Manna for Your Morning

Commit your works to the LORD [submit and trust them to Him], And your plans will succeed [if you respond to His will and guidance]. — Proverbs 16:3 (AMP) Whatever goals or plans you have made for the coming new year, may you submit them to the LORD. Then, let us remember not to run off and do our own thing and end up turning to Him to fix a mess. Instead, continually seek the LORD and ask for His help and guidance along the way. We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps (Proverbs 16:9 NLT). Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails (Proverbs 19:21 NIV).

Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.” But the people said nothing. — 1 Kings 18:21 (NIV) In Deuteronomy 30:19, God set before us life and death, blessings and curses. and told us to choose life, so that us and our children may live. Let us choose life. Let us chose Jesus, every moment of the day. There is no sitting on the fence. There is no need to waver, wonder or wander away from the LORD. Wavering gets us nowhere. In Him we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28). In Him, we progress toward the wonderful plans the Father has for us. When we choose Jesus, we choose eternal life, abundant life, everlasting peace, joy and unfailing love. When we choose Jesus we no longer have to be discouraged and defeated. In Jesus, we are more than conquerors and we know we have the victory because He has overcome the world!

And Elijah said to her, “Do not fear; go and do as you have said, but make me a small cake from it first, and bring it to me; and afterward make some for yourself and your son. For thus says the LORD God of Israel: ‘The bin of flour shall not be used up, nor shall the jar of oil run dry, until the day the LORD sends rain on the earth.’” — 1 Kings 17:13-14 (NKJV) After the brook dried up, God instructed Elijah to go to the village of Zarephath, because He had instructed a widow there to feed him. (1 Kings 17:7-9). When Elijah came to the gate of the city, the widow was there gathering sticks. When he asked her for a little water and a morsel of bread, she said, “As the LORD your God lives, I do not have bread, only a handful of flour in a bin, and a little oil in a jar; and see, I am gathering a couple of sticks that I may go in and prepare it for myself and my son, that we may eat it, and die.” (1 Kings 17:12-14) When Elijah relayed God’s message to her, the widow went away and d

So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. — 1 Peter 5:6-7 (NLT) God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1 NKJV). You are not alone in the situations you face. Let us set aside pride, and humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God. In due time, He will lift us up, closer to Him. And we will walk in victory over the earthly circumstances that concern us. Cast all your worries and concerns upon Him, because He cares and He is able. Nothing is too difficult for our great God!

Then the LORD said to Elijah, “Go to the east and hide by Kerith Brook, near where it enters the Jordan River. Drink from the brook and eat what the ravens bring you, for I have commanded them to bring you food.” — 1 Kings 17:2-4 (NLT)  Elijah did as the LORD told him (1 Kings 17:5) and the ravens brought him bread and meat each morning and evening, and he drank from the brook (1 Kings 17:6). In the midst of a drought, God took care of His faithful servant. Never doubt God’s ability to provide for you. When we follow our heavenly Father, He will always lead us to the place of His provision. The world around us may experience a drought but God takes care of His people.

So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son. — John 1:14 (NLT) Christ Jesus makes His home among His people. He dwells within us. He is full of unfailing love and faithfulness. That means that His love will never fail us. If everyone in your life deserts you, know that the Lord will stand by you. If you're not feeling loved by the Lord, then you have been listening to the lies of the enemy. Nothing will ever stop His flow of love to you. We do not have to earn His love. He loves us because it is who He is. No matter how you feel emotionally or how circumstances may appear, continue to rely on His love. Everyone who confesses that Jesus is God’s Son participates continuously in an intimate relationship with God. (1 John 4:15 MSG) And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. (1 John 4:16 NIV)

The angel said, “Don’t be afraid. I’m here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide: A Savior has just been born in David’s town, a Savior who is Messiah and Master.” — Luke 2:10-11 (MSG) As the angel choir withdrew into heaven, the sheepherders talked it over. “Let’s get over to Bethlehem as fast as we can and see for ourselves what God has revealed to us.” (Luke 2:15 MSG). Just as the shepherds went to meet Jesus in person, we also need to get to know Jesus personally. Don’t settle for what others tell you about Him. Develop an intimate one-on-one relationship with Him. He is Messiah, the anointed One. Invite Him into your heart to be your Savior. Make Him the Master of your Life. When you experience a personal encounter with Jesus, He changes your life forever: from darkness to light, from death to life, from sick to healthy and whole, from defeat to victory, from pointless to purposeful, from discouragement to full of hope and joy.

When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying one to another, “Let us go straight to Bethlehem, and see this [wonderful] thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us.” — Luke 2:15 (AMP) When the shepherds were told about the birth of Christ the Lord, they had a sense of urgency about going to see Him. In the Message Bible, they said, “Let’s get over to Bethlehem as fast as we can and see for ourselves what God has revealed to us.” They started their journey at once and I doubt that they got sidetracked or took any detours. May we also have a sense of urgency when it comes to drawing near to our Lord and Savior. Stay clear of sideshow distractions that serve to create distance between you and the Lord, and closely follow Jesus.

For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. — 2 Peter 1:16 (NIV) Jesus the Christ. He is more than a Christmas story. He is the blessed and only Sovereign Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone has immortality, (1 Timothy 6:15-16). And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). He received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” (2 Peter 1:17 NIV) When John was in prison he heard about the works of Christ, and began to wonder if Jesus was the one. He sent two of his disciples to ask Jesus, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” (Matthew 11:2-3) Today, let there be no doubt, we don’t have to wonder. He is the living Word, the Son of God, Savior of the world.

“Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” — Matthew 2:2 (NKJV) When the wise men saw the star, they were filled with joy! They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. (Matthew 2:10-11 NLT). May we follow in the steps of the wise men. Let us be filled with joy as we gaze upon Jesus, the Bright and Morning Star. (Revelation 22:16). Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. (Psalm 95:6). And may our worship lead us to open the treasure chests of our hearts and give Him our all: our time, our talents and all that we hold dear.

for we walk by faith, not by sight [living our lives in a manner consistent with our confident belief in God’s promises]— we are [as I was saying] of good courage and confident hope… — 2 Corinthians 5:7-8 (AMP) The Message Bible says, “It’s what we trust in but don’t yet see that keeps us going. Do you suppose a few ruts in the road or rocks in the path are going to stop us?” (2 Corinthians 5:7-8a) Let us live by faith, with our speech and our steps consistent with what we say we believe. Walk confidently believing in our God and in His goodness. He will work everything together for good, in your life. Do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:18)

“I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people. He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” — Luke 2:30-32 (NLT) The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; Those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined (Isaiah 9:2). Jesus is the light of the world. Those who follow Him shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life. (John 8:12). In His light, there is salvation and revelation. In the light of the Lord, there is everlasting peace, inexpressible joy, and unconditional love. As we live in the light, His strength and power are made available to us and we can walk in victory over the dark forces. Arise, and shine! For your light has come and the glory of the LORD is risen upon you.  (Isaiah 60:1) Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 NKJV)

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; Luke 2:10 (NASB) The good news about who Jesus is and what He has done for us, is for everyone, people all over the world, of every race, color and tongue. As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.” For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:11-13 NIV) Let us continually call on the name of Jesus, our Savior. He brings great joy and a deep abiding peace, as we trust in Him.

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 (NKJV) Have you ever had to call around attempting to make a reservation only to find out everything is full, totally booked? I imagine it was like that for Joseph and Mary as they sought a place to stay in Bethlehem. Well, everyday Jesus stands and knocks on the door of our hearts, desiring for us to open the door and let Him enter. Do you let Him in, or do you hold the door closed because you don’t want Him to see how messy your house is? Or is your heart so cluttered with affections for things of this world, that there is no room for Jesus? Decide everyday, to make room for Jesus in your heart, —His home. He wants to dine with you. Let Him in and partake of the bread of life and be filled with the living water.

This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. — Psalm 118:24 (NKJV) We can be full of joy today, no matter what happens, because this day is written in His Book. And no matter what comes our way today, the LORD has already made a way for us. Glory Hallelujah! Every day He wakes us up and gives us new mercies, is a day to rejoice and be glad. Delight yourself in His Presence, knowing that He is with you, every step of the way. He will never leave you or forsake you.

So, my dear Christian friends, companions in following this call to the heights, take a good hard look at Jesus. He’s the centerpiece of everything we believe, faithful in everything God gave him to do... — Hebrews 3:1-2 (MSG) For most people, the Christmas season is full of busyness, —looking for the perfect gift, finding a good bargain, the following of traditions, traveling, etc. May we never let the sideshow events take our attention away from the main attraction. May all of our activity and the focal point of our thoughts be on Jesus Christ and all He has done for us. Being born in a human body, being whipped and beaten, shedding His blood and giving His life to set us free. He gave us the victory over sin and death. The main attraction of every season is the extreme love God has for us in Christ Jesus our Lord. The call is for us to come to Him. No matter what we do, or run out of time and energy to do, may we keep Jesus Christ as the centerpiece of our lives. And may His

And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people. — Matthew 4:23 (NKJV) Jesus never changes. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8). He is still Healer. And one of the things I love about Him, is that He meets us where we are. The woman with the issue of blood, purposed in her heart that she had to push through the crowd and grab a hold of His garment to receive her healing. (Luke 8:40-42). The man that was lowered through the roof on a cot was helpless and hopeless and had to rely on the faith of his friends, but Jesus still healed him. (Mark 2:4-5). The centurion knew that all Jesus had to do was speak a word and his servant would be healed. (Matthew 8:8). Jesus wants you to live a healthy and abundant life, —healed and whole, body, soul and spirit. Exercise the level of faith you have and our loving, compassionate Savior and Heal

Though the cherry trees don’t blossom and the strawberries don’t ripen, though the apples are worm-eaten and the wheat fields stunted, though the sheep pens are sheepless and the cattle barns empty, I’m singing joyful praise to God. I’m turning cartwheels of joy to my Savior God. Counting on God’s Rule to prevail, I take heart and gain strength… — Habakkuk 3:17-19 (MSG) When all in your world seems to be going wrong, the Lord is what is right. God is good, all the time. Regardless of our current situation, may we continue to rejoice and praise the name of the LORD. External circumstances are not the basis for our joy. We experience fullness of joy in His Presence. True joy comes in living closely connected to our heavenly Father. Whatever is going on in your life right now, know that God’s plans and His purposes for your life will prevail and keep praising Him.

And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. — John 14:16-17 (NKJV) John 16:7 (AMP) tells us that Jesus sent the Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby) to be in close fellowship with us. He wants to develop an intimate relationship with us. Because He dwells in us, we have overcome (past tense). You belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world. (1 John 4:4 NLT) ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ Says the LORD of hosts. (Zechariah 4:6 NKJV)

But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. — Galatians 4:4-5 (NKJV) Just as God had a set time for Jesus to be born to Mary and Joseph, He has a set time for you to walk in the fullness of what He has prepared for you, as His child. He is a faithful promise keeper. He fulfills every promise. In Isaiah 55:11 (NLT), He says, “It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.” The good plans the LORD has purposed for you will come to pass, in due time. Until then, keep fighting the good fight of faith, fixing your eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. (Hebrews 12:2a)

Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.” — Matthew 2:1-2 (NLT) After Jesus was born, the wise men saw His star, left their homeland, and made the journey to worship Him. He became a priority in their lives. No matter where we live, may our eyes be open to see the Light of the Lord and follow Him. As wise men and women, may we seek Him first in all that we do, and leave everything that concerns us in His mighty capable hands.

For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. — Isaiah 9:6 (NASB) When you need someone to talk to, call out to the Wonderful Counselor. He is intimately acquainted with all our ways. 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. (Hebrews 4:15 MSG) In the midst of turmoil, call upon the Prince of Peace. Jesus said, “ Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. ” (John 14:27 NASB) When you are feeling weak and weary, call on Jesus, our Mighty God. He is the strength of our lives. God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven

You have armed me with strength for the battle; — 2 Samuel 22:40a (NLT) Whatever battles you face today, press on, in the strength of the LORD. With us is the LORD our God, to help us and to fight our battles (2 Chronicles 32:8). “ O LORD, you are my lamp. The LORD lights up my darkness. In your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall. God’s way is perfect. All the LORD’s promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection.”  (2 Samuel 22:29-31 NLT)

He delivered me from my strong enemy, from those who hated me; for they were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my calamity, but the LORD was my support. — 2 Samuel 22:18-19 (NKJV) When the enemy attacks, know that the LORD is your support and the day of your deliverance is near. The Message Bible says, God is bedrock under my feet, the castle in which I live, my rescuing knight. My God—the high crag where I run for dear life, hiding behind the boulders, safe in the granite hideout; My mountaintop refuge, he saves me from ruthless men. (2 Samuel 22:2-3) Call on the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and take shelter in Him. He will deliver you from the hand of your enemies and out of all your troubles.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” — Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) Jesus calls each one of us to come to Him. He has no pre-requisites or conditions, just come. It doesn’t matter how you come or what you are like when you come. The important thing is that we come, not just one time, but come and keep coming to Him on a daily basis. Once we come to Him, let us be teachable and learn from the best Teacher of all. Then we will find rest. When we rest in Him, we are free to experience the deepest peace ever. “ Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly. ” (Matthew 11:29-30 MSG)

  casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully]. — 1 Peter 5:7 (AMP) The worries of this world will choke the living Word right out of you and replace it with anxiety and fear. Instead, cast all your cares on the Lord. Don't believe the lies of the enemy, our heavenly Father deeply cares about you. No parent wants to see their child struggle under the weight of a heavy burden they were never meant to carry. In Hebrews 2:6 (AMP), the LORD is asked, “What is man, that You are mindful of him, or the son of man, that You graciously care for him?” His thoughts about you are more than can be numbered (Psalm 40:5). Cast all your cares on the LORD and know that He will take care of you.

We are pressured in every way [hedged in], but not crushed; perplexed [unsure of finding a way out], but not driven to despair; hunted down and persecuted, but not deserted [to stand alone]; struck down, but never destroyed; — 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (AMP) Whatever challenging situation you may face today, remember that you are never alone. In 2 Timothy 4:16-17 (NASB), the Apostle Paul says, “At my first defense no one supported me, but all deserted me; may it not be counted against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me…” Though people may desert you, the Lord will always stand by your side. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the LORD your God... (Isaiah 43:2-3a)

In my desperation I prayed, and the LORD listened; he saved me from all my troubles. For the angel of the LORD is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him. — Psalm 34:6-7 (NLT) Let us persevere through problems with our praises and our prayers. The ear of the LORD is always open to the cry of His people. Call upon Him as your first course of action, not your last resort. “Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes. (Matthew 6:34 MSG)

And King David longed to go to Absalom. For he had been comforted concerning Amnon, because he was dead. — 2 Samuel 13:39 (NKJV) Absalom had his brother Amnon killed for raping his sister Tamar, but King David still longed to go to his son, Absalom. In Acts 13:22, God referred to David as a man after His own heart. Don’t let the enemy condemn you and cause you to run away from God. The mistakes of yesterday, should never keep you from pursuing His Presence today. When we repent and confess our sins, God is faithful to forgive us. As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. (Psalm 103:12) Our heavenly Father loves you and longs to be close to you. Isaiah 40:11 (NIV) says, He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. It is good for us to draw near to God (Psalm 73:28) and delight ourselves in Him (Psalm 37:4).

I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. — Ephesians 3:16-18 (NLT) Could it be that difficulty in trusting God comes from a heart and mind that does not believe or understand the magnitude of God’s unconditional love for us? Please know that there is nothing you could do or say that would stop the extravagant love our heavenly Father so freely and generously pours out on us. His love for you is limitless. May you be deeply rooted and securely grounded in God’s great love at all times and in every situation. In His love, we are empowered and strengthened to triumph over troubles.

I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living. Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD! — Psalm 27:13-14 (NKJV) No matter how difficult circumstances may appear, remain confident that you will see the goodness of the LORD, on the earth. Nothing is too difficult for the One who laid the foundations of the earth and set the limit of the seas. Do not despair, but believe and patiently wait, with hope for the LORD’s help.

A hostile world! I call to God, I cry to God to help me. From his palace he hears my call; my cry brings me right into his presence— a private audience! — Psalm 18:6 (MSG) Fear of human opinion can disable you from doing what God has called you to do. (Proverbs 29:25). May we live for an audience of One, the One who created us and will never abandon us. No matter how hostile the world around us becomes, we cannot go wrong when we live to please our heavenly Father. In John 8:29 (NKJV), Jesus said, “ And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things that please Him. ” May we follow in His footsteps and always live to please God. Finally, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you in the name of the Lord Jesus to live in a way that pleases God, as we have taught you. You live this way already, and we encourage you to do so even more. (1 Thessalonians 4:1 NLT)

“As for Mephibosheth,” said the king, “he shall eat at my table like one of the king’s sons.” — 2 Samuel 9:11b (NKJV) When King David was looking for one of Saul’s descendants to show the kindness of God to, Mephibosheth was hiding out in Lo Debar. After King David brought him to Jerusalem, Mephibosheth ate continually at the king’s table, like one of his sons. Are you trying to hide from the LORD? You are the son or daughter of the King. He continually knocks on the door of our hearts. He wants to come in and dine with us, that means close fellowship with the King of kings and the Lord of lords. What an honor and privilege!  That also means provision. The food He gives will sustain and nourish you. Come hungry and eat at His table today. 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. (Revelation 3:20 NKJV)

Blessed are the people who know the passwords of praise,  who shout on parade in the bright presence of God.  Delighted, they dance all day long; they know  who you are, what you do—they can’t keep it quiet!  Your vibrant beauty has gotten inside us—  you’ve been so good to us! We’re walking on air!  All we are and have we owe to God,  Holy God of Israel, our King! — Psalm 89:15-18 (MSG) Blessed be the LORD, Who daily loads us with benefits, the God of our salvation! Selah (Psalm 68:19 (NKJV). Let us continually praise His name. In the words of Pastor Matthew Pollock, “Let your praise invade your problems!”  Happy are those who hear the joyful call to worship, for they will walk in the light of your presence, LORD. (Psalm 89:15 NLT).

Let’s keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. He always keeps his word. — Hebrews 10:23 (MSG) Never let go or give up on the promises God has spoken to you. God is faithful and we can  trust Him to keep His promises. What the LORD speaks, eventually comes to pass (maybe not on our timetable). After God delivered the Israelites from slavery and ushered them into the Promise Land, Joshua 21:44-45 says, the LORD delivered all their enemies into their hand. Not a word failed of any good thing which the LORD had spoken to the house of Israel. All came to pass. This is the same God we serve. They may have spent 40 years in the wilderness, but through it all, God provided and His people prevailed. The enemy likes to use adverse circumstances to discourage us, but look past the smokescreen and see the victory we already have in Jesus! Hold onto His promises.

Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. — 1 Peter 4:12 (NLT) For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever (2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NLT). Fix your gaze upon our great God and the mighty things He has done. He is more than able to extinguish the fiery darts of the wicked one.

It wasn’t so long ago that you were mired in that old stagnant life of sin. You let the world, which doesn’t know the first thing about living, tell you how to live. You filled your lungs with polluted unbelief, and then exhaled disobedience. We all did it, all of us doing what we felt like doing, when we felt like doing it, all of us in the same boat. It’s a wonder God didn’t lose his temper and do away with the whole lot of us. Instead, immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. He did all this on his own, with no help from us! — Ephesians 2:1-5 (MSG) No matter where we are in life, when we call upon the LORD, because of His immense mercy and incredible love, He delivers us, and draws us near to Him. He holds us close to His heart. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps. (Psalm 40:2 NKJV)

“Again, God’s Message: “‘I’ll turn things around for Jacob. I’ll compassionately come in and rebuild homes. The town will be rebuilt on its old foundations; the mansions will be splendid again. Thanksgivings will pour out of the windows; laughter will spill through the doors. Things will get better and better. Depression days are over. They’ll thrive, they’ll flourish. The days of contempt will be over.’” — Jeremiah 30:18-19 (MSG) Our God is in the restoration business. If your life is in ruins, He will compassionately rebuild, on the solid foundation. You can only “get yourself together” with God’s help. When you open the door of your heart to Him, He will restore what has been destroyed, and mend what is broken. When we let the light of His Presence shine through the windows of our souls, we will thrive and flourish, in His Son. Yes! He will turn things around for you. May praises and the giving of thanks to God continually pour out of your windows and laughter spill through the

A man’s mind plans his way [as he journeys through life], but the LORD directs his steps and establishes them. — Proverbs 16:9 (AMP) This verse is vibrant with action and progression. Our walk and relationship with the LORD is not to be stationary and stagnant. In order for the LORD to direct our steps, we have to be going somewhere. As we put forth the effort to move forward, God will direct our steps. When we walk or run in the steps of faith and according to His Word, He will show us the  right paths to take. As we follow His guidance, we can be sure that our steps will be established and we will reach our desired destination. Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass (Psalm 37:5 NKJV).

“If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don’t you think he’ll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I’m trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God’s giving.” — Matthew 6:30-31 (MSG) God has given us so much, His Son, His Spirit, His peace, etc. How do you respond to God’s giving? Let us always give thanks for the many blessings our heavenly Father continually pours out on us, too numerous to count. I believe, a genuine heart, full of gratitude and appreciation for all He has done and is doing, is an awesome way to respond to our great God. In Matthew 10:8, Jesus says, “ Freely you have received, freely give. ” Another response to God’s giving is to become like Him and generously give to others. We are blessed to be a blessing!

So be content with who you are, and don’t put on airs. God’s strong hand is on you; he’ll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you. — 1 Peter 5:6-7 (MSG) Contentment is a sense of inner confidence based on the sufficiency of God. In Philippians 4:11, the Apostle Paul said he learned to be content. May we learn to be content with what we have and who we are. Comparing ourselves to others will only lead to discontent (being disturbed or uneasy), with what God has provided or with the way God made us. Each one of us is a unique creation of our heavenly Father, and He has given each one of us what we need to fulfill His purpose for us, on this earth. We don’t have to pretend to be something we are not. We are instructed to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. Love and accept yourself, then you can love your neighbor. Now godliness with contentment is great gain. (1 Timothy 6:6 NKJV)

David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the LORD his God. — 1 Samuel 30:6 (NIV) When David and his men returned to the city of Ziklag, it was burned with fire; and their wives, their sons, and their daughters had been taken captive. After they wept until they could weep no more, David found strength in the LORD. When all seems lost, may we find strength in the LORD our God. Be encouraged in His Word, which stands forever, through all kinds of weather! After David inquired of the LORD, he pursued his enemies and recovered everything the Amalekites had taken, including his two wives. (1 Samuel 30:8, 18). When we follow God’s direction, we too can overcome our enemies and recover all that the enemy has taken. And loved ones held captive by the enemy will be set free.

You know me inside and out, you know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth; all the stages of my life were spread out before you, t he days of my life all prepared before I’d even lived one day. — Psalm 139:15-16 (MSG) Sometimes we spend a lot of time and energy trying to figure out what?, how?, why?, or when? During these times, let us seek wisdom and guidance from the One who knows us better than we know ourselves. May we trust God through every situation, every season and all the stages of life, knowing that He has every day of our lives recorded in His book. Nothing that happens takes Him by surprise. The thoughts the LORD thinks toward you are thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Happy are those who hear the joyful call to worship, for they will walk in the light of your presence, LORD. — Psalm 89:15 (NLT) Worry eats away at your faith. Because it’s rooted in fear, it will often paralyze you and distort your thought process, which hinders you from recognizing and speaking the truth of God’s Word. On the other hand, worship keeps the channels of communication between you and our Heavenly Father open. It releases the power of heaven to work on your behalf in the earthly realm. Worry gives the enemy control to run rampant in your life. Worship enables us to walk in victory with our Lord and Savior, in the light of His Presence. Worry or worship? It’s your choice. Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. (Psalm 95:6 NKJV)

“The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life [which inspires me].” — Job 33:4 (AMP) God the LORD, created the heavens and stretched them out, He spread forth the earth and that which comes from it, He gives breath to the people on it, and spirit to those who walk on it. (Isaiah 42:5). Not only is His breath in our lungs, we also have His Spirit living inside of us. Everything God does is intentional and has a purpose. He woke you up this morning because He loves you and He has a plan for you to execute today. Whatever mistakes you made yesterday, He showered you with new mercies this morning. The reality that He woke you up this morning means He has more for you. Be inspired with the fact that He has not brought you this far to abandon you now.

I’ll call nobodies and make them somebodies; I’ll call the unloved and make them beloved. In the place where they yelled out, “You’re nobody!” they’re calling you “God’s living children.” — Romans 9:25-26 (MSG) You have been personally selected and chosen by God. He calls us by name. When the world tries to beat you down and make you feel like a nobody, remember you're a child of the living God! The One who put the stars in place and set the sun on its course, is your heavenly Father. What marvelous love the Father has extended to us! Just look at it—we’re called children of God! That’s who we really are. But that’s also why the world doesn’t recognize us or take us seriously, because it has no idea who he is or what he’s up to. (1 John 3:1 MSG)

Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward… — 1 Samuel 16:13 (NKJV) After David was anointed to be the next king over Isarael, he ended up being on the run for his life. In 1 Samuel 19:2, Jonathan told David, “My father Saul seeks to kill you.”  David had to live as a fugitive and hide out in caves before he reigned as king. After God has given you a word or revelation of your purpose or destiny, know that you will encounter challenges and experience difficulties. But, no wicked scheme of the enemy can thwart the wonderful plans of our great God. The accomplishment of the dream comes with much effort. Jesus said, “I’ve told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world.” (John 16:33 MSG). He is greater. Amen!

This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: “Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it.” — Isaiah 30:15 (NLT) With today’s multi-tasking, always-on-the-go lifestyle, we are constantly caught up in a flurry of activities, that will serve as distractions and cause us to drift away from the LORD. May we remember to unplug and unwind. Return to Him and rest in quietness and in confident expectation, that He will enable you to do all that He has called you to do. Settle down in complete dependence on Him. “Step out of the traffic! Take a long, loving look at me, your High God, above politics, above everything.” — Psalm 46:10 (MSG)

Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have taunted.  …and that all this assembly may know that the LORD does not deliver by sword or by spear; for the battle is the LORD’s and He will give you into our hands.” — 1 Samuel 17:45, 47 (NASB) So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. (1 Samuel 17:50a NKJV). David prevailed over his enemies because he knew that it was not about him, but God. He looked beyond the size of Goliath and saw his great big God. When the enemy taunts you, do you respond with the Word of God (your sword)? Let us have the proper perspective of the giants we face. Our God is always bigger and mightier and He will deliver us from the hand of our enemy!

But as for me, it is good for me to draw near to God; I have made the Lord God my refuge and placed my trust in Him, that I may tell of all Your works. — Psalm 73:28 (AMP) It is good for us to stay close to God. When we allow distance to grow between us, we are more susceptible to the many worldly distractions that will draw us away from Him. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. (James 4:8 NLT) So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time.  (James 4:7 MSG).