“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” — Psalm 23:1 (ESV)

Scripture describes God not as distant or demanding, but as a Shepherd—one who leads, protects, and provides. A shepherd does not expect the sheep to know the way; he takes responsibility for guiding them. When life feels uncertain or overwhelming, this image reminds us that our security is found not in our ability to navigate the path, but in trusting the One who walks ahead of us. Because the Lord is our Shepherd, we are not lacking direction, care, or provision—even when the road feels unclear.

Prayer is essential to our relationship with God because it is how we draw near to Him. Scripture does not present prayer as a religious performance, but as a relational invitation. Through Christ, we are already welcomed into God’s presence, and prayer becomes the steady practice of closeness—honest conversation, dependence, and trust. As we pray, we are reminded that God is not distant or reluctant, but near and attentive. Drawing near to Him reshapes our hearts, strengthens our faith, and deepens our daily walk with Him.

Discouragement often grows when we expect this world to provide what only God can—lasting peace, complete justice, and unshakable rest. Scripture reminds us that this life is temporary, not because it is meaningless, but because it is leading us somewhere better. When the weight of life feels heavy or hope feels thin, it may not be a sign of weak faith, but of a heart that was never meant to settle here. Our hope is anchored beyond this world, and that hope sustains us as we live faithfully, love one another, and wait with confidence for Christ’s return.

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” — Psalm 139:13–14

Scripture reminds us that our lives are not accidental or random, but intentionally designed by God. Being fearfully and wonderfully made means our value is rooted in God’s workmanship, not in performance, comparison, or approval from others. When we remember that God created us with purpose, we are freed from striving to earn worth and invited to live confidently from the identity He has already given us. This devotional encourages us to rest in who God says we are and walk forward with trust in His design.

“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” — 1 Corinthians 12:27

“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” — Mark 7:6

Scripture warns us that faith can quietly drift when tradition and preference carry more weight than obedience to God’s voice. In Jeremiah 35, the Rechabites elevated inherited instruction above responding to what God was asking in that moment, and Jesus later confronted the same issue when outward practices replaced heart obedience. This devotional invites us to examine whether we are treating nonessential preferences as critical while neglecting the things God clearly commands—loving one another, serving one another, and bearing one another’s burdens. The Church grows healthiest when obedience leads and love defines our steps.

Steady Steps exists to make everyday faith approachable and encouraging, especially in the middle of busy, ordinary life. The goal is to offer short devotionals that uplift, remind, and refocus hearts on Christ while strengthening the body of believers. This space is meant to encourage connection, growth, and steady progress in faith—walking together toward Christ, one step at a time. Steady Steps is not supported by ads or sponsorships at this time, but for those who feel led to support the mission, a contribution option is available here: https://buymeacoffee.com/jeskam

“Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” — Hebrews 12:2

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind… And when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” — 1 Corinthians 10:13

Freedom from temptation does not come from fixating on sin, but from turning our attention toward Christ. Scripture reminds us that no struggle places us beyond God’s reach and that He always provides a way forward. When we seek Jesus instead of hiding in shame, and when we walk honestly with other believers, temptation begins to lose its power. True freedom grows as we draw closer to Christ, trusting His grace to lead us home and guide us into lasting change.

Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”— Philippians 1:6

It’s easy to feel discouraged when growth feels slow or progress feels uneven. But Scripture reminds us that God is still at work in us, even when we can’t see the results yet. Our journey of faith is ongoing, shaped over time by God’s patience and grace. If God has begun a work in you, He is faithful to continue it, reminding us that we are not finished products but works in progress held securely in His hands.