Category Archives: Faith

Mar19

Lord, What’s Next? Learning to Follow in Faith

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"Lord, what will You have me to do?" – Acts 9:6 (KJV)

When Paul encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus, his entire world changed in an instant (including his name!). In awe and humility, he asked the most important question anyone can ask the Lord: “Lord, what will You have me to do?” Notice Jesus’ response—He didn’t give Paul a full blueprint of his life’s mission. Instead, He simply told him, “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do” (Acts 9:6, NIV). One step. That was it.

If you’re like me, you probably want to see the entire roadmap before you take the first step. We like certainty, clear plans, and guarantees. But often, God operates differently—He only illuminates the very next step, asking us to trust Him for the rest.

Paul, later known as the apostle to the Gentiles, would go on to spread the Gospel across nations, write much of the New Testament, and suffer greatly for Christ. But at that moment, all he knew was to go into the city and wait. He obeyed, and as he took that first step of faith, God revealed the next. Then the next. And the next. Step by step, Paul followed, and looking back, we can see how God’s hand guided every part of his journey.

Perhaps you’re in a season of uncertainty. The path ahead seems dark, and you’re desperately wanting God to show you the full picture before you take another step. But what if, instead, He’s asking you to trust Him for just the next step? What if He is waiting for your obedience in the small things before He reveals more?

Looking back on your own faith journey, you may see a winding, zig-zagging path, but you will also see the unmistakable hand of God leading you. Even when you didn’t understand, He was there. Even when you felt lost, He was guiding. And He is still guiding you now.

So, if you’re wondering what to do next, ask Him as Paul did: “Lord, what will You have me to do?” Then, be still and listen. He will show you the next step, and as you step forward in faith, He will illuminate the path ahead—one step at a time.

A Prayer for Trusting God’s Guidance

Heavenly Father, I come to You with a heart that is seeking direction. Like Paul, I ask, “Lord, what will You have me to do?” I trust that You have a plan for my life, even when I can’t see the full picture. Give me the faith to take the next step, knowing that You will lead me every step of the way. Help me trust in Your perfect timing and rest in the assurance that You are in control. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflect on These Verses:

  • “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
  • “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
  • “We walk by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NKJV)

Feb21

Trusting God With an Unknown Future

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Life is full of uncertainties. There are seasons when we stand at the edge of the unknown, staring into the future with fear, anxiety, and doubt. We wonder what will happen next, how things will unfold, and whether we will have the strength to endure. In times like these, trusting God can feel difficult—but it is also the most powerful choice we can make.

God Knows What We Cannot See

One of the greatest comforts we have as believers is knowing that God sees the whole picture when we only see a fragment. Isaiah 46:10 reminds us that God declares “the end from the beginning,” meaning He is not surprised by anything we face. While we may be overwhelmed by uncertainty, God is sovereign over every moment of our lives. His plan is perfect, even when it doesn’t make sense to us.

Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us:

  • “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

This verse teaches us that our understanding is limited, but when we surrender our future to God, He will guide our steps.

Fear is often the biggest obstacle to trusting God with the unknown. It whispers, “What if things go wrong? What if you fail? What if God doesn’t come through?” But fear is a liar. God calls us to replace fear with faith, remembering that He is always with us.

In Joshua 1:9, God gives this command:

  • “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

When we hold onto God’s promises instead of our fears, we can walk forward with confidence, even when the path ahead is unclear.

The Bible is filled with stories of people who trusted God despite not knowing what the future held. Abraham obeyed God’s call to leave his homeland without knowing where he was going (Hebrews 11:8). The Israelites followed God’s pillar of cloud by day and fire by night without knowing where it would lead (Exodus 13:21). Even Mary, the mother of Jesus, accepted God’s plan without fully understanding how it would unfold (Luke 1:38).

Each of these individuals faced an uncertain future, but God provided for them every step of the way. And He will do the same for us. Philippians 4:19 assures us:

  • “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

We may not know what tomorrow holds, but we know the One who holds tomorrow. His provision is enough.

Trusting God with the unknown requires surrender. It means letting go of control, releasing our worries, and choosing to believe that God is working all things for our good (Romans 8:28). Surrender doesn’t mean we stop planning or making wise decisions; rather, it means we place our confidence in God’s faithfulness instead of our own understanding.

Psalm 56:3 offers a simple yet powerful declaration:

  • “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.”

Choosing to trust God is a daily decision. It is waking up each morning and saying, “Lord, I don’t know what today holds, but I know You are in control. I trust You.”

A Prayer for Trusting God in Uncertainty

Heavenly Father,

I come before You with a heart full of uncertainties. I don’t know what the future holds, but I know You hold my future. Help me to trust You, even when I can’t see the way ahead. Give me peace when I feel anxious, courage when I feel afraid, and faith to believe that Your plans for me are good. I surrender my worries to You and choose to walk by faith, not by sight. Thank You for always being with me, guiding me, and providing for me.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Encouraging Bible Verses to Hold Onto

  • Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
  • Psalm 37:5 – “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will do this.”
  • Matthew 6:34 – “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

If you are facing an uncertain future, know that you are not alone. God is with you, leading you, and working all things together for your good. Trust Him, for He is always faithful.

Feb14

Loved Beyond Measure: A Divine Valentine

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“We love because He first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19 (NIV)

Valentine’s Day can be a joyful occasion for some, but for others, it may bring feelings of loneliness or longing. Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or finding yourself alone today, know this: you are never truly alone, because you are deeply loved by God. His love is steadfast, unchanging, and far greater than anything this world can offer.

A Love Beyond Measure

God’s love isn’t based on fleeting emotions or human conditions. It is constant, unwavering, and sacrificial. The world’s love can be imperfect, but God’s love is perfect and complete. “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8) This kind of love isn’t earned; it is freely given.

From the very beginning, God has pursued us with His love. He loved us before we ever knew Him. He sent His Son, Jesus, to rescue us and restore our relationship with Him. No matter where we’ve been or what we’ve done, His love never fails. “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers… will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39)

When we truly grasp the depth of God’s love, it changes us. His love gives us security, identity, and purpose. It empowers us to love others selflessly, as He has loved us. On this Valentine’s Day, whether you are celebrating with a spouse, family, or friends—or even if you feel alone—know this: You are deeply loved by God.

Reflection:

Take a moment to reflect on God’s incredible love for you. How can you show His love to others today? Love is more than a feeling—it’s an action. Send a kind message, extend grace, forgive freely, or simply remind someone that they are loved.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for Your perfect and unfailing love. On this Valentine’s Day, help me to rest in the truth that I am fully known and deeply loved by You. Let Your love flow through me so that I can share it with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Additional Scriptures for Encouragement:

  • John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
  • 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 – “Love is patient, love is kind…”
  • Zephaniah 3:17 – “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”
Jan15

Trusting God When Life Doesn’t Make Sense

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"The LORD gives, and the LORD takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord." Job 1:21

Have you ever looked at someone else’s life and thought, “They have it all together. Life must be easy for them?” I used to think this way when I heard the phrase, “Life’s not always a bed of roses.” I imagined other people lying in a soft, beautiful bed of roses, surrounded by the sweet fragrance of life as if their days were free from struggle and filled with ease. In contrast, my own life sometimes felt far from that “bed of roses,” and I imagined that others were experiencing a blissful existence while I faced hardship. But over time, I learned this truth — even if people were lying in a bed of beautiful roses, hidden beneath those soft petals and fragrant blooms, there are thorns.

Everyone faces challenges—no one’s life is without difficulties, even if they aren’t always visible. While we might envy what seems like a perfect life, the reality is that thorns come with every “bed of roses.” The question is, how do we handle the thorns?

Job’s life is a perfect example of someone whose “bed of roses” turned into a sea of thorns. At the start of his story, Job had everything—wealth, a loving family, good health, and a prosperous life. He was a man blessed with ease, much like the picture of a perfect life that we often imagine. But in an instant, everything was taken away from him. His wealth was lost, his children died, and he was struck with painful sores from head to toe. The beauty of his life turned into a painful, thorny reality. Yet, through it all, Job did not curse God or give up on his faith. Instead, he questioned, he lamented, and he wrestled with God, but he ultimately chose to trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness, even when life made no sense.

Job’s example teaches us an important lesson: when life gives us thorns instead of roses, we don’t have to have all the answers, but we can choose to trust God. Job’s story reminds us that it’s okay to struggle and ask tough questions, but we must hold on to faith in God’s ultimate wisdom and goodness, even in the midst of our pain. Like Job, we can acknowledge the thorns but still choose to trust in God’s purpose, knowing that He is with us through the hardships.

Have you ever felt like Job, struggling with hardship and not understanding why things are happening the way they are? Ask God to help you through this struggle. Keep trusting God, even when life doesn’t make sense. Remember, we are never alone in our struggles. Please share a comment if you need prayer today, or share this post with someone who might need a reminder that God is with us through all the trials of life.

A Prayer for Today

Dear Lord, When life feels overwhelming, and nothing makes sense, teach us to lean on You and not lose hope. Remind us that we can ask tough questions and pour out our hearts to you.  Help us know that You are there, even when we can't feel Your presence. We trust that You have a purpose in everything, and we choose to place our hope in You today. In Jesus' Name, Amen

Related Verses

  • James 1:2-4: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
  • Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
  • Isaiah 55:8-9 “‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.'”
  • Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
  • 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
  • 1 Peter 1:6-7“In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.”
  • Matthew 11:28-30 “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.”
Dec31

Beyond Resolutions: A New Perspective for the New Year

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“Then God said, ‘Let there be light-bearers (Sun, Moon, Stars) in the expanse of the heavens to separate day from night, and let them be useful for signs (tokens) [of God’s provident care], and for marking seasons, days and years.'” Genesis 1: 14 AMP

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, it’s easy to feel both the excitement and uncertainty of what lies ahead. We make plans, set resolutions, and look forward to the opportunities and challenges that a fresh start brings. But what if we approached the turning of the calendar not just with our own hopes and dreams, but with a deep sense of awe at how God has already gone before us, marking every moment with His faithful presence?

In Genesis 1:14-19, we see a powerful and often overlooked truth about time. On the fourth day of creation, God spoke into existence the lights in the sky, the sun, moon, and stars, and declared that they were “good.” These lights were not just to illuminate the earth but to “serve as signs (tokens) to mark sacred times, and days and years” (Genesis 1:14, Amplified Bible). In this moment, God created the very concept of time—days, seasons, and years—and deemed it good. The orderly passage of time was His perfect design, not an afterthought.

God’s Provident Care in the Heavens

As we read this passage, it’s awe-inspiring to realize that God, the Creator of the universe, intentionally placed the lights in the sky to serve as tokens of His providence. (Here, providence means providing for future needs or events, or exercising foresight and care in planning for the future.) Even before humanity existed, God made the heavens a visible reminder of His care and faithfulness. The sun, moon, and stars were not simply celestial objects; they were divine markers set in place to reflect God’s active presence in time.

It’s humbling to think that God wanted us to notice His handiwork in the heavens—signs that would not only provide light for the earth but also guide us through time. Each day, month, and year is a direct result of God’s deliberate and sustaining power. And as we look up at the stars or feel the warmth of the sun, we are reminded that time itself is a gift from a loving, providential Father.

A Fresh Perspective for the New Year

As we turn the page to a new year, it’s an opportunity to reframe our perspective on time. We no longer need to see the passing days simply as moments slipping away, like grains of sand through an hourglass. Instead, we can view each day, each month, as a sign of God’s ongoing care and faithfulness. The same God who created the sun to rule the day and the moon to rule the night is the one who has walked with us through every season, both light and dark.

And what’s even more amazing is that each and every day is a gift from our Heavenly Father — not just the first day of the year. Each new morning is a fresh start, a blank canvas for God to fill with His purpose. We don’t know what the day will bring, but God already does. He’s there ahead of us, ready to walk us through whatever lies ahead. The sun rises each morning, and as it does, it’s as if God is saying, “Here is your day, a new gift filled with potential.”

God’s Unseen Presence

Even on the stormy, cloudy days when we can’t see the lights in the sky, we know they are still there. The sun, moon, and stars haven’t gone anywhere; they’re simply hidden by the clouds. In the same way, even when we don’t feel God’s presence, we can be sure He’s still there. Just as the lights in the sky continue to shine even when they’re not visible to us, God is always watching over us, guiding us, and walking beside us. Whether the skies are clear or clouded over, His love and care never change. He is constant, unshaken by the storms of life. The same God who created the sun to rule the day and the moon to rule the night is the one who has walked with us through every season, both light and dark.

Trusting God with the Year Ahead

What would it look like to approach the new year with this understanding—that every day, week, and month is a token of God’s care, a gift from the Creator who has been guiding us through all the days that have passed before? As we face the challenges and opportunities of this year, let’s remember that we don’t walk through it alone. The lights in the sky remind us of God’s providence—His constant, loving presence as we move forward.

In the coming year, let’s strive to live with a sense of gratitude for the time God has entrusted to us. Whether we’re facing joyous celebrations or difficult trials, each moment is an opportunity to trust in God’s perfect timing, knowing that He is already ahead of us, guiding us through every season of life.

Instead of a New Year’s Resolution, Embrace a Year of Gratitude

Instead of setting a traditional New Year’s resolution, why not choose to live the year with a focus on gratitude? Rather than simply making a list of goals, let’s intentionally recognize the blessings each day brings. You can create a daily habit of reflecting on God’s goodness by writing down one thing you are grateful for every day. This practice will not only help you cultivate a spirit of thankfulness but also allow you to see the hand of God at work in the everyday moments of your life. Whether it’s the beauty of a sunrise, a kind word from a friend, or God’s guidance through a challenge, you’ll begin to notice and appreciate His faithfulness in ways you might have missed before.

By the end of the year, you’ll have 365 moments of gratitude that serve as a testimony to God’s providence and love. This simple act can transform your perspective, helping you see that no matter what each day holds, it is a gift from a loving Creator, always filled with something to be thankful for.

A New Year, A New Beginning

As we embrace the new year, let’s hold onto the truth that God is not just present in our moments but actively shaping and guiding time itself. Each new day, each season, is a chance to align ourselves with His purpose and reflect on the tokens of His providence that shine brightly in the heavens above. Let’s look at our calendars with fresh eyes, seeing them as reminders of the Creator’s faithful care and the eternal rhythm of His plan.

A Prayer for the New Year

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for the gift of this new year and the opportunity to walk with You each day. Help us to see each moment as a precious gift from Your hand, filled with purpose and meaning. Teach us to number our days aright, that we may live with wisdom and gratitude for all You have done and continue to do. May Your providence guide us, and may we trust in Your faithful presence, both in the light and in the storms. We ask that You help us embrace each day with open hearts, thankful for the blessings You’ve given and trusting in Your perfect timing.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Related Verses

Psalm 118:24
“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

James 1:17
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”

1 Thessalonians 5:18
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Psalm 104:19-20
“The moon marks off the seasons, and the sun knows when to go down. You bring darkness, it becomes night, and all the beasts of the forest prowl.”

Psalm 90:12
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

Dec29

Anchored in Hope: Trusting the Power of God’s Word

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Everything written in the past was written to teach us. 
The Scriptures give us strength to go on.
They encourage us and give us hope.
Romans 15:4 NIRV

Finding Strength and Hope Through God’s Word

Life can sometimes feel like a storm — chaotic, uncertain, and overwhelming. In those moments, it’s easy to feel lost and unsure where to turn. But the good news is, we don’t have to face these struggles alone. Romans 15:4 reminds us that God’s Word is a lifeline, offering strength, encouragement, and hope. “Everything written in the past was written to teach us. The Scriptures give us strength to go on. They encourage us and give us hope.” When life’s challenges feel too heavy to bear, the timeless wisdom found in God’s Word is there to guide us through it all.

The Bible is more than a collection of ancient stories or moral guidelines—it is a living source of strength, encouragement, and hope we can turn to at any moment. The experiences, lessons, and promises written in the Scriptures can help us through our most challenging moments. They are God’s way of reminding us that we are never alone, and we can always rely on His presence and guidance.

~ Guidance for Every Step

In times of confusion or doubt, it’s easy to feel like we’re wandering without direction. But God’s Word provides the clarity we need. Through the stories of the past, we see examples of God leading His people through impossible circumstances. Whether it was Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt, David facing giants, Paul enduring hardship and persecution, …and countless others, each story reveals how God guides those who trust Him.

When we’re unsure of what steps to take next, we can turn to the Bible for guidance. Its words are filled with wisdom for everyday life, helping us to navigate difficult decisions, relationships, and challenges.

~ Strength to Keep Going

Life can be exhausting, especially when we feel burdened by the weight of our struggles. But as this verse in Romans reminds us, the Scriptures provide the strength we need to carry on. When we’re weary, the promises of God give us the endurance to keep going. Verses like Isaiah 40:31 remind us, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.”

By spending time in God’s Word, we are reminded that our strength doesn’t come from our own abilities—it comes from God. His Word fills us with the power to persevere, even when the road ahead seems impossible.

~ Encouragement in Every Season

We all face seasons of discouragement, where it feels like everything is against us. But the Bible offers words of encouragement that can lift our spirits in the darkest times. In its pages, we see the faithfulness of God to His people and the assurance that He is still faithful to us today.

The Psalms, in particular, are filled with heartfelt prayers of people who struggled with fear, grief, and doubt, yet found comfort in God’s presence. When we’re feeling discouraged, we can take comfort in knowing that the same God who was faithful to them is faithful to us.

~ Hope That Anchors Us

Hope allows us to see beyond our current circumstances and trust that God is working everything for our good. The Bible is full of promises that give us hope for the future. Romans 8:28 tells us, “In all things God works for the good of those who love him.” Even when we don’t understand what’s happening in our lives, we can hold onto the hope that God is in control and has a plan for us.

Turn to God’s Word

When life feels overwhelming, open your Bible. Let the words of Scripture remind you that God is with you, guiding you, strengthening you, and giving you hope for the future.

A Prayer for Today:

“Lord, thank You for the gift of Your Word. Help us to turn to You for guidance, strength, and hope, trusting in Your promises. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Related Verses:

Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”

Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Dec27

When You Can’t Find Words, God Hears Your Heart

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There are moments in life when finding the right words to pray feels impossible. Sometimes, the weight of our circumstances leaves us speechless. Whether we’re facing overwhelming challenges, dealing with a heartbreaking loss, or feeling lonely and disconnected from those around us, it can seem as though the words to pray simply aren’t there. When the heaviness in your heart makes it hard to know what to say to God, it’s comforting to know that God hears our hearts — even when words fail us.

“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.” Romans 8:26-27 (NIV)

A God Who Understands Even Our Silence

This powerful passage reminds us that when we’re at a loss for words, the Holy Spirit is there, interceding on our behalf. God, who searches our hearts, understands the deepest cries of our soul, even when we can’t articulate them. When we are weak and unable to pray as we should, the Spirit steps in, offering our prayers to God with perfect understanding and in perfect accordance with His will.

Think about that for a moment—the Creator of the universe not only hears our words but listens attentively to the silent groans of our hearts. Whether our prayers are eloquent or unspoken, whether we cry out in desperation or sit in quiet surrender, God hears us. And He is always at work, responding in ways that are best for us.

God Hears You, Even in Your Silence

When words escape you, when the grief or confusion feels too heavy to bear, remember this: God hears your heart. The Holy Spirit is interceding for you, and God’s love and attention never fail. You are never truly alone in your struggles, even when you can’t find the right words to say.

So, when you feel lost in your prayers, take comfort in knowing that the Spirit is speaking for you, bringing your heart’s cries to God. You don’t have to have the perfect words—just an open heart, and God will meet you there.

Even when you can’t find the words, God is listening. He hears your heart.

A Prayer for Today:

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being a God who hears our hearts, even when we can’t find the words to pray. When we are overwhelmed or weary, help us to rest in the truth that You are always near, listening and interceding on our behalf. Holy Spirit, thank You for lifting our silent prayers to the Father. Please give us peace in knowing that You understand our deepest needs. We trust in Your love, Your care, and Your perfect will for our lives. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Related Verses:

Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Psalm 116: 1 – 2 (TLB): “I love the Lord because He hears my prayers and answers them. Because He bends down and listens, I will pray as long as I breathe!”

Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Hebrews 4:16: “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

Oct11

The Lovely Fragrance of Faith

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"Thanks be to God who leads us, wherever we are, on His triumphant way and makes our knowledge of Him spread throughout the world like a lovely perfume!" 2 Corinthians 2:14

God’s Guidance In All Seasons of Life

This verse is a beautiful reminder of the role we play in God’s triumphant plan. It paints a vivid picture of how He leads us – no matter where we are – on a path of victory. It’s a journey that may not always feel victorious, especially when life is challenging, but God assures us that He is always guiding us. And through us, He spreads the “lovely perfume” of knowing Him to those around us.

A lovely perfume! What a beautiful image! When we think of perfume, we think of something that lingers, something that makes a mark on our senses, something that transforms the air around us. It’s not overpowering but rather gentle, pleasant, and inviting. This is how God’s love and grace touch the world through our lives. We are the vessels he uses to release the beautiful fragrance of His love, peace, and hope into a world that desperately needs it.

A Gentle, Inviting Aroma In Everyday Moments of Life

Like a lovely perfume, the aroma of God’s love doesn’t demand attention; it simply fills the space where it is released, drawing people in. When we live our lives rooted in Christ, that fragrance flows naturally. By spending quiet time with God and allowing His Word to soak into our souls, we become steeped in the aroma of His grace. As we go about our day, that sweet scent goes with us – transforming the atmosphere wherever we go.

Vessels of His Fragrance: Sharing God’s Love to the World

Imagine how this perfume might drift into the lives of those who need it most. The aroma of God’s love fills our homes through the way we interact with our loved ones. It wafts through conversations with friends, neighbors, and even strangers. It’s in the quiet moments of prayer when we intercede for someone who’s struggling. It’s in our actions, in the way we serve others, the compassion we show, and even in the patience we extend. Each moment is an opportunity to let the fragrance of knowing Him seep out into the world around us.

Trusting God’s Plan for Your Life

So wherever God has placed you today, remind yourself that you are part of His triumphant procession. Even in the difficult seasons, He is using you to spread the beautiful fragrance of His love. Trust that He can use your life, your story, and even your struggles to draw others to Him. Let the lovely perfume of His presence fill your heart and overflow to those around you. May the people God places in your path catch a whiff of His presence and goodness through your words, your actions, and your life, and ultimately lead them to the One who is the source of all grace.

Prayer for Today:

Dear Lord, Wherever You lead me today, let Your love and grace flow through me like a sweet fragrance, drawing others to You. Even though I may be walking through challenging times, remind me that You are guiding me every step of the way, and no matter where I go, You are already there. Fill my heart with the lovely aroma of Your presence, and let it linger in the words I speak and the actions I take. Use my life to spread the fragrant knowledge of Your goodness to a world in desperate need of Your love. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Related Verses: 

"And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." Ephesians 5:2
"For God, who said, 'Let light shine out of darkness,' made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God's glory displayed in the face of Christ. But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us." 2 Corinthians 4: 6 - 7

Oct2

Trusting God’s Plan in our Darkest Days

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“’For I know the plans I have for you,’
 declares the LORD,
‘ plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
 plans to give you hope and a future.'”
Jeremiah 29:11

Just like a caterpillar enters the dark, mysterious chrysalis before emerging as a beautiful butterfly, we often go through dark periods in life where it can be hard to see God’s hand at work. While walking through those valleys, we may feel alone, uncertain, and hopeless about the future. But even in those times, God is at work in us, bringing about transformation and growth that we cannot yet see.

God’s Promise in the Dark Valleys

The hopeful words of Jeremiah 29:11 remind us that God has a plan for each of us: “For I know the plan I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” This encouraging assurance was spoken to God’s people while they endured a long period of exile, feeling lost and abandoned. God saw their hardships, and He heard their cries for help. He met them in that lonely place and let them know His prosperous vision for their future. Even in their darkest time, God had not forgotten them. He was working for their good, preparing a future of hope and restoration.

God is Always Working, Even When We Don’t See It

In our own lives, we may experience seasons of difficulty where God’s presence feels distant. But just like the caterpillar in its chrysalis, those times are often the very moments when God is preparing us for something greater. His plans for us are always for good, even when we can’t yet see the end result.

So when you find yourself in a dark valley, remember that God is with you, working behind the scenes, transforming your circumstances for His glory and your good. Trust in His timing and have faith that, like the butterfly, you will one day emerge from the darkness with new strength, beauty, and purpose.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for your constant presence in our lives, even in the darkest valleys. Help us trust Your plans, knowing that You are always at work for our good, even when we can’t see it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Related Verses: 

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3: 5 - 6

Jul9

Be a Prayer Warrior…Not a Prayer Worrier

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“If you don’t know what you’re doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You’ll get His help, and won’t be condescended to when you ask for it. Ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought. People who “worry their prayers” are like wind-whipped waves.”  James 1: 5 – 7 MSG

On a recent trip to the beach, I sat on the shore and watched the waves roll in. I noticed how occasional gusts of wind blew the crests of the waves, causing a sea spray to shoot a fine mist of salt water into the wind and create seafoam.

The bubbly white foam rolled in with the waves and was deposited on the beach, leaving a collection of effervescent spume at the shoreline. Over time the mounds of frothy bubbles popped and then completely disappeared.

Observing these wind-whipped waves reminded me of James’ description of people who “worry their prayers.” When we mix our prayers with our worries and doubts, the outcome is like blending the wind with the waves, resulting in a buildup of seafoam that seems substantial, but in the end, it produces nothing.

Jesus taught us about the futility of worrying when he said, “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?” (Luke 12:25 – 26 NIV)

Worrying about our problems causes anxiety without solving anything, but praying about our problems brings peace because when we pray, we know that we have tapped into God’s heavenly storehouse of limitless and unimaginable problem-solving solutions.

Do you ever find yourself worrying about something instead of “boldly, believingly, without a second thought,” laying your cares at the feet of your Heavenly Father?

Don’t waste your time and energy churning with worries and ruminating about actual or imagined problems. Turn to God with your cares and trust that He will help you. He loves to help his children!

Be a Prayer Warrior, not a Prayer Worrier!

“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

Dear Lord, Thank you that you are available 24/7 and that I can always turn to You in prayer. Forgive me for the times that I “worry my prayers” and fail to trust that You are big enough to handle any request.  When worries start to swirl in my mind, remind me of the wind-whipped waves and help me have faith to boldly and confidently approach Your throne of grace where I know You are ready and willing to help. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.