Derek Charles Johnson

What Can God Do With A Life Fully Sold Out To Him? | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | August 23, 2023 Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Since God has shown you all this, there is none so discerning and wise as you are. You shall be over my house, and all my people shall order themselves as you command. Only as regards the throne will I be greater than you.” Genesis 41:39,40 There is something to be said about understanding destiny and identity in our lives as we examine the life of Joseph. There was a confidence displayed, not in himself but in the Lord. That confidence led to boldness and to being a man of action. As we look at Joseph going before Pharaoh, we look at someone whose whole life had been preparation for this moment. God gave him a unique ability to interpret dreams. God put him before greater and greater men of influence. And despite setbacks and hardships, God put Joseph in power at the exact right moment…for His timing and purposes. As we look at our lives, can we see the fingerprint of God weaving the story as He has desired? When we do, we understand that nothing is by accident or mere coincidence. Even the mistakes we have made can be turned around and used for His glory and our benefit. When we allow ourselves to be humbled before the Lord, we allow Him the opportunity to raise us up for His plan. Staying obedient, staying humble and hungry for His presence and doing this day after day after day…it all adds up over time. It then begs the question: what can God do with a life fully sold out to Him? It’s worth finding out. Question for today: What attributes of Joseph’s life led him to a place where God could raise Him up as second in command to Pharaoh? Pray: God I want my life to be that life fully sold out to You! I desire Your greater plan and purpose. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

How Great Is Our God | Derek Charles Johnson (with lyrics) Cover of the song “How Great Is Our God” written by Chris Tomlin, Ed Cash, and Jesse Reeves. Acoustic guitar and vocals by Derek Charles Johnson. ---------------------------------------------------------- WHERE TO FIND DEREK CHARLES JOHNSON: —MUSIC:
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________________________________________________________ HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD LYRICS The splendor of the King, clothed in majesty Let all the Earth rejoice All the Earth rejoice He wraps himself in light And darkness tries to hide And trembles at His voice Trembles at His voice How great is our God, sing with me How great is our God, and all will see How great, how great is our God Age to age He stands And time is in His hands Beginning and the end Beginning and the end The Godhead Three in One Father Spirit Son The Lion and the Lamb The Lion and the Lamb How great is our God, sing with me How great is our God, and all will see How great, how great is our God Name above all names Worthy of all praise My heart will sing How great is our God How great is our God, sing with me How great is our God, and all will see How great, how great is our God How great is our God, sing with me How great is our God, and all will see How great, how great is our God

Wisdom Must Be Pursued | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | August 21, 2023 My son, if you receive my words…making your ear attentive to wisdom…then you will understand righteousness and justice and equity, every good path. Proverbs 2:1,2,9 There is a deficit within Christianity today of true spiritual wisdom and discernment. It is not for a lack of sermons, books, seminars, and other resources. We have so much information readily at our fingertips. We live in an “information age.” But our desire to learn and grow is not always there. We are often stunted because of this. We come to know Christ and experience that initial transformation. But we can remain in the infancy stage of our walk simply because we stop wanting to grow deeper. The book of Proverbs could be summed up as a book of wisdom. It is a clear reference to Christ as the one Who embodies and bears wisdom. It can be easy to seek out the teacher who is more knowledgeable of a particular subject. But faith should cause us to want to grow and feed ourselves rather than relying upon the instruction of others. There’s nothing wrong with being taught, but we should desire more than just what we receive on Sunday morning. Wisdom must be pursued and as we pursue it, the Spirit instructs and guides us. He is the true Teacher. Question for today: Is my walk in Christ deeper than it was a year ago? 5 years ago? If not, why is that so? Pray: Lord this word is personal and I cannot look over the fence at anyone else. I look inward and say, “Take me deeper and further than where I’ve been.” Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

There’s No Fear In Love | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | August 18, 2023 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. 1 John 4:18 A worship song that has become a favorite of mine over the years is called No Longer Slaves. In this song, the chorus states “I’m no longer a slave to fear, I am a child of God.” I’m realizing more and more that living in fear and loving God are two things that cannot coexist within the believer in Christ. It seems simple enough. But the past few years have shown me just how easy it is to be afraid of my surroundings and to trust God less. The fear I display is really a denial of Christ’s power and authority. It is also a place where I am not in right relationship with Him. Of course this all gets back to identity. When I do not understand my identity in Christ, I begin to seek my purpose in other things. Inevitably my plans come to ruin or at least stall out. When I step out understanding that I am His and have complete faith, I step out in obedience and assurance. Sometimes we may fall. Some things may not go exactly how we planned them. But God is not using those moments to hold us back. No, He uses them to draw us out into deeper waters, to continue putting our fears aside and loving Him more. Because His plans are for good and not harm! There’s no fear in love and our identity must be founded upon the love of our Savior. Question for today: What’s one faith step I’ve been unwilling to take because fear has held me back? Pray: Lord my simple prayer today is to love you more and to fear less. Your perfect love casts out fear. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

For my full length cover of In The Garden, click here: https://rumble.com/v37x3sf-in-the-garden-derek-charles-johnson.html

For my full length cover of In The Garden, click here: https://rumble.com/v37x3sf-in-the-garden-derek-charles-johnson.html

From the latest AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast: Who Is Jesus? (Sharing Your Faith) Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/Y4A19rzvjCb
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Accountability Starts With Humility | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | August 16, 2023 Obeyyour leaders and submit to them,for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have togive an account. Hebrews 13:17 One of the last charges in the Book of Hebrews is for the audience to obey and submit to its leaders. In the New Living Translation, this verse states “Obey your spiritual leaders and do what they say.” In a culture that says things like “You do you” and “Be yourself,” there isn’t a lot of room for checking in and having oversight. The sentiment really then becomes “I want accountability on my terms…I really just want others to affirm my decisions.” However, there is no Biblical support for this type of thinking. Sadly it has influenced and affected the church in many ways. As Hebrews closes, the author reminds us to submit to those in spiritual authority. Pastors, mentors, accountability partners — these are people in our lives who should have spiritual headship over us. They are there to ask tough questions and to allow us to bare what is inside. And that is a good thing. To start this process, we must exhibit humility. It is where accountability begins and when we grasp this, we start on a road to becoming more and more like Christ. Question for today: Is there someone in my life to whom I am accountable? Pray: God I pray for people in my life who can ask tough questions and to whom I can be held accountable. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

In The Garden | Derek Charles Johnsona Modern reworking of the hymn “In The Garden.” Acoustic guitar and vocals by Derek Charles Johnson. Words/Music: C. Austin Miles (1912) ------------------------------------------------------------- WHERE TO FIND DEREK CHARLES JOHNSON: —MUSIC:
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 —INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/derekcharlesjohnson/ ____________________________________________________________________ IN THE GARDEN LYRICS I come to the garden alone While the dew is still on the roses And the voice I hear falling on my ear The Son of God discloses. And He walks with me, and He talks with me, And He tells me I am His own; And the joy we share as we tarry there, None other has ever known. He speaks, and the sound of His voice, Is so sweet the birds hush their singing, And the melody that He gave to me Within my heart is ringing. And He walks with me, and He talks with me, And He tells me I am His own; And the joy we share as we tarry there, None other has ever known. I’d stay in the garden with Him Though the night around me be falling, But He bids me go; through the voice of woe His voice to me is calling. And He walks with me, and He talks with me, And He tells me I am His own; And the joy we share as we tarry there, None other has ever known. And the joy we share as we tarry there, None other has ever known.

Skin-Deep or Heart-Deep? | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | August 14, 2023 But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 Our culture rewards things based on outward appearances. Looks and beauty are favored as a skin-deep society judges and sizes up everyone through the eyes. This is nothing new. In ancient times kings and leaders were chosen much due to their appearance; if they looked like a king. Israel wanted a king so they could be like other nations who had kings. Saul fit the part; handsome and taller than any other man. In Saul, God gave Israel the king they wanted, but not the king they needed. Although Saul was a failure as king, God had another man in mind; someone who didn’t “fit the mold” in terms of what we’d expect a king to look like. But in God’s eyes, his heart was already where it needed to be. David was a “man after God’s own heart” and he led Israel as a true follower of the Lord. What God looks for in us is not based upon what man praises or not. It is based upon our hearts and He rewards those whose hearts belong to Him. When we remember this, we become less concerned with our skin condition and more concerned with our heart condition. Question for today: What is my heart condition like today in the Lord? Pray: As the culture around emphasizes appearance, how am I staying anchored to what God looks for and desires in me? Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

The Jesus Model Of Forgiveness | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | August 11, 2023 When Jesus stood up, He said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, Lord,” she answered. “Neither do I condemn you,” said Jesus. “Go, and from now on do not sin any more.” John 8:10,11
 One of the hardest parts about loving like Jesus is modeling forgiveness like He does. In John 8, we have the account of the woman caught in adultery. Her accusers bring her before Jesus, not only wanting to condemn her but also to trap Him. As so often happens, the script is flipped and everyone must take into account their own sin. Jesus’ words“The one without sin among you should be the first to throw a stone at her,”are words that cut to the heart. Everyone realizes they are not without sin; they all deserve their own punishment.
 We forgive because we have been forgiven ourselves. We forgive much because we have been forgiven of much. And we forgive repeatedly because we must be forgiven repeatedly. This point alone is worth its own emphasis — the concept of forgiveness is a major tenet of our faith. The takeaway for you and I is simply to say if we are in Christ, we must show His love by forgiving one another. That can be a hard pill to swallow because forgiveness means letting go of something; even a deep pain or hurt inflicted by someone else. But Jesus forgave up to the point of His death and we must be willing to do the same. Question for today: Is there an act of forgiveness I’ve been refusing to do because it is personally very hard? How do I come into agreement with what Christ says about forgiving others? Pray: Lord help us extend forgiveness and receive it even when it is hard. You have shown us the example we must follow. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

Knowing Our Destiny Changes Everything | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | August 9, 2023 For the battle is the Lord's, and He will give you into our hand.” 1 Samuel 17:45-47 There is an exchange that takes place between David and Goliath as the two of them meet on the battlefield. Of course, Goliath ridicules David at the outset and has strong words for him: The Philistine said to David, “Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and to the beasts of the field.” (1 Samuel 17:44). But David stands undeterred. He knows God has not brought him nor Israel to this moment to allow either to fall. Goliath and the Philistines loomed large. But God was larger. David had not forgotten the destiny of his people even though many of them had. David was a warrior before he even approached the giant. God had prepared him. What about us? When we see things around us that look bleak are we quick to despair and lose hope? Or do we speak truth into the battle knowing God has a plan? When we are in Christ, we have the indwelling Holy Spirit. This same Spirit was upon David and it gave him boldness…supernatural boldness. We move in power and authority when we know Whose power we are moving in. It is not our own. It is from Him and we are called to act upon it. When we know our destiny, everything changes. David did and Israel was forever changed because of it. Question for today: If I am in Christ, how is my destiny different than before I knew Him? Pray: Lord help me walk in truth today knowing and understanding that I am Yours and You watch over me. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

Living In The Construction Zone | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | August 7, 2023 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/H7zoeyai9WU And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6
 My family and I moved into a new neighborhood a couple years ago and with many new homes going up, the buzz of construction was all around us. I loved watching empty lots go from bare ground to poured foundations with framework, roofing, and siding. At any given moment homes were in their beginning stages all the way to nearly completed — with everything in between. It’s a beautiful thing really; the building of a home. To see the process unfold and watch the work being done truly is remarkable.
 Of course I couldn’t ponder this process of building a home and not make some connection to our lives, spiritually-speaking. When a person first comes to Christ, there are similarities to that dirt ground with freshly poured concrete. It’s raw but a process is starting. As the walls go up and the house take shape, we begin growing in our faith. From there, much is happening on the inside that can’t be seen from the occasional passerby. The fixtures are going in, the plumbing, the electrical and so on. With further growth in Christ, the construction keeps humming along. When will the house be complete? Well, when He calls us heavenward. But until then, we live in the construction zone and allow Christ to build us up in Him. He does great work!
 Question for today: This side of eternity, we are works in progress. What is God teaching me right now that is building my faith and causing this “home” to take shape?
 Pray: Lord, I’m not a finished home but I’m not just dirt on the ground either. Thank You for the process of molding and shaping me. I ask that You keep the building plans moving along in Your perfect timing. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

Will He Delay? | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | August 4, 2023 And the Lord said,“Hear what the unrighteous judge says. Andwill not God give justice toHis elect,who cry to Him day and night? Will He delay long over them? I tell you, He will give justice to themspeedily.” Luke 18:6-8 In thinking about the justice of this world, we often see things as slow-moving or perhaps not at all. The world has in place standards of right and wrong, but often operates in its own timeframe and apart from Scripture. In this regard, Jesus makes note of an unrighteous judge in Luke 18 — a man who did not fear God or respect man. A widow with a complaint against an adversary came to this judge day after day, demanding “Give me justice.” (Luke 18:3) In this parable, Jesus teaches that even this unrighteous judge would grant justice for this woman, to keep her from bothering him. If this man could administer justice, how much more our Heavenly Father?

We may be interceding for something and it seems long in coming. We could be at the point of giving up and throwing in the towel, thinking “God has forgotten this need.” But can we see the bigger picture and know that our Father is so much more righteous and attentive than someone like this judge? Even more than our earthly fathers or mothers? Yes and to that end He will not delay. We are to keep persisting in prayer, giving the matter over to Him and trusting that He will bring justice — and speedily within His timing. Question for today: What is the need that I am asking God not to delay on right now? Pray: Lord this parable from Luke 18 reminds us that You are a good Father and You hear the cries of Your people. Help us to remember this when we are ready to give up. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

Who Am I? | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | August 2, 2023 For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. Galatians 3:26 Identity is a big word these days; often a buzzword heard in certain parts of the culture. In “finding ourselves” one must figure out what makes him or herself unique. What is it at the end of the day that defines you? Is it your job or place of employment? Is it being a father or mother? Is it being someone’s son or daughter? Maybe it’s the church you attend of the ministry you are a part of. While all of these things are important and can be good things about us, the thing that truly defines the believer in Christ is this: we are children of the Most High God. When we come to the place where we stop searching for identity, we enter a place of peace, fulfillment, and joy. One reason the world is broken and fallen is because apart from Christ, it does not know true identity. Apart from Christ the nonbeliever looks for validation somewhere. Sometimes it is those “good” things described above. But sometimes it is harmful things (addictions, sexual perversion, or money). The quest to answer “Who am I?” starts and ends with Christ. When we are His, we no longer need to fill a void with something less. He is enough, hallelujah and amen! Question for today: What does my life look like before and after Christ and how can I see my identity has changed? Pray: Thank you Lord for the opportunity to call upon your name and be given a new heart. All my longings are found in you. I search no more. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

Business As Usual | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | July 31, 2023 On that day, let the one who is on the housetop, with his goods in the house, not come down to take them away, and likewise let the one who is in the field not turn back. Remember Lot’s wife. Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will keep it. ‭‭Luke‬ ‭17‬:‭31‬-‭33‬ ‭ Jesus describes the coming of the Kingdom and of the Son of Man in Luke 17:20-37. In this passage, He links the cultural climate and condition of this time back to that of two Old Testament characters: Noah and Lot. Both of these men saw destruction occur in humanity as whole. Yet, right up until the flood (Noah) and the raining down of sulfur on Sodom and Gommorah (Lot), life was “business as usual.” People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, getting married and making plans. There was no thought given to God’s purposes and plans. Similarly today we have a society that thinks not of life beyond this world. Life goes on day after day. People make plans and as the prevailing culture gets more and more depraved, many just turn a blind eye and continue to “live and let live.” Jesus warned of these things and alerted us to the fact that His return will come very suddenly. In that moment, we must be ready and we cannot look back, as Lot’s wife did. We cannot live out these days as “business as usual.” We must be ready for the coming Kingdom. Question for today: In what ways can I see our days as not much different than Noah’s or Lot’s? How am I staying spiritually ready today? Pray: Thank You Lord for your word which warns us of things to come and urges us to be ready. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

He Won’t Go Back On His Own | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | July 28, 2023 “For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you. Isaiah 54:10 As far as we may be from Old Testament times, there are strong parallels between the storylines of ancient Israel and those of modern times. To be fair, Solomon was right: There is nothing new under the sun. (Ecclesiastes 1:9) What Israel went through, its ups and downs, was directly connected to the condition of their hearts. When they were obedient, serving God and honoring Him, they felt and saw His blessing. When they chose to follow other gods and were seduced to follow the surrounding cultures, they lost that blessing. Still, God had made a covenant with them. He would not turn His back on His own. What is the proper parallel to our times? To America? We are country founded on religious principles and ideals. We have lost much of that original founding and traded it for selfish, humanistic ambitions. Still, there is a remnant of this land that has not “bowed the knee to Baal.” God will not turn His back on those who have remained faithful to Him. America, on the whole, may or may not be saved. But God will watch over the ones who have faithfully stood for truth and refuse to bow to the culture. Be encouraged that even though the mountains may shake, the Lord is with you! Question for today: Even as the headlines look dire, how is my trust in the Lord being strengthened from day to day? Pray: Thank You Lord that You watch over those who profess Your name. Help me to not be afraid no matter what this world looks like. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

The Hall Of Faith | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | July 26, 2023 By faithAbraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a placethat he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. Hebrews 11:8 If you read Hebrews 11 (and I encourage you to do so), you see account after account of God-followers acting upon a certain promise yet not knowing the where, when, how or even why of the action they were taking. They simply moved out “by faith”…a phrase which by my count, occurs at least 19 times within the chapter. Many giants of the Old Testament make an appearance as the writer of Hebrews reminds us of their fascinating stories. As I look at each of these accounts and the entirety of Hebrews 11, I see one recurring element: faith begins with a promise. Abraham, Joseph, and Moses were all given promises that were not necessarily completely fulfilled in their lifetimes. If we examine our own lives, we see the promise of God and accept it by faith as well. There are elements to our profession of Christ which we must take without seeing, hearing or touching. Think about some of the great mysteries of the Gospel: the virgin birth, Christ’s resurrection, His Second Coming. There is not a person alive today who has experienced those events first-hand because they either happened long ago or will happen at some point in the future. Therefore we take the truths of the Bible “by faith” just as these heroes themselves did. There is a promise in each element that we cling to. If Christ truly was born, lived, died, and raised back to life, then we are offered the same resurrection from death; we are released from death’s cling upon our souls. If Christ is coming once again, we have a promise to be with Him at the end of our days. Question for today: As the heroes of the faith clung to a promise without seeing, how can I cling to the promise and hope of Christ without having seen it as well? Pray: Thank You Lord for giving us examples to follow in Your word. We await the return of Christ, knowing everything the Bible says about Him is true. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

The Value Of Scripture | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | July 24, 2023 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,thatthe man of God may be complete,equippedfor every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16,17 I find the seasons of my life in which I am in need the most are the ones when I neglect the reading of Scripture. Perhaps it’s a pride thing or maybe it’s just an underestimation of the power of God’s word. Whenever I start to think I can handle life alone, I pull away from the Bible. “I’ve got this Lord. I can do it. I know Your word well enough to take it from here.” But in those moments I really don’t know. And I have no idea just how deep my need is when I drift away; even just a little. I love that Scripture is something eternal; it was never a “one and done” type of book that you close and put on the shelf for good after reading. It is living and active. It cuts to the heart of the matter. It’s a double-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). Paul tells us that all Scripture is “God breathed” and is good for teaching, reproof, correction, and training. Do those things ever stop? No. Should I ever stop reading His word? No. When we fully understand the value of Scripture and its importance in our everyday lives, we unlock a gift that is better than anything else this world can offer. I can’t do this alone Lord but thank You for Your word! Question for today: Do I go through seasons in which I neglect reading God’s word? Why do those times occur? Pray: God this is a personalized prayer for anyone reading or hearing this today…please deal with the (fill in the blank reason) for why I neglect Scripture. Help me to read the Bible on a daily basis. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

The Harvest Is Ready | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | July 21, 2023 When He saw the crowds, He felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and dejected,like sheep without a shepherd. Then He said to his disciples,“The harvest is abundant, but the workers are few. Therefore, pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.” Matthew 9:36-38 For a couple years now, the church my family and I attend closes out each Sunday morning service the same way. In what has become our standing “benediction,” we as a congregation read Matthew 9:36-38 aloud together. Our church has rallied around the idea that our community needs to know the hope of Jesus. This hope is more than what occurs on a Sunday morning and it goes beyond our building’s four walls. It’s a hope that must be lived out and on display from day to day. As I read these verses each week I’m reminded how Jesus framed the scene for His disciples: the world around is full of distressed and dejected people. They are like sheep aimlessly wandering with no purpose. No direction. And no hope. What is our role in all of this? To be workers in the harvest field. The harvest is ready. The fields are ripe. But the amount of workers to go out is few. We ask God to send more laborers and at the same time we take up the call with fervency and expectancy. This is our call. May we take it sensing the Father’s heart for the lost. Question for today: How can I show the hope of Jesus to those around me today that do not know Him? Pray: Lord I pray for more workers for the harvest. I also pray that in my own sphere of influence, I am sharing the Gospel and sharing Your hope each day. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

Why Did Thomas Doubt? | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | July 19, 2023 But he said to them,“Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into His side, I will never believe.” John 20:25 It’s interesting to study the reaction of Jesus’ disciples and followers after the crucifixion and resurrection. Peter has his own encounter with Jesus which leads to restoration and commission. The two walking on the road to Emmaus did not even realize they had been in His presence until He had left, saying “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while heopened to us the Scriptures?” (Luke 24:32). But it is Thomas, doubting Thomas, who really is an interesting character. Despite the eyewitness accounts of those who had walked and talked with Jesus, Thomas refused to believe. He had to see the nail marks and touch the wounds of his Savior. We can easily discount Thomas for his doubt and lack of faith. We can say we would have reacted differently and been more willing to believe. But the fact is, everyone can have a “doubting Thomas” moment in their life. A point at which we don’t want to believe unless we see, touch, hear…until our senses are aware. But what is faith? It is the evidence of things of unseen (Hebrews 11:1). It is believing without having everything laid out in front of us. And it is blessed because Jesus takes time to qualify it: Jesus said to him [Thomas],“Have you believed because you have seen Me?Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (John 20:29) Are we willing to believe without seeing? Question for today: Can I see that what caused Thomas to doubt is the same thing that can cause my doubt as well? How do I believe without seeing? Pray: God give me faith to believe even when my default is to doubt. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

Who Do We Say He Is? | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | July 17, 2023 He [Jesus] said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Matthew 16:15,16 The world loves to define things according to its own standards which are arbitrary at best. Putting people into boxes helps others figure out who someone is and what they are capable of. In Jesus’ ministry, there were many opinions about Him. Was He a good teacher? A prophet? Was He just the reappearing of someone who already came before? To define Christ was to be able to determine who He was and what He was about. It pushed people’s boundaries to accept that He was more than just a mere man. Jesus asks His disciples two pointed questions: who do others say I am and who do you say that I am? The second question was the one the disciples needed to get right. Peter answered “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” In Mark 8, Peter says He is the Messiah. This revelation is important. As Christians, we have to cling to this truth as we live in a world that tries to define Christ differently. Many get it wrong and will advance opinions that are unbiblical. We remain grounded in Scripture and steadfast, knowing that He is the Christ…He is the Messiah! Question for today: How do I define Who Jesus is according to the Bible? Pray: Lord let my belief in You be undefiled by what the world tries to say. Your word is truth and I can stake my life upon it. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify:https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

As For Me And My House | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | July 14, 2023 And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15 The closing words of Joshua to Israel carry much weight — both for his original audience and for us today. His charge in Joshua 24:15 is clear: he says exactly what he will do as he leads his own family. He was a man respected and looked up to. A man of integrity and character. A true leader. Here he was imparting an important truth — the idea that where all of this starts is in the home. To lead our homes well, we must declare that we are God-followers (capital “G”), not god-followers (lowercase “g”). “As for me and my house” is a declarative statement. Have we made it either intentionally or purposefully somehow over own homes? Even if we are single and unmarried, we must take this stand because it matters. It makes all the difference to look at what the world offers and still be able to say, “Nope, that thing has no pull on my heart no matter how good it looks.” What is that “thing”? It could be the god of money, sex, influence/power, acceptance, security…the list goes on and on. The home is the place where we give clear direction and purpose for ourselves and our family. Joshua laid out the options and he made clear the choice he would make. As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord! Question for today: What other “gods” compete for my allegiance? How do I declare “we will serve the Lord” in my home? Pray: God I pray over my home — that it would be a place You would inhabit and that whether married or single, You would have the place of authority in my life. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact

The Old Rugged Cross | Derek Charles Johnson Modern reworking of the hymn “The Old Rugged Cross.” Acoustic guitar and vocals by Derek Charles Johnson. Words/Music: George Bennard (1912) Listen to Derek’s cover of The Old Rugged Cross on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/6V30OFIJoFrS6LRshqtRNA?si=fe91b83a635a43c9 -------------------------------------------------------------
 WHERE TO FIND DEREK CHARLES JOHNSON: —MUSIC:
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______________________________________________________ THE OLD RUGGED CROSS LYRICS On a hill far away, stood an old rugged Cross The emblem of suff'ring and shame And I love that old Cross where the dearest and best For a world of lost sinners was slain So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross Till my trophies at last I lay down I will cling to the old rugged Cross And exchange it some day for a crown To the old rugged Cross, I will ever be true Its shame and reproach gladly bear Then He'll call me some day to my home far away Where His glory forever I'll share So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross Till my trophies at last I lay down I will cling to the old rugged Cross And exchange it some day for a crown So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross Till my trophies at last I lay down I will cling to the old rugged Cross And exchange it some day for a crown I will cling to the old rugged Cross And exchange it some day for a crown

Words Matter | AS BOLD AS LIONS DEVOTIONAL | July 12, 2023 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Ephesians 4:29 In raising a family, I’m coming to terms with the idea that my kids are a true reflection of me. For better or for worse, I can see myself in my children. Their physical appearances, their quirks, mannerisms, and behavior (introverted for the most part!). But it’s often their words that reflect me the most. And their words are a measuring stick of whether or not I have encouraged or discouraged them. I might think, “Where did they hear that….why did they say that?” But if I’m honest, I know exactly where they got it from: me. We’ve looked at Ephesians 4:29 in our home because I think it’s a transformational verse. Words can be used to either build up or destroy. They can help a person improve and be pointed to a higher standard or they can knock down and belittle. Far too often, I’ve chosen my words too lightly. I’ve acted out of emotion rather than stepping back and considering what my words really are saying. As Christians, if we can consider our words more deliberately along with the Spirit’s guidance, think of what good we could do in this world. Words matter and we must be willing to use them for building up others. In so doing, we are building the Kingdom, one soul at a time. Question for today: Am I able to see the effect that my words have on those around me? Pray: Lord help me to choose words wisely. Let them be used to build others up, not tear them down. Want to subscribe to the AS BOLD AS LIONS devotional and blog mailing list? Click here to sign up: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/as-bold-as-lions Tune in to the weekly AS BOLD AS LIONS podcast, available on all major streaming platforms including: Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3DfKqbU Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3gp6jvJ Pandora: https://pandora.app.link/6RgTqIoe0gb Google Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3G4Zt86 iHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3UymTde My website podcast player: https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/podcast We’d love to hear from you! Email: info@derekcharlesjohnson.com Interested in hosting Derek for an event? Visit https://derekcharlesjohnson.com/contact