Manna for Your Morning

I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back. Philippians 3:12-14 (The Message) Today is a perfect day to reflect on all the LORD has brought you through in 2010 and praise Him for it. Hold onto what you learned and let go of all the disappointments. We don't want to carry any old, heavy baggage into the new year. May we keep our eyes on the goal, as we constantly move toward Jesus. Be eager to follow God's direction as we journey through 2011. Have a Blessed New Year!

God himself is right alongside to keep you steady and on track until things are all wrapped up by Jesus. God, who got you started in this spiritual adventure, shares with us the life of his Son and our Master Jesus. He will never give up on you. Never forget that. 1 Corinthians 1:8-9 (The Message) Just as earthly parents always hope for the best regarding their children, our heavenly Father never gives up on us. Glory to God! Abba Father is faithful and so worthy of our trust. Depend on Him. He will keep you strong and on the right track until our Lord Jesus Christ returns.

Keep out of debt and owe no man anything, except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor [who practices loving others] has fulfilled the Law [relating to one's fellowmen, meeting all its requirements]. Romans 13:8 (Amp) Let us have no debt except the continuing debt we have to love one another. To practice love means it is not something we do sporadically, but consistently. And as we constantly carry out acts of love, it gets easier and we get better because the intrinsic rewards are so good. First John 4:16 says,God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God and God in him. This is the way our love is made complete.

So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. Romans 8:6 (NLT) In order to have a Spirit controlled mind, we must be transformed from the inside out by renewing our minds to align with God's Word. When the world says hate, God says love. When the world says get even, God says to forgive. The world tells us to look out for ourselves, but God's Word says to consider the needs of others before yourself. When we stop following the ways of the world and set our minds to do what is pleasing to the LORD, we are being led by His Spirit and we experience a full, vibrant life and a deep sense of peace which surpasses all understanding. Amen.

With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God didn't hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn't gladly and freely do for us? Romans 8:31-32 (The Message) Have no doubt, God is on our side. He loves us so much He let His Son shed His innocent blood and die on the cross to pay the debt for our sins. God did this so that we could fellowship with Him now and forever. Now Jesus is at the right hand of God interceding for us. With our mighty God on our side, no one can defeat us. No weapons formed against us will prosper. God loves us and is working for our good. Praise the LORD!

There was no hope that Abraham would have children. But Abraham believed God and continued hoping, and so he became the father of many nations. As God told him, "Your descendants also will be too many to count." Romans 4:18 (NCV) Abraham didn't focus on his own impotence and say, "It's hopeless. This hundred-year-old body could never father a child." Nor did he survey Sarah's decades of infertility and give up. He didn't tiptoe around God's promise asking cautiously skeptical questions. He plunged into the promise and came up strong, ready for God, sure that God would make good on what he had said (Romans 4:19-20, The Message). Abraham never doubted and he never stopped believing. Let us be like our father Abraham and have a faith that doesn't fizzle. Plunge into the promises that God has given to you by taking the action you need to take and believing Him for the rest. The things that are impossible with man are possible with God.

For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 (NKJ) After the shepherds saw Jesus, they went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. Let us glorify and honor God for sending us His Son, our Savior. Jesus is a Wonderful Counselor, and His ear is always open to hear your voice. He is a Mighty God, who gives us the victory. Jesus is the Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will reign forever and ever. Praise the Lord!

And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7 (NKJ) Jesus was born in a manger because there was no room in the inn. Be sure to make room for Jesus in your heart. Instead of letting a desire for the temporary things of this world occupy your heart, seek the face of the Lord with all your heart. May the longing of your heart be for more of His Presence. Do not allow your heart to be hardened by hatred or made cold with bitterness. Instead, open your heart wide to the Lord, until it’s only reflection is the soft, warm glow of His love and His light.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. Luke 2:8-11 (NIV) The fact that Jesus came to earth is good news for everyone! For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him (John 3:17). Jesus came to bind up the brokenhearted, to set the captives free, to release prisoners from darkness, and to comfort those who mourn (Isaiah 61:1-2). He came that we may have life, and have it to the full (John 10:10). What a wonderful Savior we have in Christ Jesus. Let us celebrate His birth with great joy. Merry Christmas!

The godly are showered with blessings; Proverbs 10:6 (NLT) We are blessed to be a blessing to others. Just as the wise men found Jesus and presented gifts to Him, what will you give to bless someone else? The greatest treasure we can share is the gift of unconditional love. Do you need to forgive anyone for a wrong they have done to you? Now is the perfect time. Just as Jesus gave Himself to save us, we can give of ourselves to the benefit of another. Will you offer the gift of your friendship to someone who is lonely? It's easy to go out and buy a gift, but what people value most is what comes from inside your heart.

He will bless those who fear the Lord, both great and lowly. May the Lord richly bless both you and your children. May you be blessed by the Lord, who made heaven and earth. Psalm 115:13-15 (NLT) The LORD blesses those who reverently fear Him. May you and your children be richly blessed as you choose to follow the LORD. If you obey the Lord your God, blessings will come upon you and overtake you. You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country. You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out. Wherever you go and whatever you do, you will be blessed. The LORD will send a blessing on everything you put your hand to. If you pay attention to the commands of the LORD your God and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom. (Deuteronomy 28:1-14). Amen.

Peter began to speak: "I really understand now that to God every person is the same. In every country God accepts anyone who worships him and does what is right. You know the message that God has sent to the people of Israel is the Good News that peace has come through Jesus Christ. Jesus is the Lord of all people!" Acts 10:34-36 (NCV) God shows no favoritism. He loves us all and lavishly pours out new compassions on us every morning. No matter who you are or what you have done when you humble yourself and sincerely worship God, you are accepted by Him. You do not have to pretend you are something you're not. God comes to you exactly where you are and meets you there. Hallelujah!

God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM . - Exodus 3:14 (NIV) “I am Almighty God, the Holy One of Israel. I am God, and there is no other. There is none like me. I am your Savior, your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob. Do not be afraid, for I am with you and I watch over you wherever you go. I am your shield, your very great reward. I never change. I am faithful. Those who hope in me will not be disappointed. My promises never fail. I am your Creator, the One who formed you in your mother’s womb. I am your Father. I know you better than you know yourself. I am the potter who shapes your life. I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go (Isaiah 48:17). I am compassionate. I am He who comforts you. I am the LORD, who heals you. I am the Sovereign LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me? ” (Jeremiah 32:27)

He picks up the poor from out of the dirt, rescues the wretched who've been thrown out with the trash, Seats them among the honored guests, a place of honor among the brightest and best. He gives childless couples a family, gives them joy as the parents of children. Hallelujah! Psalm 113:7-9 (The Message) Our heavenly Father is the ultimate transformer. He specializes in changing the condition of our lives, hearts and minds. God picks up the poor out of the dirt and raises us up in Christ and seats us in heavenly places in Christ. He shows us the incomparable riches of His grace. He crowns us with glory and honor and gives us a deposit, guaranteeing our inheritance. He takes those who have been thrown out by society and treasures them with love and compassion. God takes that which is dead and barren and brings it back to life and makes it fruitful. Glory be to God!

For the Lord is high above the nations; his glory is higher than the heavens. Who can be compared with the Lord our God, who is enthroned on high? He stoops to look down on heaven and on earth. Psalm 113:4-6 (NLT) The Lord our God is seated on His throne, high above heaven and earth. He is full of glory and majesty, worthy of all adoration and praise. He is all powerful and all knowing. No one can compare to our mighty God. What a privilege we have to be called His children! To have this great God as our protector and defender. Let all the earth worship our heavenly Father.

Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever. They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the LORD. Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes. Psalm 112:6-8 (NIV) Those who do what is right will not be shaken. The person who trusts in the LORD has no reason to succumb to fear. Our hearts are secure, as we rely on our heavenly Father. We can run our race with the confidence that we will be victorious over our enemies. Hallelujah!

“Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!” Nehemiah 8:10 (NLT) Feeling weak and worn out? Count your blessings and praise the Lord. You will find strength as you rejoice in the Lord. May God anoint you with the oil of gladness and never let your cup go dry.

Great are the works of the LORD; they are pondered by all who delight in them. Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever. He has caused his wonders to be remembered; the LORD is gracious and compassionate. Psalm 111:2-4 (NIV) Let us ponder the great works of the LORD. His spectacular deeds reveal His majesty and glory. He created the earth and the heavens. He gives the breath of life to every living being. Our heavenly Father wrote all our days in His book before one of them came to be. Full of grace and compassion, He guides us along on the right path and never leaves our side. Always remember the wonderful works of our great God!

Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” John 20:27 (NIV) Doubting Thomas had to see the Lord and the nail marks in His hands and put his hand into His side before he believed. But Jesus said those who have believed without physically seeing are blessed. James 1:6-7 says, the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Believe Jesus is all He claimed to be, the way, the truth and the life. Believe that He conquered death, sin and everything in this world that rises up against us. Remember, in Jesus, we have the victory!

Give us aid against the enemy, for human help is worthless. With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies. Psalm 108:12-13 (NIV) Instead of putting your confidence in man, look to the LORD. With God's help, we gain the victory. The One in us, is greater than the one in the world. With God all things are possible. As long as we remain in our heavenly Father, we are a powerful, unstoppable force. Amen!

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. John 10:11-12 (NLT) Jesus is the Good Shepherd who sacrificed His life to save the sheep. He does not abandon us when we are in danger. We have nothing to fear, because He is with us. He guides us along the right paths and leads us beside peaceful streams. Amen.

For your unfailing love is higher than the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. May your glory shine over all the earth. Psalm 108:4-5 (NLT) God's unfailing love reaches you wherever you are. If you're down in a deep, dark valley, His relentless love will help you up. If you're on the mountaintop, His eternal love met you there. When you may think no one cares, our heavenly Father proves you wrong. May His majestic glory shine upon you today and always.

Jesus spoke to the Pharisees again. He said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will have a life filled with light and will never live in the dark.” John 8:12 (God's Word) When we believe in the light, we become children of light (John 12:36). We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. If we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with our heavenly Father and His Son. It is in the light that we experience God's abundant life, and His unending love and compassion. In His light, we are able to clearly see the truth. Let us live in His brilliant light.

On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” John 7:37-38 (NKJ) Are you feeling a little dry and lifeless? Jesus said those who drink the water He gives will never thirst again (John 4:14). He satisfies the thirst of our souls with the presence of His Holy Spirit. Come to the Lord and drink. Be rejuvenated and refreshed as His streams of living water flow deep within you.

Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35 (NIV) Jesus is the bread of life. With Him in our hearts, we are fully satisfied, more so than if we had eaten a 3-course meal. He is the One we need to feed on to receive our daily nourishment. However, we should not act like it's a buffet and choose whatever we want on the menu of life. We are to eat the food our heavenly Father provides, and we will never experience the pangs of hunger and emptiness.

Be glad that you are his; let those who seek the Lord be happy. Depend on the Lord and his strength; always go to him for help. Psalm 105:3-4 (NCV) Be glad that you belong to the LORD and no one can take you out of His hands. As you seek God and His will, let your heart be filled with joy. Instead of trying to accomplish things in your own strength, depend on the LORD and His strength. He is your helper and nothing is too difficult for Him.

Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.” John 3:3 (NLT) Today, I celebrate the single most important, life-changing event of my life. Twenty-one years ago, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and God wrote my name in the Book of Life. During the ignorance of my college years, I was an atheist, but on December 5, 1989, in a small trailer in Fallbrook, California, God opened my eyes to see the Light. Oh what a happy day! Jesus took my burdens and set me free. He replaced my loneliness and pain with joy and the companionship of His Holy Spirit. He took my emptiness and filled my life with love, hope and purpose. I told my sad story to two co-workers who cared enough to listen and they told me about the love, forgiveness and eternal life Jesus offers. Never fail to plant the seeds of the Good News about Jesus and God will cause them to grow.

I will sing to the Lord as long as I live. I will praise my God to my last breath! May all my thoughts be pleasing to him, for I rejoice in the Lord. Psalm 104:33-34 (NLT) When we fix our thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and admirable and think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise, as Philippians 4:8 instructs, then we can be sure our thoughts are pleasing to the Lord. Hebrews 3:1 tells us to fix our thoughts on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. He is most excellent and worthy of the highest praise. Rejoice in the Lord and let the meditation of your mind settle on our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, the reason for all of the seasons.

For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him. Psalm 103:11-13 (NLT) The Lord is like a good father to His children. He wants the very best for us and gives us the necessary tools and resources for success. The Lord showers us with tender lovingkindness and compassion. He is merciful and forgiving. Like a good father, He provides for our present needs and prepares us for a glorious future. Hallelujah!

"But be on your guard. Don't let the sharp edge of your expectation get dulled by parties and drinking and shopping. Otherwise, that Day is going to take you by complete surprise, spring on you suddenly like a trap, for it's going to come on everyone, everywhere, at once. So, whatever you do, don't go to sleep at the switch. Pray constantly that you will have the strength and wits to make it through everything that's coming and end up on your feet before the Son of Man." Luke 21:34-36 (The Message) In a conversation about end times, Jesus warned his followers not to get distracted by worldly events. We are to watch, and pray for strength to endure all that will happen before Jesus returns. Amen.

Let all that I am praise the Lord; with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me. He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies. He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle’s! Psalm 103:1-5 (NLT) Let us never forget the good things the Lord does for us. He forgives us for all the times we fall short of His will. He heals our diseases. The Lord redeems us from death and gives us the wonderful gift of eternal life. His love and tender mercies sit upon us like a crown of sparkling jewels. He renews our youth and vigor and fills our life with good things. Glory hallelujah! Praise the precious name of the Lord!

God will always give what is right to his people who cry to him night and day, and he will not be slow to answer them. Luke 18:7 (NCV) Our heavenly Father is loving, faithful and full of wisdom. He generously gives us exactly what we need in His perfect time. Jesus said, "Even though you’re evil, you know how to give good gifts to your children. So how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him?" Ask, seek, knock and patiently wait for the appointed time. Pray and never lose hope.

And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. Luke 15:20 (NLT) This lost son had taken his inheritance, moved to a distant country and wasted all his money in wild living. After his money ran out, a great famine swept over the land, and he began to starve, but no one gave him anything. When he came to his senses, he returned home. While he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. The father had the best clothes put on him and they had a feast and celebrated. If you have wandered away from our heavenly Father, return home. He will not condemn you. Abba Father is waiting for you with a heavy heart and open arms.

Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker, for he is our God. We are the people he watches over, the flock under his care. Psalm 95:6-7 (NLT) I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.” (Psalm 122:1) Let us continually worship the LORD, our God, who always watches over us. Twenty-four hours a day, He lovingly takes care of us. He provides all our needs and comforts us in our distress. Praise the LORD!

When I said, “My feet are slipping,” your mercy, O Lord, continued to hold me up. When I worried about many things, your assuring words soothed my soul. Psalm 94:18-19 (GW) With unfailing love and tender mercy, the Lord supports us. When we are about to fall, He holds us up. When we are worried and upset, His words soothe our souls. His consoling words cover us with peace and joy like a blanket. Meditate on His wonderful Word everyday!

The Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha! You worry and fuss about a lot things. There's only one thing you need. Mary has made the right choice, and that one thing will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41-42 (GW) Jesus was at the home of Mary and Martha. Mary sat at Jesus' feet and listened to Him teach. Her sister, Martha was busy with all the work to be done. She directed Jesus to tell Mary to help her. But Jesus replied that Mary had made the right choice. Instead of fussing and getting all worked up over things that are temporary, make the right choice. Sit at the feet of Jesus and let the living Word of God be your teacher. It is the most important thing and it will not be taken away from you.

Then Jesus took the five loaves of bread and two fish, and looking up to heaven, he thanked God for the food. Then he divided the food and gave it to the followers to give to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and what was left over was gathered up, filling twelve baskets. Luke 9:16-17 (NCV) Jesus fed 5,000 people with five loaves of bread and two fish. While our resources may seem scarce, we can still share our blessings with others. When we look up to our heavenly Father with a grateful heart and thank Him for what He has given us, we find true contentment and lasting satisfaction.

I eat my fill of prime rib and gravy; I smack my lips. It's time to shout praises! If I'm sleepless at midnight, I spend the hours in grateful reflection. Because you've always stood up for me, I'm free to run and play. I hold on to you for dear life, and you hold me steady as a post. Psalm 63:5-8 (The Message) This Thanksgiving, I'm thankful for my husband and our children who bless my life beyond measure. I thank God for my parents, sisters and extended family members, who are alive, healthy and in their right minds (for the most part). I appreciate those who were a great influence and are now with the Lord. I appreciate good friends and the family of believers in Christ, who are loving and supportive. However, at the top of my list, is the One who makes it all possible. I'm most thankful for our great God, for His Word, for His Holy Spirit that lives in me and for Jesus Christ, the One who saves us all. This Thanksgiving, spend some time in grateful reflectio

It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to the Most High. It is good to proclaim your unfailing love in the morning, your faithfulness in the evening, accompanied by the ten-stringed harp and the melody of the lyre. You thrill me, Lord, with all you have done for me! I sing for joy because of what you have done. O Lord, what great works you do! And how deep are your thoughts. Psalm 92:1-5 (NLT) It is GOOD to give thanks to the LORD. May we count our blessings today. His love never fails to greet you in the morning. His faithfulness carries you through the day and into the night. Think about all the LORD has done for you. How great are the works of our great God. Hallelujah!

“Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked. ” Luke 6:35 (NLT) What is the key to unlocking the door to a very great reward from heaven? It is to love your enemies and do good to them. Lend to them and never expect anything in return. If we do these things, Jesus said, we would truly be acting like children of our heavenly Father. He is generous and gracious to those who are ungrateful and evil.

While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man came along who was covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus, he fell with his face to the ground and begged him, "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. "I am willing," he said. "Be clean!" And immediately the leprosy left him. Luke 5:12 (NIV) Your problem may not be leprosy, but whatever it is, Jesus is the answer to any challenge that comes your way. He is more than willing to meet you, right where you are. When the Lord reaches out His hand and touches you, He provides the healing and wholeness you need to live a full healthy life, one of freedom and victory. Bow down before the Lord and ask Him to make you whole and well. Ask Him to restore what is broken and fill what is empty. Jesus is able!

Pilate wanted to please the crowd, so he freed Barabbas for them. After having Jesus beaten with whips, he handed Jesus over to the soldiers to be crucified. Mark 15:15 (NCV) Guard your heart and mind against the negative influences in the world. Because Pilate was more interested in being a crowd-pleaser, a murderer was set free and the Son of Man, who knew no sin, was crucified. Sometimes the right things that we are called to do, will not be the most popular, but we must live for an audience of One: our heavenly Father. Do what you know in your heart is the right thing.

A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24 (NKJ) Jesus is the loyal friend who sticks closer than a brother. Jesus is Immanuel, which means God with us. He is our constant companion. When we are in need, He is a friend in deed. Proverbs 17:17 says a friend loves at all times. Jesus showed the greatest love of all when He gave His life to save us. Thank our heavenly Father for the wonderful sacrificial love Jesus, our Lord and Savior, graciously gives to us. He calls you, "friend."

Jesus told the people to sit on the ground. Then he took the seven loaves, gave thanks to God, and divided the bread. He gave the pieces to his followers to give to the people, and they did so. The followers also had a few small fish. After Jesus gave thanks for the fish, he told his followers to give them to the people also. All the people ate and were satisfied. Then his followers filled seven baskets with the leftover pieces of food. Mark 8:6-8 (NCV) Jesus thanked God for the seven loaves of bread and few small fish they had and they fed more than 4,000 people. These people didn't just have a little snack. They ate until they were fully satisfied and the disciples filled seven baskets with the leftovers. This is a good lesson in focusing on what you do have instead of what you are lacking, and relying on God no matter how the circumstances appear. Let us thank God for the little we have, and He will provide more than enough.

“All these evil things begin inside people, in the mind: evil thoughts, sexual sins, stealing, murder, adultery, greed, evil actions, lying, doing sinful things, jealousy, speaking evil of others, pride, and foolish living. All these evil things come from inside and make people unclean.” Mark 7:21-23 (NCV) What a person says reflect the nature of their heart. When we talk, we should always be kind and pleasant so we will be able to answer everyone in the proper way (Colossians 4:6, NCV). Kind words are like honey, sweet to the soul and healthy for the body (Proverbs 16:24, NLT).

While Jesus was still speaking, some people came from the house of the synagogue leader. They said, "Your daughter is dead. There is no need to bother the teacher anymore." But Jesus paid no attention to what they said. He told the synagogue leader, "Don't be afraid; just believe." Mark 5:35-36 (NCV) Sometimes we have to know which voices to ignore and which ones to value. Let God's words weigh heavier in your heart and mind and pay no attention to the voices coming from the world. Because the Synagogue leader listened to and trusted in Jesus, his daughter was brought back to life. In God's Word we find life, prosperity and victory. Listen to the word of the LORD.

He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” Mark 4:39-40 (NIV) The disciples became fearful when a storm came up on the lake and woke Jesus up with the accusation that He didn't care. Jesus asked them, "Do you still have no faith?" After all the miracles they had seen, they still lacked faith. They had seen evil spirits cast out, the sick healed, and the paralytic man immediately healed and walked away. After all that God has done in your life, why would you have any doubt that He is working for your good?

And there arose a fierce gale of wind, and the waves were breaking over the boat so much that the boat was already filling up. Jesus Himself was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke Him and said to Him, "Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?" Mark 4:37-38 (NAS) As we experience stormy times, it may appear that the Lord is sleeping, but that is not true. He has everything under control. He knows about the storm before it hits and He has already made a way through. When the disciples woke Jesus up, He rebuked the wind and told the sea to be still and it became perfectly calm. In Isaiah 43:2, God promises, "when you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you." The Lord cares about you. You are in His hands and no one can snatch you out.

A kingdom that is divided cannot continue, and a family that is divided cannot continue. Mark 3:24-25 (NCV) The Message Bible says, a constantly squabbling family disintegrates (Mark 3:25). We are called to dwell together in unity, husbands and wives, brothers and sisters, parents and children, believers in Christ. The Psalmist said, "How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!" Romans 12:18, says do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Let us do what leads to peace and harmony in our homes, within our church family, and at our jobs and places of business. Instead of tearing down, let's build each other up.

We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. 2 Corinthians 10:4 (NLT) Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:14-17, NLT). In order to destroy the lies of our enemy we must put on God's armor and speak His Word. God's Word is alive and active and sharper than any double-edged sword. The Word always accomplishes God's purpose and it stands forever. Amen.

A soldier on duty doesn't get caught up in making deals at the marketplace. He concentrates on carrying out orders. 2 Timothy 2:4 (The Message) Don't get entangled with the affairs of this life. Let us stay focused on our God-given mission. Our enemy has declared war and he will steal, kill and destroy everything and everyone he can. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way (Ephesians 6:11, The Msg). Happy Veteran's Day!

He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” Matthew 26:39 (NLT) When Jesus was sorrowful and deeply distressed, He openly and honestly prayed to the Father. Even though obedience meant death on the cross, He willingly surrendered and gave His life to save us. As we go through difficult times, may we humbly go to God in sincere prayer and submit ourselves to God's will.

“Then he who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.’ Matthew 25:24-25 (NKJ) The master called this person a "wicked and lazy servant." Are you using the talents God has given you? Please don't hide them in the ground. Sing the song you were created to sing. Dance the dance made for you. Don't leave this earth with the music still in you.

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 1 John 4:7-8 (NIV) Yes, God is love and we are in the process of becoming like Him. 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NKJ) says, we all, with unveiled faces, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory. As we surrender to the work of His Holy Spirit within us, and walk in unconditional love with one another, His love will be made complete in us (1 John 4:12). Release any unforgiveness, bitterness and jealousy and choose love.

Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV) With all the commands and laws given to us in the Bible, Jesus made it simple and gave us the two greatest commandments. To make it even easier we can focus on the common denominator: L O V E. Love God. Love your neighbor and Jesus even said, we are to love our enemies. When we walk in love, everything else comes into alignment. If we love others, we will not lie to them or steal from them. And we can only love others, if the love of God is in our own hearts. You may ask: "Who is our neighbor?" Our neighbors are the people we live with, our co-workers, and those we interact with as we come and go throughout our day. Let us have a global vision of who we call neighbor. We can show love to the lost, hurting and hungry in this world by supporting

You have a strong arm; Your hand is mighty, Your right hand is exalted. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; Lovingkindness and truth go before You. How blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! O LORD, they walk in the light of Your countenance. Psalm 89:13-15 (NAS) Do you know the joyful sound? When we answer the call to worship our mighty God, we are drawn into the light of His Presence and He fills us with indescribable joy. The radiance of His face shines on us and any darkness around us flees. Let us make a joyful noise unto the LORD and live in His glorious light.

Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may live according to your truth! Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honor you. With all my heart I will praise you, O Lord my God. I will give glory to your name forever, for your love for me is very great. You have rescued me from the depths of death. Psalm 86:11-13 (NLT) The ways of the Lord are higher than our ways, and His thoughts higher than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:9). Let us learn the ways of the Lord so we can live according to His truth. His truth sets us free from the lies of the enemy and allows us to enjoy peace and prosperity in God's great love for us.

O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help. Listen closely to my prayer, O Lord; hear my urgent cry. I will call to you whenever I’m in trouble, and you will answer me. Psalm 86:5-7 (NLT) The Lord is so good! When we confess our sins, He forgives us. God's love for us never fails and His compassions are new every morning. When we ask, our heavenly Father is there to help us. When we cry out to Him, He answers and delivers us from all our troubles (Psalm 34:17). Praise the Lord for His goodness!

A single day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else! I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God than live the good life in the homes of the wicked. For the Lord God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The Lord will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right. O Lord of Heaven’s Armies, what joy for those who trust in you. Psalm 84:10-12 (NLT) One single day in the presence of God is better than one thousand days spent anywhere else. What unexplainable joy and pleasure we experience in His Holy Presence. Long for the LORD with your whole being: spirit, soul and body. Draw near to Him.

The woman came and knelt before him. “Lord, help me!” she said. He replied, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.” “Yes it is, Lord,” she said. “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.” Matthew 15:25-27 (NIV) Jesus told this woman: “you have great faith! Your request is granted.” And her daughter was healed at that moment, (Matthew 15:25-28). Great faith is persistent. When this woman first cried out to the Lord for Him to heal her daughter, He said, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel." But the woman didn't give up and she didn't get offended. She humbled herself before the Lord and pressed in with her plea. May you have great faith in our Lord and Savior, who is full of compassion.

So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?” Matthew 14:29-31 (NLT) As long as Peter kept his eyes on Jesus, He was able to walk on the water. When he took his eyes off the Lord and looked at the conditions around him, fear took over and he began to sink. Instead of looking at the adverse circumstances in your life, fix your eyes on Jesus, the perfecter of our faith. Have no doubt, all will be well when have great faith in Jesus.

Be my strong refuge, To which I may resort continually; You have given the commandment to save me, For You are my rock and my fortress. Psalm 71:3 (NKJ) May we always retreat to the Lord, our mighty rock. Jesus said, "remain in me, and I will remain in you," (John 15:4). Let us make the Lord our dwelling place. Abide in the shelter of the Most High and His peace and love will fill your heart and mind. In His sanctuary, we find rest and safety.

Then I will praise God’s name with singing, and I will honor him with thanksgiving. For this will please the Lord more than sacrificing cattle, more than presenting a bull with its horns and hooves. The humble will see their God at work and be glad. Let all who seek God’s help be encouraged. Psalm 69:30-32 (NLT) All who seek God's help can be encouraged because He hears you and He will answer. He knows what you need before you ask and He will provide. Honor Him with thanksgiving.

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NKJ) Don't let the enemy steal your joy. The joy of the Lord is your strength. It will allow you to rise above the circumstances of life and rejoice in the victory we have in Jesus. Leave your sorrows at the foot of the cross and put on a garment of praise. May our heavenly Father anoint you with the oil of gladness, until your cup overflows. Praise God for each precious moment He gives you to enjoy life.

They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. Revelation 12:11 (NIV) We overcome the devil and this world by the wonder-working blood of Jesus and by the word of our testimony. Declare victory over the circumstances in your life! Proverbs 18:21 says, death and life are in the power of our tongues. Speak the Word of life over your struggles. "We are more than conquerors through Him who loves us" (Romans 8:37). "Everything is possible for him who believes." (Mark 9:23). Glory Hallelujah!

Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens. Selah Our God is a God who saves; from the Sovereign LORD comes escape from death. Psalm 68:19-20 (NIV) Praise the Lord, who daily bears our burdens. Jesus says, "Come to me, all who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28,GW)

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:10 (NLT) The LORD our God is with you, and nothing is too difficult for Him. He helps you and holds you up with His victorious right hand. With God’s help we will do mighty things (Psalm 60:12, NLT). Thank the LORD!

Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. Psalm 42:5-6 (NIV) Why are you discouraged? Put your hope in the living God. He will deliver you from all your troubles. Amen.

Since we have a great high priest, Jesus the Son of God, who has gone into heaven, let us hold on to the faith we have. For our high priest is able to understand our weaknesses. He was tempted in every way that we are, but he did not sin. Hebrews 4:14-15 (NCV) Jesus is our great high priest, who understands our weaknesses and all that we go through. Never be afraid to bear your soul to Him. Isaiah 53:3 tells us, He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. He was oppressed and afflicted (Isaiah 53:7). Since Jesus has gone through suffering and testing, He is able to help us when we are being tested, (Hebrews 2:18). Let us approach the throne of our gracious God, with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need (Hebrews 4:16).

Then he told me, "This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: 'You will not succeed by your own strength or by your own power, but by my Spirit,' says the Lord All-Powerful. Zechariah 4:6 (NCV) This word is as true for us as it was for Zerubbabel. We can try as hard as want, to accomplish things in our own strength but we will only experience real success when we rely on the power and wisdom of God's Holy Spirit within us. God didn't give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power (2 Timothy 1:7). According to John 16:13, the Holy Spirit will guide us into all truth. By His Spirit, we shall accomplish great and wonderful things.

Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.   — Psalm 57:1 (NIV) Let the troubles that come, pass right on by, while you find shelter in the shadow of His wings. Why stand out in the rain? Walk close to God and stay under the umbrella of His protection. When we stand behind our big God, He shelters us from the storm.

Give your worries to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will never let good people down. Psalm 55:22 (NCV) Give your worries to God. Let go of them and really trust the Lord to work it all together for good. Our heavenly Father is faithful. No matter how bleak the situation may appear, He will take care of you.

You are not pleased by sacrifices, or I would give them. You don't want burnt offerings. The sacrifice God wants is a broken spirit. God, you will not reject a heart that is broken and sorry for sin. Psalm 51:16-17 (NCV) The sacrifice God desires is a broken spirit and a humble heart that is willing to obey Him. We worship God by giving our hearts to Him, with undivided devotion.

I will climb up to my watchtower and stand at my guardpost. There I will wait to see what the Lord says and how he will answer my complaint. Habakkuk 2:1 (NLT) After you have made your requests to the Lord, wait and see what the He says. Earnestly seek our wise God with your questions, concerns and desires. He will hear and answer you with the heart of a loving and faithful Father. Just patiently wait upon the Lord.

Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Psalm 46:10-11 (NIV) May we cease from the flurry of busyness and sit still in the presence of our LORD. When we meditate on His goodness and all His marvelous works, there is no doubt that He is God and that He is exalted above all.

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! Psalm 46:1-3 (NLT) God is with us during the storms and in the fiery furnace. Have courage, knowing that He is by your side and always ready to help. He will provide all that you need.

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm. Psalm 20:7-8 (NIV) Instead of trusting in your possessions, put your trust in the powerful name of the LORD. There is wonder-working power in the name that stands above all names. Lean on the LORD and He will give you the strength to rise up and stand firm.

What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we've been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now! 1 Peter 1:3-4 (The Message) In Jesus Christ, we are new creations. We can let go of our old ways and fully experience a brand-new life. God has given us everything to live for, a glorious future in heaven and a full life here on earth. He has given us a life of purpose and passion. We can walk in freedom and forgiveness, our hearts overflowing with joy and peace. Our brand-new life is established on the eternal foundation of God's unfailing love. Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you. John 15:15 (NKJ) Jesus affectionately calls you friend. As a loving and compassionate friend, Jesus shows us the way to an abundant life, full of everlasting peace and overflowing joy. When we learn from Him, we find rest for our souls (Matthew 11:29). Live your life with Christ, just as you do your best friend, spending time and being real. Frolic in His love and share it with others.

Why am I so sad? Why am I so upset? I should put my hope in God and keep praising him, my Savior and my God. Psalm 42:11 (NCV) Are you like Martha? She was worried and upset about many things (Luke 10:41). Instead of letting your worries and concerns choke the life out of you, put all your hope in God. Cast all your cares on the LORD. He said the battle belongs to Him. Keep praising Him for who He is, for what He has done, what He is doing and what He will do.

Change your life, not just your clothes. Come back to God, your God. And here's why: God is kind and merciful. He takes a deep breath, puts up with a lot, This most patient God, extravagant in love, always ready to cancel catastrophe. Joel 2:13 (The Message) The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). Our heavenly Father is extravagant in love and full of kindness. Because of His great love for us, God who is rich in mercy, saves us by His grace (Ephesians 2:4-5). Draw near to the LORD, our God.

I'm after love that lasts, not more religion. I want you to know God, not go to more prayer meetings. Hosea 6:6 (The Message) The greatest thing we can do is love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30) and keep Him first in our lives and hearts (Matthew 6:33). God doesn't want us caught up in religion and rituals. He is after RELATIONSHIP. God wants us captured by His love and loyal in our love toward Him. He wants us to know Him intimately as Abba Father or Daddy. Nothing we desire on this earth can compare with our heavenly Father, the One who created us and wants to spend eternity with us.

The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand. Psalm 37:23-24 (NLT) The Lord delights in every detail of your life. You are not forgotten, as the enemy would have you believe. Our heavenly Father is intimately involved with anything that concerns you. Take each step according to His direction and you will never fall. The Lord holds you by the hand as you journey to the wonderful promise land the Lord has for you.

May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it. 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 (NIV) There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears (Philippians 1:5:6, The Message). The Apostle Paul tells us that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us (Romans 8:18). And 2 Corinthians 4:17 says, our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. Let us keep our eye on the prize and know in our hearts and minds that God will do it. He will bring us through to a victorious finish that will make us forget all about the troubles we experienced along the way.

Trust in the LORD, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Delight yourself also in the LORD, And He shall give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass. Psalm 37:3-5 (NKJ) The LORD is forever faithful. He keeps all the promises He has made. He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one (2 Thessalonians 3:3). He is faithful to be with you through the floodwaters and through the fire. Great is His faithfulness. He remains faithful even if we lose faith. When you trust the LORD, you will not be disappointed.

Lord, your love reaches to the heavens, your loyalty to the skies. Your goodness is as high as the mountains. Your justice is as deep as the great ocean. Lord, you protect both people and animals. God, your love is so precious! You protect people in the shadow of your wings. Psalm 36:5-7 (NCV) The precious love of God is so deep and wide, it fills the earth and reaches the heavens. His goodness is taller than the highest mountain. In the shadow of His wings, we find shelter from the storm. May you know the depth and height of God's precious love for you.

You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy, that I might sing praises to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever! Psalm 30:11-12 (NLT) God takes our sorrow and gives us something to dance about. He removes our dark, heavy clothes of mourning and gives us a light garment of praise. Give thanks to the Lord always!

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from your hand, O king. Daniel 3:16-17 (NIV) The LORD, our mighty God is able to save us from anything the enemy brings our way. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were thrown into a blazing furnace that had been heated seven times hotter than usual because they refused to worship the god of Nebuchadnezzar. These three men trusted God and they came out of the fire unharmed. Neither their clothes nor their hair was burned. They didn’t even smell like smoke (Daniel 3:27). If you are in the heat of battle, do not fear, our God is able to save you.

I will exalt you, Lord, for you rescued me. You refused to let my enemies triumph over me. O Lord my God, I cried to you for help, and you restored my health. You brought me up from the grave, O Lord. You kept me from falling into the pit of death. Psalm 30:1-3 (NLT) The Lord rescues us from the clutches of our enemies and gives us the victory. He restores our health and keeps us from falling into the pit of death. Give God some praise!

Praise the Lord! For he has heard my cry for mercy. The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. Psalm 28:6-7 (NLT) Burst out in songs of thanksgiving when you think of how the Lord has helped you. His ear is always open to hear your cry. The Lord is our strength to keep us from growing weary and faint. The Lord is our protective shield against the darts of the enemy. He is the source of all our joy and peace. Praise the living God!

I begged the Lord three times to take this problem away from me. But he said to me, "My grace is enough for you. When you are weak, my power is made perfect in you." So I am very happy to brag about my weaknesses. Then Christ's power can live in me. 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 (NCV) Don't be afraid to admit your limitations. When we are weak, the power of Christ can work through us. Its a perfect combination: His power and our weakness. In addition, the Lord extends His grace which is enough for us to endure and persevere.

Remember, O Lord, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past. Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth. Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O Lord. Psalm 25:6-7 (NLT) God created us as social beings. We have a need to be loved and to be in relationship with others. In God's family we are sisters and brothers who are called to dwell together in love. In our imperfect state we may fall short and fail to walk in love with another. But our heavenly Father remembers each one of us and holds us dear in His heart. Sometimes we put conditions on our love towards others, but God loves us without condition. His love never fails. Abba Father is full of compassion and mercy. He remembers you!

Some trust in chariots, others in horses, but we trust the Lord our God. They are overwhelmed and defeated, but we march forward and win. Psalm 20:7-8 (NCV) Those who trust in the LORD our God will march forward and win. They will experience sweet victory! Those who put their trust in created things instead of the Creator will be defeated. Let all your faith and hope rest on our great and glorious God.

The instructions of the Lord are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The commandments of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are clear, giving insight for living. Psalm 19:7-8 (NLT) The instructions of the Lord help us to see the complicated situations before us clearly and they give us the wisdom to make the right choices. Following the Lord's teachings brings joy to the heart and revives the soul. May we live by His Word. The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever (Isaiah 40:8).

I said to the Lord, “You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you.” Psalm 16:2 (NLT) Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of the heavenly lights (James 1:17). God is so full of love and grace. He is the number one giver. He gave His one and only Son to save the world. May we count our blessings today and give thanks to our heavenly Father for all the good things we have in our lives.

The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, A refuge in times of trouble. And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You. Psalm 9:9-10 (NKJ) In times of trouble, the LORD is a safe harbor, a shelter from the storm. Those who know the LORD will put their trust in Him. He is able to rebuke the winds and calm the raging seas. Look to the LORD for all your needs. He will not withdraw His companionship from those who seek Him. Allow the LORD to lead you beside peaceful, still waters.

I'm thanking you, God, from a full heart, I'm writing the book on your wonders. I'm whistling, laughing, and jumping for joy; I'm singing your song, High God. Psalm 9:1-2 (The Message) Thank God with a heart full of gratitude for all of the wonders He has worked in your life. He kept us safe, while our enemy was trying to take us out. Wholeheartedly sing praise to the Most High God. Whistle, laugh, and jump for joy. God is working for your good!

Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him! Philippians 4:4-5 (The Message) Celebrate God. He is so good and there is no end to the love and compassion He showers on us. We have so much to rejoice about in the LORD. He withholds no good thing from those who do what is right (Psalm 84:11). The LORD shows us the path to true life; He fills us with joy in His presence and eternal pleasures are at His right hand (Psalm 16:11). He constantly watches over us and catches us when we fall. Where would we be without Him?

Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? (As the Scriptures say, “For your sake we are killed every day; we are being slaughtered like sheep.”) No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. Romans 8:35-37 (NLT) Despite the challenges, troubles and hardships we experience in life, as God's chosen and beloved children, overwhelming victory is ours. In Christ, God has already given us victory. There is nothing the enemy can do to take it away. We will triumph over any trial that comes our way, if we stick with Jesus. Amen.

I run for dear life to God, I'll never live to regret it. Do what you do so well: get me out of this mess and up on my feet. Put your ear to the ground and listen, give me space for salvation. Be a guest room where I can retreat; you said your door was always open! You're my salvation—my vast, granite fortress. Psalm 71:1-3 (The Message) We will have no regrets about giving our all to run in God's direction. There will be no disappointment when we retreat into His glorious Presence, only pleasure forevermore. Since His door is always open, let's approach God's throne and receive His mercy and grace, to help us in our time of need (Hebrews 4:16).

Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever. Psalm 73:25-26 (NLT) The LORD stands by your side and gives you strength. When you are feeling weak or are fighting sickness, draw your strength from our mighty God. His supply will never run dry.

Though the Lord is supreme, he takes care of those who are humble, but he stays away from the proud. Psalm 138:6 (NCV) God guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way (Psalm 25:9). He opposes the proud and gives grace to those who are humble. With humility comes wisdom and honor. Let us humble ourselves under God’s mighty hand and He will lift us up in due time (1 Peter 5:6).

The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!” Lamentations 3:22-24 (NLT) The flow of God's mercies toward us never stop. Every morning, we receive a fresh outpouring of His tender mercies. Praise God for His great faithfulness and love.

The Lord is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him. So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the Lord. Lamentations 3:25-26 (NLT) Depend on the Lord. Look for Him in every situation and wait quietly (with no mumbling or complaining) for His deliverance. God is good and He is faithful.

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NLT) If you are having troubles of any kind, find comfort in the loving arms of our heavenly Father. Know that He will hold you up and be your strength. God will guide you through the storms to bright, sunny days. Amen.

To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen. Jude 24-25 (NIV) Our wonderful Savior is able to keep you from falling. If you stumble, His outstretched arms will catch you. Abide in the safe and peaceful sanctuary of our God and He will bring you, with great joy, into His glorious presence without a single fault. We belong to Him and no one can snatch us out of His hand. Glory, majesty and power to the one and only, true and living God, through Jesus Christ our Lord, now and forever! Amen.

For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves. 2 Corinthians 4:6-7 (NLT) May we, as children of God, let His light brightly shine through us. The light and love of the Lord pierces the darkness and draws men, women and children unto Him. Share the great treasure of His light and love with those God brings your way.

Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21 (NLT) Surrender to the power of God's Holy Spirit who is at work within you. It is only by His Spirit that the battles of life are won. As we submit our wills, our minds, and our hearts to God, He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we can ask or imagine, by His mighty power gently working in us. Glory to God forever and ever!