Manna for Your Morning

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.  — James 4:8 (NKJV) As we make our New Year resolutions and set our goals for the coming year,  may pursuing the peaceful, yet powerful Presence of Almighty God be our number one priority. To know our heavenly Father and stay connected to Him, is truly our primary purpose. Allow the fullness of His Spirit, and the abundance of His love to fill your empty, broken places. Intimacy, let our wonderful Creator see into you and shape you into the unique, marvelous creation you were meant to be. He will perfect all that concerns you (Psalm 138:8). Amen.

You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the plots of man; You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.  — Psalm 31:20 (NKJV) Trust in the LORD, for in the time of trouble He shall hide you in His pavilion; In the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide you; (Psalm 27:5). Stay in the secret place of His Presence, where there is fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore. There is a peace that surpasses all understanding. Yes, dwell in the secret place of the Most High and abide under the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1).

Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God, Who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them; Who keeps truth forever,  — Psalm 146:5-6 (NKJV) Happy is the person who has learned to rely on the LORD for help. He or she can lay down and sleep in peace because they know their heavenly Father is always working for their good. And they realize that nothing is too difficult for God, the Maker of heaven and earth! He is a faithful Father who fulfills all His promises. Rejoice because He has already given us the victory and made us conquerors through our Lord Jesus Christ! (1 Corinthians 15:57) Don't worry, be happy!

“Why do you see the piece of sawdust in another believer’s eye and not notice the wooden beam in your own eye?” — Luke 6:41 (GW) Why is it so easy to see someone else's “stuff” and not our own? We conveniently make excuses for ourselves when we say something that should have been left unspoken. And we are able to justify and minimize our attitudes, when they are not right. However, the second greatest commandment is for us to love our neighbors as we love ourselves (Matthew 22:39). So let us always look to see the good in the other person. Maybe they are just having a “bad” day. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8).

And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” which is translated, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” — Mark 15:34 (NKJV) As Jesus bore our sins on the cross, He experienced separation from God. That was the most agonizing, gut-wrenching moment of all. More than the pain of having nails hammered into His hands and feet. More than the beating which ripped the flesh off His back and left Him unrecognizable as a human being. It was not being mocked and rejected by men. It was being separated from His Father that made Him cry out. He suffered all of this, to reconcile us back into fellowship with the heavenly Father. What a privilege we have, to fellowship with our heavenly Father, to have access to Him, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Pursue His Presence today. Live in it every moment of every day!

The LORD is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does. The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.  — Psalm 145:17-18 (NIV) While we may not always understand the circumstances that God allows to come our way, we can be assured that the LORD our God is righteous and just in all the works which He does. As He says in Isaiah 55:9 “My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” God is also forever faithful. He will never leave us or forsake us. No matter what comes our way, our heavenly Father, will be with us and He will see us through it all. Amen!

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 2:10-11 (NIV) The good news about Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, is a message that should fill everyone's heart with joy. Jesus was sent to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners (Isaiah 61:1). Our Lord and Savior came that we may have life, and that we may have it more abundantly (John 10:10). That includes a healthy, prosperous life on this earth and for all eternity. Sing to the LORD, bless His name; Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day (Psalm 96:2). Hallelujah!

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. — Luke 2:10-11 (NASB) Jesus is God's gift to the world, every race, tongue, tribe and nation. God shows no favoritism (Acts 10:34). The Lord does not want anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:10). Amen!

Blessed is the person who does not follow the advice of wicked people, take the path of sinners, or join the company of mockers. Rather, he delights in the teachings of the LORD and reflects on his teachings day and night. — Psalm 1:1-2 (GW) So often, we say, “God bless you!” However, if we want to be blessed, we have to be proactive. God has given us a gift, His Word. It is up to us, to unwrap it and gain understanding. When we read the Word and apply it to our lives, true blessings will follow. The Bible is a love letter to us from Almighty God. It speaks of His unending love, grace and faithfulness. Delight yourself in His Word and treasure it in your heart!

And the LORD restored Job’s losses when he prayed for his friends. Indeed the  LORD  gave Job twice as much as he had before. — Job 42:10 (NKJV) Job lost everything and greatly suffered with painful boils, all over his body. But Job persevered through the adversity and prayed for his friends, who had made many accusations against him. Then, God restored him. The LORD blessed the latter part of Job’s life more than the former part (Job 42:12). After his troubles, Job lived one hundred and forty years, and saw his children and grandchildren for four generations (Job 42:16). In the midst of whatever circumstances come our way, may we remember to take our eyes off of ourselves and pray for our friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, etc.

The eyes of all look expectantly to You, and You give them their food in due season. You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing.  — Psalm 145:15-16 (NKJV) God is Jehovah Jireh, our Provider. He not only provides food for our physical bodies, He also gives us His Word to feed us spiritually. You can be sure that God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19). He opens His hand, and we are satisfied. Keep your eyes on the LORD and patiently wait, with expectation. He does not disappoint. “In the Mount of the LORD it shall be provided.” (Genesis 22:14).

The LORD upholds all who fall, and raises up all who are bowed down.  — Psalm 145:14 (NKJV) In Isaiah 41:10, the LORD says, “ Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” The LORD is our support. He is there to catch us if we fall. Our heavenly Father reaches down and lifts us out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire of life. He sets our feet on a rock and gives us a firm place to stand (Psalm 40:2). Amen!

The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.  — Psalm 145:8-9 (NIV) The LORD is full of grace and compassion, and He is good to all. He has compassion over all His creation. You are the handiwork of God, Himself and He has not forgotten about you. He showers you with compassion. His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; (Lamentations 3:22-23). Stand under the nozzle of His grace and get saturated with His love!

“There are those who rebel against the light; They do not know its ways nor abide in its paths.”  — Job 24:13 (NKJV) Don't be one of those who fight against God. Who do you think is going to win that battle? Jesus came as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Him should not abide in darkness (John 12:46). We were once darkness, but now we are light in the Lord. Let us walk as children of light and He will lead us along on the path of life. For this light we have within us produces everything that is good, that has God’s approval, and that is true (Ephesians 5:8-9). Abide in the light!

I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever. Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.  — Psalm 145:1-3 (NIV) As long as we have the breath of life, let us praise the LORD! Worthy is the LORD to receive all honor, glory and praise! There is no one like Him! Our great God is most high above all the earth, let us exalt His name together!

“Look at me. I stand at the door. I knock. If you hear me call and open the door, I’ll come right in and sit down to supper with you.  — Revelation 3:20 (The Message) Jesus wants to occupy your whole heart, but He doesn't force His way. We must open the door and invite Him in. Don’t just open the door, let's roll out the red carpet and invite Him into every room. He will help us remove the clutter and clean out those areas that are not quite right. So answer the call of Jesus and let Him rule and reign in your heart!

Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.  — Psalm 143:8 (NIV) Because of the LORD's great love for us, we are not consumed. His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; (Lamentations 3:22-23). We can trust our heavenly Father to show us the way we should go, because His love for us goes on and on. Every morning, His compassions begin afresh. May we lift our souls up to Him and open wide the door of our hearts to His Presence.

I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. I spread out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land. Selah  — Psalm 143:5-6 (NIV) Are you journeying through a dry land? When your soul thirsts for the Lord, it shall be satisfied. He is the Living Water. Jesus says, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink,” (John 7:37). He is the spring of living water. Let him who thirsts come and drink!

Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him. — Job 13:15 (NKJV) Job says, even if God were to kill him, he would still trust God. Trust transcends circumstances and our desire to understand everything that goes on in our lives. No matter what comes our way, let us continue to keep our trust firmly planted in God, knowing that He will work all things together for good. Confidently rely on our faithful God, and you will not be disappointed!

Oh, that you would be silent, and it would be your wisdom!  — Job 13:5 (NKJV) Ecclesiastes 3:7 reminds us that there is a time to be silent and a time to speak. Sometimes silence is golden. When Job's friends learned of his troubles, they sat down with him on the ground seven days and seven nights, and no one spoke a word to him, for they saw that his grief was very great (Job 2:13). Wisdom is not only speaking the right word, but also speaking at the right time. A word spoken in due season, how good it is! (Proverbs 15:23)

LORD, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief.  — Psalm 143:1 (NIV) Because He is faithful and righteous, our heavenly Father comes to our relief. Even when our backs are turned toward Him, our God remains faithful. For He is the LORD, He does not change (Malachi 3:6). He delivers the righteous out of all their troubles. In Psalm 50:15 God says, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.”

But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; — Daniel 1:8 (NKJV) As children of God we have to purpose in our hearts that we will not defile ourselves with the things and/or ways of the world. May we make a dedicated decision to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, dedicated to God and pleasing to Him (Romans 12:1). As the Message Bible says: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering.

Loudly, I cry to the LORD. Loudly, I plead with the LORD for mercy. I pour out my complaints in his presence and tell him my troubles. When I begin to lose hope, you already know what I am experiencing . — Psalm 142:1-3 (GW) Whatever challenges you are facing today, the LORD already knows. He has all of our days written in His book. Don’t lose hope, because He has already made a way out for you. Our heavenly Father will see you through. Amen!

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 3:13-14 (The Message) As we begin to put closure on this year, let us forget those things which are behind us and press on. Where we are going is much more important than where we have been. May we move onward and upward, to Jesus and the call that God has on our lives. Don't turn back. Keep your eye on the goal!

“Stand up, and thank the LORD your God: From everlasting to everlasting your glorious name is praised and lifted high above all blessing and praise. You alone are the LORD.
 You made heaven, the highest heaven, with all its armies. You made the earth and everything on it, the seas and everything in them. You give life to them all, and the armies of heaven worship you.” — Nehemiah 9:5-6 (GW) Let everything that has breath, thank the LORD! He is the giver of life. Our heavenly Father is a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love (Nehemiah 9:17). And His faithful love never runs out on us. Thank You, LORD!

And be not grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and stronghold. — Nehemiah 8:10 (AMP) Need more joy? Draw closer to our heavenly Father. In His presence is fullness of joy; At His right hand are pleasures forevermore (Psalm 16:11). Delight yourself in the LORD, rejoicing always before Him and your strength will be continually renewed. He will be your stronghold: a fortified place that protects against attack.

Then he read from it in the open square that was in front of the Water Gate from morning until midday, before the men and women and those who could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law. — Nehemiah 8:3 (NKJV) Do you give attention to the Word of God? For the Word of God is living and powerful, (Hebrews 4:12). God has magnified His word above all His name (Psalm 138:2). Joshua 1:8 tells us to always have the Word on our lips and to meditate in it day and night, to do according to all that is written in it. Then we will make our way prosperous, and have good success. Amen!

Set a guard over my mouth, LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips. Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil...  — Psalm 141:3-4 (NIV) Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit (Proverbs 18:21). Let us speak edifying words of life, over our lives and over others. Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body (Proverbs 16:24, NLT).

But my eyes are upon You, O GOD the Lord; In You I take refuge; Do not leave my soul destitute. Keep me from the snares they have laid for me, and from the traps of the workers of iniquity.  — Psalms 141:8-9 (NKJV) Fix your eyes on the Lord and do not get distracted by any of the sideshows. They are only there to get you to take a detour off the path God has for you. Ttrust and take refuge in the Lord. He will not leave you destitute. He will protect you through the fire and through the storms.

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. — Psalm 139:23-24 (NLT) The LORD leads us beside quiet waters, He refreshes our souls. He guides us along the right paths for His name’s sake (Psalm 23:2-3). The LORD shows us the path of life (Psalm 16:11). Let us faithfully and humbly follow our heavenly Father and He will lead us into a future that is exceedingly abundantly above all that we dare ask or even imagine.

Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.  — 1 Peter 5:7 (AMP) Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression (Proverbs 12:25). Don't cast only part of your concerns upon God. We are instructed to give ALL of our cares to Him, once and for all. Don't turn around and take them back again. Our Heavenly Father cares for you. If it concerns you, it concerns Him. Our God is able. Let go and let God be God!

How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; When I awake, I am still with You.  — Psalm 139:17-18 (NKJV) How precious are God's thoughts concerning you!  Our God is so amazing. His thoughts of you outnumber the grains of sand on the seashore. Not a moment passes by, that you are not on His mind. He has made many wonderful plans for us (Psalm 40:5, GW). May our minds be captivated with thoughts of our loving and gracious God!

He had begun his journey from Babylon on the first day of the first month, and he arrived in Jerusalem on the first day of the fifth month, for the gracious hand of his God was on him. — Ezra 7:9 (NIV) Ezra had the good hand of God upon him during his five month journey to Jerusalem. May the gracious hand of God be upon on us, as we embark upon the journey to a higher and deeper place in God. His gracious hand will guide us and protect us along the way. The good hand of God is there to catch us, when we fall and comfort us in our distress. The good hand of God opens doors, that were previously shut. Let us rely on the gracious hand of God. Amen.

But the leaders of the Jews were under God’s watchful eye. They couldn’t be stopped until Darius received a report and sent a reply to it. — Ezra 5:5 (GW) Just as God's eye was upon the Jews, He continues to watch over His people today. Since He formed you in the womb of your mother, our Heavenly Father has had His eye on you. He sees your struggles and He is there to give you the strength to endure and persevere. His eye is on your going out and your coming in, and He goes before you to smooth out the rough places. How blessed are we to be under God's watchful eye!

Now when the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin heard that the descendants of the captivity were building the temple of the LORD God of Israel, they came to Zerubbabel and the heads of the fathers’ houses, — Ezra 4:1-2 (NKJV) When the people of Judah and Benjamin refused to let their enemies "help" them build the temple of God, they tried to discourage them. They attempted to frustrate their purposes and then they sent accusations against them to the king. When we are in the process of doing something for God, we can expect our adversary to show up. We must stay alert and be of sober mind, because our adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).

Asa was afflicted with a disease in his feet. Though his disease was severe, even in his illness he did not seek help from the LORD, but only from the physicians. Then in the forty-first year of his reign Asa died and rested with his ancestors. — 2 Chronicles 16:12-13 (NIV) There is nothing wrong with going to the doctors, God uses them too. But put your trust and confidence in JESUS, the Great Physician. If we want to experience physical, emotional, mental and spiritual healing, we must go to Jesus, our Healer. Only Jesus heals, delivers and makes us whole. Praise the Lord!

“Hear me, Levites! Now sanctify yourselves, sanctify the house of the Lord God of your fathers, and carry out the rubbish from the holy place. — 2 Chronicles 29:5 (NKJV) During King Hezekiah's restoration project, he instructed the Levitical priests to clean out the holy place. First Peter 2:9 says, we are a a royal priesthood. We are the temple of God, and the Spirit of God dwells in us (1 Corinthians 3:16). So, let us take a survey of all that we have accumulated throughout the year and carry out any rubbish. Get rid of all debris: offense, unforgiveness, pride, rebellion, etc. These are things which will cause a root of bitterness to grow and defile our temples. Amen!

He set himself to seek God in the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the things of God; and as long as he sought (inquired of, yearned for) the Lord, God made him prosper. — 2 Chronicles 26:5 (AMP) When we seek the Lord, with all of our hearts, He makes us prosper. Prosperity touches every area of our lives. Our physical bodies are in good health, our souls flourish, and we are fruitful. We maintain healthy, loving relationships (based on compassion, trust, and respect). We have more than enough, thus the abundant life that Jesus came to give us. Let us dedicate our lives to drawing near to God, yearning for His Presence every moment, and delighting to do His will.  Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers (3 John 1:2).

“Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.”  — 2 Chronicles 20:15 (NKJV) When the people of Judah were being pursued by their enemies, the LORD told them, the battle was not theirs. Are you trying to fight battles, God will fight for you? God's people were told to position themselves, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD (2 Chronicles 20:17). The LORD set ambushes against their enemies and they were defeated. If you want to be victorious in the battles you face, MAINTAIN your POSITION in the LORD. Be wherever He has directed you to be. Be humble and worship Him in all that you do (2 Chronicles 20:18). Stand by and see the LORD deliver you!

God didn’t have to wake me up this morning, but I am so glad He did! The Lord did not have to take me out of darkness, and bring me into His marvelous light, but He did. Jesus didn't have to suffer and die on the cross to save us from the pit of hell, but praise the Lord, He did! God did it all! Now we can shine as children of light and live free, healthy and whole! Thank you, JESUS! All this is for your sake so that, as God’s kindness overflows in the lives of many people, it will produce even more thanksgiving to the glory of God. — 2 Corinthians 4:15 (GW)

I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify Him with thanksgiving. — Psalm 69:30 (NKJV) Proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all God's wondrous works (Psalm 26:7)! When we give thanks to the LORD, He is magnified in our lives. The mountains that stand before us shrink in His Presence and our LORD emerges into the foreground of our lives. Let us GIVE THANKS everyday, with an attitude of gratitude! Show grateful appreciation for all He has done in your life. He didn’t have to... but praise God, He did. Amen!

For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. — 2 Chronicles 16:9 (NKJV) A loyal heart has a consistent, deep devotion, that says, “I'm with you!” It is steadfast and immovable. When you are loyal to someone, you are willing to lay your life on the line for the other person. God is constantly looking for people whose hearts are totally committed to Him, so He can show Himself strong on their behalf. Let us serve Him with a loyal heart and with a mind that is willing to do it His way.

My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.  — Psalm 139:15-16 (NIV) We have been upheld by the LORD from birth; He brought us forth from our mother’s wombs (Psalm 71:6). Let us thank and praise the LORD for taking care of us from the day we were born to this very moment! If it had not been for God, who knows where we would be today. And Abba Father is so awesome, He has every single day of our lives all planned out. He has plans to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11)! Glory Hallelujah!

Thus the children of Israel were subdued at that time; and the children of Judah prevailed, because they relied on the LORD God of their fathers . — 2 Chronicles 13:18 (NKJV) If you want to be shown more powerful than the forces that oppose you, rely on the LORD. Keep all of your trust and confidence anchored in the LORD, and you will see our mighty God show Himself strong on your behalf. Amen!

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.  — Psalm 139:13-14 (NIV) You are among God's wonderful creations. He chose you for Himself, in Christ, before the creation of the world (Ephesians 1:4). You are a very special person. God knit you together in your mother's womb, with a unique set of gifts, talents and abilities. Only you can fulfill your God-given purpose. He has destined you for greatness and for His glory to be shown. Praise the LORD!

If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me.  — Psalm 139:9-10 (NLT) The Psalmist says, "I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence!" (Psalm 139:7). My questions is, "Why would we ever want to?" Stop trying to hide from God and draw near. He guides us along right paths, bringing honor to his name (Psalm 23:3, NLT). His strength is our support. Thank you, Abba Father!

On the twenty-third day of the seventh month he sent the people away to their tents, joyful and glad of heart for the good that the LORD had done for David, for Solomon, and for His people Israel. — 2 Chronicles 7:10 (NKJV) Let us be joyful and glad of heart for all the good the LORD has done for us. Isaiah 61:10 says, I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness. Hallelujah! We are so blessed to be children of God. Be glad in the LORD and make a joyful shout to Him, all you saints!

You are all around me—in front of me and in back of me. You lay your hand on me. Such knowledge is beyond my grasp. It is so high I cannot reach it.  — Psalm 139:5-6 (GW) The reassuring presence of the LORD goes before us and in back of us. Even in the storms, remember, you have not been abandoned nor forgotten. Our heavenly Father is with you and He is working for your good. With His powerful arm, He protects us on every side. His hand of blessing is upon us, to give us a future filled with hope.

O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word on my tongue, but behold, O LORD, You know it altogether.  — Psalm 139:1-4 (NKJV) Our heavenly Father knows us better than we know ourselves and He still loves us exactly the way we are. He accepts us, as-is. However, He wants the best for us, so He doesn't want to leave us in the same condition. If you have taken a detour off the path God has for you, He knew that would be the case, before it happened. Jesus still says, “Come to Me!” Join Jesus on the path already laid out for you. It is a journey that leads to abiding peace, abundant life and joy forevermore.

Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and Your right hand will save me. The LORD will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O LORD, endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands.  — Psalm 138:7-8 (NKJV) When the winds of adversity blow into your life, remember that Almighty God in you is greater than he who is in the world. Abide in the LORD, our strong tower and you will not be moved. No matter what happens in your life, our heavenly Father will perfect everything that concerns you. He delivers the righteous out of all their troubles (Psalm 34:17).

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) Beloved, whatever you do, do it all in love! If we fail to love others, we fail to love God. He is LOVE! Just as the DNA of a baby verifies who the father is, the love we have in the fibers of our heart, our DNA, testifies that we have been born of God. If His love is in us, when we get squeezed and pressured, His love is what will come out of us. May you be rooted and established in His love today and always!

In the day when I cried out, You answered me, and made me bold with strength in my soul.  — Psalm 138:3 (NKJV) Our God is Jehovah Shammah. He is always with us, an ever-present God! Every time we call upon the name of the LORD, He hears and answers. He knows our limitations and He steps in at just the right time and gives us strength. Constantly look to the LORD and put your confidence in Him as the Source of your strength. He makes us bold by giving strength to our souls: mind, will and emotions. With the intervention of our heavenly Father, we can think strong thoughts, we can set our will to follow God's instructions, and we can line our emotions up with the Word of God. Trust in the LORD forever, for in YAH, the LORD, is everlasting strength (Isaiah 26:4)!

I will worship toward Your holy temple, and praise Your name for Your lovingkindness and Your truth; For You have magnified Your word above all Your name. — Psalm 138:2 (NKJV)      The LORD loves us with an everlasting love and He draws us near to Him in lovingkindness. He does not give as the world gives. To the world you may be a hero one day and a big, fat zero the next. Our heavenly Father delights in declaring His lovingkindness every morning (Psalm 92:2). His love never fails and it never runs out.      His Word is truth and it too, stands forever. May we desire truth in our inmost being. First Peter 2:2 tells us to, crave the pure, spiritual milk of the word, that you may grow. His truth will set you free, free to LOVE, free to LIVE, free to wholeheartedly WORSHIP God!

Give thanks to him who led his people through the wilderness. His faithful love endures forever. — Psalm 136:16 (NLT) In your season of wilderness wandering, just keep following God, He will lead you through the wilderness, to the long awaited Promised Land. Get rid of everything that slows you down. Allow no distractions, which  so easily trips us up. Keep moving forward, with your eyes on the Lord Jesus and give thanks to God for His faithfulness and love!

Behold, bless the LORD, all you servants of the LORD, who by night stand in the house of the LORD! Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the LORD.  — Psalm 134:1-2 (NKJV) Lift up holy hands in the sanctuary, and gratefully praise the LORD! Let us sing praises to our God, for He is good all the time. Our LORD is above all gods. The name of the LORD endures forever, His fame, throughout all generations. Fix your eyes on Jesus, the Leader and the Source of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Worship the Lord, with your entire being. Bless His holy name!

Saul died because he was unfaithful to the LORD; he did not keep the word of the LORD and even consulted a medium for guidance, and did not inquire of the LORD. — 1 Chronicles 10:13-14 (NIV) Today we have the Word of God and His Holy Spirit living within us, to guide us. We can suffer serious consequences for making wrong decisions and bad choices. Fools die for lack of wisdom (Proverbs 10:21). Our God is all-knowing and all wisdom dwells with Him. Inquire of the LORD before you launch and seek His guidance in all endeavors.

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! — Psalm 133:1 (NKJV) Jesus prayed for all believers to dwell together in unity. “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me,” (John 17:20-21). Our unity is a testimony to the world. Let us eagerly pursue the things which bring peace and make every effort to be united in love.

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go into the house of the LORD.” — Psalm 122:1 (NKJV) Even though our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in us, and we can worship Him wherever we are, let us not stop gathering together with other believers, as some are in the habit of doing. Instead, we must continue to encourage each other even more as we see the day of the Lord coming (Hebrews 10:25).

Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully. — 1 Peter 5:7 (AMP) You will never soar like an eagle if you are weighed down with all kinds of concerns and anxieties. Cast your cares on the LORD, once and for all. That means, don't take them back after you cast them, by continuing to worry. Our heavenly Father cares about you. He has your back (front and sides too!) He keeps constant watch over you. Trust God. He's got this!

Attention, all! See the marvels of God! He plants flowers and trees all over the earth, bans war from pole to pole, breaks all the weapons across his knee “Step out of the traffic! Take a long, loving look at me, your High God, above politics, above everything.” — Psalm 46:8-10 (The Message) Get out of the fast lane, with all of its distractions and detours. Put your hand in the hand of the Father and be led on the path that He has for you. It is a path of abundant life and peace. Take a long, loving look at the LORD. He is above all. Let go of your concerns! Then you will know that I am God (Psalm 46:10, GW). Amen.

It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night,
 anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones . — Psalm 127:2 (NLT)  It is not by might nor by power, but by the Spirit of the LORD that we accomplish anything of value and lasting significance. Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.]” —Matthew 11:28, (AMP). Continually come to Jesus and find rest for your weary soul.

Those who cry while they plant will joyfully sing while they harvest. — Psalm 126:5 (GW) To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven: (Ecclesiastes 3:1). There is a time to plant and a time to harvest. There is a time to weep and a time to laugh. If you are sowing in tears, as you fulfill God purpose in your life, be certain that your time of rejoicing is coming. Amen!

Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion which cannot be moved, but abides forever. As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds His people from this time forth and forever.  — Psalm 125:1-2 (NKJV) Those who totally trust in the LORD are planted on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ, the Rock of all ages and they cannot be moved. Those who have learned to lean on the LORD shall stand, no matter how fierce the storm, or how hot the fire. They will not be shaken by the winds of adversity because they are securely surrounded by the LORD. Hallelujah and Amen!!!

If the LORD had not been on our side     when people attacked us, they would have swallowed us alive     when their anger flared against us; the flood would have engulfed us,     the torrent would have swept over us, the raging waters     would have swept us away. Praise be to the LORD,     who has not let us be torn by their teeth. We have escaped like a bird     from the fowler’s snare; the snare has been broken,     and we have escaped. Our help is in the name of the LORD,     the Maker of heaven and earth.  — Psalm 124:2-8 (NIV) Praise God that He is on our side! If the LORD be for us, who can stand against us? Call on the name of the LORD, that is where our help comes from. He has not brought you this far, to leave you now. Hallelujah!

So the LORD was with him, and Hezekiah was successful in everything he did. — 2 Kings 18:7 (NLT) There are 3 things which Hezekiah did that led to His success. He did what was right in the sight of the LORD (2 Kings 18:3, NKJV). He trusted in the LORD God of Israel, and he held fast to Him. Hezekiah did not depart from following the LORD, but kept His commandments (2 Kings 18:5-6, NKJV). When we do what is pleasing in the LORD’s sight, completely trust in God and hold fast to Him, we can be certain that our heavenly Father will guide us along on the pathway to sweet and lasting success. Amen.

Unto You I lift up my eyes, O You who dwell in the heavens. Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their masters, As the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, So our eyes look to the LORD our God, Until He has mercy on us.  — Psalm 123:1-2 (NKJV) Instead of casting your eyes on the things that come in your life to distract you, look to the LORD. Our help comes from Him. God is our provider and He is the answer to every challenge. Look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2)!

The LORD watches over you—the LORD is your shade at your right hand the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. — Psalm 121:5-8 (NIV) Our heavenly Father watches over us. He is our shield of protection. He watches over your life, as you come in and go out. Abba Father knows your pains and your struggles and He is there to catch every tear. The LORD has all your days written in His book and He has already made a way for you!

He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.  — Psalm 121:3-4 (NKJV) Our heavenly Father is not asleep. He is with you in the storm and in the fire. Do all that you can do, and patiently and expectantly wait on the LORD. Our God is faithful. He will bring you through every challenge that comes your way. We are more than conquerors through Christ Jesus, who loves us!

Great peace have they who love Your law; nothing shall offend them or make them stumble.  — Psalm 119:165 (AMP) The path to great peace is a love for the Word of God. Treasure His Word in your heart and let it continually be in your mouth. Meditate on His Word day and night that you may do it. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will rule in your hearts and nothing will cause you to stumble or be offended. Amen!

The entrance of Your words gives light;  It gives understanding to the simple.  — Psalm 119:130 (NKJV) God's Word translation says, "Your Word is a doorway that lets in light," (Psalm 119:130). Open the doorway of your mind to God's Word daily and let it be renewed. His Word is a light for your path. It will show you which way to go.

Remember the word to Your servant, upon which You have caused me to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, for Your word has given me life. — Psalm 119:49-50 (NKJV) Let His Word be your hope in any affliction. It brings comfort to the troubled soul. His Word stands forever and He watches over His Word to perform it. His Word will not return to Him empty, but will accomplish what He desires and achieve the purpose for which He sent it (Isaiah 55:11).

How shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed and keeping watch [on himself] according to Your word [conforming his life to it]. With my whole heart have I sought You, inquiring for and of You and yearning for You; Oh, let me not wander or step aside [either in ignorance or willfully] from Your commandments.  — Psalm 119:9-10 (AMP) Let us keep watch on ourselves and conform our lives to the Living Word, Jesus Christ and His ways. May the yearning of your heart be for more of His Presence, in your life. Certainly you have tasted that the Lord is good (1 Peter 2:3)!

This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.  — Psalm 118:24 (NKJV) This the day to rejoice, knowing that whatever circumstances are before you, our GOD is greater. No matter how high the obstacle, our Mighty God is bigger and higher. He is above all. This is the day to keep standing on God's Word and His promises. This is the day to keep loving and forgiving. This is the day to praise God for who He is and all that He is going to do in your life, this very day. Hallelujah!

It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.  — Psalm 118:8-9 (NKJV) It is better to trust in the LORD, than to put your confidence in man, great or small. We serve a mighty God. Be confident and trust in the LORD. He is our strength and salvation. Nothing is too difficult for our great God!

The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?  — Psalm 118:6 (NKJV) When their city was surrounded by the army of their enemies, Elisha prayed for the LORD to open the eyes of his young servant that he may see. Then the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha (2 Kings 6:17). “Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them,” (2 Kings 6:16). You are not in this thing alone. God is on your side and He always leads us in triumph in Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14)!

O praise the Lord, all you nations! Praise Him, all you people! For His mercy and loving-kindness are great toward us, and the truth and faithfulness of the Lord endure forever. Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)  — Psalm 117:1-2 (AMP) In this world, there is not much we can count on. However, as children of God, we can count on our heavenly Father's truth and faithfulness. He is always here with us. His mercies are new every morning. He always provides for our needs. He never leaves us as orphans. His loving-kindness towards us is great. It never runs out on us. Because His lovingkindness is better than life itself, our lips shall praise the Lord (Psalm 63:3). Amen and Hallelujah!

For You have delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, and my feet from falling. I will walk before the LORD in the land of the living.  — Psalm 116:8-9 (NKJV) The LORD has delivered our souls from the pit of hell. He saved our eyes from tears. We shall reap a harvest of joy for the tears that have been sowed (Psalm 126:5). And our attentive heavenly Father, also keeps our feet from stumbling and falling, as we follow Him. Walk in the LORD’s Presence every moment of every day, as you fulfill God's purpose for your life here on earth!

Gracious is the LORD, and righteous; Yes, our God is merciful. The LORD preserves the simple; I was brought low, and He saved me. Return to your rest, O my soul, for the LORD has dealt bountifully with you.  — Psalm 116:5-7 (NKJV) Yes, our God is full of compassion and His mercies are new every morning. No matter how low you go, the LORD will pick you up again. From His abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another (John 1:16, NLT). Let your soul be at peace, for the LORD has been good to us. Glory Hallelujah!

I love the LORD, because He has heard my voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live.  — Psalm 116:1-2 (NKJV) When we cry out to our God, He hears our cry, and He answers. The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth (Psalm 145:18).  So call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, as long as you live!

Brothers and sisters, we don’t want you to be ignorant about the suffering we experienced in the province of Asia. It was so extreme that it was beyond our ability to endure. We even wondered if we could go on living. In fact, we still feel as if we’re under a death sentence. But we suffered so that we would stop trusting ourselves and learn to trust God, who brings the dead back to life. — 2 Corinthians 1:8-9 (GW) My beloved brothers and sisters in the Lord, are you suffering a trial that is so extreme, you feel its beyond your ability to endure? Hold onto your faith and keep trusting in and depending on God, instead of what you can do in your natural strength. Our supernatural God brings the dead back to life. Nothing is impossible with Him. Hallelujah!

May the LORD cause you to flourish, both you and your children. May you be blessed by the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.  — Psalm 115:14-15 (NIV) In order to flourish (grow, thrive, prosper) in life, we have to be planted in the house of God (Psalm 92:13). Let us not just drop by from time to time like visitors. Abide in the house of the LORD; dwell with Him like the child of God that you are. You are a member of the Father's family, you belong in His house! May the LORD richly bless you and your children, as you abide in Him!

The LORD has been mindful of us; He will bless us; He will bless the house of Israel; He will bless the house of Aaron. He will bless those who fear the LORD, both small and great.  — Psalms 115:12-13 (NKJV) The LORD is always thinking about us. He has searched us and He knows us. The LORD knows when we sit and when we rise; He perceives our thoughts from afar. He discerns our going out and our lying down; He is familiar with all our ways. Before a word is on our tongue the LORD knows it completely (Psalm 139:1-4). He has blessed us most of all, with His Presence.What an awesome God!

let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. — Hebrews 10:22 (NKJV) Let us draw near to God with true (honest and sincere) hearts. God alone knows what is in the hearts of all people. For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him (2 Chronicles 16:9). If your heart is loyal to the Lord, He alone occupies first place. He is pre-eminent and the foremost priority in your thoughts and actions. I encourage you to remain true to the Lord with all your heart (Acts 11:23)!

Not unto us, O LORD not unto us, But to Your name give glory, Because of Your mercy, Because of Your truth.  — Psalm 115:1 (NKJV) The LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations (Psalm 100:5). Because of the LORD’s great mercy we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. He is longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth. It's knowledge of His truth, that sets us free. Give glory to His name!

Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness;
 He is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous. — Psalm 112:4 (NKJV) No matter how thick the darkness of your night becomes, light arises for the upright in heart. Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes with the light of morning. Our gracious God makes His light shine on us. May His light shine on you today!

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. — James 1:5 (NKJV) King Solomon asked God for an understanding heart and God indeed gave Him a wise and understanding heart (1 Kings 3:9, 4:29). Likewise, if we lack wisdom, all we have to do is ask God, who generously gives to all. Why be confused or perplexed? Our God is all-knowing and we have His Spirit living inside of us. He knows exactly what we need to do and when, in every situation. If you don't know what to do, just ask our heavenly Father for wisdom and an understanding heart.

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) With God we gain the victory. ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty (Zechariah 4:6). With God all things are possible. Abide in Him and you will overcome all obstacles and stand victorious!

“For who is God, except the LORD? And who is a rock, except our God? God is my strength and power, and He makes my way perfect.”  — 2 Samuel 22:32-33 (NKJV) God has begun a work of perfection in each one of us. As we allow His power and strength to work through us and guide us along on the path of life, our way will be secure. The LORD, our God is an immovable rock, we can rely on Him at all times, and in every situation. Praise the LORD!

A hostile world! I called to God, to my God I cried out.
 From his palace he heard me call;
 my cry brought me right into his presence—
 a private audience! — 2 Samuel 22:7 (The Message) When the world is hostile, cry out to God. Your cry for help reaches His ears and brings you right into His Presence, a private audience with our heavenly Father. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most (Hebrews 4:16, NLT). Amen!

“For You are my lamp, O LORD; The LORD shall enlighten my darkness.  For by You I can run against a troop;  By my God I can leap over a wall.  As for God, His way is perfect;  The word of the LORD is proven;  He is a shield to all who trust in Him. ”   — 2 Samuel 22:29-31 (NKJV) Our God is a God of transformation. He turns our darkness into light. He takes the broken things in our lives and makes them whole again. God brings dead things back to life. He brings healing to the sick. With Him, the impossible, becomes possible. He is perfect in all His ways!

Oh, that men would give thanks to the LORD for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! For He satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness.— Psalm 107:8-9 (NKJV) Blessed are you who hunger now, for you shall be filled (Luke 6:21). Jesus said, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst (John 6:35). If you soul is longing for something more, Jesus Christ is the answer. As we take in His goodness, He satisfies our souls. Thank you Jesus!

Now that we know what we have—Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God—let’s not let it slip through our fingers. We don’t have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He’s been through weakness and testing, experienced it all—all but the sin. So let’s walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help. — Hebrews 4:14-16 (The Message) Jesus is our compassionate High Priest. He is able to sympathize with our weaknesses. Jesus is in touch with everything that we go through. He has restored us back into a right relationship with God, that of Father and son or daughter, and has given us access to His kingdom. Why try to do it on your own when you can accept the help we have in Christ Jesus?

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the LORD tell their story— those he redeemed from the hand of the foe,  — Psalm 107:1-2 (NIV) Oh, give thanks to the LORD. He is good, all the time! His love goes on and on, it never runs out on us. If God has redeemed you from the hand of the enemy, share your story with others. It will encourage their spirits and strengthen their faith to hear of the wondrous works of our faithful Father.

The blameless spend their days under the LORD’s care, and their inheritance will endure forever. In times of disaster they will not wither; in days of famine they will enjoy plenty.  — Psalm 37:18-19 (NIV ) The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is right, and who speaks the truth from their heart, abide under the LORD's care. They will receive an inheritance that lasts forever. When disaster strikes, they do not wither, instead they grow stronger and stronger. Even though the world may experience lack and famine, God's children will have more than enough. Hallelujah!

Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice. Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.  — Psalm 105:1-4 (NIV) When you don't know what to do, look to the LORD and His strength. He is exactly what you need in any and every situation. He will lead, guide and strengthen you. Whatever mountain stands before you, speak to it and say, “my heavenly Father is bigger, and more powerful. Nothing can stand against my mighty God.” Continually give thanks to the LORD for all of His wondrous works!

For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus . — Galatians 3:26 (NKJV) When we invited Jesus into our hearts, we received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God (Romans 8:15-16). We are not outsiders looking in. We BELONG to the family of God. We are members of the household of God (Ephesians 2:19) and joint heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17). Don't let the enemy steal your identity by saying you are anything less!

“As for Mephibosheth,” said the king, “he shall eat at my table like one of the king’s sons.” — 2 Samuel 9:11 (NKJV) When King David inquired about who was left of the house of Saul, Mephibosheth was hiding out in Lo Debar. King David sent for him and had him continually eat at his table. In Revelation 3:20, Jesus said, “ Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. ” Are you hiding out, when you have been called to dine with the King of kings and the Lord of lords?

I will sing to the  LORD  throughout my life. I will make music to praise my God as long as I live. May my thoughts be pleasing to him. I will find joy in the LORD.  — Psalm 104:33-34 (GW) Let us sing to the LORD and praise our God as long as we have the breath of life. As we meditate on His Word and renew our minds, our thoughts will be pleasing to our heavenly Father. He fills us with joy in His presence (Psalm 16:11). May we rejoice in the Lord always!

God’s love, though, is ever and always, eternally present to all who fear him, Making everything right for them and their children as they follow his Covenant ways and remember to do whatever he said.  — Psalm 103:17-18 (The Message) God's love is forever and always. He is not a deserter. Our heavenly Father never abandons us, or runs out on us. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them (1 John 4:16). Don't let your heart get out of alignment with the love of God.

So David recovered all that the Amalekites had carried away, and David rescued his two wives. And nothing of theirs was lacking, either small or great, sons or daughters, spoil or anything which they had taken from them; David recovered all . — 1 Samuel 30:18-19 (NKJV) In the midst of his grief and loss, David inquired of the LORD. And He answered him, “Pursue, for you shall surely overtake them and without fail recover all.” As we encounter various trials, may we remember to always inquire of the LORD. He is a mighty God of restoration and He has given us the victory!

David was greatly distressed, for the men spoke of stoning him because the souls of them all were bitterly grieved, each man for his sons and daughters. But David encouraged and strengthened himself in the Lord his God. — 1 Samuel 30:6 (AMP) When David and his men returned home from battle, their city was burned with fire, and their wives and children had been taken captive. David and his men wept, until they could weep no more (1 Samuel 30:4). When we are greatly distressed or bitterly grieved over our losses, we need to encourage and strengthen ourselves in the Lord our God. He renews our strength and encourages our hearts.

The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him;  — Psalm 103:8-11 (NIV) As high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is the LORD's unfailing love for those who reverence and fear Him. And I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Revel in His love!

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. — John 10:10 (NKJV) First, we have to remember that we have an enemy who prowls about like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). If we stay alert and do not allow him to distract us in our walk with our heavenly Father, we will experience the more abundant life Jesus came to give us. God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). In Jesus, we experience grace and more grace, our cups overflow with blessings. We have a love that never ends, and never fails. Praise the Lord!

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!  — Psalms 103:1-5 (NLT) Offer joyful praises to the LORD with all of your being. Remember all the wonderful ways the LORD has blessed you. We are crowned with His lovingkindness and tender mercies, and wrapped in His goodness. Bless the LORD, O my soul!

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.  — Psalm 100:4-5 (NIV) The LORD is good! And He is good to all; He showers compassion on all his creation (Psalm 145:9). The Message versions says, “for God is sheer beauty, all-generous in love...” (Psalm 100:5). May we enter His gates, with a sacrifice of thanksgiving, acknowledging that Jesus paid the price for us. He is the ultimate sacrifice. Enter His courts with a song of praise. For our God is good to us, all the time!

For you, LORD, are the Most High over all the earth; you are exalted far above all gods. Let those who love the LORD hate evil, for he guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked. Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright in heart. Rejoice in the LORD, you who are righteous, and praise his holy name.  — Psalm 97:9-12 (NIV) The LORD preserves the lives of His saints and delivers us from the hand of our enemies. Praise His holy name! He causes His light and joy to shine on those who are upright in heart. Rejoice in the LORD!

For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live]. — Ephesians 2:10 (AMP) When we stay on the path God shows us, we can remain in peace knowing that He has planned and prepared the way for us. No matter how many obstacles you encounter, be confident that our heavenly Father has already navigated a way over or through each one. As long as we abide in Christ, we are living the good life, which God prearranged and made ready for us to live. Glory Hallelujah!

“I can guarantee this truth: You will cry because you are sad, but the world will be happy. You will feel pain, but your pain will turn to happiness. A woman has pain when her time to give birth comes. But after the child is born, she doesn’t remember the pain anymore because she’s happy that a child has been brought into the world.” — John 16:20-21 (GW) Just as a woman must go through the painful process of labor, in order to deliver a baby, we will experience much travail, in order to give birth to the dreams God has put in our hearts. Just remember, the pain is part of the process that must be endured if we are to get to our desired destination. I encourage you to see your dreams through to the end! Fulfill the God-given purpose for which you were created.