Our Daily Devo

Matthew 18:4 "Whoever becomes simple and elemental again, like this child, will rank high in God's kingdom" God loves you the way you are, the way He created you. You don't have to be anything more. Often times in this life we spend too much time trying to impress the world around us, seeking earthly acceptance, being something we're not. But there is no need for that. God loves you for who and what you are. And the people of this earth, your true loved ones, they love you for your genuine self as well. So, the next time you find yourself trying to fit in and seeking acceptance ask yourself "Is this who I am supposed to be?". If the answer is no resist the temptation for acceptance and instead listen to the voice in your heart. The voice of your Creator. The closest relationship you have ever had and will ever have. He has been with you every moment of your life. Every beat of your heart, every breath you have ever taken. He created you, He loves you, He accepts you just the way you are. He wants you to be yourself, your simple, genuine self.

Romans 13:13-14 "We can't afford to waste a minute, must not squander these precious daylight hours in frivolity and indulgence...Don't loiter and linger, waiting until the very last minute. Dress yourself in Christ, and be up and about!" Do you find yourself procrastinating? I know I do from time to time. Especially in doing those things that are not appealing or seem challenging. At the same time I admire those that seem to "get things done". Especially when those things are what most other people seem to avoid doing. Jesus was like that. He was very active in His life bringing about a great change in people and the world. We as Christians, and by Paul's words in today's verse, are called to do the same. To live with a purpose and passion. To be Christ-like in our days, living with an energy that brings about love and joy to this world. It can be difficult work, scary at times. But we mustn't put it off or procrastinate. It is important work to accomplish and we have that work to do.

Philippians 3:13-14 "Brothers and sisters, I myself don't think I've reached it, but I do this one thing: I forget about the things behind me and reach out for the things ahead of me. the goal I pursue is the prize of God's upward call in Christ Jesus" One our most amazing human characters is our desire for purpose and pursuit. We pursue many things throughout our lives but this reading talks to us about the ultimate pursuit. The call, God's call, to Jesus. You see He served as an example for us as to how to live. It may seem like a daunting pursuit, a goal we know we will never reach, at least not in this life, but it is a worthy pursuit none the less. You see, the pursuit of perfection is Our Father's design, He calls us to righteousness. He calls us to build His kingdom through our works and pursuits and to glorify Him in the process.

John 3:16 "For God loved the world in this way: He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life" God loves you - His love for you is so great that He sent His only Son to this earth to die for your sins and to offer you the priceless gift of eternal life! Now, it is up to you to decide whether or not to accept God's gift. He offers it freely. Will you invite Christ to dwell in your heart? The decision is yours each and every day so choose wisely.

Ephesians 6:7 "Do your work with enthusiasm. Work as if you were serving the Lord, not as if you were serving only men and women." Do you see each day as a glorious opportunity to serve God and to do His will? Are you enthused about life, or do you struggle through each day giving scarcely a thought to God's blessings? Are you constantly praising God for His gifts, and are you sharing His Good News with the world? and are you excited about the possibilities for service that God has placed before you, whether at home, at work, at church, or at school? You should be. You are the recipient of the greatest gift of all, LOVE. And that gift is meant to be shared.

2 Corinthians 7:6 "God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us." If you have ever been touched by the transforming hand of Jesus, you have every reason to live courageously. Still, even as a dedicated Christian, you may find yourself discouraged by the inevitable disappointments and tragedies that occur in our lives. The next time you find your courage tested to the limit, lean upon God's promises. Trust His Son. Remember that God is always near and that He is your protector and your deliverer. When you are worried, anxious, or afraid, call upon Him and accept the touch of His comforting hand. Remember that God rules both mountaintops and valleys - with limitless wisdom and love - now and forever.

Romans 12:2 "Don't be conformed to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds so that you can figure out what God's will is - what is good and pleasing and mature" We are constantly given signs by the divine about the direction of our lives if we are only open to receiving them. They are different for each of us but are all important nonetheless. Our individual paths are designed according to the gifts that have been planted in us by our Heavenly Father. And those gifts are meant to be shared and feed the world around us.

Philippians 2:13 "for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose" "For it is God who works in you", what an amazing thought to think that God is within us. But it's true, He is. As our Creator, His spirit resides in us. And perhaps what's even more amazing is the fact that He works through us to fulfill His good purpose. You see as His children, as His instruments, to build His kingdom here on earth, we are blessed with a good purpose. And although we are sometimes distracted by the "noise" of this life, if we quiet ourselves and listen to that small quiet voice within, we can find direction. It is only when we stray and fight that inner connection with our Heavenly Father that we lose.

Proverbs 10:21 "The lips of the righteous fee many" Here's a simple yet effective way to strengthen your faith; Choose role models whos faith in God is strong. When we emulate godly people, we become a more godly person ourselves. That's why we should seek mentors who, by their words and their presence, make you a better person and a better Christian. Today, as a gift to yourself, select from your friends and family, a mentor whose judgement you trust. Then listen carefully to their advice, even if accepting it requires effort or pain, or both. Consider your mentor to be God's gift to you. Thank God for that gift, and use it for the glory of His kingdom.

Proverbs 15:13 "A happy heart makes the face cheerful" laughter is God's gift, and He intends that we enjoy it. Yet, sometimes, because of the inevitable stresses of everyday life, laughter seems only a distant memory. As Christians, we have every reason to be cheerful and to be thankful. Our blessings from God are beyond measure, starting of course, with a gift that is ours for the asking, God's gift of salvation through Jesus. Few things in life are more absurd than the life of an unhappy Christian. So today, as you go about your daily activities, approach life with a grin and a chuckle. After all, God created laughter for reason, so use it.

John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" In today's reading we see Jesus offering His disciples, and to us, a gift like no other. The gift of eternal peace. He tells us that this gift He offers, we cannot get from anywhere else. It cannot be found in this world. Rather true peace is found only in Him and His promise of eternal life. It is in this promise that we are not troubled or afraid. There is nothing on this earth, no hurt, no loss, no hardship, that can separate us from the love of Our Heavenly Father and the everlasting peace that has been given to us by Jesus.

Matthew 10:8 "Freely you have received; freely give" In today's reading Jesus gathers the disciples and tells them to carry out His mission not by giving gold and silver pieces, but rather by giving themselves. He calls them to go into the communities that need them most to provide hope, encouragement, and inspiration. He calls them to heal the sick, comfort the lonely, and feed the hungry. It is often difficult to recognize our God given talents, our calling. But much like the disciples, this is what we are called to give. To give of ourselves in service to others. So today, open up your heart. Seek clarity in your calling. Be the hands and feet of Jesus. As the disciples were called, so are we, to give freely the gift of ourselves.

Psalm 127:1 "Unless the Lord builds a house, its builders labor over it in vain; unless the Lord watches over a city, the watchman stays alert in vain" Today's reading is a reminder that if we don't make Our Heavenly Father the center of our lives, if we don't build our lives on Him as our foundation, it really is for not, wasted, in vain. This is a constant battle in this hectic world, to stay focused and keep Him at the center of our lives. Although we are distracted and may stray, through His goodness and grace, we are always encouraged to come back. To come back to the foundation that can never be shaken. We are encouraged to come back and build our lives on the foundation of prayer, service, kindness, and love. So today may we glorify God and be builders of His kingdom, built on His foundation. May we be the watchmen to look after it, nurture it, and watch it grow.

Philippians 2:13 "For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him" OurHeavenly Father nurtures and cares for us bringing us from where we are, to where He wants us to be. Much like the transformation of an unsightly caterpillar to a majestic butterfly, He turns us into the beautiful creations He intends us to be. And through that process, as long as we accept Him, He gives us the desire and the power to do what pleases Him. He gives us the encouragement to work for His glory.

Proverbs 27:17 "As iron sharpens iron, a friend sharpens a friend" A loving family is a treasure from God; so is a trustworthy friend. If you are a member of a tight-knit, supportive family, offer a word of thanks to your Creator. And if you have a close circle of trustworthy friends, consider yourself richly blessed. Today let us praise God for our family and friends. He has placed these people along our paths. Let us love them and care for them. Let us give thanks to all those who enrich our lives. These people are, in a very real sense, gifts from God and we should treat them as such.

1 Corinthians 16:13 "Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong" When I read this verse I envision Paul standing in front of a crowd of men and women giving them encouragement and inspiration to live visibly in thier faith. Being a disciple of Jesus, Paul knowe that God wanted, and needed, more men and women who were willing to stand up and be counted for by Him. Genuine faith is never meant to be locked up in the heart of a believer, it is meant to be shared. There are opportunities every day to live visibly and share our faith but we must have the courage to recognize them and engage. Sure sometimes it may feel uneasy or uncertain but God is always with us and He strengthens us as long as we have faith in Him. Jesus taught His disciples that they could move mountains as long as they had faith. You can too if you stand up for it.

Romans 14:19 "So let us try to do what makes peace and helps one another" Life is a team sport, and all of us need the occasional pat on the back from our teammates. Especially when we are down. In Ephesians Paul tells us to "no let any unwholesome talk come out of our mouths, but only what is helpful to building others up according to their needs that it may benefit those who listen". Paul reminds us that when we choose our words wisely, we can have a powerful impact on those around us. Since we don't always know who needs our encouragement, the best strategy is to offer encouragement to all those who cross our path. Never has the need been greater!

Ephesians 5:21 "Out of respect for Christ, be courteously reverent to one another" Jesus gave us instruction on matters of etiquette and courtesy. In Matthew 7:12 He says "In everything you do treat people the same way you want to be treated" Now He did not say from time to time, or sometimes, treat other people with respect. No, He said treat people with respect in every aspect of our daily lives. This, of course, is sometimes difficult to do but as Christians, we are commanded to do our best. So today be a little kinder than necessary to family members, friends, and even total strangers. And, as you consider all of the things Christ has done in your life, honor Him with your words and with your good deeds.

Galatians 6:2 "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ" We live in a world that on occasion can be a frightening place. Sometimes we sustain life-altering losses that are so profound and so tragic that it seems we could never recover. But, with God's help and with the help of encouraging family members and friends, we can recover. In times of need God's word is clear: as believers, we offer comfort to those in need by not only sharing our courage but also our faith. No journey is complete without going through some dark valleys. We can properly comfort others only with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

Joshua 1:19 "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" one of the most dangerous phrases in our English language is that of "you're not". "you're not smart enough", "you're not thin enough", "you're not big enough", "you're not rich enough", "you're not poor enough", "you're not", "you're not", "you're not". Do you see how that goes? These words are the ones we often tell ourselves. They are rooted in fear and often hold us back from being who, and what, we are created to be. Well, guess what? Those words, they're made up. That's right we made those words. Those words don't exist in Our Creator's vocabulary. We are His masterpiece, created in His perfect image. He speaks of us, and to us, in only "you are". "You are beautiful", "you are enough", "you are capable", "you are worthy" "you are loved". Do you see the difference? So the next time you hear "you're not" shake your head and cast out that untruth. Instead, listen to the words of your Creator, have no fear, be strong and courageous, because "you are".

Psalm 46:10 "Be still, and know that I am God" Sometimes the pace of this world and our ever-growing to-do lists, can keep us from having the relationship that Our Heavenly Father wants and that we deserve. It is interesting because when we find ourselves of constant go and hurry is when we often feel depleted and empty. This is not the wish of our Father, even He took rest during the creation of our world. It is important to have periods of stillness in our lives so that we can connect and find peace. Busyness is a tool of the devil to keep us from having that relationship with God. If the devil can't make us sin, he often keeps us busy. So, if you find yourself on the hamster wheel of life and it is disguised as productivity and accomplishment, be careful and remember the words of the psalmist "Be still, and know that I am God".

Hebrews 10:22 "Let us come near to God with a sincere heart and a sure faith, because we have been made free from a guilty conscience, and our bodies have been washed with pure water" Today's scripture reminds us that we have been made, by God, to be free from a guilty conscience. he doesn't want us to live a life burdened by sin. At the same time, He knows that we aren't perfect, that we do make mistakes. So for that, He has given us the redemptive power of Jesus to wash our transgressions away. He doesn't want us to abuse this power though. In this verse, He tells us to come near to Him, to walk in righteousness, with a sincere heart, and sure faith. And when we do we can become free from the burden of guilt and sin. So, if you find yourself carrying weight you shouldn't, something you're not proud of, give it to God. He understands. Draw close to Him and walk upright. Look to the cross for forgiveness and be washed clean.

Romans 13:10-11 " You can't go wrong when you love others. When you add up everything in the law code, the sum total is love. But make sure that you don't get so absorbed and exhausted in taking care of all your day-to-day obligations that you lose track of time and doe off, oblivious to God" Today's scripture is both a prescription and a warning. The prescriptive piece tells us to love others, that in our lives the measure of a good life is how much love we create and how much love we leave behind. The cautionary piece tells us to be careful and not to let the distractions of this world stand in the way of living a life of love. So today may we make time to love our Heavenly Father and to love our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Matthew 7:7-8 "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened." When you ask God for guidance and strength you continually invite your Creator to reveal Himself in a variety of ways. Jesus made it clear to His disciples that they should petition to our Heavenly Father for their needs, and so should we. Genuine heartfelt prayer creates powerful changes in ourselves and in our world. When we lift our hearts to God, we open ourselves to a never-ending source of divine wisdom and infinite love. If you have questions about your future or needs that can't be met on your own, ask Him for direction, protection, and strength. Whatever your need, no matter how great or small, pray about it and never lose hope.

Proverbs 16:9 "People may make plans in their minds, but the Lord decides what they will do" If you're like most people you like being in control. You want things to happen according to your wishes and according to your timetable. But sometimes, God has other plans and He always has the final word. If you are struggling with something that hasn't gone as planned, it's time to make peace with life. It's time to forgive, if necessary, to accept the unchangeable past, to embrace the priceless present, and to have faith in the promise of tomorrow. It's time to trust God completely. And it's time to reclaim the peace - His peace - that can and should be yours. If your plans have not worked as you planned or as you wished, find comfort in knowing that your Creator is both loving and wise and that He understands his plans perfectly, even when you do not.

Romans 8:26 "In the same way, the Spirit comes to help our weakness. We don't know what we should pray, but the Spirit himself pleads our case with unexpressed groans" Have you ever been lost for words? There are times when we feel like we just don't know what to say. This feeling can put our prayer life at risk and we can be left unfulfilled. Think about some of the most intimate relationships in your life, perhaps that of a parent, spouse, best friend, or sibling. How is it that they know you without expression of word? Well, they know you! In the same way, Our Heavenly Father knows you except 10X! He has a direct connection to your heart! He knows your every thought, emotion, and need! So if you feel at a loss for words, don't be ashamed. Quiet yourself, study His word, look, and listen for the cues He is placing along your path. Recognize He is always listening, even if you're not quite sure what to say.

Psalm 106:1 "Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; his love endures forever." Sometimes in our rush to get things done, we simply don't take the time to pause and give thanks to our Creator for the countless blessings He has placed in our lives. Be when we do slow down and express our gratitude, we enrich our own lives and those around us. Thanksgiving should be a habit, a regular part of our daily routine. God has blessed us beyond measure and we owe Him everything, including our eternal praise. May we praise Him today, tomorrow, and throughout eternity.

The Book of Wisdom or Wisdom of Solomon 7:26 "She's the brightness that shines forth from eternal light. She's a mirror that flawlessly reflects God's activity. She's the perfect image of God's goodness" I love to gaze at the brightness of the moon and stars at night. They are a reminder of God's great creations but they are also a reminder of the power of reflection. The moon and stars have no power unto themselves but rather give off beauty and direction in reflection of the Sun. Jesus said "I am the light of the world" so if He is the Sun we, as His Christian followers, are the moon and stars. Remind yourself of that purpose, that inner light that reflects within you. It is a reflection of Our Heavenly Father and of the love of Jesus. Let your light shine! This world is full of wayward travelers lost in darkness, looking for direction. Drown out that darkness, be the reflection, and show them the way.

Isaiah 43:18-19 "The Lord says, "Forget what happened before, and do not think about the past. Look at the new thing I am going to do. It is already happening. Don't you see it? I will make a road in the desert and rivers in the dry land" Not only is Our Heavenly Father a forgiving father but He is also a giving father. In today's reading, we are reminded to not dwell on the past. Our faults and indiscretions of yesterday have been forgiven. God understands that we are imperfect people. This is why He gave us His only Son, to forgive our sins. Instead, He tells us to focus on the goodness that He has in store for us, the good things that lie ahead. He asks us to look around and take notice of the blessings He has already placed in our lives and have faith that there is more to come.

1 Corinthians 12:26 "If one part suffers, every part suffers with it." in today's reading Paul reminds us that as God's creation in a community when one of us hurts, we all hurt. There was quite a bit of hurt and discord in Paul's time but He witnessed a man that brought people together, which gave them hope, and gave them healing. Even and especially the least. That man was of course Jesus. Today we still see hurt and discord among us and Paul's message still resonates. As Christians and Jesus followers, we are called to heal the wounds among us through Christ-like humility and service. When one suffers we all suffer but when one heals we begin to make a Christ-like difference.

2 Samuel 22:2-3 "And he said: "The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my delivered; the God of my strength, in whom I will trust" Jesus spoke the words "in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world". As believers we know that God loves us and that He will protect us. In times of hardship, He will comfort us; in times of sorrow, He will dry our tears. When we are troubled or weak or sorrowful, God is always with us. We build our lives o the rock that cannot be shaken; we trust in God. Then we get on with tackling the hard work of overcoming turbulent times.

Psalm 46:10 "Be still, and know that I am God" If we take time each day in silence to open our hearts to God we will be touched and we will be blessed. The world can be a noisy place, a place filled with distractions, interruptions, and frustrations. If you are not careful, the struggles and stresses of everyday life can rob you of the peace that is rightfully yours. Make time each day to commune with your Heavenly Father in silence. Open your heart to his presence. Allow His peace to wash over you.

Psalm 34:19 "People who do what is right may have many problems, but the Lord will solve them all." Life is an exercise in problem-solving. The question is not whether we will have problems in our lives, the question is how we will choose to address them. Often times we are slow in addressing the problems in our lives because what needs to be done is difficult or uncomfortable. So we put off till tomorrow what should be done today. But the words of Psalm 34 remind that the Lord solves problems for those "who do what is right". And usually "doing what is right" means doing the uncomfortable work of confronting our problems sooner rather than later.

Proverbs 3:6 "In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths" Sometimes in the "business" of life we can become distracted or separated from our Heavenly Father. It is easy to lose focus on Him and instead focus on "the moment". And it is often in these times when we become misguided, stressed, and overwhelmed. But it is in these very moments where it is most important to pause and recognize the presence of God. You see He is with you. He is as near as your next heartbeat, the next breath you take. Give thanks and pray for guidance no matter the circumstance. He is in control. He desires to lead you down a path of His choosing. All you have to do is to watch, to listen, to learn, and simply follow.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-21 "Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in every situation because this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Don't suppress the Spirit. Don't brush off Spirit-inspired messages, but examine everything carefully and hang on to what is good" Sometimes we forget to see the true goodness in our lives, the blessings that we have. It is easy to do in our current environment. But in today's scripture we are reminded, that as Christians, we are called to "rejoice always", "pray continually" and "give thanks in every situation". When we take on these practices we put ourselves in a position to see the goodness that this life, and our Heavenly Father, have to offer. Whatever setting you find inspiration in, put yourself there often. Take in all the beauty our Creator has provided, give thanks, and hold on to what is good.

Psalm 119:17-19 "Be good to your servant so I can go on living and keeping your word. Open my eyes so I can examine the wonders of your instruction! I'm an immigrant in the land. Don't hide your commandment from me!" The psalmist in today's reading cries out a humble invitation to God as we all do as we grow in faith and build our relations with our Heavenly Father. It can become a beautiful addiction to this relationship with God. The more clarity and direction we receive the more we want. As we grow in connection and continue to seek His ways, we are rewarded with a rich life full of blessings. As we gain humility and realize that this life is not ours but rather His to live. As we recognize this and grow in this we are blessed and our eyes are opened to His wonders.

Ephesians 3:19 "Know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all th fullness of God." Our spiritual journey lasts a lifetime. As Christians we can continue to grow in the love and knowledge of our Savior as long as we live. When we cease to grow in spirit we do ourselves a profound disservice. But when we study God's word, obey His commandments, and follow in the footsteps of Jesus, we make decisions that bring us closer to God, and we flourish!

Jeremiah 29:11 "I say this because I know what I am planning for you says the Lord. I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future" This year of 2020 certainly has been a test of strength and a test of faith. In times of suffering it is easy to lose hope but we must not let that become a self-fulfilling prophecy. As Christians we must look beyond the temporary suffering and remember the words of Jeremiah "I have good plans for you". While we may not know what lies ahead, we can reflect on those words. We can reflect on the love of our Heavenly Father and that of our risen Lord. When we suffer we see a cross but we know that is not the end of the story. We remember God's promises and we remember an empty tomb.

1 John 4:21 "And He has given us His command; Whoever loves God must also love his brother." A man's spiritual health and what he projects to the world is proportional to his relationship and love for God. If we want to enjoy the spiritual health that God so wants us to enjoy, and if we want to spread that love to the world we live in, then we must first start with a healthy relationship with our Creator. When we worship Him faithfully, when we obey His commandments, we invite Him into our hearts. When we have this sort of healthy relationship, we can truly feel loved and begin to love one another the way our Father intends.

Psalm 18:6 "in my distress I called to the Lord; I cried to my God for help" Like David in Psalm 18, we long for God to hear our voice, to hear our pleas for help. In our most trying times of need, we want to call out to Him for comfort, support, and hope. Like David, we are not alone in our need to call out to our God. But like David we must know that He is always listening. Our prayers do not fall on deaf ears. Our God is a loving Father, He knows our needs. He sits on His throne in Heaven and will answer our calls. It may not be on our timeline or manifest in how we envision, but His goodness always prevails. He is always listening...

Luke 10:33-34 "Then a Samaritan traveling down the road came to where the hurt man was. When he saw the man, he felt very sorry for him. The Samaritan went to him, poured olive oil and wine on his wounds, and bandaged them. Then he put the hurt man on his own donkey and took him to an inn where he cared for him." Jesus told the story of the Samaritan to His disciples and it is a story He continues to use with us today. It is within our human hearts, it has been breathed into us by God, to be of service to one another. Especially in times of need. In this turbulent environment, we find ourselves in, many of us are asking how can we help, what can we do? We would like to make the world a better place but we are not sure how to do it. Sometimes it is as simple as a kind and encouraging word. Other times it is doing good deeds. Open your heart to God, He will give you direction and opportunities to help others, it's up to you to take them, our world is in desperate need of more Samaritans.

Psalm 143:10 "Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God; Your Spirit is good. Lead me in the land of uprightness." God has a plan for our world and for our individual lives. It is sometimes difficult for us to understand His will because of our limited human understanding but He does not do things by accident. He is willful and intentional. Just because we can't understand His will doesn't mean we shouldn't trust. As our days unfold may we seek God's will. May we obey His word. May we find comfort and guidance in His Holy Spirit. May we gain the wisdom to live in His righteousness and in His peace.

Romans 8:35,37 "Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?...But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. In our lives, especially during our current environment, we recognize turbulence that seems to separate us from God. Amidst the hardship, we can become separated and distant from His love. Amidst the hurt, we may ask ourselves, where is God's love? The answer is...everywhere. You see His love transcends space and time and as Creator, His love touches the darkest, smallest corner of every human heart. When we do our part, when we become passionate in our devotion to Him, when we sincerely open our minds and hearts to Him, His love does not arrive someday, it arrives immediately. His love surrounds us. It walks with us. Even in the most turbulent times of our lives, it is there. There is no separation as long as we seek it and accept it.

John 12:26 "Whoever serves me must follow me. Then my servant will be with me everywhere I am. My Father will honor anyone who serves me." In today's reading, Jesus calls us to walk with Him. We have the daily choice of walking with Him and serving Him. He tells us that when we choose Him, over the ways of our world, we are honored by our Heavenly Father. In Matthew 11:28 we see the promise that when we walk in the footsteps of Jesus we will learn how to walk freely and lightly. What an amazing way to live! It is our choice, one our Heavenly Father, and His Son wants us to take. If you find yourself worried, concerned, or confused about your life, choose to walk with Jesus. When you do you will live a courageous and confident life. You will walk free from fear when you walk with Jesus.

Psalm 112:7 "They won't be afraid of bad news; their hearts are steady because they trust the Lord." We live in a fear-based world, a world where bad news travels at the speed of light and one in which good news doesn't seem to do the same. These are troubled times we are in. Times where we have a legitimate worry about the future of our world, of our nation, and even within our families. But as Christians, we have every reason to live courageously. After all, the ultimate battle has already been fought and it has already been won on that cross in Calvary. Perhaps you, like many other believers, have found your courage tested lately. If so, God wants you to know that He is not only near, He is here. He is your Protector and your Deliverer. Call upon Him in your hour of need, and be comforted. Whatever your individual challenge, whatever your trouble, God can handle it and He will.

Matthew 18:21-22: "Then Peter came to Him and asked, "Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times? "No!" Jesus replied, "seventy times seven!" While we may not forget the hurt that someone else brings against us, as Christians, we are called to forgive. As Christians we know there is no such thing as a perfect human, we all make mistakes and are sinners. What makes a Christian is the ability to forgive. Although it is difficult it is the right thing to do. Bitterness doesn't change the heart of the sinner but it does free ours from becoming hardened. You were forgiven long before you were born. Follow in the footsteps of Jesus. His example is the only one to follow.

1 Timothy 4:12 "Be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity." As followers of Christ, we ask ourselves an important question: "What kind of example am I?" The answer to that depends largely on whether or not we are positive influences on our own little corners of the world. Is your life an example of righteousness? Do your behaviors serve as a positive example to young people? Are you the kind of Christian whose actions, day in and day out, are based upon integrity, fidelity, and a love for our Heavenly Father? If so, you are not only blessed by God, but you are also a powerful force for good in a world that so desperately needs positive influences such as yours.

John 5:24 "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life. Truly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live." Our ability to envision the future, as our life here on earth, is limited. But our heavenly Father's is not burdened by such limitations. He sees all things, knows all things, and His plans for you endure all time. His plans for you are not limited to your short time here on earth, no he has bigger things in store for you. So praise Him for the gift of eternal life and share the good news with all who cross your path.

Mark 9:24 "Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, "Lord I believe; help my unbelief!" Even the most faithful Christians have bouts of fear and doubt. You are no different. This life is a series of successes and failures, celebrations and disappointments, joys and sorrows, hope and doubts. But even when you feel doubt and distance from God, God is never distant from you. When you sincerely seek His presence, He will touch your heart, calm your fears, and restore your faith in the future and in Him. We have two choices to make in dealing with the mysteries of God. We can wrestle with Him or we can choose to rest in Him.

1 Peter 3:8 "Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous." God's word commands us to be compassionate, generous servants to those who need our support. As Christians, we been richly blessed by our Creator. We, in turn, are called to share our gifts, our possessions, our testimonies, and our talents. You see the measure of a life is not in its duration but rather in its donation. The thread of compassion is woven into the very fabric of Jesus' teachings. If we are to be disciples of Him we too must be zealous in caring for others. He expects no less from us.

1 John 4:19 "We love Him because He loved us." When we make God the centerpiece of our family lives, specifically our marriages, well it is a game-changer. When you embrace Our Heveanly Father's love as individuals that one thing, but when you embrace it as a couple, well that is a powerful force. A marriage committed to one another and committed to God is a successful one no doubt. It enriches not only your lives but the lives of your children, your friends, your church, your community, and God's kingdom, not only here on earth but throughout eternity.