Ever Closer

Our scripture focus for this week is Romans 12:1-2. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Following Jesus is not my striving to imitate him, but my loving surrender to him imparting his holiness to transform me. (Inspired by a hymn written by George Croly in 1854). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

By faith in God avoid the ruinous tendency to believe what’s convenient, attractive, or compelling rather than the truth. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Trust Jesus to save you now rather than later and you will discover the truth, love, healing, and fulfillment that you long for. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

True happiness and deep, abiding joy can never be achieved apart from God. They only come from a loving relationship with God by faith and a desire to bring him glory above all. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Week 22 Introduction: Giving Your Life to Jesus as Lord

Your best life is with God. Discover your purpose by including God in that process and following his lead. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is Romans 8:14-15. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

A tribute to the people God has brought across my path who have lived like Jesus and helped me do the same. May we each live like Jesus so more people might come to know God. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Your words have the power to bring life and healing. Use them to build up and encourage rather than to tear down. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Become a leader like Jesus by following him and learning from him so you are equipped to help others find and follow God. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Knowing God through Jesus is the heartbeat of life. Adapted from a prayer of Hudson Tayler, a Christian missionary to China in the latter 1800s. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Week 21 Introduction: Giving Your Life to Jesus as Lord

Jesus is the saving light of the world. If you follow him, you should live to reflect his love and glory to those who are in darkness as you once were, so they may come to trust Jesus as their savior also. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is Galatians 5:16-17. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Always do your best with what you have. Don't settle for less. Aspiring for excellence serves others and helps everyone thrive. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

By God's grace and power, love and care for one another as God loves you. Pray for one another knowing that God answers. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Ask God for his help in avoiding sin and learning to walk in holiness for your salvation and his glory. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Temptation is like a deadly spider’s web, but God provides escape and victory for those who trust and obey him. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Week 20 Introduction: Giving Your Life to Jesus as Lord

Your best is yet to come when you trust and obey God. Guard against stepping back to what you once were, for God wants you to become something you have never been. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is Ephesians 4:22-24. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

The glorious purpose and adventure in life's journey is for Jesus to increase and for me to decrease. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

By faith step down from your throne and take up the cross of self denial. Only then will you experience true life with God and the glory he designed you for. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Seek God's wisdom and power to make wise choices. Adam and Eve's self-centered disobedience to God brought destruction. In contrast, Jesus' obedience to God the Father brought life and salvation. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Jesus' mission is to bring you to God. Thus, your mission should be to come to God. He surrendered all to make that possible. Receive his loving salvation by surrendering your all. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Week 19 Introduction: Giving Your Life to Jesus as Lord

C.S. Lewis wrote, “If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.” Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is Galatians 2:20. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Rely on God through faith and experience real life. Don't hold anything back in your pursuit of knowing, loving, and serving God and others. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

A seed must die for its plant to grow. Likewise, only by forsaking your way and trusting and obeying God can you thrive and experience abundant, everlasting life. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Running from your problems instead of facing them only causes further harm. Turn to God. Then resolve your issues with his help and the support of others. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Jesus taught, “Enter in by the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter in by it. How narrow is the gate and the way is restricted that leads to life! There are few who find it” (Matthew 7:13-14). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Week 18 Introduction: Giving Your Life to Jesus—Indwelling Spirit

First and foremost believe what God thinks of you and live up to that with his help. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is Luke 9:23-25. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Although Jesus is no longer walking among people on earth, he sent his Spirit to live in believers and to continue his saving ministry. After he prepares a place for us, he will return to gather all believers to be with him forever. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

"If we confess our sins, he (God) is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

A prayer to turn from my ways and turn to God by faith, knowing that he alone can forgive me, save me, and restore me. (Inspired by Psalm 51). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Build your life on Jesus, the Cornerstone, or be crushed from rejecting him for he is the only way to be saved. (Inspired by Jesus’ parable of the tenants in Luke 20:9-19). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Week 17 Introduction: Giving Your Life to Jesus—Indwelling Spirit

God sees and understands the runaway and the hopeless. He lovingly calls them to find true life and a forever home by trusting and obeying him. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is John 20:31. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

With Jesus you can experience a joy that outlasts happiness and transcends circumstances. By his grace and power let his joy overflow from you to others. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

In our modern, fast-paced world of information technology it is special to receive a hand-written letter from a friend. Look for ways like this to connect with people. Build on that connection to share with them the love and hope you have found in Jesus. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

A hero is not someone who lifts themselves up, but rather someone who bends low to lift others up. Jesus is the greatest hero, for he humbly saved the world. Trust in him and become a hero, too. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

You are priceless, special, and loved by God for he created you. Confess any wrongdoing and trust Jesus to save you. Then follow him to discover the glorious plan God has for you. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Though it meant unfathomable suffering and sacrifice God was pleased for Jesus to become like one of us in order for us to become one with him (Hebrews 2:9-11). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is John 11:25-26. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Jesus used questions to reveal truth and to draw people into a closer relationship with himself. Develop the skill and discover the joy of asking questions and deeply connecting with people through meaningful conversation. Build on that connection to serve them, love them, and point them to Jesus. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Praise God for the unimaginable blessings people can have now and into eternity if they trust in Jesus to save them. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

In bad times and good times you can lift your eyes to Jesus for he saves and sets free fully and forever. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Jesus is the most interesting, most powerful, and most loving person I have ever met. He is God, the Son, who became a man to save anyone who turns to him. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

God's love for you is seen in Jesus' birth, life, death, resurrection, ascension, and coming return. In grateful reverence, receive his love which cost him everything. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is John 14:6. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

There is simple yet profound joy in reuniting with a friend, sharing each other's burdens, and doing something outdoors that you both enjoy. Seek God's help and direction on how to befriend others in a way that meets their needs, builds them up, and points them to God. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

See people the way God does and let his love overflow through you to them. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Centuries ago Jesus healed a paralyzed man. He continues to save and heal broken people today. Jesus gives new life to all who trust him. (Inspired by Mark 2:1-12). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Jesus said, "Whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever will lose his life for my sake will save it." (Luke 9:24, WEB). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

In this dark and fallen world of broken people don’t lose hope. God is calling you to open your eyes of faith. Trust him so you can experience true, abundant life now and forever. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is Psalm 23:1-3. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Jesus is always present with those who follow him although at times he waits to reveal himself in order to strengthen their faith. We see this truth at work when Jesus walked on water to join his disciples during a storm (Matthew 14:22-33). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

When you let God drive, not only do you reach an awesome destination, but the journey along the way is better, because he alone is what's best for you. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Like the rainbow after the flood, Jesus is our promise of salvation. As a gracious, merciful banner of redemption, he bears God's judgment of sin for all who trust him. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Amidst dark, evil days, God is ever present, faithful, and loving. He will deliver you through fiery trials if you trust him. (Chorus includes a quote from Colonel Alfred Oliver during WWII). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

God goes before those who trust him. He is present with them, and follows behind them, just as he did when he enabled ancient Israel to miraculously cross the Jordan River and enter the land he promised them. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is John 10:10. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Above all else, listen to the voice of God who is lovingly calling you to himself—an abundant, joyful life full of purpose now and forever. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

God delivers those who trust him. Sometimes he delivers them from difficulty, sometimes he delivers them through difficulty, but he is ever faithful to save. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Pray about daily walking in loving relationship with God by faith, enjoying his abundant life and blessings. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Jesus meets you where you are, but loves you too much to leave you there. Trust him and he will lead you into a much better life with him as he works in you and through you to save others. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Each day God is calling you into a closer relationship with him and his purposes. Answer his call and be saved. Then help others do the same. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is John 6:35. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Like the sparkle of a priceless gem in the light, may we each receive God's wonderful love and radiate it to others so we all come to know him more deeply. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Look for true love where you will find it, which is with God, for he is the only source of perfect, abundant, gracious, and transforming love. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Stop looking for healing from the broken, provision from the needy, or fulfillment from emptiness. Find what your soul longs for in God. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Turn to God because only he can satisfy the longing of your soul, for he made you and loves you. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Almighty, all loving God has graciously revealed his perfect wisdom to guide us in what is best. Blessed are those who trust and obey him. (Inspired by Psalm 19). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is John 15:5. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Sharpen your brain by employing your God-given gifts of imagining and creating rather than just passively consuming entertainment. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Discover by faith that God is more than enough to meet your deepest needs, even though Satan tries to convince you otherwise. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

When you face difficulty which causes doubts about what you don't know or understand, trust God and stand on what you do know. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Just like manna in the desert, Jesus is the true bread from heaven who came down and gives life to the world. All who trust him to save them will never hunger. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

For anyone suffering or in waiting, know that God is faithful to love, nurture, sustain, deliver, and restore those who seek him even if they have done wrong and been unfaithful. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is Romans 3:23-24. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Believe things can be better. Despite your circumstances, you can learn and grow. The work you invest will pay off. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

A parable from Jesus in Matthew 13 describes four ways people respond to truth about God. Only a reception by faith brings about growth and blessing. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Take heed of the following wisdom from Proverbs 4 and Proverbs 21:

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

“A person may think their own ways are right, but the Lord weighs the heart. To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.”

Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Blessed are those who delight in the law of God. They are like trees planted by streams, but the wicked are like chaff that the wind blows away. (Inspired by Psalm 1). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

God spoke the world into existence. Jesus is the expressed word of God whose message and mission saved the world. He is calling you to life with him and to share his truth so others can be saved as well. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is 1 John 4:10. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Jesus prayed, "This is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and him whom you sent, Jesus Christ" (John 17:3). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

C.S. Lewis wrote, "I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen, not only because I see it but because by it I see everything else." Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

By faith know and love God who is the light of the world. Apart from him all is dim and dark lacking true life, love, meaning, and direction. (Inspired by Ecclesiastes 12). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. Walk by faith in the life-giving light of Jesus, not the deadly darkness of the world. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

The sun is a gift from God to light our days and nights and mark our seasons. Its ultimate purpose is to point us to him, the light of the world who saves all who trust him from the darkness of sin and death. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is John 3:16-17. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

God is worthy of all glory for his love and salvation. I joyfully desire to love him back by trusting and obeying him. (Based on Psalm 19). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

A prayerful plea for Jesus to work in me and through me by faith to change me and others for good, in ways I never could on my own. (Inspired by a prayer from Anselm of Canterbury). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Ask God for help when you face evil people, difficult trials, or an unknown future. He is faithful to sustain and deliver you. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

“Always rejoice. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Lift your hands and your heart to God in loving praise, trust, and submission, for he alone is worthy of all glory. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Our scripture focus for this week is Colossians 1:15-20. Text for this episode, including reflection questions, is available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Enjoy God’s loving presence each day like a trusting, carefree child thrilled to be with him and to learn from him. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. He is the preeminent Son of God who not only created and sustains all creation, but he became one of us to show us what it means to know God as a loving Father and enables all who trust him to become a son or daughter of God. Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser

“For a child is born to us. A son is given to us; and the government will be on his shoulders. His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). Text and lyrics available at https://lightrunner.org/evercloser