Devo for 2/22/2026 - Message by Mark Schultz
Mark Schultz was our guest speaker this past weekend and brought an inspiring message. His testimony about adoption highlighted the challenges and victories that can come from being in a blended family, and his music was impactful for everyone.
During his message, Mark spoke of a couple who “took him in” when he first moved to Nashville to pursue his music. The elderly couple, Henry and Liz, understood the concept of living their lives to give to others and to build them up. While sharing his story, Mark discussed the moment he realized that both Henry and Liz believed in him and his dreams before he did.
I don’t think Mark is alone in not believing in ourselves. I believe we all have had, or are having, times in our lives when we don’t feel good enough or feel we don't have what it takes. This thinking can result from believing lies about ourselves or from negative words spoken over us. This thinking is NOT from God; He believes in us and is for us when the lies come!
Then my enemies will turn back in the day when I call; This I know, that God is for me. Psalm 56:9
Another part of Mark’s story reveals how God uses other people to build us up. Mark noted that Henry and Liz believed in him. They showed it by their actions and words and had a significant impact on Mark's life and career. They lived Romans 15:2:
Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification.
That word edification, as used here, is “to build up, to improve the mind.” Note this is, in essence, a “one another” verse. “Each of us” means that we should both edify our neighbor and also be edified by our neighbor. The receiving edification part is where I want us to land.
Have you ever stopped to think about people who have believed in you when you did not believe in yourself? Maybe you have someone right now who is encouraging you, speaking life into you, or just always there when needed, and you don’t even realize that. Maybe a coach, relative, or just a good friend spoke edifying words to you. Are you missing out on that person (or persons) who is in your corner, or the memory of someone in your life who had your back that impacted your life?
I just want to challenge you to slow down and ask God to highlight those people in your life, past or present, who believe in you. And while you are at it, ask Him to bring people into your life that will build you up while you navigate this life. It is worth it!
So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another. Romans 14:19
Don’t forget to invite God into your day!
Topic for Study
Encouragement
1 Thessalonians 4:18
Titus 2:6
2 Corinthians 7:6
February Memory Verse:
Psalm 119:10
"With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments"