Manna for Your Morning

I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, — Philippians 3:13 (NLT) Forget what lies behind and look forward to what lies ahead. Let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. (See Hebrews 12:1-2) Amen.

“The very moment I call to you for a father’s help the tide of battle turns and my enemies flee. This one thing I know: God is on my side! I trust in the Lord. And I praise him! I trust in the Word of God. And I praise him! What harm could man do to me? With God on my side, I will not be afraid of what comes. My heart overflows with praise to God and for his promises. I will always trust in him.”” — Psalms 56:9-11 (TPT) When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise, in God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid. What can mere man do to me? (Psalm 56:3-4 NASB1995) The perfect love of God drives out fear. (See 1 John 4:18) How blessed is the man who has made the LORD his trust, and has not turned to the proud, nor to those who lapse into falsehood. (Psalm 40:4 NASB1995) My soul, wait in silence for God only, for my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be shaken. On God my salvation and my glory rest; The rock o...

and one of the elders said to me, “Stop weeping; behold, the Lion that is from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome so as to open the book and its seven seals.” — Revelation 5:5 (NASB1995) The Lion of the tribe of Judah has prevailed! In the midst of tribulation, take courage because Jesus has overcome the world. (See John 16:33 NASB1995) In all situations, we are more than conquerors and gain an overwhelming victory through Him who loved us [so much that He died for us]. (See Romans 8:37 AMP) Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (See 1 Corinthians 15:57 NASB1995)

Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were born or You gave birth to the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. — Psalm 90:1-2 (NASB1995) Yahweh is not a visitation place reserved for Sunday mornings only. “The eternal God is a dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms;” (See Deuteronomy 33:27a NASB1995) He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.” (Psalm 91:1-2 NKJV) Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling; (Psalm 91:9-10 NKJV) Let us go into His dwelling place; Let us worship at His footstool. (Psalm 132:7 NASB1995)

For we are those he cares for, and he is the God we worship. So drop everything else and listen to his voice! For this is what he’s saying: “Today, when I speak, don’t even think about turning a deaf ear to me like they did when they tested me at Meribah and Massah, the place where they argued with me, their Creator. Your ancestors challenged me over and over with their complaining, even though I had convinced them of my power and love. They still doubted my care for them. — Psalms 95:7-9 (TPT) Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! (See 1 John 3:1 NKJV) Never doubt that our heavenly Father cares for you and will always take care of you. He is a good and faithful Father. For God has proved his love by giving us his greatest treasure, the gift of his Son. And since God freely offered him up as the sacrifice for us all, he certainly won’t withhold from us anything else he has to give. (Romans 8:32 TPT) Listen to His voice, abo...

My lips will glorify You because Your faithful love is better than life. So I will praise You as long as I live; at Your name, I will lift up my hands. You satisfy me as with rich food; my mouth will praise You with joyful lips. — Psalm 63:3-5 (HCSB) It is good to praise Yahweh, to sing praise to Your name, Most High, to declare Your faithful love in the morning and Your faithfulness at night, with a ten-stringed harp 
and the music of a lyre. For You have made me rejoice, LORD, by what You have done; I will shout for joy because of the works of Your hands. How magnificent are Your works, LORD, how profound Your thoughts! (Psalm 92:1-5 I HCSB) Great is the LORD! He is most worthy of praise! He is to be feared above all gods. — Psalm 96:4 (NLT)

But Jesus loudly declared, “The one who believes and trusts in Me does not believe [only] in Me but [also believes] in Him who sent Me. And whoever sees Me sees the One who sent Me. I have come as Light into the world, so that everyone who believes and trusts in Me [as Savior—all those who anchor their hope in Me and rely on the truth of My message] will not continue to live in darkness.” — John 12:44-46 (AMP) Believe in Jesus as Savior and anchor your hope in Him. Followers of Christ shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life. (See John 8:12) The Father has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love (See Colossians 1:12-13) Let us cast off the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light. (See Romans 13:12) “ The people who were sitting in darkness saw a great Light, and those who were sitting in the land and shadow of death, upon them a Light dawned .” — Matthew 4:16 (NASB1995)

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 2:13 (NLT) Jesus calls all men and women to come to Him. He is the bright morning star (Revelation 22:16) Let us come to worship the King of kings and the Lord of lords. The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” Let anyone who hears this say, “Come.” Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life. (Revelation 22:17 NLT) All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen. — 1 Timothy 1:17 (NLT)

“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” — Matthew 1:23 (NKJV) As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds His people from this time forth and forever. (Psalm 125:2 NKJV) For the LORD your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.” (Zephaniah 3:17 NLT) Seek and deeply long for the LORD and His strength [His power, His might]; Seek and deeply long for His face and His presence continually. (Psalm 105:4 AMP)

Thus you are to be holy to Me, for I the LORD am holy; and I have set you apart from the peoples to be Mine. — Leviticus 20:26 (NASB1995) As saints of the Most High God, we are to be holy, set apart for sacred use, for we are the temple of the living God (See 2 Corinthians 6:16 & 1 Corinthians 6:19). We are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people… (See 1 Peter 2:9 NKJV) But know that the LORD has set apart the godly man for Himself; (Psalm 4:3a NASB1995) Instead of conforming to the customs and ways of the world, we are to live according to the culture of the Kingdom of God and follow the teachings of Christ, the living Word. “Therefore, come out from their midst and be separate,” says the Lord. “And do not touch what is unclean; and I will welcome you. “And I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to Me,” says the Lord Almighty.  (2 Corinthians 6:17-18 NASB1995)

I am Yahweh, that is My name; I will not give My glory to another or My praise to idols. — Isaiah 42:8 (HCSB) May they know that You alone— whose name is Yahweh— are the Most High over all the earth. (Psalm 83:18 HCSB) Your name, O LORD, is everlasting, Your remembrance, O LORD, throughout all generations. (Psalm 135:13 NASB1995) And those who know Your name will put their trust in You, for You, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You. (Psalm 9:10 NASB1995) Let the name of Yahweh be praised both now and forever. From the rising of the sun to its setting, let the name of Yahweh be praised. Yahweh is exalted above all the nations, His glory above the heavens. (Psalm 113:2-4 HCSB) Offer to the LORD the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and call upon His name. (See Psalm 116:13) …everyone who calls on the name of Yahweh will be saved… (See Joel 2:32 HCSB). May the LORD God, the God of Israel,  who alone does wonders, be praised.  May His glorious name be praised forever;  the w...

How great is Your goodness, which You have stored up for those who fear You, which You have wrought for those who take refuge in You, before the sons of men! You hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the conspiracies of man; You keep them secretly in a shelter from the strife of tongues. — Psalm 31:19-20 (NASB1995) Blessed be the Lord, Who daily loads us with benefits, the God of our salvation! Selah (Psalm 68:19 NKJV) O love the LORD, all you His godly ones! The LORD preserves the faithful and fully recompenses the proud doer. Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in the LORD. (Psalm 31:23-24 NASB1995) For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed.” (Romans 10:11 NASB1995) Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. (Psalm 23:6 NASB1995) Amen.

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;  — Ephesians 2:8 (NASB1995) ...the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all people, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously, and in a godly manner in the present age, (See Titus 2:11-12 NASB) God is not one to show partiality. (See Acts 10:34 NASB) His salvation is the perfect gift and it is for ALL people. Each person must choose to receive it for themselves. Like any gift, we must accept it before we can enjoy the benefits of it. He has set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; (See Deuteronomy 30:19) …the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; He is their strength in time of trouble. The LORD helps them and delivers them; He delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in Him. (Psalm 37:39-40 NASB1995)...

This is the day which the LORD has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it. — Psalm 118:24 (NASB1995) Even though we may be distressed by various trials, we can still rejoice. The Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials. (See 2 Peter 2:7-9NLT) For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. (2 Corinthians 4:17 NIV) So don’t focus your attention on what is seen but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (See 2 Corinthians 4:18) …and though you have not seen Jesus, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls. (See 1 Peter 1:8-9 NASB1995)

“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” — Philippians 1:21 (NASB1995) We cannot lose in our relationship with Christ.Whether we live or die, it is a win-win situation. May we count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus our Lord. Even if we suffer the loss of all things, let us count them but rubbish so that we may gain Christ. (See Philippians 3:8 NASB1995) Revelation 12:11 says: And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death. Do not love your life or this world more than you love Christ Jesus our Lord and Savior, Who gave His life for us.

But now [at this very moment] in Christ Jesus you who once were [so very] far away [from God] have been brought near by the blood of Christ. — Ephesians 2:13 (AMP) Delight in the nearness of God. Don’t let the distractions of this world cause you to drift away from your Heavenly Father. It is good for us to draw near to God; Make the Lord GOD your refuge and place your trust in Him, that you may tell of all His works. (See Psalm 73:28 AMP) In Matthew 15:7-8, Jesus said: “You hypocrites, rightly did Isaiah prophesy of you: ‘This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far away from Me.’” Let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. (Hebrews 10:22 NASB1995)

For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. — Colossians 1:13-14 (NASB1995) God has rescued us from the domain of darkness. We are now citizens in the Kingdom of Christ. See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ. (Colossians 2:8 NASB1995) And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. (Colossians 2:6 NLT) Let us walk in a manner worthy of the Lord [displaying admirable character, moral courage, and personal integrity], to [fully] please Him in all things… (See Colossians 1:10 AMP) “And I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to Me,” says the Lord Almighty.  — 2 Corinthians 6:18 (NASB1995)

But the Lord replied to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered and anxious about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part [that which is to her advantage], which will not be taken away from her.” — Luke 10:41-42 (AMP) Instead of being worried and bothered about doing so many things, we can choose to be quiet and still before our loving Lord and Savior. When our primary focus is on the King of kings and the Lord of lords, He will lead us and guide us in the way we should go, and the words we are to speak. As we keep our eyes on Immanuel (“God with us”), we will become more like Him.  We will choose to love and have compassion for others, the way our Redeemer loves us. He loved us so much He gave His life to save us. When you choose the good part, it will be easier to see the good part in those around you. Decide to speak words of life and blessing over others, instead of cursing words full of negativity and criticism. Choose the...

The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This was the LORD’s doing; It is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. — Psalm 118:22-24 (NKJV) There is no greater joy than to know our risen Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ Himself, the chief cornerstone. (See Ephesians 2:20) He was despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows and pain and acquainted with grief; (See Isaiah 53:3 AMP) Come to Him as to a living stone which has been rejected by men, but is choice and precious in the sight of God. (See 1 Peter 2:4 NASB195) He Himself will occupy the first place [He will stand supreme and be preeminent] in everything. (See Colossians 1:18 AMP) Live and move and have your being in Him. (See Acts 17:28) Build your lives upon Him.

Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; For His lovingkindness is everlasting. — Psalm 118:1 (NASB1995) The LORD hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. (Psalm 34:17 NLT) Good and upright is Adonai. Therefore He directs sinners in the way. He guides the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble His way. All Adonai’s ways are lovingkindness and truth to those who keep His covenant and His testimonies. (Psalm 25:8-10 TLV) He has given us greater joy than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine. (See Psalm 4:7 NLT) Taste and see that the LORD is good; How blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! Fear the LORD, you His saints; For to those who fear Him there is no lack of anything. (Psalm 34:8-9 NASB) “ For Yahweh is always good and ready to receive you. He’s so loving that it will amaze you— so kind that it will astound you! And he is famous for his faithfulness toward all. Everyone knows our God can be trusted, fo...

For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope and overflow with confidence in His promises. — Romans 15:4 (AMP) Find encouragement in the Holy Scriptures. God’s Word stands forever. He watches over His Word, and it does not return to Him void. He is faithful to fulfill every word He has spoken. Here a just a few encouraging Scriptures:   God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1 NASB1995) This assures us that no matter what we go through, our great God is with us. In Isaiah 43:2 (NLT), He says: “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.” He makes a way for each one of us. I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD i...

And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you]. — Romans 12:2 (AMP) Instead of conforming to this world, present your bodies to God as a living sacrifice, holy, and acceptable to Him. (See Romans 12:1) Renew your mind with the Holy Scriptures, and your thoughts will come into alignment with His Word and His ways. Instead of following the world, be led by the Spirit of God.

Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: — Hebrews 12:14 (NKJV) So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. So you must live as God’s obedient children. Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn’t know any better then. But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. (1 Peter 1:13-15 NLT) A highway will be there, a roadway, and it will be called the Highway of Holiness. The unclean will not travel on it, but it will be for him who walks that way, and fools will not wander on it. (Isaiah 35:8 NASB1995)

Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before Adonai our Maker. For He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture, the flock of His hand. Today, if you hear His voice: Do not harden your heart … — Psalm 95:6-8 (TLV) May we bow down, before the God Most High, in a posture of humility and submission. Surrender all your cares to Him. Know that He is able to handle everything that concerns you. Bow down in awe, and honor the Creator of the heavens and the earth. He formed your innermost parts; He knit you together in your mother’s womb, long before you took your first breath. (See Psalm 139:13)  Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving. Let us shout joyfully to Him with songs. For Adonai is a great God and a great King above all gods. (Psalm 95:2-3 TLV) Have faith in Him in all circumstances, dear people. Open up your heart to Him; the True God shelters us in His arms. [pause] (Psalm 62:8 VOICE)

It is because of the LORD’s lovingkindnesses that we are not consumed, because His [tender] compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great and beyond measure is Your faithfulness. — Lamentations 3:22-23 (AMP) Dare to hope when you remember this. (See Lamentations 3:21 NLT) The compassion of Yahweh never fails. His loyal love endures through every storm. When your world is shaken, His lovingkindness stands strong and immovable. It lasts through the fiery furnace experiences, even the floodwaters cannot wash it away. Let us seize and hold tightly the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is reliable and trustworthy and faithful [to His word]; (Hebrews 10:23 AMP) “Adonai is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in Him.” — Lamentations 3:24 (TLV)

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. — Romans 8:1-2 (NKJV) There is a sure way for us to know that we belong to the truth. (Our actions will show that we belong to the truth.) Even though our inner thoughts may condemn us with storms of guilt and constant reminders of our failures, we can know in our hearts that in His presence God Himself is greater than any accusation. He knows all things. (1 John 3:19-20 VOICE/NLT)  If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9) …having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now declaring to men that all people everywhere should repent, (See Acts 17:30 NASB1995). Let the kindness of God lead you to repentance. (See Romans 2:4) Then, be led by the Holy S...

Therefore if anyone is in Christ, this person is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. — 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NASB) God called us out of darkness and into his marvelous light. (See 1 Peter 2:9) Cast off the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light. (See Romans 13:12) Let old worldly ways pass away and enjoy abundant life, in the Kingdom of God, which is about righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit! (See Romans 14:17) …let’s rid ourselves of every obstacle and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let’s run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking only at Jesus, the originator and perfecter of the faith… (See Hebrews 12:1-2 NASB)

…we were utterly weighed down, beyond our strength, so that we despaired even of life [itself]. Indeed, we felt within ourselves that we had received the sentence of death [and were convinced that we would die, but this happened] so that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead. — 2 Corinthians 1:8-9 (AMP) When you are burdened beyond your strength to endure, realize that you can no longer rely on yourself and that you must trust solely in God, who possesses the power to raise the dead. (See 2 Corinthians 1:9 VOICE) Our mighty God is faithful to deliver the righteous out of all their troubles. (See Psalm 34:17) Amen.

We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed. — 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NLT) In this world, we will have some troubles, we will experience various hardships and trials. …but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57 NASB1995) In the midst of challenges, remember that you are never abandoned by the Most High God and in Christ, you are more than a conqueror. God is continually with you and with His counsel He will guide you, and afterward receive you to glory. (See Psalm 73:23-24) Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord. (1 Corinthians 15:58 NASB1995)

For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ. — 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NLT) Once you were far away from God, but now you have been brought near to him through the blood of Christ. (See Ephesians 2:13) Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. (Romans 5:2 NLT) Now that we have been granted access to our heavenly Father, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, let us draw near to our loving and gracious God and stay close to Him at all times. Now all glory to God, who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault. All glory to him who alone is God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. All glory, majesty, power, and authority are his before all time, and in the present, and beyond all time! Amen. (Jude 1:24-25 N...

How happy are those who have learned how to praise You; those who journey through life by the light of Your face. Every hour of the day, they rejoice at the sound of Your name. They are lifted up and encouraged by Your righteousness. — Psalm 89:15-16 (VOICE) Praise the LORD! Let all that I am praise the LORD. I will praise the LORD as long as I live. I will sing praises to my God with my dying breath. Don’t put your confidence in powerful people; there is no help for you there. When they breathe their last, they return to the earth, and all their plans die with them. But joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper, whose hope is in the LORD their God. (Psalm 146:1-5 NLT) Sing praise to the LORD, you saints of His, and give thanks to the LORD Most High.

‘Do not fear [anything], for I am with you; Do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, be assured I will help you; I will certainly take hold of you with My righteous right hand [a hand of justice, of power, of victory, of salvation].’ — Isaiah 41:10 (AMP) Be fully assured that what God has promised, He is able also to perform. His word which goes forth from His mouth does not return to Him empty, without accomplishing what He desires, and without succeeding in the matter for which He sent it. (See Isaiah 55:11 NASB) The LORD executes righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed. (Psalm 103:6 NKJV) Great is our Lord, and mighty in power; (See Psalm 147:5 NKJV) ‘Ah, Lord God! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. There is nothing too hard for You. (Jeremiah 32:17) …thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57 NKJV)

  God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. — 1 Corinthians 1:9 (NASB1995) …indeed our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ. (See 1 John 1:3) The Amplified version says …our fellowship is a distinguishing mark of born-again believers. May our greatest delight be in the honor and privilege of being His Presence. Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? (1 Corinthians 3:16)  Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; Worship the LORD in the beauty and majesty of His holiness [as the creator and source of holiness]. — Psalm 29:2 (AMP)

“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 (NASB1995) If our peace is based on external circumstances, it will be sporadic. When our peace hinges on His Presence, instead of a certain set of conditions, it will be perfect and unshaken. The Lord is faithful and He promises to be with you at all times. Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. Tell him every detail of your life, then God’s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will guard your heart and mind through Jesus Christ. (Philippians 4:6-7 TPT)

For they themselves report about us what kind of a reception we had with you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve a living and true God, — 1 Thessalonians 1:9 (NASB1995) Let us turn away from idols, which is any person, place or thing that we have more affection for, than we do for Elohim, our loving Creator. Do you place more importance on some earthly activity than drawing near to Yahweh? Do you give more time, attention, or energy to someone or something, than you do to worshiping, thanking and praising, El Elyon, our mighty God? An idol can be TV, social media, a parent, a spouse or your child, a form of entertainment, sports, money, material possessions, any man-made traditions, the sun, moon, or stars, etc. …turn from these vain things to a living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them. (See Acts 14:15 NASB1995) May He occupy the primary place in our hearts and minds. “Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth; For I am God, ...

And He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands and territories. This was so that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grasp for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us. — Acts 17:26-27 (AMP) The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. (Psalm 145:18 NASB1995) 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) Call upon Yahweh today. Seek Him and you will find Him when you search for Him with all your heart. (See Jeremiah 29:12-13)

And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me.” — Luke 9:23 (NASB1995) Jesus instructs us to take up our cross and follow Him. We each have our path to travel, with it's hurdles, mountains, and valleys. Despite the trials, troubles, and tribulations we go through, let us continue to follow Jesus every day, knowing that He has already overcome this world and given us the ultimate victory. Before He was crucified, Jesus prayed three times, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will.” (See Matthew 26:39, 26:42, & 26:44) In John 6:38 (NASB1995),  Jesus said: “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.”  The cross is the where die to ourselves and live for the Most High and His Kingdom. We die to our wants and wishes and seek to do His will. When we put our eyes on the Kingdom of God first, He...

For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. — Galatians 3:26 (NLT) Consider the kind of extravagant love the Father has lavished on us—He calls us children of God! It’s true; we are His beloved children… (See 1 John 3:1 VOICE) God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. (1 John 4:9 NLT) There is no greater love than the love Yahweh has for His children. He loves us unconditionally and He has no favorites. (See Galatians 2:6 NLT) And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. (Romans 8:38 NLT) May we live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. (See Philippians 2:15 NLT)

“ Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me. ” — Revelation 3:20 (NASB) In Matthew 28:20, Jesus promises His disciples that He is with them always, to the end of the age. As believers, let us make sure we are with Him,  at all times. In Revelation 3:20, He invites the church (believers) to open the door and dine with Him. That is an intimate one-on-one time of fellowship, with the King of kings and the Lord of lords. May you keep the door of your heart open to Him, and invite Him into every area of your life. Open your mind to His Word, and let it continually transform you and change the way you think. Open your heart to receive His love and compassion, so you can share it with others. He is the good Shepherd, continually seek His guidance and follow Him wherever He leads. Amen.

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. — James 1:2-4 (NLT) For you have need of patient endurance [to bear up under difficult circumstances without compromising], so that when you have carried out the will of God, you may receive and enjoy to the full what is promised. (Hebrews 10:36 AMP) What enables us to endure when faced with challenges and difficulties from all sides? Hebrews 12:3 tells us to consider Jesus, Who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that we will not grow weary and lose heart. For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (See Hebrews 12:2) May we keep our joy, as we persevere through temporary trials and temptation, for the c...

Since we have a great High Priest who presides over the house of God, let us draw near with true hearts full of faith, with hearts rinsed clean of any evil conscience, and with bodies cleansed with pure water. — Hebrews 10:21-22 (VOICE) Rejoice greatly in the LORD, let your soul exult in our God; for He has clothed us with garments of salvation, He has wrapped us with a robe of righteousness. (See Isaiah 61:10) Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16 NASB1995) For there is [only] one God, and [only] one Mediator between God and mankind, the Man Christ Jesus, (1 Timothy 2:5 AMP) …because Jesus continues forever, He holds His priesthood permanently. Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. (See Hebrews 7:24-25 NASB1995) Today, draw near to Yahweh, with a sincere heart and a clear consci...

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures;
 He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. — Psalm 23:1-3 (NASB1995) The LORD says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. (Psalm 32:8 NLT) For those who are willing to learn, Yahweh will instruct you and teach you the way you should go. (See Psalm 32:8 AMP) He will guide you with His counsel, leading you to a glorious destiny. (See Psalm 73:24 NLT) Let us continually follow His lead.  For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of living water ... — Revelation 7:17 (ESV)

Opening his mouth, Peter said: “I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality, but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right is welcome to Him.” — Acts 10:34-35 (NASB1995) The Lord your God is the God of gods and the Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God who does not show partiality nor take a bribe. (See Deuteronomy 10:17 NASB1995) For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; for “Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:11-13 NASB1995)

For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD gives grace and glory; No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly. — Psalm 84:11 (NASB1995) Let us be grateful and thank Yahweh for all the good things He does for us. Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. (James 1:17 NASB1995) He is the source of all that we have: the breath of life, our talents, our physical, and mental health and our material resources. And the greatest gift of all: Jesus, our Savior. For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. (John 3:16) Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden, the God who is our salvation. Selah. (Psalm 68:19) Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; (Psalm 103:1-2 NASB1995)

The LORD is good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works. All Your works shall praise You, O LORD, and Your saints shall bless You. They shall speak of the glory of Your kingdom, and talk of Your power, — Psalm 145:9-11 (NKJV) Yahweh is good and He does good. The Eternal sustains all who stumble on their way. For those who are broken down, God is near. He raises them up in hope. All eyes have turned toward Him, waiting in expectation; when they are hungry, He feeds them right on time. The desires of every living thing are met by His open hand. The Eternal is right in all His ways, and He is kind in all His acts. (See Psalm 145:14-17 VOICE) The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. (Psalm 145:18 NASB1995) The Eternal is gracious. He shows mercy to His people. For Him anger does not come easily, but faithful love does—and it is rich and abundant. — Psalm 145:8 (VOICE)

So repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, regret past sins] and return [to God—seek His purpose for your life], so that your sins may be wiped away [blotted out, completely erased], so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord [restoring you like a cool wind on a hot day]; and that He may send [to you] Jesus, the Christ, who has been appointed for you, — Acts 3:19-20 (AMP) Jesus bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed. (See 1 Peter 2:24) Repent and return to God. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9 NASB1995) Amen.

‘Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.
 I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’ — Isaiah 41:10 (NASB1995) When you go through deep waters, Yahweh will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. (See Isaiah 43:2 NLT) This is what the LORD says— your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is good for you and leads you along the paths you should follow. (Isaiah 48:17 NLT) Keep your ears tuned in to His still small voice. Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, “This is the way you should go,” whether to the right or to the left. (Isaiah 30:21 NLT)

But those who wait for the LORD [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] will gain new strength and renew their power; They will lift up their wings [and rise up close to God] like eagles [rising toward the sun]; They will run and not become weary, they will walk and not grow tired. — Isaiah 40:30-31 (AMP) Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth Does not become weary or tired… He will neither slumber nor sleep. He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power. (Isaiah 40:28-29 & Psalm 121:4 NASB1995) Seek the LORD and His strength; Seek His face continually. (Psalm 105:4 NASB1995) Deeply long for His presence. The LORD gives his people strength… (See Psalm 29:11 NLT)

Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. — 2 Corinthians 4:16 (NASB1995) May we be glad that our inner man is breathing in new life every day. You see, the short-lived pains of this life are creating for us an eternal glory that does not compare to anything we know here. So do not set your sights on the things you can see with your eyes. All of that is fleeting; it will eventually fade away. Instead, focus on the things we cannot see, which live on and on. (See 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 VOICE) So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. — 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NLT) 

“Be still, be calm, see, and understand I am the True God. I am honored among all the nations. I am honored over all the earth.” — Psalm 46:10 (VOICE) Let us unplug from all that keeps us connected to this world. Be still and recognize our Mighty God. He is the great “I AM”. Whatever we need, He is the answer. He is the Most High God, higher than any mountain or obstacle before you. He is Adonai, set your affections upon Him. Worthy is He to receive all praise, honor and glory. He is El Shaddai, the All-Sufficient God. He shall supply all your needs. He is Jehovah Shalom, the LORD our Peace. Cast all your cares upon Him and let the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (See Philippians 4:7 NASB1995)