No greater love

---

It’s important for us to recognize that even the strongest bonds will prove insufficient unless we nurture a still greater one – the relationship we have with our Creator, who loves us beyond anything our mortal minds can grasp. (See Deuteronomy 7:9; Ephesians 2:4-5; 1 John 4:16.) All of the people we share life with teach us something about God’s love, but they can never be an adequate substitute for Him and His perfect affection.

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, September 11, 2022.

The end of emptiness

---

The Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:3-18) symbolizes millions throughout history who have tried their best to satisfy a yearning for love and completion. But the sense of emptiness cannot be permanently satisfied until a person comes to Christ. We were created to honor and glorify Him, and no other pursuit can bring a sense of long-term pleasure and purpose. When you receive Jesus as your Savior, you never have to feel empty again. His love surpasses all understanding.

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, September 12, 2022.

The attitude of a saint

---

The Apostle Paul had a mindset that Christians are wise to emulate (1 Corinthians 11:1). It included: Humility. Pride can’t exist in the heart of a believer who truly grasps God’s mercy. A sense of obligation. Paul understood how far God’s grace had brought him. Likewise, each one of us have been forgiven much. An awareness of dependence. Paul desired more of Jesus and none of himself (Philippians 3:4-8). A spirit of absolute confidence. Even at the end of Paul’s life, he remained confident in the Lord and looked forward to his eternal reward (2 Timothy 4:6-8). Praise the Lord for all He has done, and let it motivate you to work for His kingdom. May the grace He showers on you never be in vain (1 Corinthians 15:10).

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, May 26, 2022.

Overcoming worldly tribulations

---

Though Paul may have “despaired even of life” (2 Corinthians 1:8), he believed God would sustain him during difficult seasons. As Jesus taught, divine strength can overcome worldly tribulations (John 16:33). That isn’t to say believers can avoid all sorrow and pain, but we know the Lord will meet our needs in every heartache and trial (Philippians 4:19). Our faith grows stronger when we trust Him in times of affliction.

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, May 27, 2022.

In gratitude we imitate Him

---

God is the ultimate giver, and in gratitude, we’re to imitate Him. Becoming a generous person begins with biblical thinking. Instead of focusing on how much we can keep, it’s better to think in terms of how much we can give away and share with others and the church. God has promised to supply our needs (Philippians 4:19) but often lavishes far more than the basics. And He delights to see His children joyfully sharing what He has given (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). As He provides us with material wealth and possessions, we become channels through whom He blesses others and carries out His work on earth.

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, June 7 and 8, 2022.

True Relationship

---

If you had a friend who only called or dropped by when he or she wanted something, or who never reached out to show concern or to see if you needed help, it’s likely that the friendship wouldn’t last long. Why? Because there is no intimacy there-no true relationship. We might be tempted to shake our heads at such selfishness, but it’s far too easy to treat God the same way. Sadly, many Christians reach out to Him in prayer only when they lack something or when things are a mess. Life in Christ, however, isn’t just about getting our needs met. It’s about experiencing a personal relationship with the Lord. Jesus told His disciples they were no longer slaves but friends (John 15:14-16), and that same promise is true for us today. We can speak to our closest companion-God Himself-at any time and for any reason. He longs to hear from us, to be approached as the loving Father He is. Take time this week to begin speaking with the Lord in a more personal way to build or strengthen that bond.

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, May 1, 2022.

Our Highest Priority

---

Once we are convinced that Jesus is our Savior, trust is demonstrated through action. As “new creatures” (2 Corinthians 5:17), we will have a fresh perspective and different values. Jesus, our Lord, now has authority over our life, and He alone deserves to be our highest priority.

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, June 24, 2022.

The Invitation is Extended to All

---

Knowledge of Jesus must be accompanied by confidence that the facts apply to us personally. First, we must own the truth that I have broken God’s law, and that makes me a sinner. Second, we acknowledge that none of our efforts can earn His favor. Third, we agree that Jesus died for each of us and paid for our sins, no matter how terrible the transgressions may be. Fourth, we believe that this payment for our wrongdoing is fully sufficient; nothing else is needed. Finally, we accept by faith that we’ve been adopted into God’s family. The invitation is extended to all humanity.

Commentary from the In Touch devotional by Charles Stanley, June 24, 2022.