Today's Verse: John 15:16

Sunday, August 17, 2025

Yearly Bible Reading Plans

Read through the entire bible in 2026 with our free online and printable plans.

See Plans
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit — fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
Now you can listen to Today's Verse on iTunes, Spotify, Echo devices, and more!

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Were you ever the last one chosen at recess when kids were dividing up teams? Were you ever the one no one wanted on your team? Ouch. That hurts deeply. So, isn't it remarkable that God, the Creator of the universe, chose us in Jesus Christ, even before the beginning of the world (Ephesians 1:4)? Isn't it amazing that we are loved and desired by the King of the Ages and his Son, Jesus Christ! Not only that, we weren't chosen out of pity, but chosen to make a difference for the Kingdom of God by bearing fruit that will endure. To help ensure our fruitfulness, Jesus promised that we can ask for God's blessing on our work for His Kingdom, and God will bless us with it. Incredible!

My Prayer...

Give me a heart, O God, that is open to your work and a vision that is as expansive as your grace. May my prayers ask for things that bring you glory, expand the borders of your kingdom, and reach beyond the limited things that so often distract me. I invite you to do great things for your Kingdom through me as I remain connected wholeheartedly to Jesus, to your glory. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Have thoughts on this devotional? Leave a comment

5 Related Resources by Heartlight

Illustration

Illustration of John 15:16 — You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit — fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.

Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Sunday, August 17, 2025

A one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts.
"In my first book I told you, Theophilus, about everything Jesus began to do and teach until the day he was taken up to heaven after giving his chosen...."
A daily dose of Christian quotes to inspire and encourage.
"Yesterday is not ours to recover, but tomorrow is ours to win or lose."
A daily devotional about God's power for our battles.
"And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to...."
A daily devotional about the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
"I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with..."

About This Devotional

Today's Verse is a free daily devotional that includes a Bible verse, thought and prayer.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.