.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your many blessings. Help me use what You have given me to make a difference in someone else’s life.

Challenge: Think of one blessing God has given you and find a way to share it with someone today.

November 8: Content and Grateful (1 Timothy 6:6–8)

The other day, an Amazon delivery driver came to our house with a package, as he often does. After making his delivery, he looked at me rather strangely and asked an unexpected question. “Do you have a pair of shoes you could give me?”

I looked down at his feet and immediately understood. His shoes were badly torn, making it difficult for him to do his job. I could only imagine how desperate he must have felt to ask a complete stranger for shoes.

My son happened to be visiting and witnessed the conversation. Without a moment’s hesitation, he said, “Follow me to my house. It’s just two miles down the road, and I’ll give you a pair of my shoes.” And that’s exactly what he did. He gave the delivery driver a good pair of his own shoes.

My heart was touched. My son could have made excuses or simply ignored the man’s need. Instead, he saw someone hurting and gave what he had.

In 1 Timothy 6, Paul reminds us that godliness with contentment is great gain. He goes on to warn that the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils.

There is nothing wrong with having money or possessions. But when we become so attached to what we own that we cannot share it with someone in need, we have forgotten where our blessings come from.

That day, my son reminded me of a beautiful truth: Sometimes the greatest riches are found not in what we possess, but in what we are willing to give away.

Those shoes may not have meant much to my son, but to a struggling delivery driver, they meant the world.

Prayer: Lord, teach me to be content and grateful for what You have given me. Give me a generous heart that sees the needs of others.

Challenge: Resist buying something you don’t really need today. Instead, thank God for what you have and look for an opportunity to share with someone else.

November 9: Guarding Against Greed (Luke 12:15)

One thing I have learned through the years is that a person consumed by greed is never satisfied. No matter how much they have, they always want more.

I knew a young man who started out with very little. He was humble, generous, and willing to share what little he had with others. He loved the Lord and had a genuine hunger for the things of God.

Over the years, I watched his business grow into a tremendous success. I was happy to see how God had blessed him. But sadly, I also watched something else happen. The humble young man I once knew began to change. His success seemed to go to his head. Humility slowly gave way to arrogance, and money and power became increasingly important to him.

Today, he is still involved in church, but he is not the same person I once knew. The joy and humility that made him such a pleasure to be around seems to have disappeared. How tragic to gain so much materially and lose so much spiritually!

Jesus warned us in Luke 12:15 that life does not consist in the abundance of our possessions. Satan knows how easily greed can creep into our hearts. It rarely happens overnight. Little by little, we begin wanting more, thinking more highly of ourselves, and caring less about others.

There is nothing wrong with being successful or having wealth. But when God prospers us, we must never forget who made it possible. Don’t become so consumed with getting more that you lose the joy of what God has already given you.

If God has blessed you, give Him the credit and glory. Keep a humble heart, a generous spirit, and a willingness to help others.

Prayer: Lord, expose any greed or pride in my heart. Forgive me when I become more concerned with possessions than with pleasing You. Keep me humble, generous, and grateful.

Challenge: Think of something you have been holding tightly. Consider giving it away to someone who needs it more than you do.

November 10: Are You Rich Toward God? (Luke 12:20–21)

In 2001, after 25 years in ministry, God opened the door for Teen Quest to purchase the Teen Quest Ranch. At our dedication service, a large crowd gathered to celebrate what God was doing. Among them was a wealthy man who had developed a successful patent. He offered to loan us several thousand dollars to help build the Ranch’s infrastructure.

I asked him, “Do you ever wonder whether people genuinely want to be your friend or are simply interested in your money?” He admitted this was a real struggle.

We accepted his loan, something I later regretted. A year later, he demanded repayment during a difficult financial season. Although we eventually repaid every dollar, he threatened to sue us and became bitter towards me. I have often reflected on how his wealth seemed to rob him of the joy of trusting others.

In Luke 12, Jesus tells of a wealthy farmer who built bigger barns to store his riches but neglected his eternal future.

There is nothing wrong with wealth, but there is danger when money controls our hearts. We can be financially rich but spiritually poor with full bank accounts and empty hearts.

One day, everything we possess will be left behind. Only what we invest in eternity will last. The question is not how much money we have, but how much of our hearts God has.

Prayer: Lord, help me trust in You rather than riches and use what You have given me for Your glory.

Challenge: Invest in something eternal today and encourage someone to give to God’s work so many will come to know the Lord.

November 11: The Heart of a Servant (John 13:14-15)

have never been afraid to get my hands dirty or lend a helping hand to someone in need. Throughout the years, we have taught our Teen Quest staff to have that same servant’s heart. Every summer, our staff eagerly serves the poor, elderly, and struggling families in Johnstown. The needs are overwhelming, but our desire to make a difference is even greater.

Two summers ago, our team helped a family whose father had lost his leg. We built a wheelchair ramp so he could safely enter and leave his home. With only a week to serve, we couldn’t accomplish everything that needed to be done. Thankfully, some local men stepped in and built him a first-floor bathroom.

But the greatest blessing came later when we learned that this man had accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior! What began as a simple act of service became something of eternal significance.

I often think about Jesus kneeling to wash His disciples’ feet. Imagine that! The Son of God, who left the glory of heaven, humbled Himself to do the work of a servant. He didn’t just teach us to serve others. He showed us how.

Jesus came to earth, lived among us, served mankind, and ultimately gave His life so we could have eternal life. What an incredible example of humility and unconditional love!

If the Son of God was willing to kneel and wash dirty feet, shouldn’t we be willing to get our hands dirty serving others?

True greatness isn’t measured by how many people serve us, but by how willing we are to serve others.

Prayer: Lord, give me a servant’s heart. Help me see the needs of others and serve them with the same humility and love You have shown me.

Challenge: Find someone you can help today. Do something meaningful for them without seeking recognition or praise.

November 12: The Blessing of Generosity (2 Corinthians 8:9)

2 Corinthians 8:9 - “Though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” (ESV)

Growing up, my father modeled a life of generosity. Even after I was married, he continued finding ways to bless our family. Whether helping with a project around our house or slipping me some money before a family trip, he was always looking for opportunities to give. Through his example, I learned early in life to be generous and sensitive to the needs of others.

Recently, our granddaughter and her husband had to move temporarily into a small apartment. They had very little furniture and were using folding chairs for seating. They really needed a couch.

Debbi and I had family coming from out of town, and we thought we needed our couch for their visit. But the Lord began speaking to our hearts. We had something they needed more than we did. So we decided to give them our couch.

Generosity isn’t always about giving what we no longer need. Sometimes it’s about giving something we would like to keep.

Jesus gave us the greatest example of generosity. Though He was rich, He became poor so that through Him we might become spiritually rich. When we give sacrificially, we reflect a little of His incredible love.

Prayer: Lord, give me a generous heart that recognizes the needs of others. Help me to give willingly, even when it requires sacrifice.

Challenge: Look for someone you can bless this week. Give something of value, not just something you no longer need.

November 13: Doing All for God’s Glory (1 Corinthians 10:31)

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”

Life is filled with opportunities to bring glory to God, even in the simplest things we do.

Several years ago, we started a Prayer Closet at our summer camp. We took an old closet, placed the names of every camper on a clipboard, and invited staff and leaders to sign up for 15-minute prayer slots. Throughout the summer, people faithfully entered that little closet to pray for the young people attending camp. Week after week, we saw God bless our ministry and work in the lives of students.

That little closet became a special place where we could come before God’s throne of grace, lifting up our campers and giving Him praise for all He was doing.

Over the years, I’ve developed the habit of talking to the Lord throughout my day. Whether I’m walking, driving, or simply going about my daily routine, I often find myself telling Him how good He has been to me. I just want Him to know how grateful I am for His countless blessings.

Bringing glory to God doesn’t always require doing something extraordinary. Sometimes it’s simply recognizing His goodness, thanking Him throughout the day, and making Him part of everything we do.

Prayer: Lord, help me glorify You in everything I do. May my words, actions, and even my quiet moments bring honor and praise to Your name.

Challenge: Choose one ordinary activity today and consciously turn it into an opportunity to glorify God through prayer, thanksgiving, or service.

November 14: The Joy of Giving (Acts 20:35)

“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” - Acts 20:35 (ESV)

Some of the greatest gifts I’ve received in life never came wrapped in a box.

Growing up, my parents invited our cousins to our birthday parties, but Dad had one rule: No gifts allowed! Looking back, I realize he was teaching us that relationships are far more valuable than receiving presents.

Every Christmas, our family visited an elderly couple who had very little. The husband was a World War I veteran. We would sing carols and take them gifts. I still remember the joy on their faces. His wife always made us cookies that tasted terrible, but I ate them anyway because I didn’t want to hurt her feelings! Today, those visits are among my most treasured childhood memories.

Recently, when my brother-in-law passed away, our family received many comforting words. Those simple expressions of love meant more than people could ever imagine.

I’ve learned that the greatest gifts often cost nothing. A kind word, a helping hand, or a visit to someone who is lonely can mean more than money could ever buy.

Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Sometimes what seems like a small act of kindness to us becomes a memory someone treasures for a lifetime.

The greatest joy in serving Christ is found in serving others.

Prayer: Lord, open my eyes to those who need Your love. Help me give generously of my time, my words, and my heart.

Challenge: Encourage someone today. Your simple act of kindness may mean more than you’ll ever know.

November 15: Prayer Is More Than Asking (Psalm 95:1- 3)

“Oh come, let us sing to the LORD; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!” - Psalm 95:1 (ESV)

Many Saturday mornings at the Teen Quest Ranch, I challenge campers to spend time with God each day. One lesson I try to teach them is that God is not a genie waiting to grant our wishes. Prayer is much more than asking God for favors. It is enjoying sweet fellowship with our Heavenly Father.

I share a simple formula called ACTS to help make prayer more meaningful:

● A - Adoration: Praise God for who He is.

● C - Confession: Confess our sins and seek His forgiveness.

● T - Thanksgiving: Thank God for His countless blessings.

● S - Supplication: Bring our needs before Him, trusting His will.

Imagine if your children or a friend came to you every day saying, “Give me, give me, give me,” but never took time to talk with you or express their love an never wanted to build a relationship. How would that make you feel?

Yet sometimes that is exactly how we treat our Heavenly Father. We come with our requests but forget to come with grateful hearts and with the attitude of building a relationship with him.

I have developed the habit of talking to God throughout my day. Whether I’m driving down the road, sitting at my desk, or going about my daily activities, I find myself talking to the Lord and thanking Him for His goodness.

God wants more than our requests. He wants our hearts. Psalm 95 reminds us to enter His presence with joyful songs and praise. Sometimes singing a song of praise can remind us of God's blessings and fill our hearts with thankfulness.

Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times I come only asking and forget to thank You. Fill my heart with praise and gratitude.

Challenge: Today, spend time in prayer using ACTS. Then sing or listen to a worship song, focusing on the words and the One you are worshiping.

November 16: Counting Blessings (Psalm 116:12–13)

A few years ago, I suffered through a terrible case of sciatica, something I mentioned in an earlier devotion. The pain was almost unbearable at times.

Just the other day, I began experiencing pain in my leg again. Immediately, I wondered if another painful episode of sciatica was beginning. I prayed and asked the Lord to take the pain away. The next morning, the pain was gone! I rejoiced and thanked the Lord for what I considered a little miracle in my life.

Sometimes we are so busy asking God for help that we forget to thank Him when our prayers are answered.

Over the years, hundreds of people have asked me to pray for them. I take those requests seriously. But sometimes I have to chase people down just to find out how things turned out! Occasionally, people have even forgotten they asked me to pray. I wonder if we have become so accustomed to saying, “I’ll pray for you,” that we forget prayer is a serious privilege and responsibility.

When God answers our prayers, whether in big or small ways, shouldn’t we be excited to tell others what He has done? Psalm 116 asks a powerful question: “What shall I render unto the LORD for all his benefits toward me?”

How can we possibly repay God for His goodness? We can’t! But we can offer Him our gratitude, our praise, and our lives and never become so focused on what you are asking God to do next that you forget to thank Him for what He has already done.

Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times I have overlooked Your blessings. Thank You for hearing my prayers and for Your faithfulness in both the big and little things of life. May my life bring glory to You. Amen.

Challenge: Write down ten blessings or answered prayers from this past year. Thank God for each one, then pray, “Lord, use my life however You wish.” Share one answered prayer with someone who needs encouragement.

November 17: The Gift of Salvation (Ephesians 2:4-5)

I hesitate to share the following testimony because I fear someone may think I am bragging on myself, but I want you to feel the deep importance of sharing Christ with the younger generation.

At the 50th Anniversary Celebration of Teen Quest, Chuck Carr shared how God had changed his life. Here are excerpts from his testimony in his own words.

“I recently wrote a book titled ‘I Was Afraid to Die,’ telling the story of how Mark Witt had impacted me as a teen, but I had not seen him, nor any member of the Witt family for thirty years.

The testimonies were moving and inspiring. The big picture began settling in my soul as my mind wandered: Because of them, so many teenagers have been brought to Jesus through the years.

As I pondered, I was emboldened to chase God’s purpose for my own life.

When the program was over, I hugged Debbi and shook Mark’s hand. I thanked him, saying, ‘Because of what you did, my life was changed.’ With Mark’s help, when I was a fifteen-year-old teenager, I decided to make the greatest choice I’ve ever made. My faith became my own.”

To God be the glory! It is Christ who changes lives, and what a privilege it is to be used by Him to point young people to Jesus. Thirty years later, the beautiful fruit of God’s grace is still evident.

We were dead, but God made us alive in Christ. Salvation is the greatest gift to be thankful for.

Prayer: Thank You, God, for saving me by Your grace and give me the boldness to tell others of your love.

Challenge: Tell someone today how Christ has changed your life. You never know how your testimony will impact a person in the future.

November 18: The Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12- 14)

When I was a young man, I was in excellent health. I could run, climb trees, wrestle, and do just about anything my heart desired. As I have grown older, I have discovered that some parts of my body no longer work as well as they once did. Thankfully, I am still in good health, but certainly not as strong as I was in my younger years.

A few years ago, I suffered a severe case of sciatica that sent pain throughout my left leg. For nearly two weeks, I had to depend on my right leg and other parts of my body just to get around. I especially appreciated my arms, which helped pull me up when my leg could not support me. That experience taught me a valuable spiritual lesson.

In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul reminds us that the body of Christ is made up of many members, each with a different purpose. Just as our physical bodies depend on every part working together, the church depends on believers using their God-given gifts to serve one another. When one member suffers, the entire body is affected. When one member is weak, the stronger members should come alongside to help. God never intended for us to live the Christian life alone.

A strong church is not made up of strong individuals, but believers strengthening one another through Christ.

We are one body with many members, and every member matters to God.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for placing me in the body of Christ. Help me use the gifts You have given me to strengthen and encourage others.

Challenge: Find someone in your church family who needs encouragement today. Be the helping hand that strengthens the body of Christ. 19, 2026 – Faithful to Finish

November 19: Faithful to the Finish (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24)

For more than 50 years, Debbi and I have had the privilege of serving the Lord through Teen Quest. When we first answered God’s call, we made a commitment that we were in it for the long haul. We didn’t know what the journey would hold, but we knew we could trust the One who called us.

Over the years, I have watched youth leaders, evangelists, and missionaries who once had a passion for ministry step away from their calling. I don’t say that to criticize them, because I understand how difficult ministry can be. There were many times when I wanted to throw in the towel myself. But every time I felt like quitting, the Lord reminded me of His faithfulness and gave me the strength to press on and I listened to him.

Looking back over these 50 years, I can say with confidence that God has never failed us. There have been mountains to climb, valleys to walk through, and moments when we wondered how we would make it. Yet through it all, God remained faithful.

Debbi and I are nothing special. We have simply learned that faithfulness isn’t measured by how easy the journey is, but by our willingness to keep trusting God when the road gets difficult. Whatever has been accomplished through Teen Quest is a testimony to His grace and faithfulness, not ours.

What about you? Has your journey become difficult? Are you discouraged or tempted to give up? Remember, the same God who called you is the God who will sustain you. He never promised the road would be easy, but He promised to be faithful and will lead you.

God doesn’t ask us to be successful in the eyes of the world. He asks us to be faithful in His eyes.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness through every mountain and valley. When I grow weary, remind me of Your calling and give me the strength to finish well.

Challenge: If you feel like giving up, look back and remember how God has carried you this far. Thank Him for His faithfulness, and determine to remain faithful to Him.

November 20: The Shepherd’s Goodness (Psalm 23:6)

“Only goodness and faithful love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD as long as I live.”

When we place our trust in Jesus Christ, we receive something we could never earn God’s mercy. Although we deserve punishment for our sins, He offers us forgiveness, salvation, and the promise of an eternal home with Him.

Debbi and I live in a small neighborhood where nearly everyone has a dog except us. Every day, I watch our neighbors walking their dogs up and down the road. These folks love their pets almost as much as their own children! They carefully watch over them, protect them from danger, and make sure they are safe. If one of those dogs wandered away, I have no doubt its owner would search until it was found.

Watching our neighbors care for their animals reminds me of Psalm 23. David describes the Lord as our Shepherd and we as His sheep. A good shepherd watches over his flock, provides for their needs, and protects them from danger. Jesus even said that the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. And that is exactly what He did for us on the cross.

Sometimes, like wandering sheep, we stray from the Shepherd’s care. Yet His love and mercy never fail. He desires to bring us close to Him, where we can experience His protection, provision, and peace.

What about you? Are you walking close to the Shepherd, or have you wandered away? Remember, the Lord loves you far more than you can imagine. His goodness and mercy will follow you all the days of your life, and through Christ, you have the promise of dwelling in His house forever.

The greatest security in life is knowing that we belong to the Good Shepherd.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your goodness and mercy. Help me stay close to You and never take for granted the love and care You provide each day.

Challenge: Think of a time when you wandered from the Lord or faced a difficult situation. Remember how His goodness and mercy sustained you, and share that testimony with someone today.

November 21: Be Grateful in Your Trials (1 Peter 1:6-7)

I’ll never forget the heartbreaking sight of our recreation building after a devastating fire swept through our campsite at Laurel Hill State Park. Years of hard work, precious memories, and thousands of dollars in equipment and supplies were reduced to ashes. Even our slate pool table was destroyed. As I stood looking at the ruins, my heart sank. I was thankful no one had been hurt, but I couldn’t help wondering, Lord, why did You allow this to happen? How will we ever recover?

What I didn’t realize was that God was about to turn our heartbreak into something far greater than we could have imagined.

That fire became the turning point that led us to search for a new home for Teen Quest. Eventually, God opened the door for us to purchase the Teen Quest Ranch. Today, thousands of young people have heard the gospel on that property, and countless lives have been changed for eternity.

Looking back, I can see God’s hand in what once seemed like a terrible tragedy. But I must admit, not every trial in my life has ended with such a wonderful outcome. Some burdens remain, some prayers are still unanswered, and some heartaches haven’t gone away.

Yet I have discovered something precious. God’s peace doesn’t depend on our circumstances changing. It comes from knowing that He is with us, even when life doesn’t make sense.

Sometimes God calms the storm, and sometimes He calms His child in the middle of it.

Prayer: Lord, when my heart is heavy and I cannot understand what You are doing, help me trust You. Thank You for never leaving me alone in my trials.

Challenge: Are you carrying a burden that hasn’t gone away? Instead of asking only for God to remove it, ask Him to fill your heart with His peace as you walk through it.

November 22: God who gives Comfort. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

Every week we receive prayer requests from friends of our ministry. Some are heartbreaking. . . cancer diagnoses, tragic accidents, the loss of a spouse, children who have gone astray, and people living with unbearable pain. The list seems endless.

Sometimes I wonder, What can we possibly say to someone whose world has just fallen apart? Our board and staff faithfully pray for these hurting families, but sometimes words just aren’t enough.

When my brother lost both of his sons within twelve months, and more recently when my sister lost her husband, I realized how helpless we can feel in the face of such sorrow. What do you say to someone whose heart has been shattered? Sometimes there are no words. Just putting your arms around them, shedding a tear together, or quietly praying can mean more than anything you could ever say.

I’ve learned that hurting people don’t always need answers. Sometimes they just need someone to hold their hand and remind them they are not alone.

God is the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort. He doesn’t promise to take away every heartache, but He promises to walk with us through them. And often, He uses people like you and me to bring His comfort to a broken heart.

When your own world seems to be falling apart, remember that God sees every tear, understands every heartache, and will never leave you.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for being my comforter. When my heart is breaking, help me feel Your presence. Use me to bring Your love and comfort to others who are hurting.

Challenge: Is there someone you know whose heart is breaking today? Don’t wait for the perfect words. Make that phone call, stop by for a visit, or simply put your arms around them. You may not be able to change their circumstances, but you can remind them they are not facing them alone.

November 23: His Lovingkindness Forever (Psalm 107:1)

The back porch was filled with the familiar sounds of our annual Witt family reunion, laughter, conversation, and the joyful commotion of generations gathered together. In the midst of it all, I lifted my camera and began recording my grandmother.

She had eight children and more grandchildren and great-grandchildren than I could count. Her body was frail, and her eyes had grown dim with age, but when she looked into the camera, her expression carried a deep and unforgettable conviction. Then she began to speak about the one desire that mattered most to her. More than anything else, she wanted every one of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to know the Lord, love Him, and spend their lives serving Him.

What a wonderful legacy! Today, many of Grandmother’s prayers have been answered. Our large family continues to gather each year, and many are faithfully loving and serving the Lord.

There is something special about a grandmother’s love. But even that love cannot compare to the incredible love God has for you and me. Jesus left the glory of heaven to walk among us, experience our struggles, and ultimately die on a cross so that we might have abundant life and spend eternity with Him. What a wonderful Savior we serve! His love never grows old, never weakens, and never ends.

Grandmother’s greatest desire was to see her family in heaven someday. What a reminder that the greatest gift we can leave the next generation is a legacy of faith.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for those who have prayed for us and for Your wonderful love that never ends. Help us leave a legacy of faith for generations to come. Amen.

Challenge: Take time today to pray for your children, grandchildren, and loved ones. Remember, the greatest inheritance we can leave behind is a life lived for Jesus.

November 24: Thanksgiving and Prayer (Philippians 4:6- 7)

Philippians teaches us to bring everything to God through prayer and petition, with thanksgiving. At the same time, we are told not to be anxious. God does not promise to answer every prayer exactly as we ask, but He does promise that His peace will guard our hearts and minds.

A young man working with me has often joined me for lunch. Every time I used to take him out to eat, he would forget to thank me. I had to remind him repeatedly, which felt a little awkward because I was asking him to say thank you.

When he failed to express gratitude, I was less enthusiastic about taking him out. But over time, he began to change his ways. Today, he regularly expresses his thankfulness earn I do something nice for him.

When I do something special for someone and they respond with genuine joy and gratitude, I want to do even more for them. It is like adding fuel to a fire that causes the flames grow hotter.

Part of our relationship with the Lord involves spending time with Him in thanksgiving and praise. Just as we love to hear the words “thank you,” our heavenly Father delights in our gratitude.

Thanksgiving does not replace our worries but it places them in God’s hands. We bring our requests with gratitude, trusting Him with the outcome, and His peace guards our hearts and minds. Showing our gratitude to the Lord is truly the gateway to peace.

Prayer: Lord, I bring my worries to You with thanksgiving. Help me trust You with every request and rest in the peace that guards my heart and mind. Amen.

Challenge: Turn your main worry into a written prayer that includes both thanksgiving and your request. Thank God for His faithfulness, then place your concern in His hands.

November 25: Walk Your Talk (Colossians 2:6-7)

God desires every believer to walk with Him, grow in His Word, and become firmly established in the faith.

During my senior year at Otterbein College, I heard about a new Christian school in Lynchburg, Virginia, called Lynchburg Baptist College, now Liberty University. My four years at Otterbein had been miserable. I was there primarily to please my father, but I believed God had a greater plan for my life.

When God opened the door for me to attend Liberty, everything changed. I was hungry to learn the Bible, discover practical ways to serve the Lord, and fellowship with other believers. It became one of the most exciting times of my life.

During my time at Liberty, I met the wife of my dreams, discovered God’s direction for my future, and developed the spiritual foundation that has sustained me through more than 50 years of ministry.

I made a decision early in my Christian life that I would not simply talk about my faith, I would live it. I wasn’t going to live one way at school and another way at home. Whatever the situation, I wanted my life to reflect Jesus Christ and the teachings of His Word.

Looking back over these many years, I am grateful for how God directed my steps and established my faith.

The Christian life is not just about believing in Christ. It is about walking with Him every day, allowing our roots to grow deeper and our faith to become stronger.

Prayer: Lord, help me remain rooted in You, growing stronger in my faith and overflowing with thanksgiving for all You have done. Amen.

Challenge: Share with someone three reasons you are grateful to God. Let your daily life reflect the faith you profess.

November 26: Imperfect People Fellowship (Acts 2:46- 47)

The first Sunday I attended Thomas Road Baptist Church as a student at Liberty University, I arrived early, eager to worship and experience the warmth of Christian fellowship. Wanting a good view, I found an open seat in the front row, settled in, and waited for the service to begin. About twenty minutes later, two older ladies walked toward me. Their expressions were serious, and I soon learned why. They informed me that I was sitting in their seats and rather bluntly told me to move. I was shocked. Surely, I thought, there must be other seats available. Still, I gathered my things and politely moved.

As a young, naïve college student, I had expected my first visit to be filled with welcoming smiles and joyful fellowship. I never imagined that fellow Christians would treat someone that way. A few months later, while teaching Sunday school, another teacher criticized me for bringing so many children into my class because they were making too much noise. I thought we should be excited about children coming to hear God’s Word!

These experiences taught me an important lesson. Even in the greatest churches and ministries, we are surrounded by imperfect people. Christians can disappoint us, and sometimes we may disappoint others.

The early church was known for its generosity, joyful fellowship, and grateful hearts. They worshiped together, shared meals, and praised God. What a wonderful example for us today!

After more than fifty years in ministry, I have learned that Christian fellowship isn’t about finding perfect people. It is about loving one another, extending grace, and keeping our eyes on Jesus. Don’t allow the imperfections of people to rob you of the joy of serving a perfect Savior.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for the family of believers You have placed in my life. Help me show patience, kindness, and grace to others, even when they disappoint me. Amen.

Challenge: Take time today to thank God for your church family. Reach out to someone with a word of encouragement, and remember to extend the same grace to others that Christ has extended to you.

November 27: The Greatest Gift (2 Corinthians 9:15)

I remember it well. We were in our fourth year of ministry, and as always, we depended on the generous gifts of God’s people to keep our ministry going.

I had an older cousin whom I hardly knew. He received our ministry newsletters and decided he wanted to help us in a special way. One day, an envelope arrived from him. When I opened it, I could hardly believe my eyes. Inside was a check for $1,000! It was the largest gift we had ever received at that time, equivalent to approximately $4,000 today.

We praised God for this unexpected blessing. It came at a time when we needed encouragement and financial help to continue the work God had called us to do.

Something else wonderful happened. Through his giving, my cousin and I developed a close relationship. Before that gift, I hardly knew him, but I soon discovered that he genuinely loved giving and helping others.

That experience reminds me of our Heavenly Father, who delights in blessing His children. But no earthly gift, regardless of its size, can compare to the greatest gift ever given- Jesus Christ.

God loved us so much that He gave His only Son to die on the cross for our sins. Through His mercy and grace, He has made a way for us to experience forgiveness, abundant life, and eternity with Him.

My cousin’s gift helped sustain our ministry for a season, but God’s gift of Jesus Christ has eternal value. After more than fifty years in ministry, I am still amazed at God’s faithfulness and generosity.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your generosity and for the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ. Help me never take Your mercy, grace, and love for granted. Amen.

Challenge: Take a few minutes today to thank God specifically for who Jesus is to you. Then look for an opportunity to bless someone else through an act of generosity.

November 28: Not Forgetting the Poor (Proverbs 19:17)

Every summer, children from some of the poorest neighborhoods in Somerset and Johnstown attend camp at Teen Quest Ranch. Many come from heartbreaking situations, facing poverty and struggles no child should have to endure.

Our ministry begins in the neighborhoods of Johnstown, where teams of young people paint homes, make repairs, clean, and help struggling families and elderly residents. In the evenings, we gather children in local parks, share the Gospel, and invite them to summer camp.

Thanks to our generous Camp Boosters, children whose families could never afford camp are given the opportunity to experience a week of fun, friendship, and, most importantly, the love of Jesus Christ.

Sometimes I look into the faces of these children and wonder, Who will they become? Could one be the next Billy Graham, a successful businessman, or even president of the United States? Only God knows. But one thing is certain: Every child matters to God, and every child deserves to know they are loved.

Why do we go out of our way to help the poor? Because God tells us to!

After more than fifty years in ministry, I have learned that when we help those who have so little, we often receive the greatest blessing.

If you’re discouraged or searching for purpose in life, find someone in need. Help them, encourage them, and share Jesus with them.

You may not be able to change the whole world, but you can change someone’s world.

Prayer: Lord, give me a compassionate heart for those who are hurting. Help me see others through Your eyes and share Your love with them. Amen.

Challenge: Reach out to someone in need today. Give, serve, or encourage someone who is struggling. Remember, when you show kindness to the poor, you are honoring the Lord.

November 29: Suffering compared to Glory (Romans 8:18)

I know a lot of people who are suffering. How do I know? Because they ask me to pray for them. And it seems my prayer list gets longer every day. Some are battling serious illnesses. Others are parents with wayward children, wives whose husbands have walked away, and families facing heartaches almost too painful to describe. The truth is, suffering is part of life, and none of us are exempt.

Through more than fifty years of ministry, I have stood beside the beds of many relatives and dear friends during their final days. I have watched them endure tremendous pain and suffering. Sometimes there were no words that could take away their pain. All I could do was hold their hand, pray with them, and remind them of the wonderful glory awaiting those who know Jesus Christ. What a comfort to know that the suffering of this life is temporary, but the glory of heaven is eternal!

The Apostle Paul reminds us that our present sufferings cannot begin to compare with what God has prepared for us. One day, there will be no more pain, no more tears, no more broken hearts, and no more goodbyes.

But until that day comes, God has given us a responsibility to encourage those who are hurting.

When was the last time you visited someone who was suffering? Prayed beside their bed? Shared an encouraging Scripture or simply reminded them that they are not forgotten?

Sometimes the greatest ministry we can offer is simply being there when someone needs us most.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for the promise of heaven and the glory awaiting those who love You. Help me bring comfort and encouragement to those who are suffering. Amen.

Challenge: Reach out to someone who is hurting today. Visit, call, or pray with them. Remind them of God’s promises. And when you face suffering yourself, whisper these words: “Glory is coming!”

November 30: Let the Bible Work on You (Colossians 3:15-17)

I have often said, “The Word of God does the work of God.” God’s Word has the power to change our lives when we welcome it, believe it, and put it into practice.

As a young Christian, my friends and I regularly memorized Bible verses. It was a common practice among believers, but sadly, many young people today are never encouraged to memorize Scripture. At the Teen Quest Ranch we give campers cards with Bible verses and challenge them to memorize God’s Word. Many students accept the challenge and work hard to memorize those verses.

Why does memorizing Scripture matter? Because there will come a day when you desperately need God’s Word. You may face a difficult decision, a broken heart, temptation, or a season when your faith is tested. The Scriptures you have hidden in your heart can become a source of strength, comfort, encouragement, and direction.

When you memorize God’s Word, it becomes part of you. The Holy Spirit can bring those verses to mind when you need them most, reminding you of God’s promises and guiding you toward what is right.

Years ago, I placed a little saying in the front of my Bible that I have never forgotten: “Sin will keep you from this Book, or this Book will keep you from sin.”

So don’t simply carry your Bible in your hand. Read it, reflect on it, memorize it, and obey it. Carry God’s Word in your heart, and allow it to change your life.

Prayer: Lord, help me treasure Your Word and let it dwell richly in my heart. Give me a desire to read, memorize, and obey Scripture. Use Your truth to shape my thoughts, strengthen my faith, and guide my choices. Fill my life with wisdom, praise, and thanksgiving. Amen.

Challenge: Choose one Bible verse to memorize this week. Write it on a card or place it somewhere you will see it often. Read it aloud, reflect on its meaning, and ask God to show you how to apply it. As you reflect on God’s faithfulness, take time to thank Him for both the blessings and the challenges of this past year.