Pastor Joel Osteen Daily Devotional November 25, 2023.

SCRIPTURE: 2 Timothy 4:11, NIV  Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry.

In Acts 13, during Paul’s first missionary journey with Barnabas, a young assistant named Mark “deserted” them and returned to Jerusalem. No reason is given as to why, but it was a great mistake that broke his relationship with Paul. Later, in Acts 15, Barnabas wanted to take Mark with them on Paul’s second missionary journey, but Paul refused. It led to such a sharp disagreement that Paul and Barnabas went separate ways in their ministries. I imagine Mark lived with deep regret about his broken relationship with Paul. But many years later, Paul is in prison and knows he’s about to die, and he tells Timothy to bring Mark to help with what remains of his ministry. God not only restored their relationship, but most scholars believe that Mark went on to write the Gospel of Mark.

You may have relationships that you think are too far gone, too broken to be restored, but God can soften hearts. It’s not too much for the mercy of God. Get ready for another chance. You’re going to see restoration.

“Father, thank You that no matter what challenges I face, You have the final word over all things, including broken relationships. Thank You that You are working behind the scenes and bringing restoration to what I thought was dead. I believe that You are bringing second chances. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”