Victory Temple Chantilly's Podcast: Recent Episodes

Home Of The Free

Word For You Today (Daily Devotion)

JUL. 8, 2026

Pursue God's purpose for your life!

'''For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you... plans to give you hope and a future.'"' Jer 29:11 NIV

Nothing is more gratifying than knowing one's purpose-even when opposition seems unbearable and other distractions threaten to overshadow it. Often when people say they don't have a passion for anything, they mean they don't have faith to believe they could actually do what they really desire in their hearts. Jesus refused to let anyone pull Him away from His purpose. "Someone in the crowd said to him, 'Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me! Jesus replied, 'Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?'" (Lk 12:13-14 NIV).

In essence, Jesus was saying, "I'm not about to get distracted by conducting an arbitration hearing between you two. That's not part of My purpose for being here on earth." Even up to the day that Jesus gave His life on the cross, there were many sick people needing healing and a myriad of other impossible situations that needed His attention. He knew that through the power of His death and resurrection, all could be addressed. So, despite unresolved problems, He confidently gave His heavenly Father this report on His ministry: "I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do" (Jn 17:4 NLT).

Jesus refused to let His disciples, Satan, well-meaning family members, needy people, or anyone else distract Him from His purpose. And you must learn to do that too. This raises the question: Can you state your God-given purpose in a single sentence? Are you pursuing it?

Pursue God's purpose for your life "Completing the work you gave me to do"

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JUL. 1, 2026

Keep on keeping on.

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Gal 6:9 NIV

Some of the world's most successful people were told by so-called experts that they didn't have what it took to be a success in the professions they had chosen. In 1927, Lucille Ball was told by an instructor at the John Murray Anderson Drama School, "Try any other profession. Any other." Universal Pictures dismissed both Clint Eastwood and Burt Reynolds, claiming that Reynolds had no talent and Eastwood talked too slowly.

Malcolm Forbes, the late editor-in-chief of Forbes magazine, failed to become part of the staff of his school newspaper when he was an undergraduate at Princeton University. Decca Recording Company executives responded negatively to the audition of four young musicians, saying,

"We don't like their sound. Groups with guitars are on the way out." So the Beatles took their sound elsewhere.

For seven years, a young inventor named Chester Carlson took his idea to twenty corporations, all of which turned him down. The Haloid Company finally purchased the rights to his electronic paper-copying process. And Haloid became Xerox. Don't be discouraged if you are not finding the acceptance and success you desire right now. Your story is still being written! The Bible says, "Do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises" (Heb 6:12 NKJV).

Faith and patience are the two qualities that will bring you success. This is why the apostle Paul wrote: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Keep on keeping on Faith and patience will bring you success.

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JUL. 9, 2026

One life at a time.

"If you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded." Mt 10:42 NLT

Les Goldberg's friends thought he was crazy when he cashed in his personal investments to buy a home to lease for the homeless. A retired engineer, Les felt it was the only decision he could make. He had spent a minimum of one hour each day with his homeless friends and had helped renovate several properties on their behalf.

In all his efforts, Goldberg never regarded the homeless as irresponsible or unreliable; he only saw them as people. Hurting people! He figured the house he purchased could be used as both a temporary shelter and a drop-in center—a place where homeless people might pick up mail, make phone calls, follow up job leads, and receive donated commodities.

Four homeless men lived at the house, paying minimal rent to offset expenses. House rules were strict:

no alcohol,
no drugs,
no loitering.

Goldberg has never been rich. For twenty years he ran his own business, making about $25,000 a year designing and installing fire sprinklers. He simply was a man who saw an unmet need and found a way to help meet it.

Mother Teresa said: "We cannot all do great things, but we can all do small things with great love." Jesus put it this way: "If you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded." As you go through this day, keep your heart open and ask God to make you a solution to someone else's problem. When you do, "You will surely be rewarded."

One life at a time

Hurting people

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JUL. 16, 2026

You're called to do "good works".

"Being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God." Col 1:10 NKJV

Many people know how Helen Keller overcame the difficult physical challenge of being left without hearing, speech, and sight after contracting fever as a baby and how she eventually learned to communicate by learning Braille. Her life inspired millions of people. One of her ardent admirers was author Mark Twain. She was invited to visit every president at the White House from her childhood on. What many people don't know, however, is how hard Helen worked as an adult. After graduating with honors from Radcliffe College, she worked to help others until her death at the age of eighty-eight.

She authored numerous articles. She gave lectures for the American Foundation for the Blind and raised millions of dollars for them.

On her eightieth birthday, she was given the Helen Keller International Award for those who give outstanding help to the blind. In the Bible, Paul prayed for the Colossian Christians: "That you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him" (Col 1:10 NKJV). And he gave them two ways in which they could do this: "Being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God" (NKJV). Faith and works; spirituality and service; ministering to the Lord and meeting the needs of others. That's how Helen Keller lived.

You say, "But my goal is to please the Lord rather than people." Here's how you do that: "With goodwill doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men" (Eph 6:7 NKJV). Hymn writer Charles Meigs wrote: "Others, Lord, yes others, let this my motto be. Help me to live for others, that I may live like Thee."

You're called to do "good works" Help me to live for others.

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JUL. 7, 2026

The harvest law.

"Whoever sows generously will also reap generously." 2Co 9:6 NIV

The Bible clearly teaches that those who give generously to God's kingdom purposes will receive something back in return for participating. Furthermore, there's a correlation between how much you give and how much you get back. "Whoever sows generously will also reap generously."

This is good news for reluctant givers. When you give away something valuable, it can feel like a loss. You had something; now you don't. And that can be a tremendous disincentive to give more.

But Paul put this concept in a completely different light. He said that giving to God's work is not giving something away. It's an investment, not a loss. The farmer who sows doesn't lose seed; he gains a crop. No rational farmer would say, "I'm afraid to sow my seed because then I won't have the seed anymore. What will happen if I need this seed?" Any farmer knows that if he wants a crop, he must sow his seed.

This is powerful news for anyone who's afraid to give because of financial insecurity. It suggests that the wisest move we could make financially is to begin sowing our financial seed. When we do, God gets involved in our finances. And that's the most financially secure place we could be. Why? Because when we give, it enables God to return to us more than we've given, to entrust more to us in this life. This in turn enables us to give more. "You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion" (v. 11 NIV).

That means if you give like you're supposed to, God will give you more.

The harvest law."Be generous on every occasion."

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JUN. 16, 2026

Understanding the kingdom of God.

"The kingdom of God is within you." Lk 17:21 NKJV

In one sense, the kingdom of God is future, eternal, and heavenly. When Christ returns to set up His kingdom on earth, the prophecy will be fulfilled: "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!" (Rev 11:15 NKJV). What a glorious day that will be for all of God's redeemed children. But until then, Jesus said, "The kingdom of God is within you." That means as a born-again believer living in this world, you're called to demonstrate what it means to live under the rule of the King of kings and Lord of lords. Winston Churchill famously quipped: "Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all those other forms that have been tried." All human governments are flawed and ultimately destined to fail because they are made up of flawed human beings. So as citizens of the kingdom of God, we are called to be "light" that illuminates darkness and dispels ignorance, and "salt" that flavors, cleanses, heals, and enriches the lives of those we come in contact with (see Mt 5:13-14).

We are called to practice the principles of God's kingdom in the marketplace of life.

Whether you work in

education,
transportation,
medicine,
politics,
agriculture,
IT,
sales,
manufacturing, etc.,

you are called to demonstrate the benefits of living under the rule of Christ and by the guidance of His indwelling Holy Spirit. "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord." When Christ returns, that promise will be totally fulfilled. Until then, Jesus said, "Occupy till I come" (Lk 19:13 KJV).

Understanding the kingdom of God "Occupy till I come."

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JUN. 19, 2026

You can conquer your hang-ups.

"The weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God." 2Co 10:4 NKJV

Today's problem is not necessarily tomorrow's problem.
Don't incarcerate yourself by assuming it is.
Resist self-labeling:
"I'm just a worrier.!"
"Gossip is my weakness."
"My dad was a drinker;
I guess I'll carry on the tradition."
Stop that!

These words create alliances with the devil. They grant him access to your spirit. It's not God's will that you live a defeated, unhappy life.

Turn a deaf ear to the old voices and make new choices. "The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; yes, I have a good inheritance" (Ps 16:6 NKJV).

Live out of your inheritance, not your circumstances. God has already promised you victory and provided you with weapons for the fight."Though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds" (2Co 10:3-4 NKJV).

How did Joshua conquer Jericho? By using God's strategy: "Take up the ark of the covenant and let seven priests bear seven trumpets of rams' horns before the ark of the Lord" (Jos 6:6 NKJV).

The ark of the covenant was the symbol of God's presence. Joshua placed it in the middle of the procession. Every activity orbited around God. The secret of victory is to keep God center stage in your life, using the weapons of

worship,
Scripture, and
prayer.

Employ every tool God offers: Scripture memorization and petition.

Turn off the TV and
open the Bible more.
Worry less and
pray more.

You can conquer your hang-ups by drawing daily on the presence of God.

You can conquer your hang-ups Old voices or new choices?

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JUN. 2, 2026

Experiencing God's presence each day.

"My Presence will go with you." Ex 33:14 NKJV

Nicholas Herman was a cook in a monastery. He worried about whether or not he was truly saved. One day while looking at a tree, he realized the truth of the Psalmist's words-that it had to be rooted in something other and deeper than itself (see Ps 1:1-3). That day, he decided to make his life an experiment in what he called a "habitual, silent, secret conversation of the soul with God." He's known today by the new name given to him by his friends: Brother Lawrence. He remained obscure throughout his life and spent the rest of his days in the monastery kitchen.

But the people around him found that rivers of living water flowed out of him that made them want to know God the way he did. "The good brother found God everywhere," one of them wrote, "as much while he was repairing shoes as while he was praying with the community!"

After Brother Lawrence died, his friends put together a book of his letters and conversations. It is called The Practice of the Presence of God, and it is thought to be one of the most widely read books of the last four centuries. This short-order cook has outsold many popular contemporary novelists, and his book is still on best-seller lists. Brother Lawrence said: "The most holy and necessary practice in our spiritual life is the presence of God.

That means finding constant pleasure in His divine company, speaking humbly and lovingly with Him in all seasons, at every moment, without limiting the conversation in any way."

Experiencing God's presence each day The presence of God

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If you’ve ever wondered, “Is that God speaking or is that just me?”, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to stay stuck in confusion. We talk about the difference between knowing Christian truth and actually living a Spirit led life where your choices, reactions, and relationships start to look like Jesus. The heartbeat is simple: learn to be led, and learn it on purpose.

We begin with the foundation that makes everything else possible: receiving Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. From Ephesians 1, we unpack how the Holy Spirit is God’s gift and guarantee, not a reward for perfect behavior. Then we move into the daily habits that make us attentive: surrender, abiding, prayer, and yielding to God’s Word. John 16 anchors the promise that the Spirit of truth guides us into all truth, which means guidance is real, but it also means we must get quiet enough to hear it.

From there, we get practical with Romans 8 and Galatians 5: the tug of the flesh versus the leading of the Spirit, and what fruit should show up when we’re truly being guided. We also wrestle with discernment, how to recognize God’s voice among competing voices like fear, social media, and well meaning advice. One story lands the point in a vivid way: a ship captain obeys an inner urging to change course and ends up saving sixteen lives, a picture of what can happen when obedience gets louder than noise.

If you want to grow in spiritual discernment, Christian obedience, and a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit, press play, then share this with a friend and leave a review. What’s one area where you want to hear God more clearly this week?

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JUN. 8, 2026

How to make anger work for you (2)

"Sensible people control their temper." Pr 19:11 NLT

Anger scares many of us because we've been harmed by it. But anger can be evidence that a person cares about someone or something. Nothing wrong is ever made right without someone becoming angry about it. If you shut down all anger, you eliminate passion, intimacy, and love.

Here are two ways to make anger work for you:

(1) Direct your anger at the right target. Your spouse is not the enemy; Satan is. He comes to "steal, and to kill, and to destroy" (Jn 10:10 KJV). He's the one trying to drive a wedge between you. Consciously move your focus from your spouse to the problem.

For example,

get angry at your lack of finances, not your spouse's spending.
Get angry at demands pulling you in different directions, not your spouse staying late at work.
Get angry at the limitations on intimacy, not your spouse saying no to sex.
Put the problem "out there," separate from you and your spouse.
See yourselves as fighting the problem together.

Attack the problem, not each other.

(2) Look for the pain. Find the pain that triggered the anger; it's almost always there. Look for it in your spouse and in your own heart. What need isn't being met? What wound has been exposed? What shame or fear is aroused? When you identify the pain, you'll be miles closer to the solution. But beware! By being vulnerable, you may end up wounding each other sometimes; acknowledge it and forgive quickly. Staying engaged while risking vulnerability will increase intimacy more than anything else. So embrace anger as God's gift, and learn how to make it work for you.

How to make anger work for you Direct your anger at the right target.

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If you’ve ever asked, “Is that the Holy Spirit or is that just me?”, you’re not alone and you’re not stuck. We lean into a practical, Scripture-rooted path for learning to be led by the Spirit, the kind of guidance that doesn’t just sound spiritual but actually changes how you think, decide, speak, and respond under pressure.

We start with the foundation: receiving Christ and understanding that the Holy Spirit is God’s guarantee (Ephesians 1). Then we slow down and get honest about what blocks us from hearing clearly: a lack of surrender, the noise of circumstances, the pull of the flesh, and even well-meaning advice that isn’t God’s direction. Using John 16, we talk about the Spirit of truth who guides us, convicts us, and leads us into what aligns with the Father’s will.

From there we walk through Romans 8 and Galatians 5 to contrast life in the flesh with life in the Spirit. We talk about fruitfulness, peace, and spiritual maturity, especially as it shows up in relationships through the fruit of the Spirit. You’ll also hear powerful reflections from the group on discernment, total obedience, sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, and how to start small, take action, and learn over time. A true story about a captain changing course and saving lives brings the message into sharp focus: Spirit-led obedience can matter more than you realize.

If this helped you, share it with a friend who’s seeking clarity, subscribe for more, and leave a review so more people can find these teachings. What’s one area where you want to be led more clearly?

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JUN. 11, 2026

"Overcome evil with good".

"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Ro 12:21 NKJV

During the Korean War, a South Korean civilian was arrested by the communists and ordered to be shot. When the young communist leader learned that the prisoner in his charge was the head of an orphanage caring for young children, he decided to spare him. Instead, he ordered the execution of the man's son. The nineteen-year-old son was shot in the presence of his father. After the war, the young communist leader was captured by United Nations forces and condemned to death. But before the sentence could be carried out, the Christian whose son had been killed pleaded for the life of the killer.

He argued that the communist had been young when he ordered the execution, and that he really didn't know what he was doing. "Give him to me," the man requested, "and I will train him." Unusual though it was, the United Nations forces granted his request, and the father took the murderer of his son into his own home and took care of him. The Bible says, "Love never fails" (1Co 13:8 NKJV).

And by being exposed to the love of God, that young communist leader became a Christian and eventually went on to become the pastor of a church. Have you been hurt, betrayed, or treated unfairly? Instead of retaliating in anger, handle it scripturally: "Never pay back evil with more evil...Never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, 'I will take revenge; I will pay them back,' says the Lord...Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good" (Ro 12:17, 19, 21 NLT).

"Overcome evil with good" "Never take revenge."

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JUN. 9, 2026

Tell the truth.

"Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal truthfully are His delight." Pr 12:22 NKJV

Rosalie Elliot made it to the fourth round of a national spelling contest in Washington, DC. The eleven-year-old from South Carolina was asked to spell the word avowal. In her soft southern accent, she spelled the word, but the judges were unable to determine if she had used an a or an e as the next-to-last letter. They debated among themselves for several minutes as they listened to the recording, but it was too accent-blurred to decipher. Finally, the chief judge put the question to the only person who knew the answer. "Was the letter an a, or was it an e?" he asked Rosalie. By this time, being surrounded by whispering young spellers, Rosalie knew the correct spelling of the word. Still, without hesitation, she replied that she had misspelled the word, and she walked from the stage.

The entire audience stood and applauded, including some fifty newspaper reporters. The moment was a proud one for her parents. Even in defeat, she was a victor. Indeed, more has been written about Rosalie Elliot over the years than about the "unknown" winner of the event.

As a redeemed child of God, your heavenly Father requires honesty in word and deed.

"The truthful lip shall be established forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment" (Pr 12:19 NKJV).
“Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds" (Col 3:9 NKJV).
"Therefore, put away lying, 'Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor, for we are members of one another" (Eph 4:25 NKJV).

Tell the truth "Put away lying."

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JUN. 10, 2026

God has given you seed to SOW!

"The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed." Mt 13:31 NIV

Jesus said: "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches" (vv. 31-32 NIV).

A mustard seed is only two millimeters in diameter and comes in three primary varieties: yellow, black, and white. Within that seed is a remarkable nutritional profile, including vitamins A, B6, B12, C, E, and K. It's also a source of calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and zinc. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Jesus pointed out that when it's planted, it can grow up and become one of the largest trees in the garden, blessing the birds of the air by providing them with a home. Paul wrote: "Now may He who supplies seed to the sower...multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness" (2Co 9:10 NKJV).

Who does God give "seed" to? Sowers, not hoarders! What does God do with your seed when you sow it? He multiplies it! The seed you sow can be in the form of time, service, wisdom, money, compassion, etc. And God promises that when you sow, you will reap His blessing.

"God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work" (2Co 9:8 NIV).

God has given you seed-sow it!

God has given you seed to sow Sowers, not hoarders

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MAY. 19, 2026

Be steadfast.

"Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord." 1Co 15:58 NKJV

Back in the days of the great western cattle ranches in America, a little burro would sometimes be harnessed to a wild horse and then turned loose onto the range. The wild horse would drag the burro for miles, throwing him around like a bag of feed. In several days, however, they would return.

The little burro would be seen first, trotting back toward the ranch with his submissive steed in tow. Somewhere out in the wild, the horse would become exhausted and try to free itself of the burro. At that moment, the burro became the master of the two. The slow, patient, unimportant animal became the leader over the faster, more volatile, and more prized one. What made the difference?

Having a steadfast purpose! And what was the burro's purpose? Going back home to the ranch! So no matter how many times they fought, tugged on the rope, and ended up on their backs kicking and fuming, each time the burro got back on his feet, he would take a few more steps in the direction of the ranch. It was only a matter of time until the tired and exhausted horse decided to join him. One of the great themes of Scripture is having a steadfast purpose.

Samuel told the Israelites: "Do not turn aside; for then you would go after empty things which cannot profit or deliver" (1Sa 12:21 NKJV).
Isaiah wrote: "I have set My face like a flint, and I know that I will not be ashamed" (Isa 50:7 NKJV).
Paul wrote: "Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord."

Be steadfast "Do not turn aside."

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MAY. 17, 2026

You will conquer your Jericho (1)

"The Lord said to Joshua: 'See! I have given Jericho into your hand.” Jos 6:2

NKJV

Here's what you need to know about the walls of Jericho:

They were immense.
They wrapped around the city like a suit of armor, forty feet above the ground.
They were impenetrable.

Here is what you need to know about Joshua: He didn't bring the walls down-God did. And God will do that for you too.

Your Jericho is your

fear,
anger,
bitterness, or
prejudice.
It's also your insecurity about the future;
your guilt about the past;
and your negativity,
anxiety, and
proclivity to criticize,
over-analyze, or
compartmentalize.

Your Jericho is any circumstance, attitude, or mindset that keeps you from joy, peace, or rest. Jericho blocks your way, so its walls must fall! "Go in to possess the land which the Lord your God is giving you to possess" (Jos 1:11 NKJV).

The verb translated as "possess" means "to occupy by driving out previous tenants and possessing in their place." But Satan won't leave without a fight, he will resist, he will push back. But he will not win. Why? Because God has already declared that you are the victor. "The Lord said to Joshua: 'See! I have given Jericho into your hand.'" God did not say, "Joshua, take the city." God said, "Joshua, receive the city I have taken." The same can be said about you and your challenge.

You say, "If God has done it for me, what do I have to do?"

(1) Receive your victory by faith, just as you received your salvation.

(2) Speak victory. Be sure your words line up with God's words.

(3) Walk out your victory, one day at a time.

You will conquer your Jericho Speak victory.

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MAY. 18, 2026

You will conquer your Jericho (2)

"Joshua...lifted his eyes...and behold, a Man stood opposite him." Jos 5:13 NKJV

In late January 1956, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. received a threatening telephone call at his house. It was not the first foreboding message he'd received. But on this night, as his children and his wife lay sleeping, the weight of the Civil Rights Movement was too heavy. He decided that the risk was too great. He began to map out an exit strategy. At midnight he bowed over the kitchen table and began to pray, "I am afraid. The people are looking to me for leadership, and if I stand before them without strength and courage, they too will falter.

I am at the end of my powers.
I have nothing left.
I've come to the point where I can't face it alone.
" King described what happened next.

"I experienced the presence of the Divine as I have never experienced Him before.

It seemed as though I could hear the quiet assurance of an inner voice saying: 'Stand up for righteousness, stand up for truth; and God will be at your side forever!"

When facing a daunting challenge, Dr. King shifted his focus and turned to God. The Bible says: "When Joshua was by Jericho...he lifted his eyes...and behold, a Man stood opposite him." After Joshua lifted his eyes from Jericho, a divine messenger stood before him with the solution to his problem. As long as your eyes are only on your problem, you won't see your problem solver. You must look up. "I will lift up my eyes to the hills— from whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord" (Ps 121:1-2 NKJV).

You will conquer your Jericho God will be at your side forever.

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MAY. 15, 2026

Rest in your redemption.

"By this you shall know that the living God is among you." Jos 3:10 NKJV

As the Jordan River swelled to a mile in width, crossing it was no small task.

Especially with millions of people! God said, "Go over this Jordan, you and all this people" (Jos 1:2 NKVJ).

Do you think they were scared?
Would you have been?

"The feet of the priests who bore the ark dipped in the edge of the water" (Jos 3:15 NKJV). It was the smallest of steps, but with God, the smallest step of faith can activate the mightiest of miracles. As they touched the water, the flow stopped as if someone had shut off the water main. Next, we read: "All Israel crossed over on dry ground" (v. 17 NKJV). By performing this miracle, God wanted them to know: "By this you shall know that the living God is among you." For Joshua's people, assurance came as they stood on dry land looking back at the Jordan.

For us, assurance comes as we stand on the finished work of Christ and look back at the cross. Let the cross convince you. Be settled about God's faithfulness. The psalmist describes a person of faith this psalmist describes a person of faith this way: "He is settled in his mind that Jehovah will take care of him" (Ps 112:7 TLB).

Life has many unanswered questions, but God's promise to save you needn't be one of them. "He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?" (Ro 8:32 NKJV). Rest in your redemption. The past is past. Your future is bright.

Rest in your redemption Let the cross convince you.

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MAY. 21, 2026

Don't allow yourself to be distracted.

"Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us." Heb 12:1 NKJV

In March 1987, Eamon Coughlan was running in the qualifying heat at the World Indoor Track Championships in Indianapolis. He was the reigning world record holder at 1500 meters and was favored to win the race. Unfortunately, with two and a half laps left, he tripped and fell hard. But he got up, and with great effort managed to catch the race leaders. With twenty yards to go, he was in third place, which would have been good enough to qualify for the final race.

Then Coughlan made a fateful mistake—he looked over his shoulder to the inside. Seeing no one there, he relaxed his effort slightly. What he hadn't noticed was that a runner was charging hard on the outside. This runner passed him just a yard before the finish line, eliminating him from the finals. Coughlan's great comeback effort ended up being worthless for only one reason: He momentarily took his eyes off the finish line and focused on the would-be competitors behind him. The writer of the book of Hebrews said, "Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us."

A "weight" refers to things that are legitimate but can slow you down.
A "sin" refers to something illegitimate that you know to be wrong and can cost you the race.

So lay them both aside and "run with endurance the race that is set before [you], looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith" (vv. 1-2 NKJV).

Don't allow yourself to be distracted Don't take your eyes off the finish line.

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MAY. 20, 2026

Blessings beyond your imagination.

"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine." Eph 3:20 NIV

Prayer Pastor Heidi Scanlon said: "God has blessings for us in categories we don't even know exist." That means God can create something out of nothing. He can seemingly come out of nowhere, and just when you need Him most, give you something you don't even have a category for. God says:'''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'" (Isa 55:8-9 NIV).

You say, "If God has blessings that I don't even have categories for, how can I ask for them?" That's where the Holy Spirit, who dwells within you, comes to your aid: "We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us... in accordance with the will of God" (Ro 8:26-27 NIV). And because the Holy Spirit prays in accordance with the will of God, you are blessed with wisdom beyond your knowledge, power beyond your strength, and favor beyond your ability.

Paul put it this way: "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen" (Eph 3:20-21 NIV).

Now you still must do your due diligence, for God cannot bless negligence. But when you know you've faithfully done your part and obeyed God, you can trust Him for blessings beyond your imagination.

Blessings beyond your imagination Power, strength, and favor beyond your ability

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MAY. 1, 2026

Spiritual pathways (6)

"Truly my soul silently waits for God." Ps 62:1 NKJV

The contemplative pathway. If you relate to God best through the contemplative pathway, you love large blocks of quietness and uninterrupted time alone. It is very likely that when you were a child, your parents would tell you to go outside and play with other kids more. Reflection comes naturally to you. You often feel like an observer in life.

Here are some Scriptures you easily identify with:

"Meditate within your heart on your bed and be still. Selah" (Ps 4:4 NKJV).
"Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him; do not fret" (Ps 37:7 NKJV).
"Be still and know that I am God" (Ps 46:10 NKJV).
"Truly my soul silently waits for God; from Him comes my salvation."

God is most present to you when distractions and noises are removed.

Images,
metaphors,
and pictures help you as you pray.

If you get too busy or spend too much time with too many people hanging around, you begin to feel drained and stretched thin.

You do not require much external stimulation. Making time to listen to God in silence and solitude is vital to the health of your soul, and it's necessary for you to experience a deepening sense of His presence. You need regular, protected, intense, undistracted time alone. But here's a word of caution: The Bible says, "If God so loved us, we also ought to love one another" (1Jn 4:11 NKJV). And love takes time and effort. Sometimes it requires sacrifice. One of the best ways to show your love for God is to show it to the people around you whom God loves.

Spiritual pathways The contemplative pathway

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APR. 29, 2026

Spiritual pathways (4)

"I was glad when they said to me, 'Let us go into the house of the Lord.'" Ps 122:1 NKJV

The worship pathway. When you're on the worship pathway, you resonate with the Psalmist: "I was glad when they said to me,

'Let us go into the house of the Lord.!" Something deep inside you feels released when praise is given. Your heart opens up and you come alive. You find yourself in tears, sometimes in moments of deep joy, because God seems so close.

But here are two cautions if you're on this pathway:

(1) Don't judge people who are not as outwardly expressive as you. Some of them grew up in churches where no one raised a finger, let alone a hand in worship.

(2) Guard against an experience-based spirituality that has you always looking for the next "worship high." C. S. Lewis wrote about the fatal sin of saying, "Encore!" by demanding that God reproduce an experience or an emotion. He said that of all prayers, this may be the one God is least likely to grant because it can lead us to worship an experience rather than the God to whom our experience points.

Music, for instance, can be a great gift to worship. But because music affects our feelings so powerfully, we can grow dependent on it to produce a certain emotional response. In this case, you may need to spend some time worshiping God without music, so that your worship is based on who God is and not a matter of getting swept up in certain sounds. Also, you may need to engage more in Bible study so that your heart is deeply rooted in the knowledge of God.

Spiritual pathways The worship pathway

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APR. 20, 2026

Keep running!

"O Lord, revive Your work in the midst of the years!" Hab 3:2 NKJV

The Bible likens the Christian life to a marathon. The writer of the book of Hebrews said: "Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured" (Heb 12:1-2 NKJV).

Paul wrote to the Philippian believers: "There is one thing I always do. Forgetting the past and straining toward what is ahead, I keep trying to reach the goal and get the prize for which God called me" (Php 3:13-14 NCV). Chances are you aren't at the starting line, nor are you at the finishing tape. You're somewhere in the middle. When running a race, the start is always filled with such enthusiasm and energy. And the finish holds such promise as we run the final stretch and reach our goal.

But the middle of the race-when we are long past the start and not sure how far away the finish might be-is what often tests us. That's why the prophet Habakkuk wrote: "O Lord, revive Your work in the midst of the years!" It's in "the midst" or the middle of the race that we need encouragement, that we need our second wind, and that we need to refocus on the prize that awaits us. Those who have run before us have passed the baton through the centuries, from generation to generation—without dropping it. What are you to do? Take the baton, run, and keep running!

Keep running! Somewhere in the middle

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APR. 30, 2026

Spiritual pathways (5)

"Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might." Ecc 9:10 NKJV

The activist pathway. When you're on this spiritual pathway, you have a high level of energy. This may be one of your favorite Scriptures: "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might." But one of the dangers of relating to God best through the activist pathway is that a big chunk of your motivation can be self-fulfillment and self-satisfaction. Hence Paul wrote: "Since you are so eager to have the special abilities the Spirit gives, seek those that will strengthen the whole church" (1Co 14:12 NLT).

When you are an activist, you love a

fast-paced,
problem-filled,
complex, strenuous way of life.

At the end of the day, you want to be able to say, "I ran really hard. I used every ounce of effort and zeal at my disposal, and it's all for You, God." One biblical example of an activist is Nehemiah. When he heard that the walls of his beloved Jerusalem were in ruins, he wept, he prayed, he petitioned the king for the resources to rebuild them, and then he rolled up his sleeves and went to work. If you are an activist, you need a cause. Without it, your spiritual life will stagnate.

But here is a word of caution:Don't get so excited about your cause that you run over people or exploit them. And here's another word of caution: If you are an activist, you may have a hard time discerning God's true calling from your own strong impulses to action. If that's the case, take added time to pray and hear from God and have a qualified friend in your life whose counsel you trust.

Spiritual pathways The activist pathway

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APR. 23, 2026

Always acknowledge your dependence on God.

"Our qualification comes from God. He has enabled us." 2Co 3:5-6 NLT

In his classic book called Prayer, Dr. O.

Hallesby wrote: "Prayer and helplessness are inseparable. Only those who are helpless can truly pray...Prayer therefore consists simply in telling God day by day in what ways we feel helpless. We are moved to pray every time the Spirit of God...emphasizes anew to us our helplessness, and we realize how impotent we are by nature to believe, to love, to hope, to serve, to sacrifice, to suffer, to read the Bible, to pray, and to struggle against our sinful desires." Now let's be clear: Feeling helpless is different from feeling hopeless or worthless; it's simply acknowledging our total dependence on God. Jesus said, "Without Me you can do nothing" (Jn 15:5 NKJV).

God will never give you an assignment that does not require His input, His favor, and His enabling grace. Every action of God in your life is designed to increase, not decrease, your dependence on Him. If you can do it without God, you should stop and ask yourself, "Is this truly of God?" Paul wrote: "We are confident of all this because of our great trust in God through Christ. It is not that we think we are qualified to do anything on our own. Our qualification comes from God. He has enabled us" (2Co 3:4-6 NLT).

David enjoyed all the privileges of being a king, yet he wrote: "I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinks upon me. You are my help and my deliverer" (Ps 40:17 NKJV).

So, the word for you today is - never, ever, lose your sense of dependence on God.

Always acknowledge your dependence on God Total dependence on God.

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APR. 27, 2026

Spiritual pathways (2)

"Make me walk in the path of Your commandments." Ps 119:35 NKJV

The relational pathway. People who follow the relational pathway find that they have a deep sense of God's presence when they are involved in significant relationships.

Jesus' words, "For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them" (Mt 18:20 NKJV), makes perfect sense to the relational type. If you are on the relational pathway, you may feel guilty when you hear other people speak of long periods of solitude with God and think: "Solitude wouldn't be so bad if I could just bring a bunch of other people along." You have often experienced key spiritual moments, such as being convicted of sin or being encouraged to persevere, as God speaks to you through other people.

You are much more apt to practice prayer or acts of servanthood when you can do it in a relational context. When you are on the relational pathway, you tend to hear God speak to you more in a conversation than from a book. And you stagnate spiritually to the degree that you feel isolated. But there are two dangers you must guard against. One is superficiality-getting spread so thin relationally that no one gets past your external self to know you and love you and challenge you deeply.

The second is becoming so dependent on the thoughts and counsel of others that you don't develop the sensitivity and ability to hear God for yourself. "Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, 'This is the way, walk in it,' whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left" (Isa 30:21 NKJV).

Spiritual pathways The relational pathway

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APR. 22, 2026

Raise the bar.

"Jonathan..David's brother, killed him."

2Sa 21:21 NIV

After David killed Goliath, four other men, including his nephew Jonathan, killed giants that rose up against the Israelites. "In still another battle, which took place at Gath, there was a huge man with six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot— twenty-four in all. He was also descended from Rapha. When he taunted Israel, Jonathan son of Shimeah, David's brother, killed him" (2Sa 21:20-21 NIV).

David had raised the bar. Witnessing the defeat of what others had previously deemed impossible gave them the strength to overcome their own giants. Until 1954, no one had ever run a mile in under four minutes, and most people assumed it was virtually impossible. But on May 6, 1954, at an Oxford University track meet, Roger Bannister completed the distance in 3 minutes and 59.4 seconds. He had slain the giant. Two months later, Australian John Landy broke Bannister's record, proving that the four-minute mile was as much a psychological as a physical barrier. In the first half of the twentieth century, many people attempted to climb Mount

Everest and failed. It was the unconquerable giant in the world of mountain climbers. On May 29, 1953, Edmund Hillary and his Sherpa guide, Tenzing Norgay, were the first humans to reach the summit. Since then, over seven thousand climbers, ranging from age thirteen to eighty, have completed the expedition.

David, Bannister, and Hillary all conquered giants of their day and inspired others to match and excel in their feats. You do yourself and others a disservice when you run from your giant. You need to stop being afraid to tackle hard tasks and remind yourself, "If God did it before, He can do it again, and if He did it for others, He can do it for me."

Raise the bar Stop being afraid.

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APR. 27, 2026

Spiritual pathways (3)

"I thought about my ways." Ps 119:59 NKJV

The serving pathway. On the serving pathway, you find God's presence seems most tangible when you're helping others. You identify with the words of Jesus: "Inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these...you did it to Me" (Mt 25:40 NKJV).

And you may find that you are uncomfortable in a setting where you don't have a role to play or a service to perform. An example of this would be Dorcas, whom the Bible says, "was full of good works and charitable deeds" (Ac 9:36 NKJV). Mother Teresa would be a modern counterpart to Dorcas. She said the primary reason she was so involved in serving was not that it was something she was supposed to do, but that it brought her joy. She often felt her own inadequacy when she was alone; but she never felt the presence of Jesus more strongly than in the presence of those she served. President Jimmy Carter has probably inspired more people as an ex-president than he did while he was in office because of his passion for servanthood through such channels as Habitat for Humanity. People on this pathway find that if they're just attending church but have no place to serve, God begins to feel distant.

They need to be "plugged in." Two dangers faced if you are in the serving pathway are:

(1) You will be tempted to judge others who don't seem to be serving as much as you do.

(2) You can get caught up in being God's servant and forget that you're His beloved and redeemed child.

Hence you have to stretch by learning to receive love as well as to offer it.

Spiritual pathways The serving pathway

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APR. 8, 2026

God will give you knowledge and understanding.

"From his mouth come knowledge and understanding." Pr 2:6 NIV

Bill Gates predicted: "There will be 'two societies' in the future; high-paid knowledge workers and low-paid service workers." The saying "knowledge is power" is true. And it's even more dynamic in the spiritual realm. The more you know about God, the more confident you'll be.

Knowledge of God's Word can give clarity to the puzzling issues of life. When a certain religious sect tried to pull Jesus into one of their debates on a particular issue, He replied, "Your mistake is that you don't know the Scriptures, and you don't know the power of God" (Mt 22:29 NLT).

There are some truths you need to settle in your heart and let them bring peace to your spirit. For example,

no one else can thwart God's purpose for your life. "The Lord Almighty has purposed, and who can thwart him? His hand is stretched out, and who can turn it back?" (Isa 14:27 NIV).
You also need to settle in your mind that no matter what happens, things are working out for your good.

Therefore, you can resist anxiety and worry. "We know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose" (Ro 8:28 NKJV).

Daniel reminds us that God "gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. He reveals deep and secret things; He knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with Him" (Da 2:21-22 NKJV).

The "light" you need belongs to God. And you never have to feel insecure regarding any aspect of your knowledge when you know Him, for He knows everything.

God will give you knowledge and understanding "Knowledge is power."

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APR. 7, 2026

The life-giving Word.

"The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life." Jn 6:63 NKJV

Jesus was called "Rabbi" eleven times in the Gospels. But He wasn't like any other rabbi. Rabbis quoted others, but Jesus said, "Truly, I say to you..." In the gospel of John, He said it twice: "Truly, truly, I say to you..." The reason Jesus wasn't like any other rabbi was because He was God manifested in the flesh. And Paul says, "Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Col 2:2-3 NKJV).

The early church fathers had a favorite saying: "The Gospels are a river in which a gnat can swim, and an elephant can drown." The Gospels-the record of Christ's life and teaching-have impacted the world so much that they have been translated into 2,527 languages.

The second-most-translated book, Don Quixote, has been translated into about 60

languages. To this day, the Bible remains the bestselling book of all time. In the academic world, scholars keep score of how often any articles they write are cited by other scholars.

By this year's secular score, Jesus' intellectual impact is unprecedented. Why is this? Because when everything else fails, God's Word works. Jesus explained it this way: "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life." If you are a teacher, you know that the number one question in any class is: "Will this be on the final?" If you want to pass your finals and hear, "Well done!" from the teacher, get into God's Word each day and get God's Word into you.

The life-giving Word The bestselling book of all time

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APR. 1, 2026

P.R.A.Y. (Pause, Reverence, Ask, Yield)

"We will give ourselves continually to prayer." Ac 6:4 NKJV

In her book 30 Days to a Stronger, More Confident You, author Deborah Smith Pegues uses the word "pray" as an acronym:

"Pause. I stop all activity and focus completely on God. Worship is total preoccupation...The greatest honor and respect we can give to anyone is our undivided attention…

Reverence. I express my admiration for all His attributes...At this point, distractions start to pop up like dandelions...I will suddenly remember a task I need to put on my to-do list. I have learned to jot down the task in my journal and ignore the other issues for what they are-mere distractions that can be dealt with later. I have also learned that praying audibly helps to minimize wandering thoughts…

Ask. I ask for forgiveness for my sins, making every effort to be specific. I pray for the power to live a Christian life and ask God to give me a passion for His Word and for prayer. I ask for His will to be done in every aspect of my life:

spiritually,
physically,
financially,
relationally,
vocationally, and
emotionally...

Yield. I must subordinate my requests to God's sovereign will, trusting that He knows what is best. I strive to maintain a 'nevertheless' attitude. Therefore, I am careful to conclude my prayer by saying, 'Nevertheless, not my will, Lord, but Yours be done' [see Lk 22-42]...

The old adage that it is not what you know but whom you know that gives you the advantage in a situation is true-especially from a spiritual perspective. When we have a relationship with God, we understand that He is sufficient to handle any demand placed upon us."

P.R.A.Y. (Pause, Reverence, Ask, Yield) Not my will, Lord, but Yours be done.

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APR. 6, 2026

Developing a spiritual mindset.

"Those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires." Ro 8:5 NIV

Muscle memory isn't stored in your muscles. It's a procedural memory that is stored in your brain any time you repeat a muscle movement. Whether it's putting a golf ball or playing a violin, the muscle memory becomes stronger the more it is repeated.

Have you heard about the 10,000-hour rule? Psychologists say that's the amount of time it takes to become an expert at anything. That's encouraging because it means anybody can do it, but it's discouraging because it means there are no shortcuts, no matter how smart or gifted you are. Just like a foreign language, developing a spiritual mindset is a learning curve. Can you imagine being frustrated on the first day of a foreign language class because you aren't fluent? That's how we often feel when we aren't fluent in prayer, or strong in faith, or disciplined in our habits. Psalm 84:7 says we "go from strength to strength" (NIV).

You'll be working on this for the rest of your life, one day at a time. You'll keep benchmarking. Your faith ceiling becomes your faith floor. And make no mistake about it-those spiritual disciplines accrue compound interest. And they pay off in terms of joy, fulfillment, and power with God. "Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace" (Ro 8:5-6 NIV).

Developing a spiritual mindset The 10,000-hour rule

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MAR. 9, 2026

Just play your part.

"Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them." Ro 12:6 NKJV

If you study famous musicians, you'll often find that they learned their craft by playing in a band or orchestra. That's because certain skills—learning to blend with other instruments, keeping tempo, learning to play louder or softer, following the conductor's lead—can only be learned by playing with others. And what's true of a band or orchestra is even truer of a community of believers. Jesus illustrated this in His famous parable of the talents (see Mt 25:14-30).

One man was given five talents and ended up with ten.
Another man was given two talents and ended up with four.
A third man was given one talent, and he buried it.

In a sense, Jesus was talking about people playing their parts and how important that is to God's kingdom. Not everyone plays the same instrument, and not everyone has the same part. Some instruments are louder than others, and some parts are bigger than others. It's not how much you have that matters to Jesus; it's what you do with what you have that matters to Him.

There are no insignificant talents in God's kingdom. Our talents may differ in amount, but they all come from the same source. All Christ wants you to do is play your part. He does not expect the same results, but He does expect the same effort. He never compares you with anyone else. He compares you only with you. He doesn't look at what you have; He looks at what you do with what you have. So just play your part.

Just play your part Our talents differ-but come from the same source.

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MAR. 5, 2026

It came to pass-not stay.

"It came to pass." Ge 4:3 NKJV

There is a little phrase repeated 436 times in the Bible: "It came to pass." Whatever trial you are going through today, remind yourself, "It came to pass-not stay." If the fulfillment of the vision God gave you seems to be taking longer than you thought, remind yourself "it will come to pass!" In his biography, God in My Corner, the two-time world heavyweight champion George Foreman tells a story about an elderly woman who was asked her favorite Scripture verse.

She replied: "And it came to pass." She explained why: "I know that whenever a trial comes, it doesn't come to stay; it comes—to pass." And the Scripture on the flipside of this coin reads:

"Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion" (Php 1:6 NIV). In other words, He will bring it to pass! Either way, God always finishes what He starts. "The vision is yet for an appointed time… Though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come [to pass]" (Hab 2:3 NKJV).

Battling an illness that threatened his life, and enemies who wanted to take his throne, David turned to the Lord for help. And God didn't disappoint him. Read these two Scriptures and stand on them: "Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning" (Ps 30:5 NLT). "You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy, that I might sing praises to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever!" (Ps 30:11-12 NLT).

It came to pass-not stay God always finishes what He starts.

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MAR. 6, 2026

Live for a cause greater than yourself.

"'Give me this mountain of which the Lord spoke'...And Joshua blessed him, and gave Hebron to Caleb." Jos 14:12-13 NKJV

When Moses sent Caleb to spy out the Promised Land, Caleb saw something that troubled him: the town of Hebron. Abraham buried his wife there. He was buried there.

So were Isaac and Jacob. Hebron was a sacred site. Now it was inhabited by their enemies, and it bothered Caleb. It was more than he could take, so he asked Moses for Hebron. He didn't ask for Jerusalem, perched on Mount Moriah; or the Valley of Eschol, where qgrapes grew as large as plums; or Jericho, where the Jordan River flowed. He wanted Hebron, whose soil had known the visitation of angels and whose earth entombed the holiest family. "Joshua blessed him, and gave Hebron to Caleb." Caleb wanted to do something great for God. He lived with a higher call. Perhaps the reason your problems feel so great is that your call is too small. Max Lucado tells of a doctor friend who makes regular medical trips to a remote jungle clinic to treat the disadvantaged. He's a retired surgeon with ample income. He could spend every day of his life in ease and luxury. But he focuses on supporting the health clinic for his own good: "I need a cause that is greater than cable TV and Cadillacs," he said. "If I focus on my comfort, nothing can satisfy me. But when I focus on the concerns of God, I am a happy man."

Do you have a holy cause?
A faith worth preserving?
A mission worth living for?
Ask God to give you a "Hebron" to claim for His glory.

Live for a cause greater than yourself A mission worth living for

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MAR. 4, 2026

Confidants, constituents, comrades.

"Give to Your servant an understanding heart...that I may discern between good and evil." 1Ki 3:9 NKJV

Nearly all key relationships in your life can be broken down into three categories: confidants, constituents, and comrades. Let's look at each.

(1) Confidants. These are the people whose relationships with you are lifelong. They love you unconditionally, stand by you, and have your back in good times and bad. Your best interest is their number one priority. They never seek to use what they know about you for their own gain or throw your secrets back in your face. Paul said concerning Timothy: "I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus. But you know his proven character" (Php 2:20-22 NKJV).

(2) Constituents. These people share the same goals, values, and principles you have, but they aren't always there for you. But having constituents in your life is important. They contribute energy, passion, and enthusiasm. And you can work with them to accomplish common goals and build bridges. Just be sure not to expect constituents to have the loyalty of confidants. They are with you for a reason and a season, and then they move on.

(3) Comrades. These are the people who are attracted to you because of what they are against. They may not get to know you, or even like you, but on the field of battle, they join you as soldiers to defeat a common enemy. Once the fight is over, the relationship ends or at least cools. Your only bond is your common enemy. So get to know who's in your life: confidants, constituents, or comrades.

Confidants, constituents, comrades

Get to know who's in your life.

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MAR. 3, 2026

Embrace "the whole counsel of God"

"I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God." Ac 20:27 NKJV

More than a hundred years ago, William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, spoke prophetically when he said, "The chief dangers which confront the coming century will be religion without the Holy Ghost, Christianity without Christ, forgiveness without repentance, salvation without regeneration, politics without God, heaven without hell."

That's as true now as it was then. Paul exhorted the leaders of the Ephesian church to declare, "The whole counsel of God." He said: "Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. Therefore watch and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears" (vv. 28-31 NKJV).

On the eve of his execution, Paul handed off the baton to his successor Timothy with these words: "Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all long suffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine...they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables...be watchful...fulfill your ministry" (2Ti 4:2-5 NKJV).

Embrace "the whole counsel of God" Forgiveness without repentance

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MAR. 2, 2026

Having a Spirit-controlled tongue (2)

"The tongue is a flame of fire." Jas 3:6 NLT

The Bible says, "A tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And...the tongue is a flame of fire" (vv. 5-6 NLT). People living in hot climates know the danger of ravaging bushfires driven by desert winds and can readily identify with these words: "See how great a forest a little fire kindles!" (v. 5 NKJV). A single spark from a match has started many massive fires. Spreading faster and farther than we might ever imagine, that kind of fire destroys homes and businesses worth millions of dollars, leaving a scorched landscape and devastated lives. Similarly, how many reputations have been ruined by a careless word? The impact of our words spreads far and fast, especially in our digital age. Words published on any social media platform can be shared all over the world in seconds. Like a fire, that word can get out of control and do irreparable damage. Hence James wrote: "No man can tame the tongue" (v. 8 NKJV).

But God can. "The fruit of the Spirit is...self-control" (Gal 5:22-23 NKJV).

The Holy Spirit can take a tongue that peddles gossip and turn it into one that brings glory to God. He can take a tongue that spews bitterness and turn it into one that speaks blessing. Gossip is saying something behind someone's back that you would never say to that person's face.

Flattery is saying something to someone's face that you would never say behind the person's back. And both are wrong. So let's join the Psalmist in praying: "May these words of my mouth...be pleasing in your sight, Lord" (Ps 19:14 NIV).

Having a Spirit-controlled tongue Reputations have been ruined by a careless word.

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FEB. 26, 2026

Rely on God, not yourself.

"As a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God." 2Co 1:9 NLT

Several men went on a mission trip to Haiti where they met a nineteen-year-old young man who loved Christ deeply. So they invited him to visit them in America and paid for his trip. The young Haitian felt as if he were in another world. He'd never slept between sheets, had three meals a day, used indoor plumbing, or tasted a hamburger. When it was time to return to Haiti, they asked him for his impressions of what he'd experienced, and he replied: "I have really enjoyed my time here with you. But I am also very glad to be going home.

You have so much in America that I'm beginning to lose my grip on my day-to-day dependency on Christ." Paul spoke of a time of trouble in Asia in which he was "crushed and overwhelmed" (2Co 1:8 NLT). Then he wrote: "As a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God" (v. 9 NLT). And God wants to bring you to that place also. Yes, He wants you to use the gifts and resources He has provided, but His desire is that you rely completely on Him.

Only then can He provide everything He desires to give you, because then you will be open, ready, and mature enough to receive it. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear [reverence, respect, obey] the Lord" (Pr 3:5-7 NLT).

Rely on God, not yourself

"He will show you which path to take."

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FEB. 23, 2026

Stay true to the truth of God's Word.

"Go after them." Jas 5:19-20 MSG

The Bible says, "If you know people who have wandered off from God's truth, don't write them off. Go after them. Get them back and you will have rescued precious lives from destruction" (vv. 19-20 MSG).

That means it's possible for a true believer to do this. It also means we must never put our convictions on the shelf. If we don't make a deliberate effort to stay close to the truth of God's Word, we will wander from it.

After all, we live in a world with lots of distractions. Today many people are on a quest for "unity at all costs" and are therefore devaluing the importance of the truth as revealed in God's Word. Knowing he would soon die as a martyr for his faith, the apostle Paul wrote to his successor Timothy: "Continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of" (2Ti 3:14 NIV).

Then in 2 Timothy 4:2-5, he encouraged Timothy: "Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage-with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship...discharge all the duties of your ministry" (NIV). So the word for you today is-stay true to the truth of God's Word.

Stay true to the truth of God's Word

The importance of the truth

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FEB. 24, 2026

Learn to listen to God.

'''Speak, for Your servant hears.' Then the Lord said to Samuel." 1Sa 3:10-11 NKJV

If you are serious about having a truly interactive relationship with the Lord in which you speak to one another and hear from one another, you will need to spend quality, uninterrupted time opening your heart to Him.

When Samuel finally answered, "Speak, for Your servant hears," the Bible says, "Then the Lord said to Samuel." All too often, our prayer is "Listen, God, for Your servant is speaking." Listening to God can involve a variety of practices: reading His Word, spending time in solitude and silence, and hearing from God just like a seasoned friend you trust. Here's an example: "As they were going down to the outskirts of the city, Samuel said to Saul, 'Tell the servant to go on ahead of us.' And he went on. 'But you stand here awhile, that I may announce to you the word of God'" (1Sa 9:27 NKJV).

One of the most effective ways of hearing from God is through meditating on His Word. You say, "But I don't know how to meditate." If you know how to worry, you know how to meditate. In both worry and meditation, your thoughts and focus are given to a certain thing. When you meditate on God's Word, you're focusing your thoughts on the right thing! God told Joshua: "This Book...shall not depart from your mouth [speak it regularly], but you shall mediate [focus] in it day and night, that you may observe to do [act on it] according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success" (Jos 1:8 NKJV).

Learn to listen to God Meditate on God's Word.

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FEB. 25, 2026

Overcoming envy.

"Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?" Pr 27:4 KJV

Unlike jealousy, which is the fear of being displaced, envy is ill-will toward those who possess something you want. Jealousy says, "I'm afraid you are going to take what I have." Envy says, "I want what you have, and I resent you for having it!" Envy is one of the most frequently concealed emotions. You may be more likely to admit to an

uncontrollable temper, a phobia, or any other negative emotion than to acknowledge that you are envious. Envy inevitably leads to resenting and criticizing the person you envy. And once you allow envy and resentment to enter your heart, they act like free radicals producing an emotional cancer.

Eventually they will manifest themselves in some destructive way, whether it is in the form of taking mood-altering substances, overeating, shopping excessively, lashing out, being sarcastic, or physically harming others. If you harbor envy toward someone, it's time to deal with it. David wrote: "You desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place. Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow" (Ps 51:6-7 NIV).

If you covet what someone else has, ask yourself, "Am I willing to pay the price they paid to obtain it?" The world has a saying: "There is no such thing as a free lunch." Everything-except salvation-has a price tag. So whether you want to be thin, rich, educated, or whatever, stop envying the success of others, and ask God to help you succeed in the assignment He has given you for your life.

Overcoming envy Everything has a price tag.

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FEB. 4, 2026

Humble yourself, and try to make it right.

"If you have been snared with the words of your mouth… Go, humble yourself." Pr 6:2-3 NAS (1995)

In 1755, a twenty-three-year-old army colonel was running for a seat in the Virginia assembly, when he made an insulting remark as part of a campaign speech. It was addressed to a hot-tempered man named Payne, who responded by knocking the colonel down with a hickory stick.

Soldiers rushed to the colonel's assistance, and it appeared a full-blown fight would ensue. But the would-be politician got up, dusted himself off, called off the soldiers, and quietly left the scene. The next morning, the colonel wrote to Payne requesting his presence at a local tavern.

Payne obliged, but he wondered what motives and demands the colonel might make-perhaps an apology or even a duel.

To Payne's surprise, the colonel met him with an apology, asking forgiveness for his derogatory remarks and offering a handshake. Others may have viewed the move as politically expedient, but Colonel George Washington considered it personally imperative if he was to enjoy internal peace as he continued with his political campaign on his way to becoming America's first president.

Jesus said, "Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

Agree with your adversary quickly" (Mt 5:23-25 NKJV).

Solomon said, "If you have been snared with the words of your mouth...Go, humble yourself, and importune your neighbor" (Pr 6:2-3 NAS 1995).

The word for you today is: Humble yourself, and try to make it right.

Humble yourself, and try to make it right

Be reconciled to your brothers and sisters.

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FEB. 3, 2026

Healing for your mind.

"Be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind." Eph 4:23 AMPC

We are three-part beings: spirit, soul, and body. When we make Jesus Lord of our lives, our spirit receives healing from spiritual death. But there are still two areas that need Christ's healing touch: our souls (mind, emotions, and will) and our physical bodies. God's Word teaches us that physical health and mental health are irrevocably linked. "For as he thinks in his heart, so is he" (Pr 23:7 NKJV).

What we think about ourselves is inevitably what we become. Unhealthy thinking produces unhealthy living. John wrote: "I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers" (3Jn 1:2 NKJV).

For any area where our souls are sick-whether it be low self-esteem, negative thoughts, or destructive habits-the Word of God is the answer to nourishing us into a balanced and healthy state. The majority of Satan's attacks begin in the mind. He uses wrong thoughts and images in our minds to lead us away from God's best. The only way to counteract this is to stand on God's Word and allow His healthy thoughts to permeate our thinking daily.

Thoughts of fear can be replaced with thoughts of faith.
Thoughts of lack can be replaced with thoughts of provision.
Thoughts of failure and depression can be replaced with thoughts of success and joy.

How does this happen? Paul answered: "Be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh mental and spiritual attitude], and put on the new nature (the regenerate self) created in God's image" (Eph 4:23-24 AMPC).

Healing for your mind Unhealthy thinking produces unhealthy living.

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FEB. 9, 2026

True repentance brings restoration.

"Father, I have sinned." Lk 15:18 NKJV

The story of the prodigal son illustrates the meaning of true repentance. It's about a young Jewish man who rebelled against all that he'd been taught, turned his back on his father, was lured by the bright lights of the big city, and ended up in a pigpen feeding swine. But he did three things that turned his life around.

First, he changed his mind. "When he came to his senses, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death!'"(v. 17 NIV).

Second, he redirected his will. "I will...go back to my father and say to him: 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you'" (v. 18 NIV).

Third, he took action. "So he got up and went to his father" (v. 20 NIV).

Repentance is a change of mind, which brings about a change of will, and results in a change of action. It led to the prodigal's forgiveness and restoration to his family.

Here are two things about sin you need to know:

(1) God will uncover every sin you try to cover up. "Judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts" (1Co 4:5 NKJV).

(2) God will cover every sin you uncover. "He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy" (Pr 28:13 NKJV).

Go ahead-confess and forsake your sin, and God will cover it with the blood of Christ. There is no good reason to wait. Do it now.

True repentance brings restoration Repentance is a change of mind.

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JAN. 14, 2026

A prayer for God-confidence.

"I sought the Lord, and He...delivered me from all my fears." Ps 34:4 NKJV

Father, I come boldly before Your throne of grace to obtain mercy and find grace for deliverance from emotional insecurity (see Heb 4:16). Your Word says You will make all Your grace abound toward me so that I will always have all sufficiency in all things and abound in every good work (see 2Co 9:8).

I cast down every thought of inadequacy and every imagination that rises up against what Your Word says about who I am and what I can do (see 2Co 10:5). I resist any anxiety over the possibility of losing a social, professional, or other position or a desired relationship. I know that no one can thwart Your purpose for my life. You, O Lord, have sealed my destiny (see Isa 14:27). “You guard all that is mine" (Ps 16:5 NLT).

I know, according to Your Word, that You deliberately shaped me in the womb to be Your servant. Therefore, I rest, rejoice, and trust that I am designed for my destiny and perfect for my purpose (see Isa 49:5). Because of Your grace, I walk neither in self-doubt nor in self-confidence because I know that apart from You, I can do absolutely nothing (see Jn 15:5).

Therefore, my eyes are on You alone to do exceedingly abundantly above all that I could ask or think according to Your power that works in me (see Eph 3:20). I thank You that You have heard me and delivered me from all my tears, and they no longer have any power over my life (see Ps 34:4). In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, amen.

A prayer for God-confidence I rest, rejoice and trust.

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JAN. 13, 2026

Be sensitive to God's presence.

"Lord...open his eyes that he may see." 2Ki 6:17 NKJV

One morning in a city called Dothan, a servant of the prophet Elisha awoke and was terrified because an enemy army surrounded him and his boss. "What shall we do?" he cried.

Elisha told him to chill out, for "Those who are with us are more than those who are with them." Then Elisha prayed for him: "Lord, I pray, open his eyes that he may see." And the Lord opened his eyes, and he saw that they were surrounded by horses and chariots of fire-the power of God and protection of God (see vv. 15-17 NKJV).

As a result, their enemies were neutralized. What if this became your prayer as well? What if every time you were challenged or burdened, God opened your spiritual eyes to see that you too were surrounded by His power and protection? It happened to two followers of Jesus who were walking on the road to Emmaus after the crucifixion. A third man joined them. It was Jesus, walking and talking with them—but they didn't recognize Him until He began to pray. And then they knew. Then they said, "Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?" (Lk 24:32 NKJV).

What if you were on the road to Emmaus, commuting into work, school, or home-and Jesus was right there beside you?
What if you could join the "fellowship of the burning heart" and actually experience His presence? You can. Just reach for Him, recognize Him, and respond to Him.

Be sensitive to God's presence Reach for Him, recognize Him, and respond to Him.

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JAN. 12, 2026

"Keep calm and carry on".

"The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still." Ex 14:14 NIV

During World War II, the British Department of Information designed three "home publicity" posters. The first said, "Your courage, your cheerfulness, your resolution will bring us victory." The second said, "Freedom is in peril." The third and most famous said, "Keep calm and carry on." The department printed 2.45 million of the third posters, but they were never publicly displayed. That motto had all but vanished from Britain's consciousness when a bookstore-owning couple in Alnwick—

Stuart and Mary Manley-discovered an original copy of the poster at the bottom of a box of old books. With Pharaoh's chariots bearing down on Moses from behind, and the Red Sea in front of him, he was "between a rock and a hard place." That's when God gave Moses these instructions: "The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still" (Ex 14:13-14 NIV).

That sounds an awful lot like keep calm and carry on, doesn't it? What would be the hardest thing to do if Egyptian chariots were charging straight at you at full speed? To be still! When we find ourselves in this sort of situation, we want to do something-anything. We have a nervous energy that tries to solve problems as quickly as possible. But these are the tests that reveal trust. Sometimes God leads us to a place where we have nowhere to turn but to Him. Is that where you are today? Then trust God's power, love, and faithfulness, and He will bring you safely through it.

"Keep calm and carry on" Trust God's power, love, and faithfulness.

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JAN. 5, 2026

Living in the Promised Land.

"These things happened to them as examples for us." 1Co 10:11 NLT

Egypt represents our days in bondage to sin. Then Jesus liberated us and gave us a new life. Our Promised Land isn't a physical territory; it's a spiritual reality. It's not real estate, but a real state of heart and mind.

It's a life in which "we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us" (Ro 8:37 NKJV).
A life in which "we do not lose heart" (2Co 4:16 NKJV).
A life in which we are "exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation (2Co 7:4 NKJV);
we are "anxious for nothing" (Php 4:6 NKJV);
we are "praying always" (Eph 6:18);
and a life in which we "do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him" (Col 3:17 NKJV).

Max Lucado wrote: [In Canaan]...'we win more often than we lose, forgive as quickly as we are offended, and give as abundantly as we receive.

We serve out of our giftedness and delight in our assignments.
We may stumble, but we do not collapse.
We may struggle, but we defy despair.
We boast only in Christ, trust only in God, lean wholly on his power.
We enjoy abundant fruit and increasing faith."

Canaan symbolizes the victory we can have today, and God invites us to enter it.

There is only one condition; we must turn our backs on wilderness living."

Paul wrote: "You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" (1Pe 2:9 NKJV).

Living in the Promised Land "You are a chosen generation."

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When your mate struggles with insecurity.

"Jealousy [is] as cruel as the grave." SS

8:6 NKJV

If you're dealing with an insecure mate, you must make every effort to be accountable.

It's important to voluntarily provide adequate details. After all, he or she is looking for assurance. Learn to explain your whereabouts in a casual but thorough manner. Short, one-syllable responses will provide more insecurity and leave the person to imagine various negative scenarios.

A jealous person is insecure and thus has doubts about having what it takes to maintain the relationship.

Do not make the mistake of thinking or saying, "Tough-you just need to get over your insecurity." If it were that easy, your mate would have done it by now. Continue to pray for their healing from this debilitating mindset, but do your part not to exacerbate the problem with vague communication. Most of all, encourage your partner to talk about his or her fears. Listen without being critical or judgmental.

Seek first to understand.
Make it clear that you love your mate and have pure intentions regarding your relationship.

But here is something important to keep in mind: Stay balanced in your interaction. You must also make it clear that you will not be forced into an emotional prison by having to account for every moment of the day. This too could exacerbate the jealousy and set up unrealistic expectations.

Trust is a two-way street.
And one way to build trust is by praying together.
In prayer, we become honest and transparent, realizing that God already knows every detail about us.
When your mate hears you share your heart in prayer, it relieves unfounded fears and creates security within them.

When your mate struggles with insecurity Trust is a two-way street.

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DEC. 31, 2025

Leave the past in the past.

"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you." Eph 4:32 NKJV

Studies suggest that just 3 percent of life events are highly memorable. So, over the course of an average year, approximately seventeen experiences will make it into your long-term memory. The other 97 percent fades into the black hole called the subconscious. But that remaining 3 percent can hurt us every day if we cannot or will not forget.

That 3 percent can make us prisoners of our past. Even if we've confessed our sin, we often still feel condemned. And that feeling of condemnation undermines the fact that God is for us (see Ps 56:9). We keep beating ourselves up. We keep sabotaging ourselves. We keep believing the self-defeating lies that come from Satan "the accuser" (see Rev 12:10).

And how can you overcome the accuser and silence him? Revelation 12:11 says: "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony" (NKJV).

Push back! Testify to Satan the accuser. Tell him what the blood of Jesus Christ has done on your behalf.

Remind him that "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus" (Ro 8:1 KJV).

None.
Nada.
Zilch.
Zero.
Not a trace.
Not a whiff.
Not a hint.

Instead of defining yourself by what you've done wrong, define yourself by what Christ has done right on your behalf. Instead of defining yourself by the hurtful things done to you, begin to declare what Christ has done for you.

If you are in Christ, you are not in sin.
If you have been forgiven, you are no longer guilty.

Leave the past in the past You are no longer guilty.

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JAN. 2, 2026

Bible reading; the key to spiritual growth (1)

"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth." Jos 1:8 NKJV

God gave Joshua a big job: conquer the Promised Land and divide it up among the twelve tribes of Israel. He also gave him the key to success: "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success." God didn't command Joshua to seek a spiritual experience or a personal revelation. He told him to meditate on the Scriptures.

Greg Hawkins and Cally Parkinson wrote a book called Move. They wanted to find the key factors for spiritual growth, so they surveyed the congregations of one thousand churches. Here's what they found: "Nothing has a greater impact on spiritual growth than reflection on Scripture. If churches could only do one thing to help people at all levels of spiritual maturity grow in their relationship with Christ, their choice is clear. They would inspire, encourage, and equip their people to read the Bible."

You don't grow in Christ simply because you're busy in church; it happens automatically when you read and trust God's Word.

So engage with your Bible.

Meditate on it day and night.
Think and rethink on it.
Let it be your guide.
Make it your go-to book for questions.
Let it be the ultimate authority in your life.

Peter puts it this way: "As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby" (1Pe 2:2 NKJV).

Bible reading; the key to spiritual growth Engage with your Bible.

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JAN. 1, 2026

Make prayer your first priority.

"Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full." Jn 16:24 NKJV

Prayer should be your highest priority. Why? Because when you fail to pray, you set yourself up to fail. You're saying in essence, "I don't need God's help or input." God comes by invitation. Prayer opens the door and welcomes Him into your situation. Jesus said, "Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full."

An unknown poet wrote: "I got up early one morning and rushed right into the day. I had so much to accomplish that I didn't have time to pray.

Problems just tumbled about me, and heavier came each task. 'Why doesn't God help me?' I wondered. He answered, 'You didn't ask.!
I wanted to see joy and beauty, but the day toiled on, gray and bleak. I wondered why God didn't show me. He said, 'But you didn't seek!
I tried to come into God's presence; I used all my keys at the lock. God gently and lovingly chided, 'My child, you didn't knock!
I woke up early this morning and paused before entering the day. I had so much to accomplish that I had to take time to pray!" The psalmist said, "O God..early will I seek thee" (Ps 63:1 KJV).
The first voice he wanted to hear in the morning was God's.
The first conversation he wanted to have - was with the Lord.
Before others made demands on his time and energy, he wanted to know God's will.

Has your prayer life been hit-and-miss? Rearrange things and make it your first priority each day. If you do, you'll begin to thrive spiritually.

Make prayer your first priority

My child, you didn't knock.

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NOV. 27, 2025

Be sure to praise the Lord.

"Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous! For praise from the upright is beautiful." Ps 33:1 NKJV

Of 150 psalms recorded in the Bible, the dominant recurring theme is "praise the Lord!" The book is like a memo from psalmists that says, "Today be sure to praise the Lord."

In Psalm 34, David writes: "I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make its boast in the Lord; the humble shall hear of it and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together" (Ps 34:1-3 NKJV).

In Psalm 113:1-3, the psalmist writes: "Praise ye the Lord. Praise, O ye servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord. Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and for evermore. From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the Lord's name is to be praised."

In Psalm 118:24, the psalmist says, "This is the day which the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."

In Psalm 119:164, the psalmist says, "Seven times a day do l praise thee." We have coffee and tea breaks; they had praise breaks.

Finally we arrive at Psalm 150, the last psalm. In verse 6, the last verse of the last psalm, we are reminded again, "Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord." That means as long as you are alive and breathing, you're to praise the Lord. So whatever else you do, or fail to do today, be sure to praise the Lord.

Be sure to praise the Lord Praise breaks

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NOV. 25, 2025

Start small, and keep a winning attitude. "Do not despise...small beginnings." Zec 4:10 NLT

Juan grew up in Puerto Rico, the son of a sugarcane plantation foreman. One of a family of eight, he lived in a three-room shack with a dirt floor and no toilet.

His first job, at age six, was driving oxen to plow the cane fields. He worked eight hours a day and earned one dollar. Juan said it was in the cane fields that he learned important lessons like being

on time,
work hard,
and be loyal
and respectful to your employers.

His job and small income were a great source of self-esteem.

At age seven he got a job at a golf course spotting balls for golfers, and he began to dream of playing golf and earning enough money to buy a bicycle. The more he dreamed, the more he thought, "Why not?"

He made a golf club out of a guava limb and a piece of pipe, then hammered an empty tin can into a ball.

Next, he dug two small holes in the ground and hit the ball back and forth between them.

He practiced his "golf" with the same intensity he put into his job in the cane field, and he got good-very good.

In his thirty-one years as a pro golfer, Juan "Chi Chi" Rodríguez won eight PGA tour events and twenty-four major tournaments, and he was the first Puerto Rican to be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.

What can we learn from him? Two things: (1) Be willing to start small. The Bible says, "Do not despise...small beginnings."

(2) Be willing to think big because you serve a big God (See Eph 3:20).

Start small, and keep a winning attitude Be willing to think big.

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NOV. 5, 2025

The traits of a champion.

"For I know the plans I have for you... plans for good...to give you a future and a hope." Jer 29:11 TLB

Sports psychologists have identified six recurring traits that are common to Olympic gold medalist athletes. These traits of a champion apply to both men and women, but they are also dominant factors in the lives of those who succeed in non-athletic vocations as well. Let's look carefully at each trait and see what we can learn.

(1) Self-analysis. The successful athlete knows their strengths and weaknesses, and engages in a critical appraisal that is honest but never negative.

(2) Self-competition. A winner knows that he or she can only control their own performance, so they compete against their own best effort and not that of others.

(3) Focus. The champion is always "in the present," concentrating on the task at hand.

(4) Confidence. Successful athletes control anxiety by setting tough but reasonable goals. As these goals are reached, their confidence increases.

(5) Toughness. This is a mental trait that involves accepting risk and trying to win, rather than trying not to lose. Awinner sees change as opportunity, and accepts responsibility for their own destiny.

(6) Having a game plan. Even the best athletes know that talent is not enough; they must have a game plan. And here is the good news: You can develop these six traits. You say, "Where can I get a game plan for my life?" From the God who loves you and says in His Word, "For I know the plans I have for you...plans for good...to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen" (vv. 11-12 TLB).

The traits of a champion A game plan for your life

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NOV. 4, 2025

Always do your best.

"Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might." Ecc 9:10 NIV

A series of illustrations in a popular magazine once depicted the life story of a "one-note musician." From frame to frame, the tale revealed how the woman followed her daily routine of eating and sleeping until the time came for the evening concert. She carefully inspected her violin, took her seat, arranged her music, and tuned her instrument.

First the conductor skillfully cued one group of musicians, then another, until finally her moment arrived. It was time for her one note to be played! The conductor turned to the violinist and signaled her to sound her note.

She did, and then the moment was over. The orchestra played on, and the "one-note" woman sat quietly through the rest of the concert-not with a sense of disappointment that she had played only one note, but with a sense of contentment that she had played her one note in tune, on time, and with all her ability. Jesus told the story of a business owner who gave three of his employees some talents of silver to be invested on his behalf. One was given five talents, another two talents, and another one talent, "to each according to his own ability" (Mt 25:15 NKJV).

The Bible says we will be rewarded in heaven for our service to Christ here on earth. How will God decide what your reward should be? Jesus said it's "to each according to his own ability." Or as Solomon put it, "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might." In other words, do the best you can with what God gave you.

Always do your best One note in tune and on time

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NOV. 3, 2025

Trust in Christ alone!

"Whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all." Jas 2:10 NKJV

Paul writes,"By grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God" (Eph 2:8 NKJV). Why did Paul say we are saved through grace alone? Because trying to obtain salvation by keeping the law sets you up for failure. "For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all." You say, "That's an impossible standard!"

You're right! The law is like an X-ray machine; it can reveal what's under the surface and identify the problem, but it can't fix it. The law is also like a mirror. It can tell you that you need to apply makeup, or shave, or comb your hair, but it can't do these things for you. In other words, the law can show you your problem but can't solve it. But what the law could not do, Christ did on the cross (See Ro 8:3).

When Jesus said, "It is finished" (Jn 19:30), all your sins from the cradle to the grave were atoned for. And when you put your trust in Him, you are saved for time and eternity. Some people acknowledge that you are made right with God by grace, through putting your trust in Christ. But, they believe you maintain your salvation by keeping the works of the law.

The problem is, even on your best day, you cannot live up to all the demands of a perfect God.

The hymnist wrote, "Trusting as the moments fly, trusting as the days go by; trusting Him whate'er befall, trusting Jesus, that is all!"

Trust in Christ alone! You are made right with God by grace.

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OCT. 21, 2025

God can accelerate His plan for your life.

"You have kept the good wine until now!" Jn 2:10 NKJV

Jesus' first miracle was turning water into wine at a wedding reception. There were six waterpots, each capable of holding thirty gallons.

First, He said, "Fill those pots with water." Next, He said, "Take some out and bring it to the host of the party."

When the host tasted it, he told the groom, "This is amazing. Everyone serves the best wine first, and after people have had a lot to drink, they bring out the less expensive wine.

But you have saved the best wine for last" (See vv. 7-10 NLT). Do you know how long it takes to make wine? It begins with planting seeds, then takes several years for the vines to grow mature grapes. Then they have to be picked and processed to produce the wine. It often takes three to five years before the first wine is ready to be bottled.

The better-quality wine takes five to seven years to make. And people consider the best wine to be twenty to thirty years old. Jesus produced in a moment in time what normally takes decades to produce. So if you're concerned that you don't have enough time to achieve your goals, remember that Jesus can do in a moment what might usually take years. Maybe it would typically take you twenty years to pay off your mortgage, or ten years to build your business.

But God's favor can thrust you years down the road. He still turns water into wine. Be encouraged, the God we serve knows how to accelerate natural laws. He can take you further, quicker than you can ever imagine.

God can accelerate His plan for your life Jesus can do in a moment what usually takes years.

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OCT. 24, 2025

How to pray for your children.

"Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord...Jesus Christ." 2Pe 3:18 NKJV

The Bible says, "In the last days will come... times of great stress and trouble [hard to deal with and hard to bear]" (2Ti 3:1 AMPC).

We don't have to look far to see that Scripture fulfilled.

It's why we need to pray for the physical and spiritual safety of our children; that they may "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord...Jesus Christ."

Heather Riggleman writes: "As you and I watch the news, we weep, we cry out in anger, and then we wonder, 'How can we protect our kids...?' We wonder if it's safe to send [them] out the front door. We question whether the world is falling apart.

And nothing is more terrifying than the realization that we cannot protect them from life. While we cannot hide our children away from the world, we can...shield them in far greater ways than wrapping them in a plastic bubble or locking them in their rooms for the rest of their lives...We can intercede for [them], praying for wisdom, protection, peace, and strength." Remember, wherever we are gathered and praying, Jesus is in our midst (See Mt 18:19-20).

Paul said, "Put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil...Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers" (Eph 6:13, 18 NLT).

When you pray like that, God is bound to honor His Word. Keep covering your kids in prayer—and don't give up no matter how bad things in the world get.

How to pray for your children Keep covering your kids in prayer.

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OCT. 23, 2025

Sittin' pretty in Jesus!

"God, who is rich in mercy... raised us up...and made us sit together in... heavenly places in Christ Jesus." Eph 2:4, 6 NKJV

For many years Dr. Donald Grey Barnhouse pastored Philadelphia's Tenth Presbyterian Church. One Sunday morning a twelve-year-old boy in the balcony was transfixed after hearing him speak about the length and breadth and depth of God's amazing grace.

Barnhouse closed his sermon by summarizing many of the great promises from Scripture in one impressive sentence: "Our sins are forgiven, forgotten, cleansed, pardoned, covered...blotted out as a thick cloud, removed as far as the east is from the west, cast behind God's back." At the end of the service when Barnhouse went to the back to greet people, the boy approached him, tugged at his sleeve, and said, "Good sermon, Doc! We're sure sittin' pretty, aren't we?" That glorious phrase "in Christ" speaks to the redemptive miracle God performed for us through his Son (See Ro 8:1; 1Co 1:2; 15:22; Co 5:17; Eph 2:6-13).

The word "in" assures us that just as our natural birth positioned us in Adam, our forefather, at the new birth God deliberately and precisely positions us in Jesus, our Redeemer.

Think about it: "God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses...raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus" (Eph 2:4-6 NKJV).

Note that we're seated together in heavenly places in Christ, not beside Him. And it gets even better! We're seated there so closely identified with Jesus that we're inseparably and eternally one with Him! Now if that's not sitting pretty, tell us what is!

Sittin' pretty in Jesus!

Forgiven, forgotten, cleansed, pardoned

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OCT. 6, 2025

Be careful what you watch.

"I will lead a life of integrity in my own home. I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar." Ps 101:2-3 NLT

As a teen, Megan arrived home from school just in time to watch an hour of soap operas before doing her homework. She enjoyed the escape into the TV world and wasn't aware that the programs were arousing sexual curiosity in her. After years of exposure to these soaps, her perspective on life took a shift.

She began to think, "Relationships don't need to be pure. In fact, the impure ones seem more exciting. Fidelity doesn't matter, as long as a person is happy." As a college student, Megan found it easy to participate in one-night stands. Then after a short marriage ended in catastrophe as a result of her infidelity, she sought help from a counselor.

At first it was difficult for the counselor to understand why Megan engaged in extramarital affairs. She had been a model teenager at home, church, and school, as far as her public behavior was concerned. Finally the counselor discovered the source of the temptation that drove Megan to participate in her supposed hidden life. What you watch on television and the internet becomes part of your memory bank. You're putting images on file that Satan will use against you. David's affair with Bathsheba started with a wrong look and ended up bringing tragedy to his family.

Later David wrote: "I will lead a life of integrity in my own home. I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar...I will reject perverse ideas and stay from every evil...! will search for faithful people to be my companions" (vv. 2-4, 6 NLT).

Be careful what you watch Your memory bank

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OCT. 7, 2025

You're walking a "prepared" path.

"Created...to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Eph 2:10 NIV

The word "prepared" derives from an ancient custom of sending servants ahead of a king to have things ready for his arrival. But the King of Kings goes in advance of His servants and prepares the road ahead of us. We don't know this in advance, so we have to overcome our fears, step out in faith, and follow Him. And as we look back, we can say, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life" (Ps 23:6).

In Ephesians 2:10, notice the words "good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." When you follow God, you're walking a prepared path. It's important to keep this in mind. When you find yourself in difficult circumstances, you need to know that God is directing your footsteps (See Ps 37:23).

You have assurance because you know that God has considered every contingency in your life and that He always has your best interest at heart.

The psalmist David wrote: "I'm an open book to you; even from a distance, you know what I'm thinking. You know when I leave and when I get back; I'm never out of your sight. You know everything I'm going to say before I start the first sentence. I look behind me and you're there, then up ahead and you're there, too-your reassuring presence, coming and going...I can't take it all in!" (Ps 139:1-6 MSG).

If David, whom God called "a man after My own heart" (Acts 13:22 NKJV), couldn't take it all in, you won't either. But God is not asking you to figure Him out; He is just asking you to trust Him.

You're walking a "prepared" path Your reassuring presence

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ост. 3, 2025

Peace that defies human logic.

"The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and...minds in Christ Jesus." Php 4:7 NIV

No matter what problems you're grappling with, it's good to know that the peace of God "which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and...minds in Christ Jesus."

Author Lorie Newman said: "For me, that peace came when my husband lost his job...We were a one-income family with seven children, a mortgage, [and] bills. Would we lose our house? How could we feed our large family? These questions fogged my mind like suffocating smoke. But, in the midst of it, God tenderly spoke life into my worried heart.

Unemployment remained. In fact, it remained for nearly two years. But day-by-day, step-by-step, the truth of God's Word began to eclipse the despair and I had incredible peace! God's Word came alive as never before as I navigated the turbulent waters of that rough season of life. I had read that God was my provider, but I began to know and experience him as my provider! What should have been a time of horrific stress...became a place of peace."

When problems arise, our natural inclination is to panic. When we do that, we open the door for the Enemy to come in, get us off track, and make us feel victimized. Take these words of Jesus to heart: "My [own] peace I now give...you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed...do not permit yourselves to be fearful and...unsettled.]" (Jn 14:27 AMPC).

Peace that defies human logic "Do not let your hearts be troubled."

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OCT. 2,2025

Your emotions matter to God (2).

"Let all bitterness, wrath, anger...be put away from you." Eph 4:31 NKJV

Like Jesus, we have been created in the image of a God who expresses emotions.

Neither the Father nor the Son was afraid or embarrassed to feel deeply, and we shouldn't be either. In Scripture God's heart broke for His wayward children (See Hos 11:8-9).

Jesus wept openly at the grave of His dear friend Lazarus (See Jn 11:35).
He expressed righteous anger over moneylenders defrauding worshipers in the temple (See Lk 19:45-46).

And when it comes to our own feelings, we are neither powerless pawns nor fearful fugitives. God wants us to own them, understand their message, and seek His counsel in engaging them for His glory and the benefit of others.

The psalmist often voiced his emotions before God. In Psalm 22:1, he cried out, "My God...why have you abandoned me? Why are you so far away when I groan for help?" (NLT). Think how he must have felt to make him say those words:

intense fear,
panic,
confusion,
disappointment, and betrayal.

But note what he did with his emotions. He took them to God, addressed Him personally, and called on His help: "Do not stay so far from me, for trouble is near, and no one else can help me" (v. 11 NLT).

David's approach was bold, and he found the help he needed: "For he has not ignored or belittled the suffering of the needy. He has not turned his back on them, but has listened to their cries for help" (v. 24 NLT).

When you bring your feelings to God, you will find that "all who seek the Lord will praise him. Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy" (v. 26 NLT).

Your emotions matter to God We are neither powerless pawns nor fearful fugitives.

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OCT. 1, 2025

Your emotions matter to God (1)

"We don't have a priest who is out of touch with our reality." Heb 4:15 MSG

Emotions—we all have them. Some we enjoy, some we endure. The question is, what does God say about how we should handle them?

"Count it all joy when you fall into various trials" (Jas 1:2 NKJV).
"Let all bitterness, wrath, anger...be put away from you, with all malice" (Eph 4:31 NKJV).
"Be...full of sympathy toward each other" (1Pe 3:8 TLB).

God has appointed designated seasons for us to weep, laugh, mourn, love-and even hate (See Ecc 3:1-8).

Does He demand that we instantly and completely control all our emotions? No.

Instead He makes Himself available to transform our hearts and character, so we can manage our emotions in ways that exalt Him. Rather than providing a manual on emotional self-management, He comforts, encourages, convicts, and reorients us by patiently inviting us to do this: "Let him have all your worries and cares, for he is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you" (1Pe 5:7 TLB).

Even painful feelings can provide opportunities to develop a deeper relationship with our heavenly Father.

It also helps to remember that we're created in the image of an emotional God, and His Word indicates that He sees our feelings as fundamentally good.

Even anger, an emotion commonly deemed pejorative, can glorify Him when we handle it in unselfish ways. It's not about what we feel, it's how we handle those feelings. And God can give us the grace to turn any emotion into an attribute that glorifies Him.

Your emotions matter to God

"Let him have all your worries and cares."

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SEP. 30, 2025

Don't speak too quickly.

"Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for them." Pr 29:20 NIV

When you speak too quickly, you can send the wrong signal and get results you don't want. This is particularly so when you're negotiating for the best deal.

Speaking impulsively, and overtalking, are not signs of strength but of weakness and insecurity.

Here is a story that illustrates the point: A young computer salesman named Kurt was delighted when one of his business clients expressed interest in buying a used computer system-one that Kurt had installed two years ago but that had recently been replaced with an upgrade.

After careful consultation with his head office, Kurt fixed a price of $800,000.00 for the used system and documented in writing all his reasons for requesting that amount. As he sat down to negotiate, he heard an inner voice saying, "Wait. Let them do the initial talking." The buyers quickly filled the silence with a long rundown of their own research about this particular computer system's strengths and weaknesses, the age of the equipment, and the need for new software. "Can you throw upgraded software into the deal?" one of the buyers asked. "Sure," Kurt offered. The buyers then said, "We will give you $950,000.00 for the system, but not a penny more." Less than an hour later, the paperwork was signed, and Kurt walked away with a much better deal than he ever imagined, having said little more than thank-you.

The apostle James writes, "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak" (Jas 1:19 NIV).

Don't speak too quickly Quick to listen, slow to speak

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SEP. 29, 2025

Submit to "Spirit control".

"Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control." Pr 25:28 NIV

In Bible times cities were built with high walls around them for protection. Why? Because an enemy strong enough to tear down those walls was strong enough to take the city.

Now you understand this Scripture: "Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control."

An anonymous poet wrote "The Man in the Glass." Here it is: "When you get what you want in your struggle for self, and the world makes you king for a day, just go to the mirror and look at yourself, and see what that man has to say. For it isn't your father or mother or wife who judgment upon you must pass, the fellow whose verdict counts the most in your life is the one staring back from the glass.

Some people may think you a straight-shooting chum and call you a wonderful guy, but the man in the glass says you're only a bum if you can't look him straight in the eye. He's the fellow to please, never mind all the rest, for he's with you clear to the end. And you've passed your most dangerous, difficult test, if the man in the glass is your friend. You may fool the whole world down the pathway of life and get pats on the back as you pass, but your final reward will be heartaches and tears if you've cheated the man in the glass." The Bible says, "The fruit of the Spirit is...forbearance [self-control]" (Gal 5:22-23 NIV).

And the best way to have self-control is to submit to "Spirit control."

Submit to "Spirit control" Self-control is Spirit control.

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SEP. 22, 2025

God wants to work through you (2)

"As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you." Jn

20:21

Jesus said, "The Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does" (Jn 5:19-20 NIV).

The demands on Jesus were endless. Those who were sick wanted Him to help them. The Pharisees wanted to embroil Him in theological arguments. His disciples wanted Him to go to certain places and not others. But every step Jesus took, every act He performed, and every question He answered was in response to the leadings of His heavenly Father.

That's why He didn't burn out. That's why He could say on the eve of His crucifixion, "I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do" (Jn 17:4 NKJV). Now you understand why Jesus often prayed all night and rose early in the morning to pray while His disciples were still sleeping. He had only one purpose: doing what God wanted done that day. Is that easy to do? No.

People will pressure you, and unmet needs will guilt-trip you unless you are absolutely clear as to what God wants you to do. And knowing that calls for intimacy, dependency, sensitivity, and obedience to God. But living this way brings a level of joy and fulfillment that cannot be found in anything else. And this is the life you have been called to live, because Jesus said, "As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you" (Jn 20:21).

God wants to work through you Intimacy, dependency, and obedience to God

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SEP. 8, 2025

You will never be perfect enough (1)

"By grace you have been saved...it is...not a result of works." Eph 2:8-9 ESV

A perfectionist seeks to achieve nothing less than perfection. Dorothy Littell Greco writes: "I've been a perfectionist for as long as I can remember…

I had to get A's,
had to win, and
had to please everyone.
Every mistake or perceived failure unleashed a torrent of self-condemnation...

Perfectionism often [comes from]

insecurity and
a faulty understanding of grace.

During the first few years...parents are meant to communicate through their words and actions that we're...lovable, even though we do nothing to earn that love...But not all of us were the beneficiaries of such parenting.

Many of our needs were met with frustration or even anger, which we interpreted as, 'There's something wrong with me! When that's the case, over time, shame creeps in... [and] distorts our understanding of our self-worth.

The voice of perfectionism increased when I started following Jesus. I feared being judged and...excluded, [which] motivated me to prove my worth to my fellow Christians. Though I believed, theoretically, that I was saved by grace,

I lived as if I had purchased salvation on credit and was accruing an enormous debt.
I [lived] as if Jesus would tear up our 'salvation contract' the moment I made a mistake.

As I began to understand that pride and a fear of mankind were driving my perfectionism, I confessed this as sin...[and] the chokehold started to loosen. Like the Samaritan woman at the well, I needed Jesus to break in and tenderly reorient me to his living water."

Remember, you don't have to be perfect to be a blessing to others-you just have to be real!

You will never be perfect enough Salvation on credit

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SEP. 9, 2025

You will never be perfect enough (2)

"By that one offering he made forever perfect in the sight of God all those whom he is making holy." Heb 10:14 TLB

Author Dorothy Littell Greco writes: "For some perfectionists, the fear of making a mistake results in a sort of paralysis, causing us to agonize over every decision...To help you discern if [perfectionism] has crept into your life...consider the following questions:

(a) Are you comfortable asking for help or only offering it?

(b) Are you able to receive appropriate criticism without getting defensive?

(c) Do you have a nagging belief that you are falling short of some illusive standard?

(d) Do you harshly critique yourself?

(e) Are you able to experience joy?

An absence of joy might be one of the best indicators [of] perfectionism.

It slowly squeezes the joy out of life by reducing creativity,
accentuating mistakes, and
making us slaves of success."

The truth is, no matter how hard we struggle, we can never be perfect enough to satisfy the sin debt against us. And we don't have to be! "Christ gave himself...for our sins as one sacrifice for all time and then sat down in the place of highest honor at God's right hand... For by that one offering, he made forever perfect in the sight of God all those whom he is making holy" (vv. 12, 14 TLB).

Notice: When God makes you perfect, it's going to be for forever, and once you get your head wrapped around that truth, it will change your life.

Gigi Graham Tchividjian says, "We don't have to be perfect to be a blessing. We are asked only to be real, trusting in His perfection to cover our imperfection, knowing that one day we will finally be all that Christ saved us for and wants us to be."

You will never be perfect enough The fear of making a mistake

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SEP. 24, 2025

A relationship governed by rules.

"If you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says...God will bless you for doing it." Jas 1:25 NLT

Going to heaven is based solely upon having a relationship with Christ; one in which you place your total trust in Him. This relationship also involves rules you live by and guidelines that make you more godly.

A tennis player isn't free to play tennis if there is no baseline to let him or her know whether the ball is "in or out."
A baseball player isn't free to play baseball without a foul line.
A football player is not free to play football without sidelines.
You cannot be truly free without restraints.

For example, a fish is not free to wander through the jungle, and a lion is not free to dwell in the ocean. Neither was made for that.

Freedom is having the benefits accumulate to you that you were created to receive.
Freedom doesn't mean no boundaries.
Freedom "in Christ" means that within the right boundaries, you get to experience "life more abundant" (See Jn 10:10).

James writes, "If you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says...God will bless you for doing it."

On top of the Statue of Liberty is a crown with seven spikes depicting the seven seas and seven continents, meaning wherever you are, you can come to America. At the bottom of the statue is a broken chain, meaning you can come to America and find freedom.

But when you come, you must agree to honor the rules that govern the relationship.

A relationship governed by rules Freedom "in Christ"

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SEP. 23, 2025

God wants to work through you (3)

"For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him." 2Ch 16:9 NKJV

God is not hesitant or indifferent when it comes to showing Himself strong. Rather, He is looking "throughout the whole earth" for people who are loyal to Him so He can reveal His power through their lives! Here are three things you need to know about God:

(1) He is always at work in supernatural ways in our world, and He has a lot He wants to accomplish.

(2) He is actively searching for loyal partners-people who steadily care about what He cares about.

(3) He is consistently nudging people to respond, but most people miss it or say no.

Question: What would it look like in your life if you began to say yes? A minister writes: "A life marked by the miraculous is not just possible, not even just desirable, but is at the very center of God's will for every one of us.

When we settle for less, our lives lose

delight,
fulfillment,
and purpose.
Personal needs of people we meet get overlooked.
Extreme needs in our communities and around the world go unmet.

When a whole generation settles for less,

the character and motives of God get called into question.
His shining presence seems to fade in the world."

But you can do something about it. You were born to be God's ambassador, making Him visible each day (See 2Co 5:20).

God desires to show Himself strong

in you,
for you, and
through you,

because every person you encounter has a need that only God can meet.

God wants to work through you Be God's ambassador.

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SEP. 4, 2025

How your faith can produce results (4)

"[Abraham's] faith and his actions were working together." Jas 2:22 NIV

If you really believed God's Word concerning your situation, how would you act differently? Saying you believe is just the beginning; activating your faith means preparing for the answer to arrive. Ask yourself, "If I really expected an answer to my prayers, how would I prepare for its arrival?" In Scripture, Jesus gave His disciples this parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man... planted in his field...when it grows, it...becomes a tree'" (Mt 13:31-32 NIV). The farmer may sincerely believe he can produce a mustard tree, but nothing happens until he chooses the location, prepares the soil, plants the seed, and continually waters it. Once he does all those things, he can actively watch for its appearance. So, where do you start?

(1) Pray for wisdom to make the right decisions (See Jas 1:5-7).

(2) Plan your work, and work your plan. Aimless, passive waiting for the things to materialize without thoughtful, active involvement will prove disappointing and fruitless. God uses you as His partner. "We are labourers together with God" (1Co 3:9).

(3) Break your plan into small, accomplishable action steps.

(4) Don't wait for the fear to go or the faith to grow. Be prepared to take calculated, productive risks. Feel the fear and do it anyhow!

(5) Start thanking God even before you can see the answer.

And if you should miss the bull's-eye, remember the Revolutionary War militia's response: "Ready, aim, fire!" Adjust your aim-and fire again. "[Abraham's] faith and his actions were working together." And that's still the Bible formula for success.

How your faith can produce results Activating your faith

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SEP. 5, 2025

SOS prayers.

"In my distress I cried to the Lord, and He heard me." Ps 120:1 NKJV

The three-digit emergency system has amazing capabilities. In most places in America, you need only dial those numbers to be instantly connected to a dispatcher. On a computer screen, the dispatcher instantly sees the caller's telephone number, address, and the name under which the number is listed. Also listening in on the call are police, fire, and paramedics.

A caller need not say anything once the call is made. Even rasping coughs and hysterical cries have brought a quick response. The dispatcher knows where the call is coming from, and help is sent immediately. Sometimes our situation is so urgent and desperate that we can't put it into words, so we send up the SOS prayer, "Lord, I need your help!" And help is on the way. "It shall come to pass that before they call, I will answer; and while they are still speaking, I will hear" (Isa 65:24 NKJV).

Sometimes you feel the effects of something, but you don't understand the cause and you can't explain it.

This is when the indwelling power of God's Spirit comes to your aid: "The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don't know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them" (Ro 8:26-28 NLT).

SOS prayers "Lord, I need your help!"

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SEP. 1, 2025

How your faith can produce results (1)

"Faith...is the confident assurance that something we want is going to happen." Heb 11:1 TLB

Faith has little to do with religion or what church you attend. The Greek definition of the word "faith" is pistis, which means a firm persuasion, a conviction based on hearing and learning. Some other words that help to define faith are trust, confidence, and believing.

And for good measure, here are a few scriptural descriptions of faith: "The confident assurance that something we want is going to happen...the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us, even though we cannot see it up ahead."

The Bible tells us, "Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him" (v. 6 NIV).

It also tells us, "Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ" (Ro 10:17 NIV).

And the apostle James writes, "Faith... not accompanied by action, is dead" (Jas 2:17 NIV).

Faith, though it may be felt,
isn't a feeling at all.
The fact is, you can have faith and feel nothing,
and you can feel nothing and still have faith.
Nor is it related to intellectual or theological knowledge.
Your IQ and level of education have nothing to do with your capacity to exercise faith.

Effective faith calls for an act of your will. It's a choice you make to fully embrace what God says in His Word. When that happens, it creates a heart climate that motivates you to act in keeping with what you choose to believe. That's faith in a nutshell!

How your faith can produce results Confident assurance

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SEP. 2, 2025

How your faith can produce results (2)

"God has dealt to each one a measure of faith." Ro 12:3 NKJV

Thank God, faith isn't reserved for deeply spiritual people. If that was the case, we would all be in trouble! The fact is that regular people from all walks of life can be faith filled. We're inclined to think faith belongs exclusively to people like Abraham, Moses, Elijah, Samuel, David, Daniel, Peter, and Paul.

Now, without question, they were all faith heroes, but faith doesn't belong solely to them. The Bible tells us, "God has dealt to each one a measure of faith." No one will miss out on heaven because he or she wasn't given enough faith to "believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved" (See Ac 16:31).

God intended that not only should we have faith but that we should live by faith. Three times the New Testament assures us "the just shall live by faith" (Heb 10:38 NKJV).

You reply, "Yes, but those biblical heroes had great faith; my faith is so small!" Did you know that the apostles felt the same way? They said to Jesus, "Increase our faith!" (Lk 17:5 NIV). And Jesus replied, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea, ' and it will obey you" (v. 6 NIV.) Like so many of us, the apostles thought they needed more faith.

But Jesus corrected this spiritually crippling misperception by telling them you don't need a truckload of faith to see amazing outcomes. "Faith as small as a mustard seed" can bring about awesome results. When you put the faith, you already have been given into action, Jesus said it will produce results!

How your faith can produce results Faith as small as a mustard seed

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SEP. 3, 2025

How your faith can produce results (3)

"In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." Jas 2:17 NIV

James asks, "What good is it...if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds…Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says...'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed, but does nothing...what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, 'You have faith; I have deeds' Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds" (vv.14-18 NIV).

A veritable ocean of faith without the appropriate action to follow it up is nothing more than an ocean of dead, useless faith. On the other hand, an ounce of faith that's acted upon can produce an ocean of results (See Mt 13:31-32). Action breathes life and power into your faith.

The biblical prescription for faith is simple but potent.

(1) You decide to believe in God's promise and His power to make it happen— leaving the "how and when" up to Him.

(2) You choose to act in keeping with what you believe before you see any evidence of the results.

(3) God responds to your faith by keeping His unbreakable promise. "Hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?" (Nu 23:19).

God goes to work exercising His unlimited capacity to perform His Word. Jesus said, "Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours" (Mk 11:24 NIV). Now—it's up to you to claim and act on His promise.

How your faith can produce results Action breathes life and power into your faith.

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AUG. 22, 2025

Advice for in-laws.

"That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh." Ge 2:24 NIV

In Eight Ways In-laws Can Break Up a Marriage it offers examples that should make every in-law stop and think. "

(1) When your child decides to marry, show hostility toward the person they chose. After all, it means less love for you, so you have a right to resent them.

(2) Expect them to spend weekends and holidays with you, and act hurt if they don't.

(3) If they have problems with their mate, encourage them to come home. And when they do, listen to their complaints, and point out other shortcomings they may have missed. Remember, one drop of water after another can wear away a rock.

(4) If they're having financial problems, rescue them. Beg, borrow, or steal, but let them know that as long as you're around, they'll never go without.

(5) If they have a drinking or drug problem, tell them their mate drove them to it.After all, everybody needs someone to blame.

(6) If they have an opportunity for career advancement that takes them to another city, tell them 'family' is more important than money and God will punish them for not honoring the commandment 'honor thy father and thy mother!

(7) If there are grandchildren involved, spoil them. And if the parents object, tell them to stay out of it; after all, what are grandkids for?

(8) If your child has an argument with their mate, fan the flames.

Family loyalty is a beautiful thing; with a little work, you can turn a minor argument into a major hassle and break up a marriage."

Advice for in-laws In-laws—stop and think!

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AUG. 20, 2025

God's answer to anxiety (3)

"All the days of the desponding...are made evil [by anxious thoughts and forebodings]." Pr 15:15 AMPC

One Christian author writes: "I once went through a period...when I was plagued by anxiety. I was filled with fear and dread for no particular reason. I kept feeling something terrible was going to happen.

Finally I went to the Lord and asked Him what was troubling me. He told me it was 'evil forebodings! At the time I didn't even know what that phrase meant or where it came from. Sometime later I came across Proverbs 15:15: 'All the days of the desponding and afflicted are made evil [by anxious thoughts and forebodings], but he who has a glad heart has a continual feast [regardless of circumstances]' (AMPC)...

l was like so many other people. I was looking for some 'monster problem' that was keeping me from enjoying life. I was so intense about everything; I was creating problems for myself where none really existed. Once in a meeting, the Lord told me to speak out something.

Apparently, someone needed to hear this: 'Stop making a big deal out of nothing.' I used to be the type of person who needed to hear directions like that. I could make mountains out of molehills. I had to learn to just let some things go-forget them and go on. Some of us become upset over things that are just not worth becoming upset over-those 'little foxes, that spoil the vines' (SS 2:15).

If our lives consist of becoming upset over one little thing after another...we won't have much peace or joy." So, the word for you today is-cultivate a happy heart and start enjoying the life God has given you!

God's answer to anxiety Let some things go.

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AUG. 21, 2025

God's answer to anxiety (4)

"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee." Isa 26:3

Dr. D. James Kennedy wrote: "A proper epitaph for most people today would be

'Hurried,
worried,
buried'...

Many times we wish we could wash our hands of all our responsibilities and worries. The executive of one small company decided he would. Even though his company was headed for bankruptcy, he decided to quit worrying about it.

So [hel called in his first vice-president and said, 'I have had it with worrying about this company. If you'll take over and handle all my worrying for me, I'll add $50,000 to your salary. Startled and perplexed by this generous offer (and knowing the financial condition of the company), the vice-president asked, 'But where are you going to get an extra $50,000?' The boss replied, 'That's your first worry!' William Gladstone, [one of England's] greatest prime minister[s], was a fine Christian man who served the Lord. On the wall of his bedroom hung a plaque embroidered with this text: 'Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee!

It was the first thing Gladstone saw when he awoke in the morning and the last thing he saw before retiring at night.

There is the secret of peace!

We can have this peace because we know that the One upon whom we've stayed our minds is the One who works all things together for our good.

Is the frantic pace of modern life robbing you of peace today? If so, slow down and refocus on the Lord. Realize He's with you and He's in control no matter what comes your way. Stay your mind on Him and let Him grant you His peace."

God's answer to anxiety "Hurried, worried, buried"

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AUG. 19, 2025

God's answer to anxiety (2)

"Come to me, all you who are... burdened, and I will give you rest." Mt 11:28 NIV

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the nation. That was never part of God's plan. In Matthew 11:28-29, Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are... 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" (NIV).

When oxen work side by side in the fields, they are yoked together and share the workload. That's what Jesus wants you to do: work in harness with Him. Can you think of anyone better to share your load? It makes you wonder why we wait so long to take Him up on His offer!

He then goes on to say, "Do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried...your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you" (Lk 12:29, 30-31 ESV).

Jesus gives us the perfect perspective on life. You can't add one day to your life span by worrying, but you can certainly shorten it through stress and anxiety. Think about it:

The birds don't sit around in the trees and worry about what they will eat tomorrow. No, they sing without a care in the world.
And the lilies don't sweat about how they will grow or if they will get enough rain to survive.

All of God's creation except man does not have a care in the world. And since your heavenly Father cares even more for His people, you can be sure He will take care of you.

God's answer to anxiety He will take care of you.

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AUG. 18, 2025

God's answer to anxiety (1)

"Do not fret or have anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance... by prayer...make your wants known to God." Php 4:6 AMPC

Anxiety is the curse of the modern era, but it's not a new trend. Throughout Scripture, Jesus talked a lot about anxiety, stress, and fear. In fact, He mentioned them repeatedly in His teachings. In Matthew 6:25-27, He said, "Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or...what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?

Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?" (NIV).

Now, Jesus didn't say these words just to relieve our fears and worries.

What He was doing was commanding us not to be anxious because it demonstrates a lack of faith in God's faithfulness to us.

Paul writes: "Do not fret or have anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition...with thanksgiving...make your wants known to God. And God's peace...which transcends all understanding shall garrison...your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus" (Php 4:6-7 AMPC).

Instead of letting fear and anxiety control you, you can have peace by bringing your worries to God in prayer, thanking Him by faith for the answer, and trusting Him to work things out as only He can. So, what are you going to do? Worry and fret, or pray and have peace? The choice is yours.

God's answer to anxiety "God's peace transcends all understanding."

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AUG. 15, 2025

God's footprints.

"Your footprints were not seen." Ps. 77:19 NIV

The psalmist wrote, "Your path led through... mighty waters, though your footprints were not seen" (v. 19 NIV). When you can't see God's "footprints," He is calling you to walk by faith, not by sight (See 2Co 5:7). Joni Eareckson Tada wrote: "A few months from now, I'll mark an anniversary that is a heartbreaking story of loss and an incomparable testimony of God's faithfulness...l will have been in a wheelchair for 47 years... barely a heartbeat in history, and as nothing compared with eternity.

But for a flesh-and-blood, earth-dwelling human being, 47 years is a long time. Anyone who suffers...[wants] assurance that somehow, someway, things will work out in the end. We want to know that God is at the center of our suffering. In Romans 8 we have...that assurance: 'For those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose' (v. 28 ESV) … [God] is so supremely in charge of the world that everything touching our lives...is ordered in such a way that it serves our good.

This is true whether

we face cancer,
broken relationships,
job loss,
bankruptcy...or
even a broken neck at age 17.

The strong hope of the believer is not that we will escape 'bad things'... but that God will transform our hardships into an instrument of his mercy to do us good...Romans 8:29 reveals [our] sufferings are small and short...compared with the weight of glory they are accruing for [us] in heaven.

So bear with heartbreak and hardship a bit longer. These things are expanding your soul's capacity for joy, worship, and service in heaven.

God's footprints When you can't see God's "footprints"

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AUG. 13, 2025

Have you been wounded in church? (1)

"I will build my church." Mt 16:18

Being hurt by another Christian can be devastating, but the church is filled with imperfect people who do things they shouldn't. As C. S. Lewis said, "God works on us in all sorts of ways...above all he works on us through each other."

So before you give up and walk away, consider these suggestions:

(1) Admit how much it hurt, and start to cope with it. Running away doesn't achieve this. Humbly approach the person who hurt you, motivated to reconcile. Discuss your pain with the purpose of releasing it and moving on.

(2) Ask, "What's my role in this?" If it had nothing to do with you, as in the case of a trusted leader who has fallen morally or legally, ask yourself if you put idealistic expectations on their humanness. Did you think they were perfect? Now that you realize they're not, can you forgive them?

(3) Ask God what to do next. He knows the motives in the hearts of the people involved. Give Him time to answer.

(4) "Guard your heart...for it determines the course of your life" (Pr 4:23 NLT). Choose to follow God, even when your heart breaks. He alone can decide motives and intents, and He is just and reasonable. But many times, our faithfulness must come first before His blessings flow.

(5) If you still feel you must leave, promise yourself and God that you will leave well. Refuse to say anything bad. Don't leave mad, and admit the good, no matter how small. Most important of all, don't quit. God is good, His church is good, and people are flawed. Locate another house of worship, and commit to it with an open heart.

Have you been wounded in church?Follow God, even when your heart breaks.

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AUG. 14, 2025

Have you been wounded in church? (2)

"I will build my church." Mt 16:18

Author Sherry Surratt notes that when Jesus promised to build His church, "[he] wasn't just talking about the bricks or wood that form a...building, but he was talking about building his church of...ordinary, human people who are imperfect... broken and [who] bring their messy lives...with them every time they walk through the door.

This is what Christ died for…

He died for people-
for his church…
a group of people,
led by people,
and not a single one of us is perfect.

We're a broken bunch who hopefully recognizes our brokenness and acknowledges that Jesus is the only fix...

No matter how long we've been in the church, we never reach perfection...we'll have to work at it every day. We'll come face-to-face with our human side every morning when we wake up, and...when we do, we'll bump up against each other and we'll get hurt.

Our natural tendency is to steer clear of what hurts us...So when we encounter gossip aimed at us or witness hatred or hypocrisy in our fellow church goers or even our pastors, it's natural to think about walking away.

But to do this is to separate ourselves from something that God built for us to use for our good…

The Bible never says other people aren't going to wound [us]...What [it] does teach...is that it doesn't help to just sit in hurt and feel sorry for [ourselves] (See Mt 5:24).

God's Word warns [us] not to let bitterness set in (See Heb 12:15). This has nothing to do with pretending something didn't happen. It has everything to do with being honest... admitting when our spirit is crushed and leaving revenge in the hands of God."

Have you been wounded in church? We're a broken bunch.

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AUG. 12, 2025

Dealing with stress-producing people.

"If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men." Ro 12:18 NKJV

At times it's impossible to be at peace with certain people. Recognizing this reality, the apostle Paul, in essence, said, "Do all that you can to try and make it happen."

Besides the covenant relationship you have with your husband or wife and your responsibility for your children, if you're wise, you will prayerfully evaluate your other relationships and know how much time you should invest in them. For example: If you have a close relative who is always argumentative or negative, don't put yourself in a position where you have to interact with them on a regular basis. Only holidays together may be enough! The same is true for friends.

Those who gossip,
condemn others,
compete with you, or
engage in cutting remarks should rarely find you available-unless the Lord impresses you to spend some time with them to impart His Word.

You are not commanded to spend time with people who disturb your peace.

Solomon said, "Don't...associate with hot-tempered people" (Pr 22:24 NLT).

Paul warned, "Watch out for people who cause divisions...Stay away from them" (Ro 16:17 NLT).

When you're in the company of a stress-producing person, ask yourself these questions:

"Will this situation grow patience within me if I endure it rather than leave?
Why do this person's actions stress me out?
Is it because they are reflecting my own behavior?
Why am I continuing to interact with them?"

Prayer: "Father, I need you to help me discern when and how to be with stress-producing people so that your love continually shines through me."

Dealing with stress-producing people People who disturb your peace

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AUG. 7, 2025

A life-enriching habit.

"Evening... morning, and at noon, will I pray." Ps 55:17

An ancient European monastery perched on a high ledge was accessible only by way of a basket that was held in place by a single rope on a series of pulleys.

One day a concerned visitor noticed the rope was frayed in numerous places. Hoping to relieve his anxiety, he asked the monk who was sharing the ride with him, "How often do you guys change the rope?" Stoically the cleric replied,

"Whenever it breaks!" Seriously, waiting for the worst to happen before taking action is a risky life strategy.

Just as common sense dictates that

machinery,
health,
and relationships require continual attention and maintenance,
the same strategy applies to your spiritual life.

Because we become what we consistently practice in our walk with God, routine and repetition can be spiritual lifesavers. Spiritual excellence isn't an act; it's a habit!

Consider prayer and meditation:

Rather than exceptions, they're intended to be habits you practice daily.

Don't wait until the rope snaps before incorporating them into your life!

Prayer must first be a spiritual discipline. God's Word designates it as a life habit and not merely an act.

Paul instructs us to "pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion…..be persistent in your prayers" (Eph 6:18 NLT). "Never stop praying" (1Th 5:17 NLT).
The psalmist David understood this principle. He said, "Evening... morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud."
And Daniel practiced it too: "He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done" (Da 6:10 NLT).

It was a routine that proved powerful and effective for both men—and it's one that will work for you too!

A life-enriching habit "Never stop praying."

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AUG. 8, 2025

Seeing yourself through God's eyes (1)

"We are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus." Eph 2:10 NIV

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Most of us could come up with a long list! The fact is, Jesus alone holds the world record when it comes to perfection.

In the words of Jennifer Dukes Lee: "Until you are convinced of God's incredible love...you will continue looking for replacement love everywhere but in the heart of Christ. No matter where you live or work...the enemy prowls like a lion, stalking people on

Wall Street,
fashion runways,
suburban cul-de-sacs,
[and] Facebook walls...

[We're] in a showdown with Satan, who will use every opportunity...to whisper in our ears,

'What are people thinking of you?'
[He] will tell you you're too fat,
too frumpy,
too stupid,
too poor.

He will do whatever he can to set your affections on the things of this world, instead of on Christ.

And he'll wrap those accusations in glossy magazine covers if he has to." Don't buy into his lies. Jesus said, "There is not an iota of truth in him...he is the father of liars" (Jn 8:44 TLB).

One Christian author summarizes it like this: "Discontentment is one of the big giants we must conquer if we ever hope to enjoy life...We may not have all we would like to have, but we certainly have more than some people.

No matter how you think you look, there is somebody who would love to look like you.
No matter how old you are, there is someone who would love to be as young as you…

Love yourself and love your life; it is the only one you have!" The truth is that you're the only you, God made... after that, He broke the mold!

Seeing yourself through God's eyes He broke the mold!

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Communication that works at home.

"Speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become...mature." Eph 4:15 NIV

Virginia Satir, a founder of family systems therapy, determined that most families have five styles of communication.

(1) Some members are placaters. They go along to get along, and reduce stress by saying what others want to hear that makes them less upset.

(2) Others are blamers: finger-pointers, nitpickers, spinners of exquisite theories, eager to prove that they're right and you're wrong. And by accepting the blame, you vindicate and empower them.

(3) Satir describes other family members as super-reasonable. Their motto is, "Always agree with what other people say and conceal your real feelings." It's how they prevent getting hurt. They talk from their head and not their heart, redirecting the conversation toward things that are "safe."

(4) Other family members opt for irrelevance, deflecting the conversation away from uncomfortable and potentially threatening topics. They talk only about what's unrelated to whatever is going on.

(5) The final communication style is congruous or consistent. Congruous people tell it like it is. No disguising feelings, no double-talk, and no pretending. If they're angry, they own their anger, they say they're angry, and they may even look angry.

They're straight shooters. They have credibility; you can understand and believe them. No topics have to be dodged, and no questions avoided. Anything and everything can be discussed, and everyone's opinion is respected. Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, "Nothing astonishes men [and women] so much as common sense and plain dealing." And it's a scriptural, truth-based communication style that works.

Communication that works at home

"Common sense and plain dealing"

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JUL. 2, 2025

Overcoming loneliness.

"Show deep love for each other." 1Pe 4:8 NLT

You don't have to be alone to be lonely. Some of us are married to emotionally unavailable spouses. Some of us put up with verbal and emotional abuse because we prefer anybody's company to our own. Some of the loneliest people you will meet are in crowded bars at "happy" hour.

They mingle, but they don't connect.

What is the answer?

(1) Get involved in a cause greater than self-interest.

After the Prodigal Son had spent his last penny partying with so-called friends, they forsook him, and he ended up alone in a hog pen. On the other hand, when the disciples were persecuted for their faith, the Bible says that "being let go, they went to their own company" (Ac 4:23). They had friends who shared their faith and their vision, who knew how to pray with them, strengthen them, and stand by them. And God has people like that who are waiting to become part of your life; you will find some of them in your local church.

(2) Practice being accepting of others. When you love and accept people as they are, they're drawn to you. "Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins" (1Pe 4:8 NLT).

(3) Reach out. Begin nurturing your relationships by connecting more often with the people you know and value. Don't get sucked into the Facebook/email/text-message-only communication vacuum. The founder of Wired Magazine says that his favorite form of communication is face-to-face, his second is by phone, and his third is via internet. Take a leaf out of his book.

Overcoming loneliness You don't have to be alone to be lonely.

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JUN. 24, 2025

Called to overcome (1)

"He who overcomes shall inherit all things." Rev 21:7 NKJV

A pastor writes: "All of us want every day to be a good day. But if every day was a good day, there would be no 'good' days, because there wouldn't be any bad days to compare the good days to… Sickness helps us appreciate health. Failure helps us appreciate success. Debt helps us appreciate wealth. And the tough times help us appreciate the good times... Adversity is often the seedbed of opportunity [because it has] a way of bringing the best out of us... Adversity is often a blessing in disguise.

We dream of zero gravity. We imagine what life would be like without any problems or issues or challenges.

But from a biological perspective, zero gravity is hazardous to your health. Astronauts who spend any length of time in zero gravity experience serious medical complications.

Without any resistance, they lose muscle mass and bone density, they experience high pulse rates and heart palpitations, and they can barely walk after re-entering the earth's atmosphere.

We may dream of zero gravity, but what we really need is a healthy dose of adversity. The people God uses the most are often the people who have experienced the most adversity. This isn't necessarily...what you want to read, but it's true. Adversity can produce an increased capacity to serve God."

Why? Because adversity causes us to

turn to God, lean on God, seek God,
and get to know God in a way we otherwise wouldn't.

Some of God's greatest promises in Scripture begin with the words "to him who overcomes." The Bible says, "People who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits" (Da 11:32 NKJV).

Called to overcome The tough times help us appreciate the good times.

Called to overcome. (2)

"This is the victory that has overcome the world -our faith." 1Jn 5:4 NKJV

A pastor encourages us: "Psychoanalyst

Alfred Adler conducted a fascinating research project that popularized the theory of compensation. He studied art students and discovered that seventy percent of them suffered from optical anomalies. He found degenerative traces in the ears of great composers like Mozart and Beethoven. And he cited numerous examples of other people who eventually became successful in the area of their greatest weakness. Adler believed that birth defects, poverty, illness, and negative circumstances often prove to be the springboard for success...God wants to recycle your adversity and turn it into a ministry. People go through a painful divorce or the death of a child or a destructive addiction, but God helps them climb out of the pit so they can help others in similar circumstances.

One of the most paralyzing mistakes we make is thinking that our problems somehow disqualify us from being used by God... No one rolls out the red carpet and invites tragedy into their life, but our greatest gifts and passions are often the byproduct of our worst tragedies and failures. Trials have a way of helping us rediscover our purpose in life."

The problems God has brought you through become a platform upon which you can stand and minister to others.

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God" (2Co 1:3-4 NIV).

Called to overcome God wants to recycle your adversity

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JUL. 3, 2025

You have come too far to give up now!.

"He persevered." Heb 11:27 NIV

V. Raymond Edman said, "To be torn...by external forces, and still...preserve one's inward integrity, is to know the discipline that endures." So when you're faced with opposition, do you automatically throw in the towel, or like Moses, do you persevere? Chuck Swindoll characterizes Moses as a man "who hung tough, who refused to give in or give up, who decided that no amount of odds against him would cause him to surrender…

He possessed the disciplines of durability.
He endured the contempt of Pharaoh...the stubbornness of the Hebrews who grumbled, blamed, complained, and rebelled... the criticism of Miriam and Aaron, his own sister and brother.
When ten of the twelve spies came back with their nay-sayings, Moses stood fast.
When Korah and Dathan and Abiram led a conspiracy against him, Moses remained 'resolute.

"When you have fought to a standstill...stand your ground' (Eph 6:13 PHPS)...

when the wicked appear to be winning...in times of crisis…
when no one will know if you compromised...
when big people act contemptibly small…
when people demand authority they don't deserve. Stand firm...
keep your head…
stay true...endure!

You may be getting shaky...[or] begun to listen too closely to your critics. Maybe you've started giving in...in little areas...because you're tired.

Moses endured-even in his eighties. How? By focusing...on 'Him who is invisible.' He fixed his heart and soul on the One who, alone, judges righteously. He continually reminded himself that his sole purpose was to please, obey, and glorify Him and to gain His approval at all cost." Whatever you're facing, stand strong and don't give up!

You have come too far to give up now! Stand your ground.

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JUL. 1, 2025

The challenge of developing leaders (3).

"The things you have heard me say... entrust to reliable people." 2Ti 2:2 NIV

A leadership expert who conducted a poll to find out how people came to be leaders writes: "I asked if they became leaders because

(a) they were given a position;
(b) there was a crisis in the organization; or
(c) they had been mentored.

More than 80 percent indicated that they were leaders because someone had mentored them in leadership-had taken them through the process...As leaders, if we feel any uncertainty or insecurity about the leadership development process, it is usually not related to the training we give. The uncertainty we feel comes when we contemplate releasing our leaders to lead. It is not dissimilar to what parents feel with their kids. My children are grown and have families of their own, but when they were teenagers, the hardest thing for my wife and me was releasing them to go their own way and make their own decisions.

It is scary, but if you don't let them try out their wings, they will never learn to fly. As I have grown older, I have come to think of myself as a lid lifter. That is my main function as a team leader. If I can lift the leadership lids for the members of my team, then I am doing my job.

The more barriers I remove for my people, the more likely they are to rise up to their potential." Jesus told His disciples, "You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain" (Jn 15:16 NKJV).

If you want lasting fruit and enduring results-take the time to develop leaders.

The challenge of developing leaders A lid lifter

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JUN. 26, 2025

Called to overcome (3)

"In all these things we are more than conquerors." Ro 8:37 NKJV

Have you heard of the principle of supercompensation? A pastor explains: "When an athlete is pushed beyond the threshold of pain and exhaustion, the body overcompensates.

The more a muscle is broken down, the more it builds back up…
The two hundred and six bones in the body are constantly going through a process called remodeling.
They are being broken down by osteoclasts and built back up by osteoblasts.
The process of remodeling is intensified when a bone is broken. Extra osteoblasts help rebuild the bone.
There is a period of weakness where the bone is more vulnerable to re-injury.
That is why we wear casts. But eventually the bone ends up stronger than it was to begin with because the body overcompensates.
Very rarely does a bone break in the same place twice because the bone is thicker and stronger than it was before the break.

Almost like a broken bone that needs to be reset, God breaks us where we need to be broken. He fractures the pride and lust and anger in our lives, but He does it to remodel us into His image. and once we heal, we end up stronger than we were to begin with. [Paul writes,] 'It has been granted to you on behalf of Christ...to suffer for him' [Php 1:29 NIV]. The word 'granted' comes from [a] Greek root...which literally means 'to grant a favor'...We tend to see suffering as a necessary evil at best, but Paul calls it a divine favor." So, maybe God is remodeling you. Perhaps the problem you thought you would never overcome will become your most effective ministry to others.

Called to overcome Remodeled into His image

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JUN. 10, 2025

The five crowns (3).

"There is laid up for me the crown of righteousness." 2Ti 4:8 NKJV

The third crown mentioned in Scripture is the crown of righteousness. Paul writes: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord...will give to me on that Day, and... also to all who have loved His appearing" (vv. 7-8 NKJV).

A pastor amplifies this: "The book of 2 Timothy represents the last known writing of the apostle Paul, and we have reason to believe he was beheaded shortly after writing these words.

But rather than dreading death, he was looking forward to the Second Coming.
He was...content with his record of service for the Master.
Paul's use of the athletic metaphor here is especially descriptive of the life of the believer because it describes struggle, endurance, discipline, and final victory.

The Crown of Righteousness is reserved for those who have a longing for the Lord Jesus and who watch for Jesus to come back." Writing to Titus, Paul speaks of "looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ" (Titus 2:13 NKJV).

The pastor continues: "Psychologists tell us that anticipation...is an emotion with marvelous healing powers.

People who are snowbound sustain their spirits by anticipating the longer days of spring and summer.
Couples…separated by military deployment stay sane by anticipating their reunion…
Brides and grooms are eager for their wedding day."

As a Christian, your best days are ahead of you, and you can anticipate all the glories of heaven and eternity. It should motivate you to be faithful to Jesus as you wait for His return.

The five crowns The crown of righteousness

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The five crowns (1).

"They do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown." 1Co 9:25 NKJV

In describing our heavenly rewards, the Bible speaks of crowns. Let's look at each and see what we can learn. The first is the victor's crown. "Everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified" (vv. 25-27 NKJV).

Paul points out that athletes who expect to win must actively train. And we, likewise, must retain self-control even in things that, although not inherently evil, can weaken our devotion to God. A pastor explains:

Sometimes we have to turn off the television so we can study our Bibles.
We have to get up earlier in the mornings to have our daily devotions.
We have to exercise self-control in what comes into our minds.

We can't watch many of today's television programs or movies-much less the streaming material accessible on our phones and computers-without violating biblical standards of personal holiness.

We can't subject our bodies to drug or alcohol abuse or allow immorality to creep into our relationships. We've got to keep our tempers [and tongues] under the control of the Holy Spirit...and we have to depend on God to strengthen us in our resolutions to live disciplined lives."

The Bible says, "Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown"-the victor's crown.

The five crowns The victor's crown

The five crowns (2).

"What will be our...crown as we stand before our Lord Jesus when he returns? It is you!" 1Th 2:19 NLT

The second crown mentioned in Scripture is the crown of rejoicing. It's given to those who take part in leading others to Christ. The background for this passage is written about in Acts 17, which tells the story of Paul arriving in the city of Thessalonica. He went into the synagogue, "and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining...that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, 'This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ'" (vv. 2-3 NKJV).

Some of his hearers were converted, including a great multitude of devout Greeks and a number of prominent women. As a result, a church was built there. Writing to them later, Paul said that they would be his crown when Christ returned. We should all follow Bill Bright's example; he was one of the best soul winners of the twentieth century.

And he once disclosed his secret: "Although I have shared Christ personally with many thousands of people through the years, I am a rather reserved person and I do not always find it easy to witness. But I have made this my practice, and l urge you to do the same: Assume that whenever you are alone with another person for more than a few moments, you are there by divine appointment to explain...the love and forgiveness he [or she] can know through faith in Jesus Christ." When was the last time you shared the gospel with someone? Whenever you do, the Lord is fitting you for a crown of rejoicing.

The five crowns The crown of rejoicing

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Wisdom for parenting teenagers.

"There is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven." Ecc 3:1 NKJV

Why does a happy, cooperative twelve-year-old suddenly turn into a sullen, depressed thirteen-year-old? There are two powerful forces that account for some of the adolescent behavior that drives you crazy as a parent. The first is linked to social pressures common at that age. But there is a second source of disruption. It's related to hormonal changes that not only transform the physical body but also revolutionize how kids think.

For some (not all) adolescents, human chemistry is in a state of imbalance for a few years, causing flightiness, agitation, outbursts, and even depression. This upheaval can motivate a boy or girl to do things that make absolutely no sense to the adults who are watching anxiously on the sidelines. This hormonal firestorm can destabilize their self-concept and create a sense of foreboding. Parents often despair during the irrationality of this period.

Everything they have tried to teach their children seems to have misfired for a couple of years. Self-discipline, cleanliness, respect for authority, and common courtesy may give way to risk-taking and all-around goofiness. If that is where your child is today, there is good news-better days are coming! Your unpredictable teen can actually become a tower of strength and good judgment-if they don't do something destructive before their hormones settle down once more. What should you do as a parent?

First, don't draw long-term conclusions based on a short-term season. Second, let them know you love them, be patient, and pray for peace of mind.

"The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds" (Php 4:7 NKJV).

Wisdom for parenting teenagers The hormonal firestorm

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JUN. 5, 2025

Honor others, and God will honor you.

"...In honor giving preference to one another." Ro 12:10 NKJV

One of the real tests of character and maturity is how you react to someone else's success. That's particularly so when they succeed in an area where you failed or in which you're frustrated over not having achieved greater success.

F. B. Meyer, a well-known author and minister in England, once shared the following experience to a few of his friends: "It was easy to pray for the success of G. Campbell Morgan when he was in America. But when he came back to England and took a church near to mine, it was something different. The old Adam in me was inclined to jealousy, but I got my heel upon his head, and whether I felt right toward my friend, I determined to act right. My church gave a reception for him, and I acknowledged that if it was not necessary for me to preach Sunday evenings, I would dearly love to go and hear him myself. Well, that made me feel right toward him. But just see how the dear Lord helped me out of my difficulty.

There was Charles Spurgeon preaching wonderfully on one side of me, and G. Campbell Morgan on the other. Both were so popular and drew such crowds that our church caught the overflow, and we had all we could accommodate."

No matter how well you do something, someone else will come along and do it better. So, here are your options:

Compare yourself to them,
compete with them,
criticize them,
compliment, and
cooperate with them.

The latter is what Paul meant when he wrote, "Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another" (v. 10 NKJV).

Honor others, and God will honor you How you react to someone else's success

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Finding your life's purpose.

"I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness." Ac 26:16 NKJV

In baseball, the catcher tries to distract the batter. On one occasion when Yogi Berra was behind the plate, Hank Aaron came up to bat. Yogi started in, "Hank, you've got the writing on the bat in the wrong place. The words should be facing you." Yogi kept going, "You better check it." Hank didn't say a word. On the next pitch, Hank hit the ball over the center field fence. He rounded the bases, stepped on home plate, looked at Yogi Berra, and said, "I didn't come here to read, I came to win." It's vital to know why you are here and not to let anyone talk you out of your calling or purpose. In the world today, people say they are trying to find themselves.

Such a search is pointless. As one pastor states: "If you don't know who you are, how do you know what to look for? And how would you know when you have found it, since you don't know what you are looking for? Toasters don't find themselves...A toaster...just [has] to do what the manufacturer had in mind." Paul had a supernatural encounter on the Damascus road when Christ said to him, "I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I will yet reveal to you" (v. 16 NKJV).

To discover your life's purpose, you must start with God as your reference point. He made you; He redeemed you; He has a plan for your life-and He will reveal it to you.

Finding your life's purpose It's vital to know why you are here.

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JUN. 3, 2025

Take responsibility for your life.

"Do you want to get well?"Jn 5:6 NIV

What an amazing question Jesus asked this paralyzed man: "Do you want to get well?" Who wouldn't? You might be surprised! Kay Arthur tells of passing a beggar one day on a street in the Old City of Jerusalem. As he sat begging, his trouser leg was pulled up to reveal his terrible sores. She writes: "My nurse's heart brought my feet to a halt. I wanted to bend down and shield the open wound from the dust...It should be washed, medicated, and dressed by someone who cared. My friend gently took me by my elbow and propelled me toward our destination. I was a tourist and did not know about these things. She then proceeded to tell me that this man did not wish to be made well. He made his living from his wound! As I looked back...l caught one last glimpse of someone who was less than what he could have been." The man lying helpless on a cot by the pool called Bethesda had been there for thirty-eight years.

Question: How long does it take before a problem becomes a way of life? Jesus said to him, "Get up...and walk" (v. 8 NIV), the inference being that it's time to get up and go to work—to become a father to your children, a husband to your wife, a contributor to your community, a solution to someone else's problem-it's time to take responsibility for your life.

Are you letting your past or present circumstances keep you stuck and stop you from moving forward? If Jesus asked you, "Do you want to get well

emotionally,
physically,
and spiritually?"

what would your answer be? Today let Jesus make you whole!

Take responsibility for your life Today let Jesus make you whole!

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JUN. 2, 2025

A word to graduates.

"Concentrate on doing your best for God." 2Ti 2:15 MSG

Graduate, here are eleven lessons to empower and inspire you:

(1) You're here for a reason, and the most vital thing you can do is find it.

(2) Follow your passion. You may not already know what it is, but make it your mission to discover it.

(3) Although you might love Facebook, you might not like working for the company. And because you enjoy cooking doesn't mean you will enjoy owning a restaurant.

(4) Don't quit because the work is hard. Quit because deep inside you know there is something different for you to do, or you're not improving yourself or the organization, or you know you're not supposed to be there anymore.

(5) Learn from every experience. Each job gets you ready for the work you were born to do.

(6) Your present job may not be your highest purpose, but it can assist as an agent to prepare you for it.

(7) In whichever job you accept after graduation, serve. Serving in minor ways affords you opportunities to serve in major ways.

(8) Your dream job probably isn't the one you dreamed about. Frequently we end up in remarkable careers outside the scope of our degrees.

(9) The pursuit of your purpose is filled with difficulties, wins, detours, dead ends, and postponements. Remain hopeful and faithful.

(10) You may want something to happen immediately, but if it did, would you be ready for it?

(11) Seeds yield to the ground so they can be utilized for a greater purpose.

So, plant yourself, and let yourself be used for a harvest to benefit others.

A word to graduates Don't quit because the work is hard.

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MAY. 29, 2025

The need for connectedness.

"Being rooted and established in love." Eph 3:17 NIV

Unfortunately, the word fellowship has come to be associated with awkward gatherings in church basements, drinking red punch, and participating in stilted conversations. No wonder people give up on it! Paul describes connectedness as "being rooted and established in love."

When a tree puts roots into the ground, it takes in nutrients and water, and the tree grows and has life, but only if it's rooted. In the same way, we're rooted, and our souls are nourished in the love of God-and other people.

We experience this physically and emotionally when we connect with somebody. When there is an exchange of genuine caring, the roots of your soul get fed. We flourish when we're connected with God and people, and we languish when we're disconnected.

Emotionally isolated people are more prone to depression, anxiety, loneliness, low self-esteem, substance abuse, sexual addiction, and difficulty eating and sleeping.
One behavioral expert writes: "Connection not only helped make us who we are...it helps determine who we become as individuals…
In both cases, human connections, mental health, psychological health, and emotional well-being are inextricably linked."
Even animals that are isolated experience more intensive arterial sclerosis.

One author writes, "A friend of mine used to have a dog and a cat [that] fought for ten years. Then the cat died...and the dog wouldn't eat. Six weeks later he died." That's just a small illustration of the power of connection. This doesn't mean you have to force yourself to become an extrovert. Some of the shyest people have the deepest friendships because they identify life-giving relationships, plug into them, thrive, and give back. And that's what God designed you to do too.

The need for connectedness Human connections and emotional wellbeing are inextricably linked.

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MAY. 28, 2025

When you feel blah.

"Where there is no vision, the people perish." Pr 29:18

The word "perish" conjures up images of deterioration and decay, like fruit rotting from within. On what specific day does passion leave a marriage or a worker lose interest in a job that once excited them? Like air leaking silently out of a tire, what was meant to carry our weight and to power us toward our destiny can now barely wobble. If that's how you're feeling now, read this promise, and let it take root within you: "He gives power to the tired and worn out, and strength to the weak. Even the youths shall be exhausted, and the young men will all give up. But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint" (Isa 40:29-31 TLB).

The great apostle Paul told his admirers, "We too are only human, like you" (Ac 14:15 NIV). We are all made of the same flawed material. That's why we need God's strength and mercy newly bestowed on us each day (See La 3:22-23).

So, what should you do when you're feeling blah? Two things.

First, if you're physically tired-rest. Second, think about how God's family works and stop isolating. The Bible says, "Carry each other's burdens" (Gal 6:2 NIV). The fact is, you have given to others in times past, now have the grace and humility to receive from them.

Reach out. Use your connections.
Start reading God's Word.
Listen to uplifting music and fill your space with praise.

When you do these things, your focus will change, and your faith will start to rise.

When you feel blah We are all made of the same flawed material.

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MAY. 21, 2025

The secret to success.

"Whose weakness was turned to strength." Heb 11:34 NIV

The so-called "secret" to success is really no secret at all! It's simply getting back up when life has knocked you down and taking with you into the future the lessons you have learned.

In talking about heroes such as Samson and David, the Bible goes on to say, "Whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies" (v. 34 NIV). Notice these people weren't always strong, but they became strong. They didn't win every battle, but they went on to win the ones that mattered.

In 1928, a thirty-three-year-old man named Paul Galvin found himself staring at failure...again. By this point, he had failed twice in industry, his competitors having forced him to fold up his latest venture in the storage-battery business.

Convinced, however, that he still had a remarkable idea, Galvin attended the auction of his own business. And with the $750 he had managed to raise, he bought back the battery eliminator portion of the inventory. With it, he built a new company, one in which he succeeded, one from which he eventually retired, and one which became a household word: Motorola. You have probably heard of it. Business innovator Roger von Oech said: "Remember the two benefits of failure. First, if you do fail, you learn what doesn't work; and second, the failure gives you the opportunity to try a new approach... Most people think of success and failure as opposites, but they both are products of the same process." Failure is delay, not defeat. We all make mistakes, especially those who act. It's only when you become unwilling to risk failure that you stop learning, you stop growing, and you stop succeeding.

The secret to success Failure is delay, not defeat.

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MAY. 22, 2025

How to stay enthusiastic about God.

'My food,' said Jesus, 'is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.'" Jn 4:34 NIV

No one had more energy than Jesus. He got up early, stayed up late, and sometimes pulled all-nighters. Where did He get all that energy from? The answer is found in a fascinating dialogue. "His disciples urged him, 'Rabbi, eat something. But He said to them, 'I have food to eat that you know nothing about! Then His disciples said to each other, 'Could someone have brought him food?' 'My food, said Jesus, 'is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work'" (vv. 31-34 NIV).

When you see the word "food," you think energy because that's what food is. And Jesus makes an insightful point here: God's will is energizing. So, how do you keep yourself energized? By staying in the will of God. Engaging in God-ordained passions and pursuing God-sized dreams is how we produce energy. Nothing energizes us more. Don't just repent of doing what is wrong; replace it with what is right.

Paul writes: "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be firm (steadfast), immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord [always being superior, excelling, doing more than enough in the service of the Lord], knowing and being continually aware that your labor in the Lord is not futile [it is never wasted or to no purpose]" (1Co 15:58 AMPC). If sin is a waste of energy, which it is, then discovering and fulfilling your God-given assignment in life is the most energizing thing that you can do.

How to stay enthusiastic about God God's will is energizing.

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MAY. 26, 2025

When God asks you to give.

"The Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do." Eph 6:8 NIV

When God asks you to sacrifice on behalf of somebody else, do it. It's like putting money in a heavenly account. You may not need it today or tomorrow, but when you do, God will ensure it comes back to you in multiplied form. Indian Christian missionary Sadhu Sundar Singh and a companion were traveling through a pass high in the Himalayas when they found a body lying in the snow.

They checked for vital signs and discovered the man was still alive, but barely. As Sundar prepared to stop and help this unfortunate traveler, his companion objected, saying, "We shall lose our lives if we burden ourselves with him." Sundar, however, couldn't comprehend leaving the man to die in the snow without an attempt at rescue. His companion bade him farewell and walked on. Sundar lifted the traveler on his back and, with great exertion-made greater by the high altitude and snowy conditions-carried him onward.

As he walked, the heat from his body began to warm the frozen man. He revived, and soon they were walking together side by side, holding each other up and sharing body heat. Before long, they came upon another traveler's body lying in the snow, and on closer inspection, they discovered he was dead.

You guessed it. It was Sundar's original traveling companion! So, what's the lesson in all this? What you make happen for others, God will make happen for you! The Bible says, "Serve wholeheartedly because...the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do" (vv. 7-8 NIV).

When God asks you to give Money in a heavenly account

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MAY. 27, 2025

Are you in a stress mess?

"What you are doing is not good...You... will only wear yourselves out." Ex 18:17-18 NIV

The Bible says: "The next day Moses took his seat to serve as judge for the people, and they stood around him from morning till evening. When his father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he said, 'What is this you are doing for the people?

Why do you alone sit as judge, while all these people stand around you from morning till evening?' Moses answered him, 'Because the people come to me to seek God's will. Whenever they have a dispute, it is brought to me, and I decide between the parties and inform them of God's decrees and instructions! Moses' father-in-law replied, 'What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out'" (vv. 13-18 NIV).

Moses was stressed to the breaking point. The Latin word for "stress" means "to be drawn tight." Doctors say it's a precursor to heart attacks and strokes. There is a reason why highways have weigh stations-to ensure that trucks aren't carrying more weight than they are constructed to haul. Moses' father-in-law told him that he was wearing himself out. The Hebrew word for "wearing out" literally means "to become old." Moses was growing old before his time. If that's happening to you,

(1) shift gears and start to share the load with others, and

(2) spend more time in God's presence. "Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength...they shall... not faint" (Isa 40:31 NKJV).

Are you in a stress mess? Stressed to a breaking point

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MAY. 19, 2025

Get alone with God (3)

"When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it." Ecc 5:4 NIV

When the pressures in your life begin to mount, the first thing you will be tempted to drop is your time alone with God, praying and reading His Word. And what's more, Satan knows if he can keep you from it, he has won the battle, and he will get no opposition from you.

So, how can you overcome this problem?

(1) By making a covenant with God. Think about it: Why do we make marriage vows? So we will think twice about breaking them! It's the same in your devotional life: "When you make a vow to God, do not delay to fulfill it."

(2) By scheduling it. Block out time to meet with God each day, just like you would for a doctor's appointment or a business lunch. Can you think of a more important appointment? Surely not!

(3) By being prepared for the devil's excuses. Adopt the Boy Scout motto: Be prepared! Dr. Robert G.Lee used to say, "If you wake up in the morning and don't meet the devil face on, it means you're headed in the same direction!"

(4) By leaving your Bible open the night before to the verses you intend to read the next morning. When you wake up, it will remind you that the most important thing you have to do today is meet with God. What if you miss a day? Don't worry-and don't go on a guilt trip. If you miss a meal, you don't give up eating, right? It just means you eat a little more at the next one and move on from there.

Get alone with God Block out time to meet with God.

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MAY. 20, 2025

Who are you depending on?

"Without Me you can do nothing." Jn 15:5 NKJV

Because God's Spirit lives within you doesn't guarantee His power is at work in your life. God's power is available, but you must plug into it. Jesus associates our spiritual life with a vine and its branches: "I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing" (v. 5 NKJV).

In this comparison, the branch is completely dependent on the main vine; it cannot yield fruit on its own. Growing fruit is an internal job. If someone tied apples onto the branches of a dead tree and said, "Look at this fruit tree," what would you say? You would probably say, "You tied those things on." That's similar to when a Christian says, "I'm going to tie on a bunch of fruit in my life—a little patience now, a little goodness later, a little self-control at another time. I will do it by myself." Impossible! It's the fruit of the Spirit, not the efforts of the flesh. Jesus said, "He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit." How can you tell you're abiding (or residing) in Christ? Consider your prayer life. Your prayers reveal your dependence on God. What do you pray about? Whatever you pray about is what you're relying on God for. The Bible says, "Never stop praying" (1Th 5:17 NLT).

Pray about your decisions, needs, temptations, interests, plans, schedule, problems, purchases; specifically, pray about everything! Doing this is what it means to "abide"-being aware that God is always with you, practicing His presence.

Who are you depending on? Your prayers reveal your dependence on God.

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MAY. 13, 2025

Faith is not faith until it is acted upon.

"Faith without works is dead." Jas 2:26

Could it be that the negative perception people have of the church stems from the negative energy we project? And could it be that our negative energy stems from our negative view of righteousness? We falsely view righteousness as doing nothing wrong: "Don't do this. Don't do that. And you're okay." The problem with that approach is you can do nothing wrong and still not do the right thing; the thing God is calling you to do. Righteousness means more than doing nothing wrong. Do you really think God's ultimate dream for us is doing nothing wrong? You love it when your children make a difficult decision not to do something wrong.

But the thing that brings you greater joy is seeing them develop their gifts and maximize their potential. And that's what God wants for each of us.

The Bible teaches two kinds of sin:

the sin of commission, which is doing something you shouldn't have done,
and the sin of omission, which is all the things we could and should have done to advance God's kingdom but didn't do.

A pastor writes: "In God's economy, breaking even is a total loss. Isn't that the lesson of the parable of the talents? The servant with one talent broke even... [and] Jesus called him a 'wicked and lazy servant' (Mt 25:26 NKJV). The greatest risk is taking no risks…

Righteousness is using all our God-given gifts to their full God-given potential.

Love doesn't play it safe; it takes risks.
Love doesn't make excuses; it takes responsibility.
Love doesn't see problems; it seizes opportunities to step up and step in."

Faith is not faith until it is acted upon The greatest risk is taking no risks.

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MAY. 12, 2025

Knowing the season you're in.

"To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven." Ecc 3:1 NKJV

Your life's purpose is connected to a specific time and season. In other words, it will have a beginning and an ending. Some of God's purposes can be fulfilled in a short time, while others take a lifetime. You won't always be able to do what you're doing today, or at least to the extent you're doing it now. The Bible teaches, "As your days, so shall your strength be" (Dt 33:25 NKJV).

That's why some of the world's best sports players transition into coaching. Three important observations:

(1) You must understand and maximize the season you're in right now.

(2) When one season ends, you must transition graciously into the next.

(3) You must learn to enjoy whatever season you're in.

Here is an interesting phenomenon:

Elijah passed his mantle of power to Elisha, but nowhere do we read that Elisha passed it on to anyone else.
But when Paul passed his mantle on to Timothy, it didn't end there. Paul told him,

"The things...you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit...to faithful men who will be able to teach others also" (2Ti 2:2 NKJV).

Instead of lamenting that he had run out of time, Paul rejoiced in knowing that God had helped him to fulfill his assignment. "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown" (2Ti 4:7-8 NKJV).

The truth is, God only gives you grace for the season you're in. And when a season ends, and it's time to transition, the grace lifts. So, pay attention and know when to move on!

Knowing the season you're in When the season ends-the grace lifts.

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MAY. 14, 2025

Have a biblical perspective.

"That through the endurance taught in the Scriptures...we might have hope." Ro 15:4 NIV

There is a cute story about a girl who left home and went away to college. After her first semester, she emailed her mother, saying, "I think it's time I brought you up to date on what's going on in my life.

Shortly after I arrived at college,
I got bored with dormitory life and stole fifty dollars from my roommate's purse.
With the money, I rented a motorcycle, which I crashed into a telephone pole a few blocks from the dorm.
I broke my leg in the accident and am unable to attend classes, so I'm coming home to live with you and dad."

After hitting "send," she immediately sent a second email: "Mom, I was only joking. I didn't steal any money, or rent a motorcycle, or hit a telephone pole, or break my leg. And I won't be coming home to live with you and dad either.

However, I am getting a D in mathematics and an F in literature, and I wanted you to keep my grades in proper perspective!"

Seriously, having a biblical perspective on life's challenges can lift you out of discouragement and despair.

Paul said, "Everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures...we might have hope." For every problem you face in life, God's Word has a principle to be practiced or a promise to be claimed. So, the way to overcome discouragement is to get into God's Word and get it into you.

Have a biblical perspective Get into God's Word.

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MAY. 15, 2025

Free from jealousy.

"If your heart is full of...jealousy...don't... cover up the truth." Jas 3:14 CEV

The Bible says, "People are slaves to whatever has mastered them" (2Pe 2:19 NIV). And that's especially true of jealousy. Chuck Swindoll writes: "Jealousy and envy are often used interchangeably, but there's a difference. Envy begins with empty hands; it mourns what it doesn't have...Jealousy begins with full hands; it's threatened by the pain of losing what you have to someone else despite your efforts to hold on to it...This was Cain's sin. He was jealous of Abel. He resented God's acceptance of his brother, and not until Abel's blood poured over Cain's cruel hands did jealousy subside.

Solomon might well have written the epitaph for Abel's tombstone: 'Jealousy is [cruel] as the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire' (SS 8:6 ESV). Anyone who has experienced deliverance from this hellish giant knows too well how jealousy can decimate a friendship, dissolve a romance, destroy a marriage, shoot tension through the ranks of professionals, nullify unity on a team, ruin a church, separate preachers, foster competition among the choir, bring bitterness and finger-pointing among talented instrumentalists and capable singers. Jealousy questions motives and deplores another's success."

The Bible says, "If your heart is full of...jealousy...don't... cover up the truth." Instead, determine that by the grace of God, you're going to break free from its control. Swindoll adds: "I lived many years obeying its commands. It was gross agony. Finally, I realized I didn't have to live in darkness. I slew the giant and crawled out...and the releasing sunlight of freedom captured my heart. The air was so fresh and clean. Oh, the difference it has made! It's utter delight. Ask my wife."

Free from jealousy. Jealousy is cruel as the grave.

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MAY. 16, 2025

Don't lose your passion for God.

"Then his disciples remembered this prophecy from the Scriptures: 'Passion for God's house will consume me.'" Jn 2:17 NLT

Try to imagine the fire in the eyes of Jesus and the flex of His muscles as He turns over the tables of the money changers in the temple. And He does it while wielding a whip He made Himself. "Then his disciples remembered this prophecy from the Scriptures: 'Passion for God's house will consume me.'" Jesus was the wisest and kindest person who ever lived. Additionally, He was the most passionate. And those who follow Him ought to be the most passionate people on earth. The word enthusiasm comes from two Greek words: en and theos, meaning "in God." And the more you get into God, the more passion you develop about the things of God. "Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart" (Ps 37:4 NKJV).

Yes, you're supposed to crucify your carnal desires daily. But God doesn't do away with your capacity for desire; He sanctifies and redirects it. When you "delight yourself also in the Lord," you get a "desire transplant." C. S. Lewis said, "We are half-hearted creatures fooling around with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us." A pastor adds: "Sin is a waste of energy...And it's a double waste. After you waste your energy on things like lust and pride and anger, then you must waste even more energy on things like guilt and shame and regret. Nothing is more de-energizing than sin, but by the same token, nothing is more reenergizing than obedience. It's pure energy."

Don't lose your passion for God Get a "desire transplant."

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Try. Try harder. Try longer.

"Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart." Gal 6:9 NKJV

One of the greatest predictors of success in any endeavor is persistence. It's not only how hard you try; it's how long you try. We tend to overestimate how much we can accomplish in the short term. And according to an American pastor and author, we also "underestimate how much we can accomplish over the long haul. Why? Because energy is exponential. The harder you work and the longer you work, the more it pays off.

In a study involving Japanese and American first graders, kids were given a difficult puzzle to solve while researchers measured how long they would try before giving up. On average, the American children lasted 9.47 minutes. The Japanese children lasted 13.93 minutes. That is a 47 percent difference. Want to guess who scores higher on standardized math tests?

Success in any endeavor is a by-product of trying harder and trying longer. There are no substitutes. There are no shortcuts. It doesn't matter whether it's athletics or academics, music, or math [or ministry]. Study after study has shown that it takes about ten years or ten thousand hours to become great at anything. You need to work hard and work long. In the words of Malcolm Gladwell, 'Ten thousand hours is the magic number of greatness! Are there any God ideas you've given up on? Any God-ordained passions that you have stopped fighting for? Any God-sized dreams gathering the dust of disobedience? Don't give up on them. You need to try. Then you need to try harder. And then you need to try longer."

Try. Try harder. Try longer. There are no shortcuts.

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Why can't we work together? (3).

"How good…..it is... to dwell together in unity!" Ps 133:1 NKJV

Reason three: temperament. Some people aren't naturally outgoing. When they face challenges, it never occurs to them to enlist other people's help in order to accomplish their goal.

When you operate alone, you will achieve a certain amount of success, but when you cooperate with the right people, you will achieve things you never dreamed possible.
When you do everything alone and never partner with others, you produce huge hurdles to your own potential.

Dr. Allan Fromme quipped, "People have been known to achieve more as a result of working with others than against them." That's certainly an understatement! Like Chuck Swindoll says: "Nobody is a whole team...We need each other. You need someone and someone needs you. Isolated islands we're not. To make this thing called life work, we gotta lean and support. And relate and respond. And give and take. And confess and forgive. And reach out and embrace and rely on [others]. Since none of us is a whole,

independent,
self-sufficient,
super-capable,
all-powerful hotshot, let's quit acting like we are.

Life's lonely enough without our playing that silly role. The game is over. Let's link up." If you desire to accomplish something big, you have to join with others. One is too small a number to greatly succeed. The Bible says, "Behold, how good and...pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!….For there the Lord commanded the blessing" (vv. 1, 3 NKJV). Did you get that? When we work together, God commands His blessing to be upon our efforts.

And without the blessing of God, there is no true and lasting success.

Why can't we work together? Let's link up.

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MAY. 7, 2025

Why can't we work together? (4)

"Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Eph 4:3 NIV

A lady told her friend, "My husband and I have a very happy marriage. There's nothing I wouldn't do for him, and there's nothing he wouldn't do for me. And that's the way we go through life-doing nothing for each other!" We smile, but that's not so funny when it's true.

That attitude paves the road to disaster in marriage, business, church, personal relationships, and everywhere else. Often people join a team for their own advantage— they want supporting players so they can receive all the accolades. But ultimately, that attitude not only hurts them, but it also hurts the people they work with and hinders the results they otherwise could have had.

President Woodrow Wilson asserted: "You are not here merely to make a living. You are here to enable the world to live more amply, with greater vision, with a finer spirit of hope and achievement. You are here to enrich the world, and to impoverish yourself if you forget the errand." Here is a true statement, if ever there was one: When you use people, exploit them, and take advantage of them, you inevitably fail in life. Is it easy to work with others and always get along? Sometimes yes, sometimes no. That's why Paul writes, "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." You have to work at it. When someone criticizes, offset it with a compliment. When someone complains, find something to be thankful for. When someone comes across as self-centered, remind them that the collective goal you're striving for is greater than any one individual.

Why can't we work together? You are here to enrich the world.

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MAY. 4, 2025

Why can't we work together? (1)

"Diotrephes, who loves to have the preeminence." 3Jn v. 9 NKJV

Reason one: insecurity. The Florentine philosopher Machiavelli said, "The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him." Insecure leaders are threatened by talented individuals, so they surround themselves with weak people. As a result, the work suffers, and everybody involved suffers too. When a leader responds to a genuine question by saying, "How dare you challenge my authority," they're dangerous and often not worth following. Insecure leaders usually fail for two reasons: They want to maintain control over everything, or they're afraid of being replaced by someone more competent.

Either way, leaders who don't encourage teamwork weaken their own potential and discourage those around them. President Woodrow Wilson said, "We should not only use all the brains we have, but all that we can borrow." John the Apostle tells us that Diotrephes, a leader in the church, "loves to have the preeminence." What was this man's problem? He wanted to blow everybody else's light out in order to let his own light shine.

So, John writes: "When I come, I will report some of the things he is doing and the evil accusations he is making against us. Not only does he refuse to welcome the traveling teachers, he also tells others not to help them. And when they do help, he puts them out of the church. Dear friend, don't let this bad example influence you. Follow only what is good. Remember that those who do good prove that they are God's children, and those who do evil prove that they do not know God" (3Jn vs. 10-11 NLT).

Let God's approval— which you already have—make you secure!

Why can't we work together? Let God's approval make you secure!

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"Go ahead; I am with you heart and soul." 1Sa 14:7 NIV

Reason two: naivety. An old Chinese proverb says, "Behind every able man there are always other able men." Even if you can do the job yourself, isn't it wise to stop and ask, "Who do I know who could help me to do it better?" That question defines the difference between mediocrity and excellence. Business consultant John Ghegan keeps a sign on his desk that reads, "If I had it to do all over again, I'd get help." We all need that sign! When you have a few victories under your belt, you're at an increased risk of thinking you can do anything and everything by yourself.

But when your dream is from God, it will always be greater than your individual capacity and gifts, which means you will have to reach for others. Two men, Jonathan, and his armor-bearer, wiped out an entire Philistine garrison. How? "Jonathan said to his young armor-bearer, 'Come, let's go over to the outpost of those uncircumcised men. Perhaps the Lord will act in our behalf.

Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few.' 'Do all that you have in mind, his armor-bearer said. 'Go ahead; I am with you heart and soul'" (vv. 6-7 NIV). Jonathan, the leader, needed the encouragement and support of his armor-bearer. And his armor-bearer needed the courage and leadership of Jonathan. Together they accomplished amazing things for God.

The truth is teamwork is at the heart of all impressive triumphs. The question isn't whether teams have value; it's whether you are humble enough to acknowledge that fact and become a better team player.

Why can't we work together? Become a better team player.

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APR. 15, 2025

Become willing to change.

"You will grow as you learn to know God better and better." Col 1:10 NLT

To grow, you must dedicate yourself to the process. Whether it's in your career, your marriage, your ministry, or your walk with God, once you dedicate yourself to growth and development and a lifestyle of planned improvement, it becomes normal to you. And you realize when you're not making progress. Something is missing! It's been reputed that the Polish American classical pianist Arthur Rubinstein refused to listen to recordings of his playing. Even only a few months afterward, he was unhappy with what he heard. Why? Because he had changed and improved-but his recordings had not. Stop and think about the non-negotiables in your life.

What are you willing to live and die for?

Write down what you want to hold on to at any cost, and fully explain why. After you have done that, everything else should be open to change. Here is how Paul prayed for the Christians in the Colossian church: "We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and...spiritual wisdom and understanding. Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better. We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light" (vv. 9-12 NLT).

Become willing to change To grow, you must dedicate yourself to the process.

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APR. 24, 2025

The waiting strategy.

"I waited patiently for the Lord; and He inclined to me, and heard my cry." Ps 40:1 NKJV

When you're up against a problem that seems too big for you or feel like you are "in over your head" and you don't know what to do or which way to go, use the waiting strategy. That's the one David the psalmist used. And it worked for him: "I waited patiently for the Lord; and He inclined to me, and heard my cry. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth-praise to our God...Blessed is that man who makes the Lord his trust...My ears You have opened" (vv. 1-4, 6 NKJV).

Waiting is hard to do when you are anxious. And waiting patiently is even harder. Stop and think who you are waiting for: the Lord. He is Lord of every situation, including yours.

Perhaps this illustration will help you. Arthur McKinsey writes: "If you think of a... problem as being like a medieval walled city, then a lot of people will attack it head on, like a battering ram. They will storm the gates and try to smash through the defences with sheer intellectual power and brilliance...I just camp outside the city. I wait. And I think. Until one day-maybe after l've turned to a completely different problem-the drawbridge comes down and the defenders say, 'We surrender' The answer to the problem comes all at once." Waiting for God to work is that way. While you are waiting, He is working on your behalf.

The waiting strategy While you are waiting, He is working.

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APR. 25, 2025

Resolve conflict quickly (1)

"If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother." Mt 18:15

Few things in life cause more stress than unresolved conflict. It will elevate your blood pressure and consume your thoughts until you resolve it, so if you're wise, you will deal with it right away. Not all people feel this way. Even though Jesus commanded us to deal with it, many Christians refrain from saying anything for the sake of peace. Not so. Unresolved conflict will affect

your peace of mind,
your productivity, and
your attitude toward others, so it must be dealt with.

Additionally, the problem with refusing to face an issue is that it will probably occur again. So, according to an interpersonal communications adviser, do these three things:

(1) "Ask God to give you His words to say so that His purpose will be achieved. 'My word...will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it' (Isa 55:11 NIV).

(2) Empty your emotions out to God before engaging the offender. Emotions tend to get in the way of facts and can hinder objective thinking. This isn't as hard as it may sound once you decide you are going to make every effort to settle the issue in a harmonious way. 'If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone' (Ro 12:18 NIV).

(3) Be clear as to what you perceive the problem to be. Avoid vague arguments that leave room for misinterpretation. For example, 'You need to do better' does not really clarify the problem." If your goal is to heal the relationship, God will work with you.

Resolve conflict quickly "Live at peace with everyone."

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APR. 3, 2025

Today, use your God-given power.

"You shall receive power." Ac 1:8 NKJV

You say, "If Christ lives in me, why do I still think and act the way I do?"

A Christian leader explains: "The answer is illustrated in a story about a lady who had a small house...at the turn of the century. She was quite wealthy but also quite frugal... People were surprised, then, when she decided to be among the first to have electricity in her home. Several weeks after the installation, a meter reader appeared at her door. He asked her if her electricity was working well, and she assured him it was. 'I'm wondering if you can explain something to me,' he said. 'Your meter shows scarcely any usage. Are you using your power?' 'Certainly,' she answered.

'Each evening when the sun sets, I turn on my lights just long enough to light my candles; then I turn them off.' She's tapped into the power but didn't use it. Her house is connected but not altered. Don't we make the same mistake? We, too-with our souls saved but our hearts unchanged-are connected but not altered.

Trusting Christ for salvation but resisting transformation. We occasionally flip the switch, but most of the time we settle for shadows. What would happen if we left the light on? What changes would occur if we set about the task of dwelling in the radiance of Christ? No doubt about it: God has ambitious plans for us. The same one who saved your soul longs to remake your heart. His plan is nothing short of a total transformation." "He decided...to shape [our] lives...along the same lines as the life of his Son" (Ro 8:29 MSG).

Today, use your God-given power.

Today, use your God-given power God has ambitious plans for us.

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APR. 2, 2025

Be real.

"People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." 1Sa 16:7 NLT

Jesus was rough on Pharisees: "People look at you and think you are saints, but beneath... you are total frauds" (Mt 23:28 MSG).

They put on a good front but were devoid of grace, mercy, and compassion.

And Jesus called them on it! Because we live in an appearance-focused society, Jesus warns us about the dangers that come from dwelling on the outer life at the cost of developing the inner life. So, how do you keep that from happening?

(1) Follow Jesus' example. He spent His life ministering to the hurting, the forgotten, the lost, and lonely.

(2) Keep in mind that even though you're a Christian, you will still struggle in certain areas, and don't try to act like you "have it all together."

(3) Ask God to reveal behavior patterns that are appearance oriented instead of heart oriented.

(4) Surround yourself with transparent people who encourage you to be real and correct you when you need it.

Marybeth Whalen writes: "The painters painted the wall leading downstairs...A week later I discovered, while the wall had been repainted, the habits hadn't changed. The kids were still dragging their dirty hands behind them, making what was white and clean, grey, and dirty.

Like that wall, if I'm not careful I can cover up what's there...

wear the Christian tee shirt,
carry my Bible,
smile like everything's great,
and talk a good game about my walk with the Lord.

But deep inside the ugly habits are waiting to be revealed the moment life gets messy. I can become a modern-day Pharisee who focuses on the whitewash and ignores the dirty stuff underneath." So, be real.

Be real

Don't try to act like you "have it all together."

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Put God between yourself and the foe

"There is none like you to help." 2Ch 14:11 ESV

Faced with an enemy he couldn't conquer on his own, King Asa prayed, "Lord, there is no one like you to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us...we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this vast army. Lord, you are our God; do not let mere mortals prevail against you! The Lord struck down the Cushites before Asa and Judah" (vv. 11-12 NIV).

F. B. Meyer writes: "Remind God of his entire responsibility. 'There is none like thee to help! The odds against Asa were enormous. There were a million men in arms...beside three hundred chariots. It seemed impossible to hold his own against that vast multitude.

There were no allies who would come to his help: his only hope therefore was in God. There was none beside to help. It may be that your difficulties have been allowed to come to so alarming a pitch that you may be compelled to renounce all creature aid, to which in lesser trials you have had recourse, and cast yourself back on your Almighty friend.

Put God between yourself and the foe. To Asa's faith, Jehovah seemed to stand between the might of Zerah and himself, as one who had no strength. Nor was he mistaken...the Ethiopians were destroyed before the Lord, and before His host, as though celestial combatants flung themselves against the foe on Israel's behalf...Our God is Jehovah of Hosts, who can summon unexpected reinforcements at any moment to the aid of his people.

Believe that He is there between you and your difficulty, and what baffles you will flee before Him as clouds before the gale."

Put God between yourself and the foe An enemy you can't conquer on your own.

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MAR. 11, 2025

Born to believe (1)

"Train up a child in the way he should go." Pr 22:6

Training your child is both challenging and rewarding. By shaping their underlying belief system, you help their developing brain establish permanent neural pathways that will guide their moral and spiritual growth.

Neuroscientists Andrew Newberg and Mark Robert Waldman, authors of Born to Believe, tell us the most crucial years are from age seven to ten. That's when your child has the greatest propensity to understand the concept of a God they can't see, feel, or hear.

What an ideal opportunity! Newberg and Waldman also suggest that our most effective tool for belief building at this stage is storytelling, not preaching or moralizing. Stories that incorporate godly principles, moral behaviors, courage, faith, love, compassion, and forgiveness are welcomed, easily digested ingredients for building Christian character. Storytelling was how God instructed the Israelites to teach their children His ways and Word. Stories of

Adam and Eve,
Noah,
Daniel,
Esther,
Samson,
Ruth, and David;
of Christ's birth,
life,
death, and
resurrection; of Jesus walking on the sea,
raising the dead, and
feeding the five thousand,

stir the hearts, interest, and imagination of young children and impart enduring, life-changing principles! In fact, studies show that the belief systems of adults are powerfully influenced by stories they heard growing up. Implant stories that will become the underpinning for their character and the basis for a lifetime of faith. As a parent, it's your job to encourage and stimulate their developing brain toward godly beliefs, decisions, and lifestyle!

Born to believe Ingredients for building Christian character.

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MAR. 10, 2025

How God sees you.

"There is...no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus." Ro 8:1

Once we understand that God's love for us is based on what Christ did for us rather than what we do ourselves, the struggle is over. Now we can stop "performing," and we can serve God because we know He loves us and that we don't need to try to make Him love us.

We no longer fear rejection by Him because of our mistakes. When we do something wrong, now all we do is repent, receive God's forgiveness, and then refuse the condemnation that sin brings. Realizing we are loved and accepted even though we're imperfect is such a relief! Serving God out of desire rather than obligation is incredibly liberating!

The moment you place your trust in Christ, God sees you as righteous from that point on. He doesn't accept you because of your performance but because of your relationship with Him through Christ. And you need to decide to believe it and stand on it. A noted minister writes: "We become what we believe we are; therefore, as we become convinced that we are right with God, our behavior will improve. We will do things right and with less effort.

No matter what other people may have told you that you are not, God delights in telling you in His Word who you are in

Him-loved,
valuable,
precious,
talented,
gifted,
capable,
powerful,
wise, and
redeemed.

Take a moment and repeat those nine things aloud. Say,

'I am loved,
valuable,
precious,
talented,
gifted,
capable,
powerful,
wise, and
redeemed!'"

That's how God sees you, and it's how you need to start seeing yourself.

How God sees you Loved, valuable, precious, capable, powerful, wise and redeemed

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Use your imagination.

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we... imagine." Eph 3:20 NIV

Lack of faith is not a failure of logic; it's a failure of imagination. Lack of faith is the inability or unwillingness to entertain thoughts of a God who is able to do "immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us" (v. 20 NIV).

Did you get that? God wants to empower your imagination!

A pastor writes: "If we are going to have an eternal impact on our culture, we can't just criticize it or copy it. We've got to create it. If we are going to reach our generation with the gospel, we can't just appeal to logic. We've got to capture their imagination. And C. S. Lewis is a great example of both. Can you think of anyone more left-brain logical than Lewis? His theological writings, from Mere Christianity to The Problem of Pain, are as logical as logic can be.

But Lewis combined left-brain logic with right-brain creativity. The Chronicles of Narnia continue to capture the imagination of new generations.

The church ought to be the most creative place on the planet. And there are certainly pockets of ingenuity and imagination, but we're nowhere near our creative potential."

Perhaps this is because we have a false definition of faithfulness.

Faithfulness is not doing it how it has always been done.
It's not preserving the status quo.

No, we must never water down the gospel or promote biblical compromise for cultural relevancy. Bottom line: Our message must never change, but our methods must change if we are to gather in the final harvest before the Lord of the harvest returns.

Use your imagination Our message must never change, but our methods must change.

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Put away the measuring stick!

"Jesus said to Simon Peter...do you love me...?" Jn 21:15 NIV

Reimar Schultze says: "The more conscientious we are, the more we...go to bed with some sense that we missed the elusive 100 percent again... Many precious saints fall for this trap…..robbing themselves of the joy of the Lord and the peace...that passes all understanding…We all are familiar with the testimonies of some of the greatest men of God. Many of them, like us...found themselves in the gutters of self-incrimination." Moses felt completely unworthy and unable to free Israel from Egypt. Yet how often has God called you to do something and you said the same thing: "Who am I, that I should go?" (Ex 3:11).

Do you think you know more than the One who called you? David tells us throughout the Psalms that God is omnipotent and omnipresent; that He never takes his eyes off us.

Then David contradicts himself by declaring, "I am a worm and not a man" (Ps 22:6 NIV), and "I am forgotten as though I were dead" (Ps 31:12 NIV).
Elijah was so depressed that he cried, "Enough... Lord, take away my life" (1Ki 19:4).
Job cursed the day he was born, yet the Bible calls him a "blameless and upright" man who reverenced God (Job 1:1 NIV).

Pastor Schultze continues: "Measuring our worth to God by our performance will continue to threaten us until the end of time...I absolutely refuse to go to bed going through some kind of checklist on how I did...l would rather ask myself the question Jesus asked Peter...do you love Me with all your heart, soul, mind and strength? Again, that is the only test I want to give myself at the end of the day." It's the one that counts most!

Put away the measuring stick! Do you love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength?

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Know when to let go.

"There's...a right time...to hold on and another to let go." Ecc 3:1, 6 MSG

Persistence, determination, commitment, and recognizing the "right time...to hold on" are all commendable qualities, whether it's setting aside time to pray and read every day, eating dinner with your family, finding a better job, or losing weight, etc.

But it's equally important to recognize the "right time...to let go" of self-generated urgency and things that are stopping you from living "life in all its fullness" (Jn 10:10 NCV).

The Bible tells us to "lay aside every weight" (Heb 12:1 NKJV).

Not sure how to start? One teacher offers this suggestion: "Go to the hardware store and buy a flat patio stone that fits into your briefcase or purse. Then take a marker and write on the stone all the fears and prerequisites that are stopping you from enjoying life. Carry it with you wherever you go…

eating,
working,
watching TV,
showering,
sleeping.

Feel how heavy it is? It's hard to get anything done when your muscles are working overtime carrying all that extra weight. At the end of the second day (if you last that long!), sit down with your stone, review the list, and make a conscious decision to let go of the worries and burdens that are sapping your energy. Then go outside and set the rock down beside your front door. See how much lighter you feel? How much easier it is to get things done? Before you leave home every day, take a second to look at your stone...then turn around and deliberately walk away." That's what it means to "give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you" (Ps 55:22 NLT).

Know when to let go "Lay aside every weight."

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MAR. 3, 2025

Don't break, bounce back (2).

"Though good people may be bothered by trouble...they are never defeated." Pr 24:16 NCV

Here are two more keys to bouncing back:

(1) Instead of complaining about what you can't change, change what you can. When you can't change your situation, you can change your attitude toward it. How do you do that? By reprogramming your mind with God's Word. The Bible says, "For every child of God defeats this evil world, and we achieve this victory through our faith. And who can win this battle against the world? Only those who believe [trust in God]" (1Jn 5:4-5 NLT).

(2) Instead of grumbling about your pain, grow through it. At the peak of her career, when photographer Linda Joy Montgomery learned she was going blind, an inner voice said, "This isn't the end; it's the beginning." She began writing poetry, discovered her calling as a motivational speaker, and created the True Vision Institute, teaching kids to tap into their inner resources. Finding purpose in your pain isn't a new idea. Survivors of life-threatening illnesses, natural disasters, and the Holocaust, and parents of chronically ill children, continually demonstrate how overcomers find the proverbial silver lining by reinventing themselves.

Meeting challenges helps you develop a can-do attitude that says, "Been there, done that, and I will survive." Basketball star Michael Jordan said, "I've missed over 9000 shots in my career...lost over 300 games...26 times, l've been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed." And you can too.

Don't break, bounce back Change what you can.

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Jesus is the answer.

"I was found by people who were not looking for me. I showed myself to those who were not asking for me." Ro 10:20 NLT

The Bible says, "I was found by people who were not looking for me. I showed myself to those who were not asking for me."

You say, "What does this Scripture mean?"

That even though you're looking for answers in the wrong places, asking the wrong questions, and heading in the wrong direction, Jesus will

intercept you,
redirect you,
and meet your deepest needs.

When the woman at the well met Jesus, she was looking for the answer in relationships. She had been through five failed marriages and was living with man number six (See Jn 4:18).

When Zacchaeus met Jesus, he was looking for the answer in material things. "Now behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus who was a chief tax collector, and he was rich. And he sought to see who Jesus was" (Lk 19:2-3 NKJV).

When Paul met Jesus, he was looking for the answer in religion. Here is his résumé: "Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless" (Php 3:5-6 NKJV).

Multiple relationships didn't satisfy the woman at the well,
riches didn't satisfy Zacchaeus,
and religion didn't satisfy Paul.
And these things won't satisfy you either. What will?

A relationship with Jesus! Today He is saying to you: "The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life" (Jn 10:10 NLT).

Today and forever, Jesus is the answer.

Jesus is the answer Today and forever, Jesus is the answer.

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Refuse to wear the label.

"His mother called his name Jabez, saying, 'Because I bore him in pain.'" 1Ch 4:9 NKJV

The name Jabez means "pain and trouble." Perhaps that's why no other parent in Scripture gave their child that name. But it's a label he refused to wear and a name he refused to be defined by.

A label usually tells you what is in a bottle; its contents and even its value. And when you accept the labels people try to put on you, you start to believe that's who you really are and that you will never become anything more than that. The Bible says, "As he thinketh in his heart, so is he" (Pr 23:7).

People will use past experiences to label and limit you.
They will also use your physical, mental, and emotional characteristics to label and limit you.

What should you do? Do what Jabez did -go to God! In the final analysis, His opinion about your past, present, and future is the one that matters most.

Plus, He loves you and has a plan for your life. Jabez prayed a prayer that changed his life, and it will change your life too. "Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!' So God granted him what he requested" (1Ch 4:10 NKJV).

Jabez asked God for four things:

blessing,
influence,
power, and
protection.

And God gave them to him. So, today you have a choice; believe what others say about you, or believe what God says about you. When you look at it that way, the choice is clear.

Refuse to wear the label Blessing, influence, power, and protection

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Today expect God's favor.

"For You, O Lord, will bless the righteous; with favor You will surround him as with a shield." Ps 5:12 NKJV

The Bible says that God will surround the righteous with favor. If you are trusting in the finished work of Christ, God sees you as "righteous" (See Ro 3:22).

So, you qualify; you can pray, "Lord, I need your favor in this job interview," or "in selling this house," or "in making this deal," or "in going on this date," etc. Be prepared for your old programming to kick in, where you think about the word "righteous"; you begin to wonder if your thoughts, words, and deeds are good enough to deserve God's favor. Here is a truth you need to keep in mind: The only righteousness that God responds to is the righteousness of Christ. And since He has placed you "in Christ," you are always qualified to ask God for favor and believe He will grant it. You are saved by grace. And the word grace means

"unearned,
unmerited,
undeserved favor."

The world's concept of favor is misleading: "She owes me a favor," or "I don't owe you any favors!" In other words, the world's concept of favor is totally performance based.

But the only performance God looks at when it comes to granting you His favor is Christ's performance on your behalf and the fact that you are trusting totally in Him. His life covers all your sins of omission, and His death covers all your sins of commission. And since God always sees you "in Christ," in His eyes you are always qualified for favor.

"Righteousness...shall be imputed to us who believe in Him who raised up Jesus" (Ro 4:22,24 NKJV).

So, today expect God's favor. Today expect God's favor Unearned, unmerited, undeserved favor

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Growth is about enlargement.

"You enlarged my path." Ps 18:36 NKJV

Read these enlargement Scriptures: "You enlarged my path." "Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, 'Oh, that You would...enlarge my territory'" (1Ch 4:10 NKJV). "Enlarge the place of your tent...lengthen your cords, and strengthen your stakes" (Isa 54:2 NKJV).

God wants to enlarge you

spiritually,
emotionally,
relationally,
and in every area of your life.

But to experience enlargement, you must learn from people larger than you.

Dr. John Maxwell writes: "The first ten years that I was intentionally pursuing personal growth, I was always behind trying to catch up. I had to get over the comparison gap. I recognized I needed to be exposed to bigger and better leaders outside of my own small circle, but when I stepped out of my comfort zone, I was intimidated. It was clear that I was not in their league. Their organizations were six times the size of mine, and they had many more and much better ideas than I did. I felt like I was in over my head and trying to swim. Despite that, I was encouraged. Why? Because I discovered that great men were willing to share their ideas. And I was learning so much. You can only learn if others are ahead of you. It was a difficult transition, but it was well worth it. So if you are aware that others are better than you, don't be discouraged. Be glad others are there to help show you the way. Growth is not a rocking chair you sit in, it's a mountain you climb each day. But there is good news. As Jim Rohn said, 'You cannot change your destination overnight, but you can change your direction overnight!'"

Growth is about enlargement Be glad others are there to help show you the way.

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Governed by Christ's love for us.

"For the love of Christ constraineth us." 2Co 5:14

The most powerful incentive to overcoming sin is not our love for Christ, but His love for us. Even with the best of intentions, our love for Him is subject to fluctuations. Jesus said to the church in Ephesus, "You have left your first love" (Rev 2:4 NKJV). He said to the church in Laodicea that their love had become

"lukewarm" (Rev 3:16). Many of us grew up in churches where we were told that the reason we yield to certain carnal traits is because we don't love the Lord enough. So, we try harder, without success, and get discouraged. That's like putting the cart before the horse. It should be the other way around. The secret of victorious Christian living is not found in trying to love Jesus more, but in having a revelation of His love for you. That's why Paul wrote, "The love of Christ constraineth us." Paul's actions were governed by the knowledge of Christ's incredible love for him. If you're struggling with sinful habits today, pray for a revelation of God's love for you. It makes all the difference! Paul writes: "I pray that Christ will be more and more at home in your hearts...as you trust in him. May your roots go down deep into the soil of God's marvelous love; and may you be able to... understand... how long, how wide, how deep, and how high his love really is; and to experience this love for yourselves, though it is so great that you will never...fully... understand it. And so at last you will be filled up with God himself" (Eph 3:17-19 TLB).

Governed by Christ's love for us A revelation of His love for you

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God uses damaged people.

"When you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers." Lk 22:32 NLT

Too often people are devalued or dismissed because of what they have been through in life. Sometimes it's because of what they have done to others, sometimes it's because of what others have done to them. If you have been to a consignment store, you know there are valuable items at deeply discounted prices; you just have to know what you're looking for. Jesus does.

In His eyes you may be "down" but you're not "out." Peter's sorrow over denying Jesus ran so deep that he decided to go back to his old job as a fisherman. Can you imagine the scuttlebutt around the harbor? "That's the guy who turned his back on Jesus." Were Peter a pastor, we would have called for his resignation. At the very least, he would have nothing to say that we would be interested in listening to. Yet, he was the first person Jesus went looking for after the resurrection. And when Jesus saw Peter, He never mentioned it —not even once. But three times He asked him, "Do you love me?" When Peter answered yes three times, Jesus said, "Feed my sheep," referring to his future as pastor and head of the church (See Jn 21:15-17).

Jesus looked beyond Peter's failed past and saw his future. Peter's failure was not a surprise. Jesus had told him, "When you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers." The weakness he had overcome and the restoring grace he had experienced became some of his greatest teaching tools in helping others. Yes, God will reprove you, but it's to restore you and use you for His purposes.

God uses damaged people

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Understanding the word "imputed"

"Righteousness...shall be imputed [transferred] to us who believe in Him who raised up Jesus." Ro 4:22, 24 NKJV

Picture a transfer of funds from one account to another. Banks do it every day. Now imagine yourself destitute and unable to pay your debts. Then in an astounding act of grace, someone assumes all your debts and then transfers to your account such abundance that you never have to work or worry for the rest of your life. That's what happened at the cross when God imputed to Jesus all your sins from the cradle to the grave and imputed all His righteousness to you.

Mind-blowing, isn't it?

Would you say, "No thanks, I believe in paying my own way"?
Would you say, "I can't allow you to do everything while I do nothing, so I'll work for the rest of my life to prove myself worthy of your love and grace"?

Salvation is like health food that's labeled "no man-made additives." Understand this: The righteousness required for getting into heaven is not about behaving the right way, but believing the right way.

You say, "But I feel such guilt when I sin." You're supposed to! Your new nature is reacting to sin just as your body does to food poisoning. Your boundaries have been violated and your regenerate spirit is saying that you can't indulge in that anymore; it's not who you are! Why did God arrange the plan of salvation in this way? Because any righteousness we could achieve falls far short of His standards. He actually calls it "filthy rags." Understand this: Your rewards in heaven are based upon your behavior, but getting into heaven is based on trusting in Christ alone.

Understanding the word "imputed" It's not about behaving the right way, but believing the right way.

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You are not beyond God's reach.

"But He needed to go through Samaria." Jn 4:4 NKJV

The Bible says that Jesus "left Judea and departed again to Galilee. But He needed to go through Samaria" (vv. 3-4 NKJV). In case you may not be aware of it, Samaria was not on the way to Galilee. Actually, it was miles out of the way. Yet, the Bible says Jesus "needed to go." Think about it:

It was a long journey, and
He was on foot.
It was hot.
As a Jew, He wouldn't be welcomed there because of a long-standing animosity between Jews and Samaritans.
As for the woman at the well that He went to meet, women in that culture were forbidden to talk to men outside of their own family.
Furthermore, this woman was the talk of the town because she had been through five divorces.
So, why did Jesus feel like He "needed to go"?

Because He saw this woman as a diamond in the rough. While those around her talked about her past and her problems, Jesus saw her potential for His kingdom. "Many of the Samaritans... believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified" (v. 39 NKJV).

To reach Galilee on God's schedule, Jesus had to throw man's schedule out the window. But the schedule didn't control Him. What did? The will of God and the unmet needs of hurting people.

And He was willing to go out of His way, turn tradition on its head, and break new ground in order to do it. How about you? Can God interrupt your plans? If He can, then He can use you. Pray, "Lord, show me what I must do today in order to please you."

You are not beyond God's reach Can God interrupt your plans?

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FEB. 13, 2025

Change your routine.

"I will lead them in paths they have not known." Isa 42:16 NKJV

As attested by the law of requisite variety, the continued existence of any system requires the ability to cultivate variety in its internal structures. In physical exercise, for example, routines eventually become useless. If you exercise the same way each time you work out, your muscles begin adapting and stop developing. You have to change your routine. You have to disorient them. This is true spiritually.

One author writes: "When I'm in a spiritual slump, nine times out of ten, something sacred has become routine. I'm sure it differs by personality, but one of the ways I snap out of a spiritual slump is by disturbing my routine and experimenting with spiritual disciplines.

Sometimes all it takes is a small change in routine.

Volunteer at a local homeless shelter.
Start keeping a gratitude journal.
Get plugged into a small group or Bible study.
Take a day off and do a personal retreat.
Or just get up a little earlier in the morning and spend a little extra time with God.

One of the small changes in routine that has helped me rejuvenate my devotional times is picking up a new translation of Scripture. New words help me think new thoughts." In order to grow spiritually, you need consistency, structure, and discipline. But when you go through a spiritual dry spell, try changing your spiritual routine. Instead of doing things the way you have always done them, try doing things differently. "I will lead them in paths they have not known." God doesn't change, but He moves! And in order to get to where God wants to take you, you must be willing to move with Him.

Change your routine To grow spiritually, you need consistency.

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Fear is the enemy of growth.

"Tell the children of Israel to go forward.'" Ex 14:15 NKJV

If you want to grow, you need to get over any fear you may have of making mistakes. As author and professor Warren Bennis states, "A mistake is simply another way of doing things." So, expect to make mistakes along the way, and embrace them as a sign that you are going in the right direction. With the Red Sea in front of them and Pharaoh's chariots behind them, the children of Israel panicked. "The Lord said to Moses, 'Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward'" (v. 15 NKJV).

When they did, the Red Sea became a pathway to victory and a burial ground for the enemy they feared. If you have to find "the best way" or "the perfect way," you will never get anywhere. It's like driving on an unknown road at night. Ideally, you would like to see your entire route before you start out. Instead, you see it little by little. As you keep going, a little more of the road is revealed to you. So, if you want to see more of the way, get moving.

Make a commitment to yourself to start on your growth plan and keep at it for at least twelve months. If you do, you will develop a love for the process, and at the end of the year, you will be able to see how far you have come. "Enlarge the place of your tent...stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; do not spare; lengthen your cords, and strengthen your stakes. For you shall expand to the right and to the left" (Isa 54:2-3 NKJV).

Fear is the enemy of growth Expect to make mistakes along the way.

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Keep trusting God.

"Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him." Job 13:15 NKJV

The story of Job reads like this:

Chapter 1, he is one of the wealthiest men in his generation.

Chapter 2, he loses everything, including his health, his wealth, and his children.

Chapter 42, he is back on top again. Wouldn't you like to know what happened from chapters 3 through 41? If so, you should read the book of Job and find out

how he had it all,
lost it all,
got it all back,
and ended up with twice as much as he lost.

Did Job have unanswered questions? Lots of them. Did he experience grief? Yes, to a depth that is hard to imagine.

But Job never changed his mind about God, and God never changed His about Job.

This Scripture best summarizes Job's attitude: "Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him."

If you're stuck at a place you don't understand right now, don't give up-on God or yourself. When you don't understand your circumstances, and it feels like they're more than you can bear, stand on this great Bible promise: "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in... the Lord, is everlasting strength" (Isa 26:3-4 NKJV).

Trusting God does not mean He will answer all your questions, but that He will give you "perfect peace" regardless of the circumstances.
Trusting God does not mean that you won't struggle, but that He will give you "everlasting strength."

So, the word for you today is-keep trusting God, and He will bring you through this.

Keep trusting God He will give you "everlasting strength."

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FEB. 10, 2025

Use your gifts in ministry to others.

"The gifts and...calling of God are irrevocable. " Ro 11:29 NKJV
When God gives us a spiritual gift, He doesn't take it back. "The gifts and...calling of God are irrevocable. " And if God does not, we must not! Paul writes: "If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself. You might be needing forgiveness before the day's out. Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their burdens, and so complete Christ's law. If you think you are too good for that, you are badly deceived" (Gal 6:1-3 MSG). When a brother or sister in Christ goes astray, the Bible tells us what we must do; lovingly confront them, gently correct and counsel them, and cover them. The Bible says, "Love will cover a multitude of sins" (1Pe 4:8 NKJV).
Now the word "cover" doesn't mean "cover up"; it means provide a place of shelter and restoration where they can be made whole. Is restoring someone sometimes messy? Yes, especially if they have hurt others and brought embarrassment to the family of God. But that's the point… They are still our spiritual family! The world is watching to see how we handle this. If we throw away those among us who stumble, why would the world turn to us for help?
Jesus healed a blind man by rubbing clay in his eyes and telling him to go and wash it off in the pool of Siloam. How far away was the pool? We don't know. But he needed someone to hold his hand and walk with him until he reached it and his sight was restored. And that's what we have been called to do.

Use your gifts in ministry to others A place of shelter and restoration
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FEB. 6, 2025

Pass it on to others.

"The things that you have heard from me...commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." 2Ti 2:2 NKJV

What's your goal in life?

Survival,
success, or
succession?

Some of us suffer from "duck syndrome." We appear calm on the surface, but underneath we're paddling furiously. We think "I'm glad people around me don't know how much I don't know," and we keep them at a distance hoping they never find out. That's not how God wants you to live, as the source of your own strength and wisdom. David wrote, "The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" (Ps 27:1 NKJV).

On the other hand, some of us strive for a self-centered form of success that begins and ends with us. Our philosophy is "look out for number one." When that's your goal, God cannot trust you with success because your motives violate every principle in His Word. God told Abraham, "I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing" (Ge 12:2 NKJV).

When your heart's intent is to bless others, God will bless your endeavors. Jesus said, "I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain [after you're gone]" (Jn 15:16 NKJV). Part of God's plan for your life is passing on to others what He has entrusted to you. There is no lasting success without a successor. That's why Paul wrote, "The things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." So, the word for you today is-pass it on.

Pass it on to others Survival, success, or succession?

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Let's respect our differences.

"Let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up." Ro 14:19 NLT

Paul wouldn't yield an inch when it came to standing on the central truths of Scripture. But when it came to traditions, personal opinions, and personal preferences, he said, "Let each be fully convinced in his own mind" (v. 5 NKJV).

Under the law of Moses, being circumcised was considered equal to having a covenant between you and God. So when Gentile believers joined the New Testament church, Jewish believers insisted they too must be circumcised. Not as babies, mind you, but as adults! Were these Jewish believers sincere? Absolutely. But they were sincerely misguided. When this issue threatened to split the church, the apostles met in Jerusalem, prayed about the matter, and issued the following opinion: "It seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things" (Ac 15:28 NKJV).

Any time a tradition or personal preference becomes equal in authority to God's Word, we have gone too far. Question: Have you been upset with someone who doesn't agree with you on some nonessential point of doctrine? Have you been critical of someone whose opinion differs from yours? Perhaps in insisting on your list of dos and don'ts, you have forgotten the most important item on God's list: that we exhibit love. Jesus said, "By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (Jn 13:35 NKJV).

Our hearts can be in unity even when our minds don't agree. We can walk hand in hand, even when we don't see eye to eye. As theologians often say, "In essential things, unity. In all things, charity!"

Let's respect our differences Our hearts can be in unity even when our minds don't agree.

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How to forgive.

"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you." Eph 4:32 NKJV

In 1982, John Hinckley Jr. attempted to take the life of President Ronald Reagan by shooting him with a handgun. Reagan's daughter, Patti, later recounted what she learned from her father when he was in hospital: "My father said he knew his physical healing was directly dependent on his ability to forgive John Hinckley...It showed me that forgiveness is the key to everything...He gave me an example of Christ-like thinking."

Sometimes the wounds that others inflict on us are unintentional, and other times they are deliberate. But in both cases the Scriptures give us a clear standard concerning the wrongs we experience. You are to forgive those who hurt you, "even as God in Christ forgave you."

That's a high standard, but it's one that brings healing for our deepest wounds. Sometimes we dispense forgiveness like a soft drink from a vending machine— mechanically, and with no feelings attached. But the Bible says two attitudes should accompany forgiveness:

kindness, which is expressed in our actions, and
tenderheartedness, which is expressed in our attitudes.

Why? Because that's the way God forgives us. Throughout Scripture we find emotions or characteristics such as kindness, gentleness, compassion, and tenderness-in word or by action-ascribed to God. We also find examples of it in the lives of those God used to fulfill His plans and purposes.

Joseph was one of them, when he forgave his brothers who betrayed him. And He calls on us to do the same. This kind of forgiveness is as much an act of the heart as it is an act of the will.

How to forgive Forgive those who hurt you.Share This Devotional

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How to get what you want.

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Mt 6:33 NIV

The first step to getting what you want in life is knowing what you want. Jesus said, in essence, "The key to getting what you want out of life is to focus on what I want for your life." Note the words "seek first."

This word "seek" means

"to strive for diligently" or
"to desire strongly."

The action is continuous. It says,

"Keep on striving for,
keep on seeking,
keep on desiring daily."

When Jesus says,"Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness," it means you don't have to pray about what your top priority in life ought to be; everything you do will be ordered by those two things.

Where you work,
how you spend your time,
the person you marry,
how you manage your money,
the relationships you form,
the pastimes you enjoy,
the purchases you make—

all of these will be sifted and sorted through one filter: "Is this for His kingdom? Does it relate to His righteousness?" Can't you see how living this way would

transform your marriage,
your work,
your family,
your finances,
and every other area of your life?

But in order to pursue the priorities of the kingdom, you must first have a relationship with the King. You won't even know where the kingdom is, or what it looks like, until you know the King. And you can know Him. How? As you open the pages of His Word and open your heart, there He will reveal Himself to you. And as you spend time with Him in prayer, He will respond to you.

How to get what you want Keep striving-keep seeking-keep desiring daily.

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JAN. 14, 2025

Have you talked to God about it?.

"So the Lord spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend." Ex 33:11
NKJV

Moses had a special place where he met with God. It was called "the tabernacle of meeting" (v. 7 NKJV). What did they talk about? "Then Moses said to the Lord, 'See, You say to me, "Bring up this people." But You have not let me know whom You will send with me... Now therefore, I pray, if I have found grace in Your sight, show me now Your way, that I may know You and that I may find grace in Your sight...' And He said, 'My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest'" (vv. 12-14 NKJV). Note the three things Moses asked God about:

(1) "Let me know whom You will send with me." That was wise, because people either add to you or take from you, build you up or tear you down. You need to know who belongs in your life and who doesn't, and God is the only one who can tell you that.

(2) "Show me now Your way." God's will, done God's way, according to God's timetable, always brings success. But your will, done your way, according to your timetable, can bring you trouble and heartache.

(3) "That I may know You and that I may find grace in Your sight." Here the word

"grace" means "divine enablement." By yourself you are not equal to the challenge, but through the power of God's indwelling Spirit, you can accomplish great things. What God promised to Moses, He also promises to you: "My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest."

Have you talked to God about it? "My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest."

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JAN. 15, 2025

Know your purpose, know your partners

"As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." Jn 20:21 NIV

In order to identify God's will for your life, you must be clear about two things:

(1) Your purpose. Facing the cross, Jesus said, "For this cause came I into the world" (Jn 18:37). Your passion is that area of your life that fires you up.

It might be world hunger, or
neglected veterans, or education.
You see little kids growing up in under resourced school districts, and they're never going to have a chance to learn, and it just kills you.
Or unwed moms, or
the gospel being proclaimed unclearly.

Instead of finding your passion in the area of your opportunities and your skills, sometimes you will find it in the area of your hurts and scars. From people who struggle with addictions, to those who have spent time in prison, to those who contend with emotional disorders-there are so many areas. God won't waste a hurt.

(2) Your partners. Jesus called twelve disciples, then He dispatched them on a brief mission two at a time so they could go together. So along with your passions and strengths and scars, you need people in your life who will encourage you, applaud you, and take part in what you are doing. Paul spells out his passion: "The longing of my heart...is for the people of Israel to be saved" (Ro 10:1 NLT). Paul also knew his partners: "Every time I think of you, I give thanks...for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ" (Php 1:3, 5 NLT). So, the word for you today is-know your purpose, know your partners.

Know your purpose, know your partners God won't waste a hurt.

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JAN. 13, 2025

The link between disobedience and stress.

"Walk in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you." Jer 7:23 NKJV

A leading Christian psychologist says there is a direct correlation between the stress we experience and disobeying God's Word. Could that be true? Could there be a link between the stress you are feeling and the level of your obedience to God? Yes. Think about it. As a redeemed child of God, when you knowingly disobey Him, your conscience bothers you and you feel conflicted and condemned.

By knowingly violating His Word, you get uncomfortable in your own skin. Plus, when you need to pray and ask God for something, it can feel like you're addressing a creditor with your unpaid bills. "If our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God. And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight" (1Jn 3:21-22 NKJV).

Sometimes we cannot pinpoint the exact source of the stress we're feeling; it just feels like all is not well. What should you do? Stop and take inventory! The twelve-step program of recovery refers to this as "a searching and fearless moral inventory." It must be taken in order for a suffering alcoholic or addict to break free of what keeps driving them back to their habit. Would you like to de-stress? Read this Scripture prayerfully and carefully: "But this is what I commanded them, saying, 'Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be My people. And walk in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you'" (Jer 7:23 NKJV)

The link between disobedience and stress A searching and fearless moral inventory

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See yourself as valuable (2)

"You are precious to me. You are honored, and I love you." Isa 43:4 NLT

If you want to be a 10 but your self-esteem is a 5, you will never achieve at the level of a 10.

You will achieve a 5 or lower. Why? Because you cannot surpass the image you have of yourself. Low self-esteem puts a cap on your potential. So where does our low self-esteem come from? Other people. When the most important people in your life repeatedly tell you that they expect you to go nowhere and achieve nothing of worth, that's what you eventually start believing about yourself. And it's like downloading a virus into your computer; it destroys your God-given potential.

What's the answer? Instead of believing what others say about you, find out what God says about you. After all, who knows the value and potential of a product better than the manufacturer who made it? When God called Jeremiah to be a prophet to the nation of Israel, Jeremiah said, "I can't speak for you! I'm too young!" (Jer 1:6 NLT). Perhaps you can identify with Jeremiah:

"I'm too young, or too old,
or not the right nationality, or not educated enough, or not rich enough."

Note what God said to Jeremiah next: "Don't say, 'I'm too young,' for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. And don't be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you" (vv. 7-8 NLT). Changing your self-image begins with changing your self-talk. In order to see yourself as valuable, begin to see yourself as God sees you.

See yourself as valuable Low self-esteem puts a cap on your potential.

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See yourself as valuable (1)

"I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency." Php 4:13 AMPC

When God made the first man, He saw that his creation was "very good." That means every person that has ever been born, including you, has seeds of success within them. All you need to do is water them and feed them, and they will grow. So why do many people fail to reach their God-given potential in life?

One of the key reasons is low self-esteem; they don't believe in themselves.

They possess hundreds of possibilities, but they never nurture them because they have persuaded themselves that they're incapable of learning and growing into something amazing.

If you don't believe you're valuable and worth investing in, you will never spend the time and effort necessary to develop into what God made you to be. Zig Ziglar said, "It's impossible to consistently behave in a manner inconsistent with how we see ourselves. We can do very few things in a positive way if we feel negative about ourselves."

Paul was humble. He was aware of his total dependence on God. But He also had a healthy sense of self-worth. Here is what he wrote to those who believed in him and supported his ministry: "I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency]. But it was right and commendable and noble of you to contribute for my needs and to share my difficulties with me" (vv. 13-14 AMPC).

So, the word for you today is-see yourself as valuable, because God does. See yourself as valuable!

Overcoming low self-esteem

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JAN. 8, 2025

Just sow the seed

“We are only God's servants through whom you believed the Good News." 1Co 3:5 NLT

One day when Charles Colson was scheduled to preach to three hundred inmates at San Quentin prison, a lockdown was called and most of the prisoners were confined to their cells. To the few who were allowed to attend, Colson decided to go ahead and give the complete message he had prepared. Later when he expressed disappointment that the three hundred were unable to attend, he was told, "We videotaped your message and will be showing it numerous times to all twenty-two hundred prisoners."

What if Colson had given way to disappointment and just delivered a short devotional instead of the full evangelistic message he had prepared? More than two thousand prisoners would not have heard the gospel. An occasion may arise when you are the only person available to speak for God. Will you be faithful in such a moment? You are the most important person in the world to God when you are the one He has called to do something for Him. And the message is more important than the messenger.

Paul writes: "We are only God's servants through whom you believed the Good News. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us. I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. It's not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What's important is that God makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work" (vv. 5-8 NLT).

Just sow the seed

Will you be faithful?

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You are commanded to love.

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another." Jn 13:34 NKJV

Love is not an emotion, because you cannot command someone to feel a certain way.

Loving someone is a choice that manifests itself in your attitudes and actions toward that person. Jesus said, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (vv. 34-35 NKJV).

Jesus called this "a new commandment." What's new about it? These words: "as I have loved you." Since Christ lives in you, you can love others with His love. Jesus always put His disciples first-washing their feet, saving them from storms, patiently teaching them. He didn't look out for number one; He looked out for the twelve.

You say, "But how can I love someone I don't even like?" Jesus answers, "As I have loved you." C. S. Lewis tells of how he came to view others' faults differently: "There is someone I love, even though I don't approve of what he does. There is someone I accept, though some of his thoughts and actions revolt me. There is someone I forgive, though he hurts the people I love the most. That person is me...lf I can love myself without approving of all I do, I can also love others without approving of all they do." And what Jesus commands you to do, He empowers you to do: "The love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us" (Ro 5:5 NKJV).

You are commanded to love

"You are My disciples, if you have love for one another."

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Intimacy, dependency, obedience (2).

"The Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing." Jn 5:19 NIV

The second thing that defines Jesus' relationship with His Father is this: Dependency. Corrie ten Boom used to say, "I am just the glove, Jesus is the hand that fills it and works through it." That's a picture of Christ's relationship with His heavenly Father, and it's a blueprint for the kind of relationship you can have with God.

In the Bible you will notice two all-important things about Jesus:

(1) He never seemed to suffer from the fear of failing, like we so often do. Why? Because He prayed regularly and got direction from His Father. Knowing He was acting on the Father's Word and operating in the Father's will, He never doubted.

Until you have heard from God, you are a question mark.
But once you have heard from God, you are an exclamation mark.

(2) Jesus knew He couldn't accomplish anything of significance without His Father's direction and power, so He never attempted to. We, on the other hand, say we trust God but act like everything depends on us. And the result? We fall flat on our faces and keep wondering why. Every action of God in your life is intended to increase, not decrease, your dependence on Him.

Someone wisely said, "You'll never know that Christ is all you need until Christ is all you've got." To bring you to the place of total dependence on Himself, God will allow your ego to be crushed and your self-sufficiency to be stripped away. At that point you make a life-changing discovery: When you have nothing left but God-God is enough!

Intimacy, dependency, obedience When you have nothing left but God-God is enough!

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Intimacy, dependency, obedience (1).

"For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does." Jn 5:20 NIV

These three things define the relationship Jesus had with His Father, and they are a blueprint for the kind of relationship you need to build with God:

intimacy,
dependency,
obedience.

First: Let's look at intimacy. Jesus said, "For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does." You only reveal yourself, including your innermost thoughts and secrets, to someone with whom you are intimate. And when you become intimate with God, He will share with you things that others are not privy to. David's greatest passion was to know God intimately.

In Psalm 25:4 he writes: "Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths" (NIV). Then he follows up by saying, "The Lord confides in those who fear [honor] him" (v. 14 NIV).

Having an intimate relationship with God involves three things:

(a) Desire. The truth is that you are as close to God right now as you desire to be; otherwise, you would rearrange your priorities to make it happen.

(b) Discipline. This calls for spending time alone with God in prayer and Bible . reading each day. When you pray, you're talking to God. When you read the Bible, God is talking to you.

(c) Delight. "Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart" (Ps 37:4 NKJV).

Something wonderful happens when you

"delight yourself in the Lord." His desires become "the desires of your heart," so He can trust you with them. Do you want a more intimate relationship with the Lord? If you are willing to pursue it, you can have it.

Intimacy, dependency, obedience Know God intimately.

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Are YOU feeling unqualified?.

"I replied, 'The God of heaven will help us succeed. We, his servants, will start rebuilding this wall.'" Ne 2:20 NLT

With its walls torn down, Jerusalem was defenseless against her enemies. So, Nehemiah assembled a team to rebuild the walls. He had no training for this job. He wasn't an architect or a builder. Jerusalem was far away, and he had never been there. Any way you look at it, he was unqualified for the job.

That's a common denominator with many of the people God has used in a remarkable way.

Noah was a farmer, called to build a boat in the desert.
David was a shepherd, called to topple a Philistine champion.
Nehemiah was a cupbearer, called to rebuild Jerusalem's walls.

When it comes to doing God's will, God-ordained passions are considerably more important than any human ability we can contribute. In fact, God often uses us at our point of greatest inability. That way He receives all the credit.

But understand this: When God gives you a

"burden," or
a "passion," or
a "vision,"

you have a choice to make. Nehemiah already had a good job. Being the king's cupbearer was like being his right-hand man. He didn't simply enjoy job security, he enjoyed the perks and privileges of his position. He would have been comfortable staying right where he was. But if he had chosen to do that, he would have missed God's will, missed having a book named after him in the Bible, and you wouldn't be reading about him right now. Are you feeling unqualified?

When God calls you,
He equips you,
resources you,
guides you,
and guarantees your success.

Are YOU feeling unqualified? When God calls you, He equips you.

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"Lord, teach us to pray." Lk 11:1 NKJ

Demonstrating an uncommon level of honesty, a well-known pastor says: "Prayer is the biggest struggle I have... It's difficult to maintain a consistent prayer life, and especially difficult to sustain the conviction that it does any good at times." Prayer doesn't come naturally for the majority of us.

We know it's supposed to be a dialogue, but often it feels like a monologue. There is nothing worse than trying to talk with someone who won't talk back. We don't like to admit it, but often what we are really wondering about prayer is, "How can I pray so that God will give me what I want?" One little boy was asked if he said his prayers every night. He replied, "No, some nights I don't need anything." Prayer is not about the particular words you use or the length of time you spend praying. It's about getting acquainted. It's about building a relationship.

If you have something to talk to someone about, you may say, "We need to find somewhere we can talk." You want to make sure you're heard, and that you hear what the other person has to say. When you eliminate the noise of this world, you maximize your ability to hear God. It shows God you're taking your relationship with Him seriously. The psalmist said, "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty" (Ps 91:1 NKJV). Do you have a "secret place" where you can be alone with God? It can be anywhere. But you need a place where you can go and show you mean business with God.

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DEC. 3, 2024

Faithfulness.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." Mt 25:23 NKJV

Jesus begins the parable of the talents with these words: "For the kingdom of heaven is like" (v. 14 NKJV). And one of the strongest points He makes is the importance of being faithful. Whether God gives you five talents, two talents, or one talent, the thing that matters to Him is your faithfulness. "His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord'" (v. 21 NKJV).

You will notice that He did not say, "Well done, popular servant," or "brilliant servant," but

"faithful servant." Christ is talking about those who are often unnoticed but indispensable to His purposes. He is talking about those who blow no trumpets, wave no banners, and demand no applause. He is talking about those who show up day after day and use the talents God gives them, to do the job He has assigned to them. Unnoticed by men, but noticed and rewarded by God! "For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister" (Heb 6:10 NKJV).

These words describe those who shun the limelight and are happy to serve in the shadows. They describe those who not only start the race but run the race day after day, who don't stop until they reach the finish line. Others may not think that you make much of a difference, but God does. While others make much out of skill levels and success levels, God measures you by your faithfulness.

Faithfulness Unnoticed by men, but noticed by God

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You choose: your calling or your comfort.

"When they came to Harran, they settled there." Ge 11:31 NIV

The Bible says, "Terah took his son Abram... and together they set out from Ur of the Chaldeans to go to Canaan. But when they came to Harran, they settled there" (v. 31 NIV).

A Christian author writes: "Terah accompanied Abram for part of the journey to Canaan, but then he stopped...Terah and his family begin their story in Ur, the great center of wealth and education and the land of idols.

Then they continue on this road, which passes through the city of Harran and then down into Canaan…

For Terah, the father of Abram, the road ends in Harran. Now we know from other passages in the Bible that Harran was a city a lot like Ur. There was a lot of wealth there. There were idols there.What's going on? It may well be that... Terah thinks to himself, 'If I were to go any farther than this, I could lose everything I have. For sure, I would have to give up my idols. So he chooses comfort.

But Abram chooses to say yes to his calling." That's a choice you will have to make too. And you will have to make it more than once. As your circumstances change, and the seasons of your life progress, you will have to decide whether to walk with God into the unknown or settle for the security of what you know.

Terah settled;
Abram moved on.
What are you going to do?

You don't have to do anything to be worthy of God's love and grace; those are gifts. But to walk in God's blessing, you have to choose your calling over your comfort.

You choose: your calling or your comfort Walk with God—or settle.

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Understanding righteousness.

"But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed." Ro 3:21 NKJV

You will go to heaven because you trusted in Christ's righteousness, not your own. You say,

"But isn't doing the right things important?" Absolutely. Your reward in heaven will be predicated upon what you do for God here on earth. But your salvation depends on trusting in Christ's performance, not your own. Satan knows this, and he will try to drive you back to performance-based Christian living. And when you fail, as you assuredly will, he will condemn you and tell you that you don't measure up and, therefore, you are unworthy of God's love and acceptance. Notice what condemnation does:

(1) It robs you of confidence before God. You are unable to claim His promises because you feel unworthy. Thirty-one times in Scripture, it says that we are "in Christ." That's one for every day of the month. So, each day, remind yourself that you are "in Christ," and because He is worthy, you are accepted.

(2) It makes you irritable and unpleasant to be around. Addiction counselors describe this as being "squirrelly" or uneasy in your own skin. As a result, you begin to put out what you feel on the inside. What's the answer? Paul gives it to us: "Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight...But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed...even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe" (vv. 20-22 NKJV).

Bottom line:Righteousness is credited to your account through faith, not works. Today you are loved and accepted "in Christ."

Understanding righteousness Confidence before God

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NOV. 26, 2024

When God shows up.

"Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us... But if not..." Da 3:17-18 NKJV

When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego refused to bow before Nebuchadnezzar's ninety-foot golden god, he threatened them with a fiery furnace. Here is what they told him: "Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, 0 king. But if not...we do not serve your gods" (vv. 17-18 NKJV). When does God show up? When you say, "God is able to deliver me, but if not, I'm going to serve Him anyway." It's wonderful when God provides what we need. Yet, the faith that truly pleases God says, "But if not, I'm going to trust God anyway."

Peter writes: "There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold-though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world" (1Pe 1:6-7 NLT).

And one more thought: The Bible does not say that the three Hebrew children saw the fourth man who was with them in the fire; it says that Nebuchadnezzar did, and he described Him as "the Son of God" (Da 3:25 NKJV). So even when you don't know it, your faith, your life, and testimony are impacting those around you and bringing glory to God.

When God shows up "There is wonderful joy ahead."

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"Our sufficiency is from God." 2Co 3:5 NKJV

Gideon's army of thirty-two thousand men is enormously outnumbered by the Midianites when God tells him, "You have too many men." He instructs Gideon to release anyone who is afraid, and Gideon loses two-thirds of his army. Now he has only ten thousand men.

Again the Lord says, "There are still too many men," and reduces Gideon's army to three hundred men. At that moment, the odds had to be a million to one. And it even gets better!

God directs Gideon to attack the Midianites with trumpets and pitchers. Now for the real kicker: Israel wins! Why did God do it like that? Because if Gideon had attacked with thirty-two thousand men and won, the Israelites would have thought that God didn't provide much help, and God would have received limited credit. But God is worthy of more. God desires and deserves complete credit. And when three hundred men defeat a massive army with trumpets and pitchers,

God receives all the glory (See Jdg 7). Why? The reason is a victory like that overcomes all odds. Too frequently, our prayers revolve around requesting God to increase our odds of winning. We would like everything in our favor. But maybe God wants the odds to oppose us so we can encounter a miracle of divine proportions. Faith is trusting God no matter how hopeless the odds are. Our impossible circumstances are chances to experience a new height of God's glory. Are you facing a situation that, humanly speaking, is beyond your ability to cope with it? Read this: "Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God" (2Co 3:5 NKJV).

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NOV. 20, 2024

You will be rewarded for it.

"The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." Ro 8:18 NKJV

In 1857 David Livingstone gave this speech at Cambridge University: "People talk of the sacrifice I have made in spending so much of my life in Africa…..Away with the word in such a view and with such a thought! It is emphatically no sacrifice. Say rather it is a privilege. Anxiety, sickness, suffering, or danger now and then with a foregoing of the common conveniences and charities of this life may make us pause and cause the spirit to waver and the soul to sink; but let this only be for a moment. All these are nothing when compared with the glory which shall be revealed in and for us.

I never made a sacrifice." When you serve the Lord, you always get back more than you give up. And if you get back more than you give up, have you really sacrificed anything at all? "Then Peter began to say to Him, 'See, we have left all and followed You' So Jesus answered and said, 'Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My sake and the gospel's, who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time-houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions-and in the age to come, eternal life'" (Mk 10:28-30 NKJV).

The only regrets you will have at the end of your life will be that you didn't seek and serve God more and seek and serve Him sooner.

You will be rewarded for it Seek and serve God more.

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"His older son...was angry." Lk 15:25, 28 NKJV

The parable of the prodigal son is about two boys and their father's love for each. The younger one dishonored his father and ended up in a pigpen. When he returned home, he had lost everything—except his father's love.

So no matter who you are or what you have done-God loves you and wants you in His family. Jesus made an amazing statement: "When he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him" (v. 20 NKJV).

Ancient Hebrew culture thought running was an undignified act for older men. Men wore long flowing robes, and had to pull them up around their waist to run, exposing their undergarments. But the father didn't care about what people thought; he cared about his wayward son.

Unfortunately, his older brother didn't feel that way. Do you understand why a lot of younger brothers are still out in the pigpen and don't want to enter the church? Because they're afraid older brothers will hit them with the mean hand of judgment instead of touching them with the welcoming hand of love.

The older brother desires punishment, but the father provides pardon.
The older brother requires guilt, but the father gives grace.
The older brother wants revenge, but the father wants reconciliation.

Here is the good news: No matter how low you have fallen, know that as soon as you return, you will discover your heavenly Father facing you, extending open arms and a loving heart toward you.

Prodigal, come home! The welcoming hand of love

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There is no fear in love [dread does not exist], but full-grown (complete, perfect) love turns fear out of doors." 1Jn 4:18

AMPO

When you were young and said a bad word, your parents may have threatened to wash your mouth out with soap. Well, if fear is a dirty word, then faith in God's unconditional love for you is like soap! Too many put the cart before the horse. We believe that God accepts us based on the degree of our love for Him rather than on the degree of His love for us. The Bible says, "We love Him because He first loved us" (V. 19 NKJV). God's love for you is not based upon your performance but Christ's performance on your behalf. When you put your trust in Christ, God sees you "in Christ" (2Co 5:17) from that moment forward.

Do you want to know how God sees you at this moment and every other moment? "As He [Jesus] is, so are we in this world" (1Jn 4:17

NKJV). Does that mean you can disobey God and get away with it? Not a chance! "For whom the Lord loves He chastens... Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it" (Heb 12:6, 11 NKJV). But God's correction is not rejection!

It's proof of His unconditional, unlimited, unwavering, undeserved, and unearned love for you. God doesn't love you more on those days when you're victorious and less on those days when you're defeated. His love for you doesn't vary or vacillate. Knowing that truth will boost your faith and take your fear down a notch!

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"By his divine power, God has given us everything we need." 2Pe 1:3 NLT

Following God means finishing what He has called you to do. Not everyone who starts out well finishes well. Occasionally we're shocked and saddened to learn that a leader has been brought down by a moral or a financial problem. Paul writes, "Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you" (Col 4:14).

Later, he writes, "Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world" (2Ti 4:10).

There are three forces arrayed against you, and they never let up: the world, the flesh, and the devil. The world will try to pour you into its mold, your fleshly nature will try to drag you down, and the devil will use every trick in the book to defeat you. Paul was aware of these three forces when he said,

"My life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus" (Ac 20:24 NLT). So, make up your mind to complete the assignment God has given you and enjoy every minute of it. How can you finish strong? "By his divine power, God has given us everything we need forliving a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world's corruption caused by human desires. In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God's promises" (2Pe

1:3-5 NLT).

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"Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord." Eph

6:4 NIV

The story is told of a man in a supermarket pushing a cart with a screaming baby. He kept repeating softly, "Keep calm, George.

Everything's going to be okay, George." A lady watching with admiration said to the man,

"You are to be commended for your patience in trying to quiet little George." The man replied, "Lady, you've got it wrong; I'm George!" If you're a parent, you can relate.

Instead of saying, "Fathers, do not exasperate your children," doesn't it sometimes seem like the Scripture should read, "Children, don't annoy your fathers"? But it doesn't. That's because parents are called to be an example of God's love, and children learn best from observation. Shopping at the grocery store is an opportunity to show your children the proper way to behave. There is no greater role model for children than a parent. And there has never been a greater need for godly parents than today. Colossians 3:21 says, "Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged" (NKJV). That means being a model of patience and love to your children. From potty training to education-parents are put in place by God to be a tool that transforms the teachings of the Bible into a living witness to their children. In a time when we're paying a high price for the lack of real fathers in the home, Scripture reminds us, "The father shall make known Your truth to the children" (Isa 38:19 NKJV).

Father, commit yourself to following the Lord, and leaving footprints for your children to walk in.

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"Put on your new nature, created to be like God -truly righteous and holy." Eph

4:24 NLT

Dealing with crucifixion, Jesus prayed in the garden of Gethsemane. He felt intense emotions. "Being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground" (Lk

22:44 NKJV). So strong were these emotions that He prayed for the cup of crucifixion to pass. But that night, Jesus broke the domination of emotions by obedience to the will of His Father, saying, "Not My will, but Yours, be done" (V. 42 NKJV). Not only can emotions be ruled by obedience, but they will obey faith. Emotions will do what we, in faith, order them to do. David said, "Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name" (Ps 103:1). David ordered his soul, the center of his emotions, to bless the Lord.

He believed his soul and everything in him would do what he commanded. Feelings can be transformed from drama to blessing. Paul believed that negative emotions can be put off, and positive emotions can be put on. "Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God-truly righteous and holy" (Eph 4:22-24 NLT). Again he writes, "Let the peace of God rule in your hearts" (Col 3:15 NKJV). It is clear from the Scriptures that emotions can be governed, and the will can respond to God's power and faith rather than the drama of emotions.

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"By his divine power, God has given us everything we need." 2Pe 1:3 NLT

Following God means finishing what He has called you to do. Not everyone who starts out well finishes well. Occasionally we're shocked and saddened to learn that a leader has been brought down by a moral or a financial problem. Paul writes, "Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you" (Col 4:14).

Later, he writes, "Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world" (2Ti 4:10).

There are three forces arrayed against you, and they never let up: the world, the flesh, and the devil. The world will try to pour you into its mold, your fleshly nature will try to drag you down, and the devil will use every trick in the book to defeat you. Paul was aware of these three forces when he said,

"My life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus" (Ac 20:24 NLT). So, make up your mind to complete the assignment God has given you and enjoy every minute of it. How can you finish strong? "By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world's corruption caused by human desires. In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God's promises" (2Pe 1:3-5 NLT).

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"Put me together again with your Word."

Ps 119:107 MSG

When everything in the psalmist's life began falling apart, he prayed, "Put me together again with your Word." That's what your quiet time with God does. So, why don't we have a consistent quiet time with God? Two reasons:

(1) We think our quiet time must be a long time. Start small. Reserve five minutes to open your Bible and meditate on a brief portion of Scripture. Chat with God about it.

Tell your needs to Him and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you through the whole day. Good news! You have just experienced a quiet time!

So, tomorrow, repeat it. As your spiritual appetite grows, you will find yourself putting aside more time-ten minutes, then twenty, and that time will keep on growing. (2) We think our quiet time must be free of all noise!

Instead of avoiding hustle and bustle, Jesus wants to connect with you there. Begin to find creative ways to connect with the Lord all day long. Listen to worship music while you clean, and sing along. Pray in the Spirit. Learn memory verses. "Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord" (Col 3:23 NKJV).

Listen to the Bible while you drive-excellent apps are available. Pray while exercising-develop your faith muscle! Go for coffee with God-do your Bible study at a café. Go for a walk with Jesus-pray for others, and praise God for the outdoor beauty He created.

Welcome Him into your routines, and the mundane will turn into holy moments. Give the Holy Spirit your consent to interrupt, then do what He says. To put it another way do life with Jesus.

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"This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses." Heb 4:15 NLT

One of Satan's most successful strategies for keeping us away from our quiet time with God is reminding us of our sins and shortcomings.

That's a lie; don't believe it. In the Old Testament, the High Priest went into the Holiest of Holies to atone for the sins of the people. When he came back out, the people rejoiced, knowing that they were fully accepted by God. With that in mind, read this Scripture: "[Jesus] understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. 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" (vv. 15-16 NLT).

Another strategy that Satan will use to intimidate you and keep you away from your quiet time is to remind you that the greatest saints spent hours each day praying and studying the Scriptures. That's true, and one day you may become like them. Meanwhile, what should you do? Start small but begin! Pastor Greg Laurie sees spiritual hunger as the opposite of natural hunger: "When you're hungry in the natural, you eat and are satisfied. But with spiritual hunger, it isn't until you begin eating that you discover how hungry you really are!" So when you fail to keep your quiet time with God, you shouldn't feel guilty; you should feel hungry. When you "taste and see that the Lord is good" (Ps 34:8), you will want more and more time with Jesus--which is wonderful because He longs for time with you.

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"You're my place of quiet retreat; I wait for your Word to renew me." Ps 119:114
MSG

What's stopping you from having a regular quiet time with God? Maybe the very thought feels filled with "shoulds" and "ought tos"; like another item to add to the unending checklist of your life. So, you think, "Maybe later, when life slows down." We need to shed the myths and impractical expectations the Enemy uses to prevent us from experiencing the joy of knowing Jesus and being known by Him.

David wrote: "The one thing I ask of the Lord-the thing I seek most-is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord's perfections and meditating in his Temple. For he will conceal me there when troubles come; he will hide me in his sanctuary. He will place me out of reach on a high rock. Then I will hold my head high above my enemies who surround me...My heart has heard you say, 'Come and talk with me. And my heart responds, 'Lord, I am coming'" (Ps 27:4-6, 8 NLT).

When David wrote those words, there was no temple or "house of the Lord." So, what did he mean? That God is as close to you as a prayer; that you can seek the Lord, delight in the Lord, meditate on the Lord, and talk with the Lord anywhere and anytime. The words "you're my place of quiet retreat" mean you can withdraw from people, pressures, and problems and draw fresh strength from the Lord by communing with Him in your heart and mind. It can happen anywhere and anytime.

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"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep." Jn

10:11 NKJV

Jesus told of a shepherd with a hundred sheep. When one of them was lost, he left the other ninety-nine in the fold and searched until he found the one lost sheep. Then he put it on his shoulders and rejoiced as he brought it home. Good shepherds don't care about some of the flock, or most of the flock, but all of the flock. That becomes most evident when one sheep gets lost. The story is told of a little girl who wandered off into the woods and got lost. As darkness fell, fear clutched her heart. She shrieked and cried until, worn out, she laid down and went to sleep. Her father, his voice husky from shouting her name, had been looking for her for many hours when he found her lying in a grassy area. Crying out to her, he rushed to her side.

The little girl woke up, leapt into his arms, hugged him, and said, "Daddy, I'm so happy I found you!" That's our story. But we don't find Jesus; He finds us. And He finds us-because He is constantly looking for us. Jesus ended His parable in these words: "I tell you... there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent" (Lk 15:7 NIV). Every time one lost person is found, heaven celebrates. "You mean I matter that much to the Lord?" Yes. Just as the shepherd left ninety-nine sheep to search for the one that was lost, Jesus loves you and died to save you. So, come to Him today.

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"Which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?" Lk 10:36 NKJV

Jesus told the story of the Jewish traveler who was robbed, beaten, and left to die on the Jericho road. Two Jews, both in the ministry, walked past him without helping.

Then a Samaritan rescued him. No race of people was more hated by the Jewish people than the Samaritans. They were openly cursed in the synagogue and were barred from temple worship. What this Samaritan does is nothing less than incredible. He utilizes all his resources--personal clothing, oil, wine, his time, animal, money, and energy

-to attend to this Jewish man in the best way possible. Then he risks his life by taking the wounded man to lodging in a Jewish area. On top of it all, he pays the innkeeper for the man's food and room for many days and promises to return and pay for anything more the man owes. This was crucial because anyone who could not pay their bill could be sold as a slave by the innkeepers so that they could receive full payment for a debt. Jesus ends His story in these words: "Which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?" No law will ever cause you to be a good neighbor, but the love of Christ will. You see, a neighbor is not identified by color or creed; a neighbor is identified by the nearest need. So, here is a prayer for you to pray: "Lord, give me the courage to recognize and help a neighbor in need." That's a prayer He will answer!

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"I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness." Jn 12:46 NKJV

John Ortberg writes: "In 1780 a Jesus-follower in Great Britain named Robert Raikes could not stand the cycle of poverty and ignorance that was destroying little children, a whole generation. He said, 'The world marches forward on the feet of little children.

So he took children who had to work six days a week in squalor. Sunday was their free day.

He said, 'I'm going to start a school for free to teach them to read and write and learn about God! He did, and he called it Sunday school.

Within fifty years, there were 1.5 million children being taught by 160,000 volunteer teachers who had a vision for the education of a generation. Sunday school was not a privatized, optional program for church kids.

It was one of the great educational volunteer triumphs of the world. The alphabet of the Slavic peoples is called Cyrillic. It was named for Saint Cyril, who was a missionary to the Slavs and discovered they had no written alphabet. Thus he created one for them so they would be able to read about Jesus in their own language...A Methodist missionary,

Frank Laubach, cited an extraordinary encounter with God about a century ago that put him on a mission to lift the world out of ignorance. He began a worldwide literacy movement. The phrase 'Each one teach one' flows out of the extraordinary life of this man.

He travelled to more than a hundred countries and led to the development of primers in 313 languages. He became known as 'the apostle to the illiterates.'"

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"The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light." Mt 4:16 NKJV

First and most importantly, Jesus brought the light of salvation to all mankind. But one of the enduring benefits of His kingdom is His impact on learning and education. The word university began with those who believed that God created the universe; therefore, His ways must be studied and known. Martin Luther highlighted from the New Testament the priesthood of all believers. In the process, he changed education because he taught that every person needs to be capable of reading and writing so they can study the Scriptures for themselves. This ushered in a goal of worldwide literacy for everyone in a society. In America, the first law to call for mass universal education was announced in Massachusetts in 1647. It was named, believe it or not, "The Old Deluder Satan Act." Its wording goes: "It being one chief product of that Old Deluder Satan, to keep men from the knowledge of the Scriptures...and to the end that learning may not be buried in the graves of our forefathers." This is a lovely idea that everybody should learn: that ignorance is the devil's tool, and that God is the God of truth.

In nation after nation, Christian missionaries discovered languages that had not been written. So in acts of extraordinary sacrifice, they dedicated their lives to the chore. They assembled the first dictionaries. They penned the first grammars. They formed the first alphabets. And the first significant proper name written in numerous languages was the name Jesus.

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"You are precious to me." Isa 43:4 NLT

Guess who said, "You are precious to me?" God. So don't let anybody tell you otherwise.

Why is this important? Because

understanding who you are as a person and genuinely believing that you merit love and attention from another person is essential to your self-worth. The capability to convey that successfully and in a considerate manner is essential for any healthy, mutually satisfying relationship. A sense of self-worth is not arrogance. It helps you to set boundaries and guarantees that no matter who you meet, those boundaries will never be compromised.

Often when we feel used in relationships, it's because we have permitted those boundaries to be crossed. Or worse, we have never thought about where the boundaries should be. The way to prevent this situation is to be clear about who you are and what you are willing to do in a relationship. Disregarding the truth about another person, or yourself, may be okay temporarily, but over time, it usually leads to disaster. With a solid foundation of knowing who you are and what you represent, you will possess the bravery to ask the right questions and discern the answers. You will acquire information and evidence that help you realize who a person really is and if they fit into your life. You will be truthful with yourself and others about who you are, your needs, and the way you want to live your life. Outside your relationship with God, there is no other more important relationship than the one you have with yourself. God says, "You are precious to me."

Believe it, and live accordingly.

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"We walk by faith, not by sight." 2Co 5:7

NKJV

Impalas are one of the most powerful animals in Africa. They can leap to a height of more than ten feet and cover more than thirty feet in one jump. Yet the impala can be kept in an enclosure with a fence that's no more than three feet high. Why? Because it won't jump unless it can see where its feet will land. In a sense, impalas walk by sight, not faith. What does it mean to "walk"? To put one foot in front of the other and keep moving forward a step at a time. What does it mean to have

"faith"? To trust the Lord, obeying His Word regardless of how things look or feel to you.

Now, faith doesn't do away with intelligent thought and reason. But there is a difference.

When intelligent thought and reason won't take you another step, faith keeps right on going. Why? Because intelligent thought and reason hold the hand of man and go only as far as he can travel, whereas faith holds the hand of God, the God who makes a way where there seems to be no way. That was Abraham's story: "[Urged on] by faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed and went forth to a place which he was destined to receive as an inheritance; and he went, although he did not know or trouble his mind about where he was to go" (Heb 11:8 AMPC).

Are you anxious about the future? Don't be; just take the next step of faith, and you will be one step closer to the blessings and rewards that God has in mind for you.

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"A great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries." 1Co

16:9 NKJV

The New Living Translation states Paul's words this way: "There is a wide-open door for a great work here, although many oppose me." In doing the will of God, you should anticipate opposition from those who are not privy to what God has shared with you or instructed you to do. Indeed, if you are accepted and applauded wherever you go, you should reexamine either the assignment you believe God has given you or the way in which you are carrying it out. You say, "But didn't Jesus say that His yoke was 'easy'?" Yes, and He was talking about a comfortable-fitting yoke around the neck of a hardworking ox that plowed from morning until night. The work was hard, but the yoke was comfortable.

That means when God calls you to do something difficult, He will provide you with the grace and resources to do it. You say,

"But Satan is attacking me." Attack is a sign of respect; it means you represent a threat to the kingdom of darkness. And as you get closer to your God-given goal, expect Satan's attack to intensify. But there is good news.

The intensity of the attack is an indicator of the blessing God has for you on the other side of the attack. And one more thought. Your greatest rewards will not come in this life but in the life to come. And that's good because they won't just be temporal, they will be eternal. The hymnist wrote: "To him that overcometh a crown of life shall be; He with the King of glory shall reign eternally."

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"I have set before you an open door." Rev

3:8 NKJV

In seeking to know God's will, there are two things you should never do. First, when the door is closed, get impatient and force it open. Second, create your own door. To succeed in what God has called you to do, follow the "open door policy." The Bible describes it this way: "To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: "These things says He who is holy, He who is true, 'He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens': "I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name'" (vv. 7-8 NKJV).

Who does God open doors for? (1) People who "have a little strength." So, your mistakes don't disqualify you, as long as you're willing to learn from them. And your inadequacies don't limit God if you allow them to make you more dependent on Him. (2)

People who "have kept My word." The people

God opens doors for are governed by this guiding principle: "Whatever God's Word says about it, that's what I'm going to think, believe, and do." If it's not on God's blueprint, don't build it. If it's not in God's recipe book, don't mix it in. (3) People who "have not denied My name." Regardless of rejection or ridicule, these people speak boldly about the things they value most in life, including their relationship with Jesus. If you want God to open doors for you, live by these principles each day.

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"Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." 1C0 11:1 NIV

Your mentor should not only demonstrate professional excellence and possess skills from which you can learn, but must also be someone who displays character qualities worth imitating. Bernie Madoff was one of the most admired and sought-after brokers on Wall Street. That is, until he ended up in prison for perpetrating a multibillion dollar Ponzi scheme that devastated the lives of individuals, companies, and even governments. Numerous actors, athletes, political leaders, and business executives today attempt to deny their position as role models when people are already following them and imitating their conduct. They would like people to distinguish between their personal behavior and their professional life, but such separation cannot really be made.

As you search for role models and mentors, examine their personal lives as thoroughly as their public performance. Your values will be shaped by theirs, so don't be casual or careless about whom you decide to follow. Paul writes, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." You must be sure that the person in whose footsteps you are following is following in the footsteps of Christ. Why is this so important? Because there will be an audit! Whatever you have spent your life building will be evaluated at the judgment seat of Christ, and you will be rewarded accordingly. "Each one's work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one's work, of what sort it is. If anyone's work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. If anyone's work is burned, he will suffer loss" (1Co 3:13-

15 NKJV).

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"This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." Ps 118:24 NKJV

One author writes: "One of the strategies I employ is to block enough time so that l'm not thinking of what I have to do next. I find it best to wait until I can invest more than a few minutes in being with someone so that the person is not frustrated with my divided attention and tight schedule." If you keep robbing your loved ones of time, there may come a day when they have no time for you.

Ask yourself, "Is this person worth more to me than the plan, project, problem, or pressure I'm dealing with?" Learn to enjoy the moment and focus on the person you're with.

Ask open-ended questions that encourage them to answer with more than a yes or no.

Listen carefully and ask additional questions.

This helps people feel you are engaging with them and caring about their replies. Yes, your thoughts may flit into the future for a few seconds, but instantly push them back into the present by rejecting those concerns. You can attend to them later. Concentrate, concentrate, concentrate. There is great pleasure in doing this after you get used to it.

The poet wrote, "I wished to live deliberately...and not, when I came to die, discover I had not lived." To make sure that doesn't happen to you, heed Solomon's words: "People should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God" (Ecc 3:13 NLT). If you have to do with less in order to enjoy the people you love more, do it; you will never regret it!

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"Jesus said to them, 'I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger."" Jn 6:35 NKJV

After World War II, Europe was devastated with hungry, homeless children who had been orphaned by the battles. They were put in large camps where they were given food and care. Yet they didn't sleep well at night; they were nervous, fearful, and fidgety. The caregivers were baffled until a psychologist taught them to offer each child a piece of bread every night, not to eat, but to hold in bed. The outcome was astonishing. The children slept through the night because they realized they wouldn't go hungry the next day.

Clutching the bread gave them a sense of protection (they were safe), importance (somebody cared about them), and happiness (there will be more bread tomorrow). Those three things were what those children needed

-and they are what you need too. And all three can be found in a relationship with Jesus. When He said, "I am the bread of life.

He who comes to Me shall never hunger," He was saying, "I am to your soul what food is to your

body." Bread is one thing most of us have in common. It doesn't belong only to a particular region or nation. It's available in all shapes and sizes. In the UK, it may be scones; in South America, tortillas; in New York, bagels; and in Ethiopia, injera. In a simple statement, Jesus reminds us that He is our nourishment, everywhere, every time. So, be sure to read your Bible every day; it's your daily bread.

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"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Php 4:13 NKJV

Self-help books sometimes claim you can change your life in five or ten simple steps. It takes a lot more than that to make substantial and lasting changes in your life. First, change comes by drawing on a power greater than your own -God's power. Paul writes: "I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound.

Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (vv. 12-

13 NKJV). Second, change comes from steady and determined hard work and effort.

"Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart" (Gal 6:9 NKJV). The key is to understand that a bad day does not make you a failure; it doesn't last, it's just a bad day.

After you have had one, and all of us have, you just start back on track the following day.

Don't quit. Life is a sequence of ups and downs, stops and starts. Tomorrow is a brand-new day. What's necessary now is to revive your promise to make changes in your life and start from the place you left off. If you need to, seek God's forgiveness, forgive yourself, and begin walking forward again.

Make your goal your focus, not the fact that you fell off the wagon. Don't get caught up blaming others or yourself. Let it go and move on. Realize that the next time you come up against a difficult situation-and you will-in God's strength, you will handle it better.

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"He who finds a wife or a husband finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord." Pr 18:22 NKJV

Perhaps you have heard the joke about the lady who told her friend, "I didn't know what real happiness was until I married my husband, and now it's too late." Seriously, that doesn't have to be your story. Through God's wisdom, love, and grace, you can rebuild your marriage. To do it, you will need to learn the art of openness and allow yourself to be vulnerable, transparent, and ready to trust again. The only path to truly connect with someone is to genuinely allow that person to fully know you your worries, struggles, lack of confidence, hopes, and dreams. It is natural, especially after you have experienced hurt or rejection, to want to shield yourself and your heart from more pain.

Doing this makes complete sense in other parts of your life, but in marriage, shutting down your soul to your spouse will definitely result in further pain. Like property increasing in value over time, your marriage builds equity over the vears. Like methodical investments over the years. Like methodical investments into a savings account, modest deposits add up. Your shared experiences, such as the day when your child drove off to college, the company the two of you sacrificed and saved to start, the death of your parent after a lengthy battle with cancer, the birth of your children, or a surprise weeklong trip to celebrate your birthday-it all counts. These experiences come together as a beautiful canvas of intimacy that portrays your lives together. They also bring God's blessing. "He who finds a wife [or husband] finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord."

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"Husbands…be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect." 1Pe 3:7 NIV

Because something is said doesn't necessarily mean it's heard. At least, not in the way you think it is. The apostle Peter uses the words "considerate" and "respect." Both are essential to the art of listening, which is essential to a good marriage. Unless you're willing to consider what your spouse is saying and respect their thoughts and feelings, you're headed for trouble. The reason many couples come to a point where they are contemplating divorce is that instead of having conversations, their interactions disintegrate into sermons and monologues.

Counseling can help you learn how the other person expresses themselves. When you are focused on being right and getting "one-up," there is no room for solutions to emerge. The key is to try and listen with an open heart rather than a closed mind; learning to be vulnerable and soft in order to come to the place of understanding, where negotiation can take place. Some couples write letters to express their feelings as they navigate their way back to better and deeper

communication. Just as an artist waits for the perfect light to capture a subject on canvas, couples must learn the art of waiting to help reset their relationship back on course. This requires patience and dedication that are not always easy but very necessary. God's timing offers us deeper healing than anything we can construct on our own. If you are considering divorce, be sure that you have exhausted every other option first. No matter how bad things may be between you, with God's help, you can rebuild your marriage.

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"Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." Mt 6:12 NKJV

Other translations say to forgive others'

"trespasses." To trespass means to go where you're not supposed to and do what you're not supposed to. Infidelity, dishonesty, and other wrong things are among the trespasses we may experience. Without the ability to practice forgiveness, even for the little things, it's hard to offer or receive the grace of forgiveness. To forgive means to admit to ourselves that our partner is not perfect, and neither are we. To fail to forgive is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. Forgiveness not only releases your spouse from your anger and hurt, but it also lets you out of its grasp as well. It's impossible to stay married without learning to practice forgiveness. We need it not only for each other but to have a relationship with God, since God is in us and in our union. If the barrier between you and your marriage partner seems as big as a mountain, then pray, believing you serve a mountain-moving God. Jesus said: "Assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea, and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses" (Mk 11:23-26 NKJV).

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"Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding." Pr 3:13

NIV

The wise old adage goes, "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime." Sometimes what people need more than your money is your wisdom. By taking the time to share with them the insights and wisdom you have learned through your life's experiences, you're investing in their future. What a gift!

But that means you must never stop learning.

Sometimes we stop learning because we become complacent. We believe we have grown enough, or we want only to make the most of what we already have in terms of skill and knowledge. That's when we start to plateau and then decline. We lose our innovative spirit. We begin to think about being efficient instead of breaking new ground. We cut costs instead of investing in growth. Our vision becomes very limited. And instead of playing to win, we start playing not to lose. We all love doing what we're good at, but being good at something requires us to keep our skills sharp. Less skill leads to less enthusiasm and eventually to discontent. If we reach this stage, we start looking behind us because that's where our best days are.

We think about the good old days, the glory days. At that point, we're only a few short steps from obsolescence. Nobody wants to learn from a has-been. If you want to give until you have given all you have, you must keep growing until you can grow no more.

"Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding."

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"I pray that the faith you share will make you understand every blessing we have in Christ." Phm 1:6 ERV

If you're struggling with self-worth, the answer is knowing what you have and who you are "in Christ." Paul writes, "I pray that... you understand every blessing we have in Christ." Here are some practical steps you can take to increase your sense of confidence and self-worth: (1) Don't speak negatively about yourself. Instead of focusing on your weaknesses and flaws, start acknowledging and verbalizing every good thing you "have in Christ." Peter writes: "By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him...he has given us great and precious promises. These. promises... enable you to share his divine nature" (2Pe

1:3-4 NLT). (2) Avoid comparing yourself to others. One day Peter pointed to John and asked, "Lord, what about him?" (Jn 21:21

NIV). Jesus corrected him by saying, "What is that to you? You must follow me" (v. 22 NIV).

Instead of comparing yourself with others, work on being conformed to the character qualities of Christ. (3) Let God determine your worth. As His redeemed child, God sees you clothed in the righteousness of Christ;

therefore, you are always loved and accepted by Him (See 2Co 5:21). (4) Keep your flaws in perspective. It's okay to see where you need to improve, but make sure you appreciate your progress. (5) Discover the true source of confidence. If you place your confidence in God, you can't help but have a healthy attitude. So, do your best and leave the results to Him.

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"Get out of your country, from your family and from your father's house, to a land that I will show you. Ge 12:1 NKJV

The two parts to God's "go" are going from and going to. Ur, Abram's home, was considered the place to be. Setting out for ancient Mesopotamia, all the trading wealth from around the Mediterranean had to travel through Ur. It was a place of immense affluence, trade, education, and technology.

One author writes, "The first written legal code that began civilization was there in Ur." So, it would have been a hard place to leave-especially if you were going to Canaan.

Canaan was unsophisticated, unrefined, and underdeveloped. No one who had enough money to live in Ur, the great center of civilization, would move to Canaan. Here is the point: You must trust God with your future when the path He has called you to take doesn't look like the obvious one. But if you're willing to go, you will discover that God has blessings in mind you never dreamed of. He told Abram, "I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed" (vv. 2-3 NKJV). The reward God gives you will always be greater than any sacrifice He calls you to make. Has God called you to go, but you want to stay? Is He telling you to stay, but you want to go? Here is the score: If you obey God, you will never regret it. And that's a guarantee!

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"God led the people around by the desert road." Ex 13:18 NIV

The Bible says, "When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, 'If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt. So God led the people around by the desert road" (vv. 17-18 NIV). There is a lesson here for you. God knows where you are on your spiritual journey, and He is directing you accordingly, even when it seems like a roundabout way. "The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives" (Ps 37:23 NLT). The shortest route from Egypt to the promised land was through enemy territory, and God knew His people were not ready for battle. "God said, 'If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt. So God led the people around by the desert road." Getting God's people out of Egypt proved to be the easy part; getting Egypt out of God's people proved to be the hard part. After forty generations of depending on Pharaoh, they needed to know God, learn His ways, and trust Him. So, He arranged their journey accordingly. Are you having a wilderness experience at the moment? Be encouraged.

The fulfillment of what God promised you may be taking longer than you thought, but it's not time wasted. And God is not punishing you;

He is training you for your destiny. What should you do? (1) Spend time with Him in prayer and His Word. (2) Lean less on yourself and more on God. (3) Draw on His grace and follow His guidance.

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"I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me." Ac 27:25 NIV

Third, anchored by God's promises. The third anchor that gives us confidence in a crisis is found in Paul's words, "I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me." If you have ever been betrayed by an unfaithful spouse, you may have lost trust in marriage. If you were a victim of the subprime mortgage crisis, you may have lost your home and your trust in bankers. If you voted for someone you believed had integrity only to discover they were in the pocket of special interest groups, you may have lost your trust in government.

But never ever lose trust in the promises of God! Look in the face of your storm today and sing the words of this famous hymn by Russell Carter: "Standing on the promises that cannot fail, when the howling winds of doubt and fear assail, by the living Word of God, I shall prevail, standing on the promises of God." You may lose your cargo, you may lose your ship, you may even go overboard-but you're going to prevail because of God's promises to you. As the old saying goes, "God said it, I believe it, and that settles it!" If you're in crisis today, here are some Bible promises you can stand on: "The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms" (Dt 33:27 NIV). "You have given me your shield of victory. Your right hand supports me; your help has made me great" (Ps 18:35 NLT). "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you" (Isa 46:4 NIV).

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"I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it." Mt 16:18 NIV

Gates are defensive devices, and storming those gates requires offensive measures.

Think of the church as a battering ram.

Instead of complaining about the culture, we need to present better options. We must produce higher-caliber movies and compose more extraordinary music, write more notable books, and start superior schools and form better businesses. The old aphorism indicates we should stop cursing the darkness and start lighting some candles. In Roaring Lambs, Robert Briner writes: "Why not believe that one day the most critically acclaimed director in Hollywood could be an active Christian layman in his church? Why not hope that the Pulitzer Prize for investigative reporting could go to a Christian journalist on staff at a major daily newspaper? Is it really too much of a stretch to think that a major exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art could feature the works of an artist on staff at one of our fine Christian colleges? Am I out of my mind to suggest that your son or daughter could be the principle dancer for the Joffrey Ballet Company, leading a weekly Bible study for other dancers in what was once considered a profession that was morally bankrupt?" Paul didn't criticize the philosophers on Mars Hill and tell them they were going to hell. Pointing to their altar to the unknown God, he indicated, "I've come to tell you who He is, and His name is Jesus." What was the result? "Some mocked, while others said, 'We will hear you again on this matter'" (Ac 17:32 NKJV).

Go ahead; take a faith-based risk and see what happens.

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"In My name they will...lay hands on the sick, and they will recover." Mk 16:17-18

NKJV

Here is an often overlooked part of the Great Commission Jesus gave us: "In My name they will….. lay hands on the sick, and they will recover." Research has revealed that touch has the power to fight viruses, reduce stress, enhance sleep, and assist us in recovering more quickly from injury. One study found that a thirty-minute massage three times a week lowers stress by 34 percent. The power of touch, even on a human level, is an astonishing thing. But when you add the power of God, it opens the way for something supernatural. "And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him" (Ac 28:8 NKJV). Laying hands on the sick or on those called to ministry was a regular practice in the New Testament church. And you don't have to be an ordained minister to do it. Jesus said, "These signs will follow those who believe" (Mk 16:17 NKJV). If you are a believer who has placed your trust in Christ, you're qualified. Could God do it without us? Of course. But He has given us the privilege of being conduits for His power.

By laying hands on someone, you do two things: You identify, and you impart. Who knows how many miraculous moments we have sacrificed because we haven't acted in a bold biblical way by praying for someone who is sick, commissioning someone who is called, or encouraging someone who simply needs a hand on their shoulder.

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"The goodness of God leads you to repentance." Ro 2:4 NKJV

Do you remember the woman who took an alabaster box of fragrant oil and anointed

Jesus with it? The Bible says: "Now when the Pharisee who had invited Him saw this, he spoke to himself, saying, 'This Man, if He were a prophet, would know who and what manner of woman this is who is touching Him, for she is a sinner'" (Lk 7:39 NKJV). Man-made religion condemned this woman because of her past, but Jesus cleansed her and made her whole. "Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little" (v. 47 NKJV). Jesus knew what this woman had done, but He also knew what she could become when His grace touched her life. The more you realize that you have been forgiven much, actually, of all your sins, the more you will love the Lord.

God's forgiveness does not lead to a sinful lifestyle; it leads to a life of glorifying the Lord Jesus. "The goodness of God leads you to repentance." The word "repentance" means to turn around and do the opposite.

Condemnation does not produce righteous living, but the knowledge of God's grace and goodness toward us does. Simon the Pharisee thought that his acceptance by God was based on his performance; hence he became self-righteous. But Jesus set him straight: "To whom little is forgiven, the same loves little." When you realize how much and how often God has forgiven you, you fall in love with Him and desire to please Him in all you do.

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He is able to aid those who are tempted."

Heb 2:18 NKJV

If you are serious about overcoming temptation, here are five things you must do:

(1) Think about the choices you are making, and the consequences, before you make them. Wisdom always looks ahead. (2)

Believe that you can resist temptation-because you can. "You are of God...and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world" (1Jn 4:4 NKJV). (3) Recall how you felt when you gave in to temptation before. Guilt, condemnation, shame. These are some of Satan's favorite weapons. When you give in to them, it's hard to get back on your feet again. (4) Don't put yourself in situations where you can easily fall. If you struggle with managing your money, don't go to the mall or shop online when you can't afford to buy anything. If you struggle with pornography, remove the source of it from your life. (5) Celebrate each victory, but be sure to give God the credit for it. You will never graduate from being tempted. It's easy to think you're beyond

stumbling, and once that happens, you make yourself an easy target for the Enemy. God wants you to trust Him for victory in every area of your life. Sheep are defenseless animals; they have no fighting skills. When they stray from the fold, they are quickly devoured by the wolf. So, they have learned that their safety and protection lie in staying close to the shepherd. And the same goes for you. Here is a promise you can stand on today: "The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations" (2Pe 2:9 NKJV).

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"My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge." Hos 4:6 NKJV

Failing to unlearn irrational fears and misconceptions keeps us from becoming who

God wants us to be. The invalid man in John 5 is a great example of this. He had been crippled for thirty-eight years when Jesus asked if he would like to get well. However, the man believed there was only one way to be healed: "I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me" (Jn 5:7 NKJV). This man assumed something that may have cost him thirty-eight years! He thought, that in order to be healed, he had to be the first person into the pool of Bethesda when an angel stirred the water. In a sense, he was imprisoned by that thought. But Jesus uninstalled that inaccurate belief with one sentence: "Take up your bed and walk" (v. 11 NKJV). Jesus set this man free physically, and He set him free cognitively. Faith is unlearning the senseless worries and misguided beliefs that keep us captive. And that's what we do while we study Scripture. We literally upgrade our minds by a download of the mind of Christ (See 1Co 2:16). Unlearning something is twice as hard as learning it. Why? Because every mile you go in the wrong direction is really a two-mile error as you have to double back to get to where you need to be. Getting old thoughts out of your mind is harder than getting new thoughts into it. But it's worth it.

So, take time each day to renew your mind with God's Word.

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"My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest." Ex 33:14 NKJV

When you sense God's presence and know He is with you, you can handle whatever life brings. Try to imagine the assignment Moses had-liberating two million people from the grip of slavery; leading them through a wilderness where they were exposed to enemies and elements such as extreme heat and cold; feeding them, clothing them, settling their disputes, and keeping them moving toward their destiny. Here is what Moses prayed: "If Your Presence does not go with us, do not bring us" (V. 15 NKJV). Moses preferred to go nowhere with God than anywhere without Him. When his affair with Bathsheba was exposed, David didn't pray,

"Don't take my crown from me, or my kingdom, or my army." No, he knew what mattered most: "Do not take Your Holy Spirit from me" (Ps 51:11 NKJV). In order to grow spiritually, you must develop an increasing awareness of God's presence in your life. How do you do that? Instead of being a rock, become a sponge. When you place a rock in the ocean, its surface gets wet but its core remains hard and dry. But when you place a sponge in the ocean, the water alters the very essence of its being. Slow down and sense God's presence. Begin by reading this Scripture, writing it down, repeating it over and over, and opening every pore of your soul to God's presence: "The Lord your God is with you; his power gives you victory. The Lord will take delight in you, and in his love he will give you new life. He will sing and be joyful over you." (Zep 3:17 GNT).

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"If you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven?" Lk 16:11 NLT

Did you know that God's willingness to bless you with more money depends on how well you handle what He has already given you?

When it comes to money, here are some Bible principles you must live by: (1) Pay God His 10 percent first so you won't feel ashamed of not doing so (See Mal 3:10). (2) Pray before you buy. Ask yourself, "Do I need this or just want it?" (3) Keep mindful of the amount of expenditures versus your income. (4) Be in agreement with your husband or wife regarding the household budget and your short- and long-term goals. And don't hide or misconstrue information about your finances.

(5) Commit to excellence at work-without overdoing your hours. (6) Pay off all your debt (excluding real estate). Hold on to one credit card for identification reasons. (7) Save monthly (a minimum of 10 percent of your gross pay if you are out of debt). (8) Don't cosign a loan for anyone, and don't lend anyone money you can't afford to lose. (9) Pay cash for all your "desires" instead of charging them. (10) Assign funds in your budget for fun and vacations. (11) When you get a raise, don't adapt your lifestyle to consume all of it. Train yourself to live beneath your means. (12) Set up an emergency cash supply of at least two months' living expenses (six would be outstanding). (13) Be satisfied with what you have. "Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless" (Ecc 5:10 NIV).

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"God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able."

1C0 10:13 NKJV

The Amplified Bible, Classic Edition says:

"Therefore let anyone who thinks he stands [who feels sure that he has a steadfast mind and is standing firm], take heed lest he fall [into sin]. For no temptation (no trial regarded as enticing to sin), [no matter how it comes or where it leads] has overtaken you and laid hold on you that is not common to man [that is, no temptation or trial has come to you that is beyond human resistance and that is not adjusted and adapted and belonging to human experience, and such as man can bear]. But God is faithful [to His Word and to His compassionate nature], and He [can be trusted] not to let you be tempted and tried and assayed beyond your ability and strength of resistance and power to endure, but with the temptation He will [always] also provide the way out (the means of escape to a landing place), that you may be capable and strong and powerful to bear up under it patiently" (1Co 10:12-13 AMPC). The words "means of escape" do not promise you exemption from temptation. Satan, who is called "the tempter," never lets up or takes a day off. But God's goal is to make you strong where you have been weak, so His promise to you is

"that you may be capable and strong and powerful to bear up under it patiently." Keep going! As you become stronger in the Lord, the temptations you are battling will become progressively weaker until they lose their appeal and you begin to walk in victory.

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"He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us." Eph 2:10 NLT

What kind of work environment brings out the best in you?
Do you thrive on routine? Are you motivated by people's needs?
Do you enjoy tackling challenges that might discourage others?
How about your relationships?
Do you enjoy being part of a team, or do you work better alone?
If you only come to life when you're around people, you will probably be miserable sitting in front of a computer all day. What are your strengths?
God said of Bezalel the artisan, "I have filled him with.. wisdom…..He is a master craftsman, expert in working with gold, silver, and bronze...skilled in engraving...mounting gemstones...carving wood" (Ex 31:3-5 NLT).

What makes your eyes sparkle and your pulse race? Do you enjoy working with computers, cars, or animals? Maybe you're an adept people manager, or you like fixing things, or you're good with finances. The Bible says, "We are God's masterpiece…created…anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago." God has a purpose for your life, and you will experience your highest levels of happiness and fulfillment when you discover and begin to fulfill that purpose. You're not just another brick in the wall or another nail in the carpenter's toolbox! God "personally formed and made you" (See Isa 43:7 MSG). You're the only "you" He created, and if you fail to be who you are, His kingdom won't benefit from your unique contribution. That's why Paul wrote, "Don't compare yourself...take responsibility for doing the…best you can with your...life" (Gal 6:4-5 MSG).

That's the secret of happiness.

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"Our sufficiency is of God." 2Co 3:5

The fear of inadequacy is a state of mind in which you think your best is not good enough.

Usually, it originated in childhood when our parents, teachers, and others we considered important, failed to appreciate and affirm us or compared us negatively to someone else.

You will see it from Moses, who felt inadequate to be the spokesman and liberator for the Israelites, or athletes who exert themselves to attain physical and professional perfection. No statistics can measure the number of abandoned dreams due to this paralyzing emotion. To rid yourself of it, you must learn to embrace these two truths: (1) Apart from God you are inadequate. (2) Infused with God's strength, you are adequate to any challenge He calls you to face. Paul writes: "Not that we are fit (qualified and sufficient in ability) of ourselves to form personal judgments or to claim or count anything as coming from us, but our power and ability and sufficiency are from God. [It is He] Who has qualified Us [making us to be fit and worthy and sufficient] as ministers...of a new covenant" (vv. 5-6 AMPC). Many of the heroes in the Bible struggled with the fear of inadequacy, so you're in good company! Moses told God,

"can't go and talk to Pharaoh, send someone else" (See Ex 3:11; 4:13). The real story of these Bible heroes is that they overcame their fear and said yes to God. They stepped out in faith and said in essence, "Lord, I am depending on you for my success." Our human ego likes to look good and claim the credit. But God puts us into a position of forced dependence so that the credit for our success goes to Him.

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"My strength is made perfect in weakness." 2Co 12:9 NKJV

First, acknowledge your inadequacy to God.

Joni Eareckson Tada says, "Deny your weakness, and you will never realize God's strength in you." God told Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Anything that makes you lean on God is a plus and not a minus.

Second, stop putting yourself down. You say,

"But I lack the qualifications to do the job."

God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called. How? By filling them with His Spirit. "I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions. And also on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit" (Joel 2:28-29 NKJV). God isn't limited by age, gender, race, or academic status. The only thing that limits Him are the limits you place on yourself, or the limits you permit others to place on you. Third, don't buy it. Advertisers spend billions of dollars to convince you that without their product you are inadequate or incomplete. Don't believe them! Begin to say, "I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made" (Ps 139:14

NKJV). Fourth, view the excellence or superior performance of someone else as a source of motivation rather than intimidation.

Meanwhile, don't lose sight of your unique giftedness. "Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them" (Ro 12:6 NKJV). Your gift may be undiscovered, undeveloped, or unused, but it resides within you. Today unlock it and begin to use it.

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"Be still, and know that I am God." Ps

46:10 NIV

To have peace you must focus on God's presence. What you choose to focus on either fuels your fears or your faith. The Bible says,

"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you" (Isa 26:3 NIV). That verse could be reduced to one sentence: "Get your focus in order? look at me." The psalmist says, "God is...an ever-present help in trouble" (Ps 46:1 NIV). Later in that psalm, He reminds us, "Be still, and know that I am God" (v. 10 NIV).

These verses were written during the time of Hezekiah. Enemy armed forces had surrounded Jerusalem and the Israelites were tense, so they prayed this prayer! And five minutes before noon, God struck the Assyrians with a plague and 185,000 of them perished. Jerusalem was saved, and everyone was joyful. This psalm helps us remember that God is our refuge. No matter how overwhelming the odds seem, He is always with you to help. This psalm informs us of two things about receiving God's help in times of trouble. The first thing is to "be still." Many of our troubles come from our inability to sit still.

The second thing is to "know that I am God."

Did you know that in the middle of a hurricane or tornado there is a quiet center referred to as an eye? Likewise, though everything is blowing apart around you, you can have a quiet center. Be still and know. When you live this way, "the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds" (Php 4:7 NIV). When you think about it, it's the only sane way to live!

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"Great peace have those who love your law." Ps 119:165 NIV

In order to find real peace, you must do two things: (1) Live by the principles of God's Word. "Great peace have those who love your law." Peace arrives when you live in harmony with God. A new car comes with an owner's manual. It tells you that for your car to perform well, you must do certain things at certain times. Likewise, the Bible is your owner's manual for life. It contains guiding principles for finances, health, marriage, business, relationships, and considerably more. Just as your car drives more smoothly when you use it according to its design, so your life will go more smoothly when you live it according to God's design. (2) Accept God's pardon. Guilt is the top destroyer of peace.

When we feel guilty, we feel haunted by our past. That's why we read about people who make amends for a wrong they committed thirty years earlier. They say, "I was living in hell all those years and had to get it off my chest." The only way to have peace is to possess a clear conscience, and only God is able to give you that. "Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives...

transgression?..You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy" (Mic 7:18 NIV).

Notice, Micah reveals God is eager-ready and waiting-to clean your slate. It's His personality. He enjoys forgiving. He owns a big eraser. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (1Jn

1:9 NIV).

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"We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against... spiritual hosts of wickedness." Eph 6:12 NKJV

Before doing battle with Syria, Joab told his brother, "If [they] are too strong for me, then you shall help me; but if the people of Ammon are too strong for you, then I will help you" (1Ch 19:12 NKJV). If one was overwhelmed, the other could step in and help. Spiritual warfare is different, however. We're not wrestling with "flesh and blood, but against principalities…powers…rulers of the darkness. [and] spiritual hosts of wickedness." And wrestling is a one-on-one struggle that means getting up close and personal, going toe-to-toe with your opponent. When David faced Goliath, the giant was so sure of himself that he announced to all Israel, "If he kills me...we will be your slaves. But if I kill him, you will be our slaves!" (1Sa 17:9 NLT). Think about the long-term implications of this. If Goliath prevailed, God's people would spend their lives serving the enemy! The stakes were incredibly high for Israel-and they are for you too. Satan is out to defeat you, and if you wrestle according to the rules of the flesh, you will lose. Just like professional wrestlers have rules they must abide by, there are fail-safe spiritual rules designed to work for you. Paul says, "The weapons of our warfare are not physical…but they are mighty before God for the overthrow...of strongholds" (2Co 10:4

AMPC). The only hope you have of defeating Satan lies in prayer, Christian fellowship,

God's Word, the name of Jesus, and the blood of Jesus. These five things top the list of powerful weapons given you to defeat the Enemy. So use them today!

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"Uncover his feet, and lie down; and he will tell you what you should do." Ru 3:4

NKJV

As a Moabitess, the law said Ruth was unqualified to mix with Jews. "An Ammonite or Moabite shall not enter the assembly of the Lord" (Dt 23:3 NKJV). But when God has a plan for your life, He steps in and says, "I have called you by your name; you are Mine.. you were precious in My sight...I will give men for you, and people for your life" (Isa 43:1, 4 NKJV). When Boaz began showering Ruth with kindness, she knelt before him saying,

"Why have I found favor in your eyes...?" (Ru

2:10 NKJV). Notice how Boaz answered: "It has been fully reported to me, all that you have done" (v. 11 NKJV). Aware that Ruth has become the object of Boaz's affection, Naomi instructs her: "He is winnowing barley tonight at the threshing floor. Therefore wash yourself and anoint yourself, put on your best garment and go down to the threshing floor; but do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. Then it shall be, when he lies down, that you shall notice the place where he lies; and you shall go in, uncover his feet, and lie down; and he will tell you what you should do" (Ru 3:2-4 NKJV). She started at his feet and ended up by his side. "Do not make yourself known." Don't push, don't try to impress God with your performance, just stay at His feet and He will raise you up to His side. "Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time" (1Pe 5:6 NKJV).

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"Don't look back." Ge 19:17 NLT

Before God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, He sent angels to warn Lot and his family to get out of town: "'Run for your lives!' [one warned.] 'And don't look back or stop anywhere in the valley! Escape to the mountains, or you will be swept away!'...But Lot's wife looked back as she was following behind him, and she turned into a pillar of salt" (vv. 17, 26 NLT). By looking back, Lot's wife disobeyed a direct instruction from God.

As a result, she died-stuck in the past. There are three important lessons here for you. (1)

"Don't.. stop anywhere in the valley!" We all go through valley experiences in life, but we must not get stuck in them or set up residence in them. (2) "And don't look back." The reason the windshield in your car is larger than the rearview mirror is because you're supposed to spend most of your time looking through the windshield, and only periodically glance in the rearview mirror so you can move forward safely and reach your destination.

Getting the idea? (3) "Escape to the mountains, or you will be swept away!" When someone hurts you, you have two choices: take the high road or the low road. When you take the low road and retaliate, something within you begins to die spiritually. But when you take the high road, you grow stronger, wiser, and more mature. When you get stuck in the past, it's always at the expense of the future. Always! God has better days and better things in store for you. So forgive, forget, and move forward.

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"I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt...And you forgave me!" Ps 32:5 NLT

In Scripture, the word confession is comprised of two forms of the same Greek root: ohmo, meaning "the same," and logéo, meaning "to speak." Therefore, confessing your sin to God means saying the same thing about it as He does. It means calling a spade a spade-not a gardening tool! Nowhere does the Bible refer to our sins as mistakes, bad judgments, and slips. However, it clearly says God forgives our sin: "I...am He who blots out your transgressions for My own sake; and I will not remember your sins" (Isa 43:25

NKJV). So let's be clear. (1) Confessing isn't about apologizing. Saying you're sorry is appropriate and necessary at times. But you could never be sorry enough to deserve or earn God's forgiveness. Confessing is agreeing with God about the nature, extent, and offensiveness of your transgressions. (2)

Confessing isn't about feelings. Some of us plunge into remorse, guilt, and depression over our sins. And when such feelings lead to confession, that's good. But even when we don't feel these emotions, our confession is just as genuine and effective. (3) Confessing isn't complaining. Making a laundry list of your sins and telling God how terrible you are is more akin to complaining than confessing.

Coming clean with God and agreeing with His evaluation of your sin is what He wants from you. Then, like David, you can say, "I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt...And you forgave me!

All my guilt is gone. So, confess your sins to God--then start acting like someone who has been forgiven!

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Where there is no vision, the people perish." Pr 29:18

A pastor writes: "The second law of thermodynamics states this physical truth: If left to their own devices, everything in the universe moves toward disorder and decay.

Cars rust. Food rots...It's also called the law of entropy. And the only way to prevent entropy is to introduce an outside energy source to counteract it. The technical term for this is negentropy. And the refrigerator is a good example. You plug it into an electrical outlet, and it produces cold air that keeps food from rotting. If the refrigerator gets disconnected from its energy source, entropy will take over again. And things will get smelly. Isn't that what happens when we get disconnected from God? Life moves toward decay and disorder. So how do we overcome our entropic tendencies?.. [Solomon answers,] 'Where there is no vision, the people perish. If sin is entropy, then investing our energies in a God-sized vision is negentropy. The word perish comes from the Hebrew word para, and 'entropy' is a fair translation." Perhaps many church problems don't come from an abundance of sin but rather from a lack of vision? We're not suggesting that there aren't sin problems or that those problems don't need to be dealt with. But in too many instances, there isn't enough vision to keep churches busy. Our vision isn't big enough to demand all our energies, so we focus on petty problems to keep us busy. The same is true on a personal level. If we had a larger vision of what God wanted to accomplish in us and through us, our problems would diminish because we are consumed by a cause greater than ourselves."

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"The ear that hears the rebukes of life will abide among the wise." Pr 15:31 NKJV

One expert points out that leaders touch your heart before they ask for your hand. That's the law of connection. Before a leader can touch a person's heart, he or she has to know what's in it. And you learn that by listening. A reluctance to listen is too typical among poor leaders. Over half of all management problems are the consequence of faulty communications. And the vast majority of communication problems stem from poor listening. Many voices are clamoring for our attention. As you think about how to listen, keep in mind that you have two reasons for listening: (a) To connect with people, and (b)

To learn about them. That includes your competitors. Sam Markewich quipped, "If you don't agree with me, it means you haven't been listening." Though of course he was joking, the sad truth is that when a leader views another organization only as competition, he or she focuses attention on building their own case or championing their own objective and forgets to learn from the other group's efforts. Now, you don't necessarily want to base your actions on what the other person is doing, but you should still listen and learn how to improve yourself. It's a costly mistake to get so busy doing your own thing, or trying to make things happen, that you're not paying attention to what's going on around you. Every day you live and every experience you have, both negative and positive, can teach you valuable lessons. But you must listen!

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"Do not say, 'Why were the old days better than these?' For it is not wise." Ecc 7:10 NIV
Two more reasons we resist change are these:
(1) Because it feels awkward and uncomfortable. When was the last time you tried something for the first time? Can you name it specifically? If you can't remember, your comfort zone may have turned into a rut. A sign on a wall contained two statements.
The first had an X through it. It said, "If it ain't broken--don't fix it." The second read, "If it ain't broken-break it!" Sometimes the only way to "get out of the box" is to break out.

(2) Because we cling to tradition. The Pharisees could not receive the truth Jesus shared because they were bound by their traditions. And many of us still cling to tradition. We assume that if something is a tradition (a long-established pattern of behavior), it must be the best way. That's not necessarily so, as change agents like Thomas Edison and Henry Ford demonstrated. Question: How many traditionalists does it take to change a light bulb? Four: one to change it, and three to talk about how wonderful the old light bulb was!
Bottom line: When a tradition connects you to other people or to your personal history, it can be good. If it doesn't, maybe it's time to try something new. The Bible says, "The way of the righteous.shines ever brighter until the full light of day. But the way of the wicked is like total darkness. They have no idea what they are stumbling over" (Pr 4:18-19 NLT).

So, what changes do you need to make in your life?

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"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says."Jas 1:22 NIV

When you listen to or read God's Word but don't apply it to your life, you deceive yourself. How so?
(1) You settle for knowledge rather than experience.
The Bible says, "If anyone...knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them" (Jas.4:17 NIV). How does that grab you? When you know the truth but don't act on it, you're not simply making a mistake or exercising poor judgment-you're sinning. The Bible says knowledge without obedience is sin.

(2) You compare yourself with others.
Paul writes, "Don't compare yourself with others" (Gal 6:4
MSG). "When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise" (2Co 10:12 NIV). That enables you to remain carnal but comfortable, and the older you get, the more seasoned you become at doing it. Over time you build a reservoir of responses, and when the truth gets too close for comfort, you have 101 reasons why it applies to everyone except you.

(3) The Word moves you briefly but doesn't change you permanently.
There is nothing wrong with responding emotionally to spiritual truth. But if you go merrily on your way without changing your behavior in the slightest, your spirituality boils down to nothing more than a vapid emotional experience.

(4) You substitute communication for transformation.
You talk the talk but don't walk the walk. You think if you speak eloquently and convincingly about a point of Scripture, you're covered-off the hook. You're not! James says, "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves.
Do what it says."

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"You will be strong and free of fear." Job

11:15 NLT

When you ignore the warning signs, chronic stress can take a toll on your body. So what are some of the signals? Well for starters, your stomach churns at any form of disagreement. When you can't find an outlet for pent-up frustration, you resort to overeating, smoking, drinking, drugs, and generally abusing your body. You isolate yourself, which affects your loved ones.

Debora M. Coty writes about what she terms the "Three Fs: outward fussing, inward fuming, and chronic fatigue." She jokes, " knew it was time to address my stress issues when my growl grew louder than the dogs, and my family tactfully suggested I get a rabies shot." However, it's the signs you don't see that can do the most damage. Cortisol, a hormone our bodies release in the grasp of stress, adds to out-of-control feelings of powerlessness and hopelessness. And studies verify that over time, stress raises your blood pressure, contributes to migraines and tension headaches, and results in the plaque that leads to heart disease. Chronic stress has been observed to increase cardiovascular risk by almost 50 percent! Not to mention documented connections to alcoholism, anxiety attacks, asthma, cancer, colds, depression, flu, insomnia, obesity, strokes, and ulcers. And those uncontrolled crying spells you encounter when you're exhausted are no coincidence. Stress lowers estrogen levels, which can activate emotional outbursts. If this describes you, take action!

Rearrange your priorities, slow down, start taking control of your life, and turn to God.

When you "prepare your heart and lift up your hands to him in prayer...You will be strong and free of fear" (vv. 13, 15 NLT).

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"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me." Jn 16:33 NLT

Stress is like kryptonite (Superman's nemesis), and it's out to knock off your cape and diminish you to a heap of trembling, useless mush. What should you do? (1)

Immerse your exhaustion. Try a bubble bath.

Even simply standing in the shower can assist in washing away fatigue and reviving your breathless body tissues and brain cells. Feel the moment and focus on the water's invigorating sensory contribution to your skin; allow it to spread resilience to your spirit. You say, "That doesn't sound very spiritual." Job's friend Zophar would disagree with you. Listen to what he told Job: "You will forget your misery; it will be like water flowing away" (Job

11:16 NLT). (2) Request help! Allocate responsibilities and chores. When everyone does their portion, no one is left depleted.

"Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble" (Ecc 4:9-10 NLT). (3) Release perfectionism. Nobody is perfect but Jesus, and you're not Him. Let some things go. Tomorrow, give up a few more. Over time, those chores will stop nagging at you, and you will truly feel the stress in the pit of your stomach disintegrate.

You will never be totally free from stress, but you can learn to cope with it and conquer it.

Jesus said, "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world" Jn

16:33 NLT).

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"But the Lord was with Joseph." Ge 39:21

To reach his destiny, Joseph went through betrayal, temptation, slander, and wrongful imprisonment. But he came out on top. Here is what Joseph recognized that you need to recognize too: (1) God knows what you're going through, and He cares. There is a key phrase found five different times in the story of Joseph: "But the Lord was with Joseph." Even when everything was going wrong, Joseph never doubted that God was with him.

(2) You have been given freedom of choice.

God gives you freedom to choose how you will react to your circumstances: faith or doubt, joy or despair, patience, or impatience, etc.

When you choose to ignore what's right, God won't force His will on you. Sometimes we bring problems on ourselves and then blame God. We say, "It must be God's will," as if God gets pleasure out of planning our mistakes and miseries! The truth of the matter is that God's will isn't always carried out. Yes, He has a plan for our lives, but He has also given us free will. And because He has also given others free will, their mistakes and decisions can hurt us as well. (3) God is in control of the final outcome. He can take every negative circumstance in your life today and turn it around for your good. In the end, Joseph could say, "You meant it for harm, but God meant it for good" (See Ge 50:20). And while God was working to bring good out of his situation, Joseph had to keep trusting Him, even though at the time he did not understand what was happening -and you must do that too.

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"Get ready to cross...into the land." Jos 1:2 NIV

The words for you today are (1) Get ready. For forty years, Joshua had served Moses and been mentored by him; now he was ready to lead Israel into the promised land. This raises the all-important question: Are you ready for the success you seek? The frustrating thing about preparation is sometimes it takes more time than the event you're preparing for. Are you self-disciplined? Are you up to date on your career or calling? Do you have the right relationships in place? Is your homelife in order? Do you have strong character? As the old saying goes, "You can claim to be surprised once; after that, you're unprepared!" One author writes: "Talented people are sometimes tempted to take shortcuts. Character prevents that. Talented people may feel superior and expect special privileges. Character helps them to know better. Talented people are praised for what others see them build. Character builds what's inside them. Talented people have the potential to be difference makers. Character makes a difference in them. Talented people are often a gift to the world. Character protects that gift." (2) Go! God told Joshua, "I will give you every place where you set your foot" (v. 3 NIV). Don't be like Alice in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland who asked the Cheshire-Cat, "Would you tell me, please, which way I ought to go from here?" "That depends a good deal on where you want to get to," said the Cat. "I don't much care where-" said Alice. "Then it doesn't matter which way you go," said the Cat. To succeed, you must do the right things, moment by moment, day by day, following through with them in a consistent way.

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"The eyes of man are never satisfied." Pr 27:20 NKJV

When you're controlled by materialism. The flawed philosophy behind materialism is "more, more, more!" And it's the result of "eye trouble." The Bible says, "The eyes of man are never satisfied." It's okay to want a nice home, a reliable car, and financial security-and God will provide those things when you're a good steward of what He has already entrusted you with. But when you want more than you need or more than what's required to fulfill His will, the Bible calls it vanity. The word could be defined as being empty, hollow, or without purpose. Solomon writes, "He who loves silver will not be satisfied with silver; nor he who loves abundance, with increase. This also is vanity" (Ecc 5:10 NKJV). So before you ask God for prosperity, ask Him to reveal your life's purpose because they're directly linked.

Jesus said, "A man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth" (Lk 12:15). God uses a different "able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work... Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and. your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God" (2Co 9:8, 10-11 NIV). Is God willing to bless you financially? Yes, but only when you are willing to be a conduit and a distributor of His blessings.

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"I have blotted out. your transgressions, and..your sins." Isa 44:22 NKJV

When you have a hard time forgiving yourself.

There is only one unpardonable sin named in the Bible (See Luke 12:10). And as a believer, you probably haven't committed it, so God will forgive you for everything else. However, when God says He forgives you and you refuse to forgive yourself, it's like opting to stay in prison after the judge has expunged your record and set you free. And worse, you're committing the sin of pride. How come? Because when God forgives you and you refuse to forgive yourself, you're putting your opinion above His. If you're having trouble forgiving yourself, stand on God's Word: "I...am He who blots out your transgressions for My own sake; and I will not remember your sins" (Isa 43:25 NKJV). "1 have blotted out, like a thick cloud, your transgressions, and. your sins. Return to Me, for I have redeemed you" (Isa 44:22 NKJV).

"Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy on him; and...will abundantly pardon" (Isa 55:7

NKJV). 'Never open your mouth anymore because of your shame, when I provide you an atonement for all you have done,' says the Lord" (Eze 16:63 NKJV). "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1Jn 1:9). "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus" (Ro 8:1 NKJV). Are you

"in Christ Jesus?" Then rejoice; you no longer need to struggle under the weight of condemnation. God has totally forgiven you, so forgive yourself and move on.

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"Do not embitter your children." Col 3:21

NIV

Another point of parental confusion is this:

Bitter versus better. What is bitterness? It is strong resentment or cynicism. How do parents create bitterness in their children?

Consider the following triggers: (a)

Inconsistency. This happens when you are autocratic and authoritarian one day and permissive the next. What brought a strong rebuke today brings a smile of leniency tomorrow. So, your child never knows what to expect. (b) Moodiness. Today you're fun and enjoyable to be with; tomorrow you're irritable and distant. (c) Unreasonableness. There is no room for discussion, no opportunity for children to explore their feelings. "Just do as I say because I say it!" So, the kid is never given the chance to think through the reasoning process. (d) Abusive behavior. It might be physical or emotional (withholding your love, the silent treatment, rejection). Or it might be verbal (yelling and using words that wound). (e) Failing to walk your talk-saying one thing but doing another! You profess certain beliefs but don't practice them. You expect your kids to be respectful while you display disrespect to others. You expect honesty from your children, but they see you cheat and lie your way through life.

Children are keen observers-they may not say anything, but not much that you do escapes their attention. They see your inconsistencies-when what you say doesn't line up with what you do. All of these behaviors can make them resentful. "Do not embitter your children." Don't set them up to become discouraged.

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"Children are a gift from the Lord." Ps

127:3 NLT

Over the next few days, let's look at some practical areas where we as parents are often confused. Guidance versus criticism. If you have a placid, agreeable, and compliant child who enjoys school, homework, and doing household chores, bringing "them up in the training and instruction of the Lord" will be a joy! (Eph 6:4 NIV). Many of us, however, are given assertive, strong-willed kids with their own agendas. These kids know what they want, and when and how to get it. They also know what they don't want to eat, wear, hear, say, and do! And parents of these kids need help in building the kind of relationship that creates trust and allows for mutual discussion and respect in a tug-of-war atmosphere. In such cases giving guidance can easily become criticism, constantly emphasizing the child's faults: "You look ridiculous in that... you're never on time...why can't you be like...

A much better approach is to point the kid to the solution. Even valid guidance offered negatively will damage self-worth, breed resentment, and destroy the possibility of building mutual respect. They need to hear you say, "I'm not on your back-I'm on your team!" When normal conflict arises?and it will?it's tempting to become overbearing or frustrated. When you shout, insult, or humiliate the child, you lose sight of your parental goal of guiding and training. This leaves them feeling angry, disempowered, uncertain of themselves and you an invitation to rebellion. But if you guide your child as one who is on their team, with patient practical help, links will be forged that encourage cooperation, trust, and mutual respect.

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"Teach children in a way that fits their needs." Pr 22:6 ERV

Have you ever wished for a parenting do-over-a second chance to raise your kids? With hindsight and insight, you think you would do it right this time! Parenting is both rewarding and guilt inducing. It's rewarding because we love our children and they bring us joy. It's guilt inducing because we blame ourselves for their shortcomings and misfortunes. "Where did I go wrong as a parent?" There is no perfect parent, and there is no universal blueprint because every child is born unique.

Psychologists told us our children were born a "blank slate," waiting for us to write life instructions on them. Not so! Babies are miniature people, "born in sin and shapen in iniquity" (See Ps 51:5). They are given to us to figure out as we try to mold them spiritually, morally, socially, and intellectually. By age seven, they have learned about 75 percent of everything they will ever know. But although there is no one-size-fits-all formula for success, there are God-given principles that work whether you're a new parent or a grandparent. "Teach children in a way that fits their needs, and even when they are old, they will not leave the right path" (Pr 22:6 ERV).

Notice some keywords here. "Teach," which implies imparting information in a consistent, understandable way. Toddlers learn better with pictures. Older kids need us to use contemporary language. If they don't "get it," we probably didn't teach it well enough!

"Children" means old enough to understand.

"A way that fits their needs" implies knowing their personality and abilities and tailoring your teaching to fit them. When God's principles fit the child's unique characteristics, they're more likely to adopt and follow them.

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"They will become discouraged." Col 3:21

NIV

Embittered children ultimately become discouraged. A discouraged child is less hopeful, less enthusiastic, lacking in determination, and easily led astray. By destroying your child's hope, you're undermining their God-given temperament.

Children are born with optimism, inspiration, anticipation, and possibilities. Without hope, there is nothing to inspire them.

Hopelessness brings depression and darkness of heart and soul. When you embitter your children, you undermine their hope. When you demoralize them, you destroy their confidence, leaving them afraid, insecure, and unable to face life. Self-confidence is necessary for a healthy self-image, for relating to others, for succeeding in their education and a career. A

disheartened kid loses certainty and becomes a broken spirit. The spirit is the center of the being. A broken spirit produces a broken person. "A broken spirit saps a person's strength" (Pr 17:22 NLT), leaving a child with their core disabled. Our streets are full of broken kids. Broken-spirited kids lack the resolve to achieve in life, to set goals and reach them. "Where there is no vision, the people perish" (Pr 29:18). It's your vision that gives you the inner strength to see something through to its accomplishment in spite of the obstacles encountered. It takes an intact, resilient child to overcome life's hurdles. How can you help them? "Instead [of breaking their spirit], bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord" (Eph 6:4 NIV). You must cherish them, teach them God's Word even when they seem indifferent, practice what you preach, be consistent with your rules, let them see you reading God's Word and praying regularly. Always encourage them and never, never give up on them!

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"Trust in the Lord." Pr 3:5 NIV

When you honestly evaluate your worries, you will find you are doing these: (1) Forgetting that God is your friend. The psalmist said,

"The Lord is a friend to those who fear him"

(Ps 25:14 NLT). Friendship with God is built by sharing your life's experiences with Him-every activity, every conversation, every problem, and every thought. When you don't, you end up unaware of His presence, oblivious to His voice, resistant to His correction, and out of sync with His timing.

And when you live that way, there is one inevitable result-worry! (2) Taking on things you shouldn't. Peter Marshall prayed:

"Father...check our impulse to spread ourselves so thin that we're exposed to fear and doubt, to the weariness and impatience that makes our tempers wear thin; [that] robs us of peace of mind; that makes skies grey when they should be blue; that stifles a song along the corridor of our hearts." You lose your song when you add the unnecessary pressure of maintaining your exterior image, increasing your pace to keep up with the
Joneses, and trying to fix everybody or live up to their expectations. (3) Failing to understand the difference between the secular and the sacred. Either Jesus is Lord over every area of your life, or He is not Lord over any of it. We tell ourselves certain parts of our lives lie in the realm of God's concern, but not others. The Bible says, "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" (Pr

3:5-6 NIV). To live any other way is to live a worried life!

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"She came and has continued from morning until now." Ru 2:7 NKJV

After ten years of sorrow and hardship in which she lost her husband and her support system, God introduced Ruth to her new husband, Boaz. Where? In the field where she worked each day. Who was Boaz? The owner of the field. One of the things that attracted Boaz to Ruth was her work ethic. The servant in charge of his reapers told him, "She came and has continued from morning until now." As a result, she ended up married to the boss.

That's why the Bible has so much to say about the difference between laziness and hard work, sloppiness and excellence, tardiness and punctuality, honesty and dishonesty, a positive attitude and a negative one. Someone is always observing you who is capable of blessing you. Read these three Scriptures:
(1) "Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before unknown men" (Pr 22:29 NKJV).
(2) "The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing; but the soul of the diligent shall be made rich" (Pr 13:4 NKJV).
(3) "He who has a slack hand becomes poor, but the hand of the diligent makes rich" (Pr 10:4 NKJV). Notice the phrases "a slack hand" and"a lazy man." By expecting much and giving back as little as possible in return, you don't just shortchange the company you work for, you shortchange yourself. Why? Because God promises to honor you when you give your best. His Word says, "Promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another" (Ps 75:6-7).

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"Leave them; they are blind guides." Mt

15:14 NIV

There are plenty of good leaders around-don't be afraid to follow them. But what about the "blind guides" that Jesus talks about?

Here are some signs to help you identify and avoid them: (1) Inflexibility. True leaders have a teachable spirit and a servant's heart. They rejoice in your growth and aren't threatened by your development. They won't try to "keep you in the nest" when it's clear that you're ready to fly. (2) Elitism. Look out for the "we-alone-are-right" attitude. When someone can't acknowledge and fellowship with other members of God's redeemed family, something's wrong. The word exclusive is often another word for paranoid. (3)

Moneygrubbing. Here is God's standard for leadership: "Not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve" (1Pe 5:2 NIV). The Bible also says good leaders are "worthy of double honour" (1Ti 5:17), which means twice as much. But look out for those who teach that you must only sow your seed into their field, and nowhere else. (4) Accountability. Beware of the untouchable, "-am-God's-anointed" types. No matter how gifted we are, we all have blind spots and need to be confronted and counseled from time to time. Solomon said, "Pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up" (Ecc 4:10 NIV). Here is what Jesus said about the religious leaders of His day: "Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots.

Leave them; they are blind guides. If the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit" (Mt

15:13-14 NIV). When choosing a leader, you don't need a blind prima donna; you need one with a servant spirit.

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Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you." Jn 15:3

God's Word is like a prescription from your doctor. You don't have to understand how the medication works-you just have to faithfully keep taking it. Something amazing happens when you feed regularly on God's Word.

Temptation begins to lose power, and overcoming strength begins to replace it.

Each time a Scripture opens up and becomes real to you, your desire for God's Word increases. But that means reading your Bible even when you don't feel like it, or think you don't have time to do it, or you don't seem to be getting much out of it. The Bible says: "As the rain and snow come down from heaven and stay upon the ground to water the earth, and cause the grain to grow and to produce seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry, so also is my Word...it always produces fruit.

It shall accomplish all I want it to" (Isa 55:10-

11 TLB). You don't have to have certain sensations to know that God's Word is working in you. Indeed, Bible reading will keep you from sin, and sin will keep you from Bible reading. After his affair with Bathsheba, David wrote, "I have thought much about your words and stored them in my heart so that they would hold me back from sin" (Ps 119:11 TLB). Jesus said, "Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you." Are you tired of living in defeat? Then bathe your mind each day in God's Word. Let it flow over you until every vestige of sin and carnality is washed away.

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Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus." Heb

12:1-2 NKJV

The men and women who made the greatest impact on the world were those who were totally focused and sold out to their vision.

John Wesley, founder of the Methodist Church, once said, "If I had three hundred men who feared nothing but God, hated nothing but sin, and were determined to know nothing among men but Jesus Christ and Him crucified, I would set the world on fire." Jonathan Edwards, whose ministry sparked the Great Awakening in America, made this his life's motto: "Resolution One: I will live for God. Resolution Two: If no one else does, I will." C. T. Studd, one of England's greatest athletes, shocked the world when he gave up fame and fortune to be a missionary to China.

"If Jesus Christ be God and died for me, then no sacrifice can be too great for me to make for Him," he explained. Missionary Jim Elliot, who died as a martyr in South America, said,

"He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose." The day you were born, God had a track for you to run on. But to win, you must get rid of (1) anything that weighs you down, and (2) anything that trips you up. "Let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us, looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus" (vv. 1-2 AMPC).

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"The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch." Ac 11:26 NKJV

Did you know that the word "disciple" occurs 269 times in the New Testament, whereas the word "Christian" is found only three times?

The word "Christian" was first introduced to describe who they were, disciples of Jesus Christ! Dallas Willard uses the illustration of the automobile: "The disciple of Jesus is not the deluxe or heavy-duty model of the Christian-especially padded, textured, streamlined, and empowered for the fast lane on the straight and narrow way. He or she stands on the pages of the New Testament as the first level of basic transportation in the Kingdom of God." Becoming a Christian is the work of a moment; it happens when you place your trust in Christ. But becoming a disciple is the work of a lifetime; it calls for denying yourself and saying yes to the will of God every day of your life. What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus? Three things: (1) To listen to Him and learn. That calls for reading, studying, memorizing, verbalizing, and applying the truths taught in the Scriptures to your life each day. (2) To follow Him wherever He leads. This may call for changing your plans, forfeiting some of your relationships, and giving Him access to things you would like to hold on to. (3) To be devoted to Him.

One day Jesus said to Peter, "Do you love Me more than these?" (Jn 21:15 NKJV). Note the word "more." To be a disciple means to love Jesus more than anyone or anything else. And it's the most fulfilling and rewarding life you can live!

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"Teach them to your children and your grandchildren." Dt 4:9 NKJV

Let's read what God said to the parents who entered the promised land: "Take heed to yourself, and diligently keep yourself, lest you forget the things your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. And teach them to your children and your grandchildren" (v. 9 NKJV). Notice the progression here. First, "take heed to yourself." Next, "teach them to your children." Your ability to influence and mold your children is based on your credibility with them. When the principles you live by produce joy, peace, strength, kindness, discipline, and success, your children will begin to take you seriously. And you have a limited window of opportunity. There are skills that can be learned during early childhood that become much more difficult later on.

Have you ever wondered why it's so simple to teach preschoolers any language they hear?

And they can learn it perfectly, without even a trace of their own accent. Fifteen or more years later, they will have a much harder time attempting to make those same sounds. This is explained by a process called "phoneme contraction." The larynx of a young child assumes a shape needed to make any sounds he or she is learning to use. It then sets in those positions, making it impossible or challenging to make other sounds in later years. A child's attitude toward parental leadership is similar. That's why it's essential to "shape the will" during the preschool and early years by balancing unconditional love with consistent teaching and firmness at home. If you miss that opportunity, the adolescent years can be rougher than they need to be.

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"The seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how." Mk 4:27

NKJV

Have you sown a "seed" of faith, and now you're wondering when you will reap the

"harvest" God promised in His Word? If so, read on: "The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come" (vv. 26-29

NKJV). Before you reap the harvest of blessing God promised, you go through certain stages. First there is the "not knowing" stage. Your seed is buried in the ground. How and when your harvest comes is entirely up to God. But you must believe that it will happen. Next comes the "blade" stage.

It's just a tiny blade blowing in the breeze, but it's enough to encourage you and let you know your harvest is on the way. Next comes the "head" stage. The seed has started to sprout and look like what you prayed for. This is when you must water it with prayer, fertilize it with God's Word, and protect it from anything or anyone that would uproot it through doubt and unbelief. Finally you enter the "full grain" stage, when the grain ripens and you immediately reap a harvest.

Whatever stage you're in today, stand fast and keep trusting God. Your harvest is on the way.

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"He does our praying in and for us." Ro

8:26 MSG

Life can wear you down. You can get to the place where your anxiety runs so deep, or your stress levels increase so high that you can't think clearly. The problem or pain you're experiencing is so overwhelming that you can't put it into words. Good news: That's when the Holy Spirit living within you prays for you and through you. As you bring your burden to the Lord and kneel in His presence, a wonderful thing happens. In The Message, Eugene Peterson paraphrases it this way:

"God's Spirit is right alongside helping us...If we don't know how or what to pray, it doesn't matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves...That's why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good" (vv. 26-

28 MSG). Because prayer is relational, the Holy Spirit will communicate your heart to God and His heart back to you. When you don't know how to pray-stay. Just remain in God's presence with your heart open, and He will communicate with you. "You have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things" (1Jn 2:20 NKJV). Before God puts the answer in your head, He puts His peace in your heart. That's why prayer cannot be rushed. It's why taking the time to meditate and be still before God is so important. It allows the Holy Spirit to share God's thoughts with you so that you begin thinking His way.

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"Do not merely listen to the word... Do what it says." Jas 1:22 NIV

A pastor writes: "The Latin word for 'listen' is where we get our word audit. When you audit a class, you take in lots of information, but you don't do anything with it. You don't do the homework, or if you do, you don't turn it in to get it graded. You don't take the tests. And you don't get any credit either. The same is true in our spiritual lives. You don't get credit for auditing Scripture. You've got to put it into practice. Every word of Scripture must be translated via obedience. In the Western world, we make a distinction between knowing and doing. But there was no such distinction in ancient Jewish thought.

Knowing was doing and doing was knowing. If you didn't do it, you didn't really know it.

Knowledge isn't enough. Truth must be translated with your life." James writes: "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it-not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it-they will be blessed in what they do" (vv. 22-25 NIV). God doesn't bless you because of what you know but because of what you do about what you know. So each time you come across a verse that tells you to do something, put it into practice that day.

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"I can do everything through Christ." Php

4:13 NLT

Losing your job can be devastating. This is when you must keep the right perspective.

Having less doesn't make you a lesser person.

God still values you, and you must keep valuing yourself. The Christian life is one of trial and triumph. Paul writes: "I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength" (vv. 12-13 NLT). What should you do when you're unemployed? (1) Reduce your expenses to the bare minimum. That may mean riding the bus or train, making your own lunch, and using other cost-saving measures.

(2) Take the stigma out of being unemployed.

Don't presume that people think less of you because you have lost your job. People generally respond to your situation in the same way you do. They will find your enthusiasm about your next move inspiring-even though you may not yet know what it is. "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose" (Ro

8:28 NKJV). Getting thrown into prison led to Joseph becoming prime minister of Egypt.

"The Lord your God turned the curse into a blessing for you, because the Lord your God loves you" (Dt 23:5 NKJV). God can reveal talents within you and connections around you and open the door to a level of blessing and success you never dreamed possible. So, trust Him and keep believing that your best days are ahead.

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"With favor You will surround him as with a shield." Ps 5:12 NKJV

To have job security you should: (1) Increase your visibility in your industry. Establish contacts and relationships with others outside your company by attending local industry gatherings wherever possible. Your goal should not merely be to know enough to get by but to develop your skills so that you will get noticed and get ahead. When the time is right and you're ready, God will open doors for you. "For You, O Lord, will bless the righteous; with favor You will surround him as with a shield" (v. 12 NKJV). (2) Maintain a divine perspective on your job. Remind yourself that it is not the source of your security but simply one of many channels God can use to provide for you. Read the story of Elijah the prophet and how God miraculously provided for him through a raven, a brook, and a single mom with just enough food for one meal. God used four different streams to water the garden of Eden. So when you have an unmet need or a financial shortfall, ask Him to reveal different streams of income to you. And stand on these two promises: "My God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Php

4:19). "God has not given us a spirit of fear [of losing your job], but of power and of love and of a sound mind" (2Ti 1:7 NKJV). Fear and faith are powerful forces that seek to rule your life. One will take you in the wrong direction, the other will take you in the right direction. So, strengthen your faith by reading God's Word, praying, and entrusting the outcomes of your life to Him.

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"With favor You will surround him as with a shield." Ps 5:12 NKJV

To have job security you should: (1) Increase your visibility in your industry. Establish contacts and relationships with others outside your company by attending local industry gatherings wherever possible. Your goal should not merely be to know enough to get by but to develop your skills so that you will get noticed and get ahead. When the time is right and you're ready, God will open doors for you. "For You, O Lord, will bless the righteous; with favor You will surround him as with a shield" (v. 12 NKJV). (2) Maintain a divine perspective on your job. Remind yourself that it is not the source of your security but simply one of many channels God can use to provide for you. Read the story of Elijah the prophet and how God miraculously provided for him through a raven, a brook, and a single mom with just enough food for one meal. God used four different streams to water the garden of Eden. So when you have an unmet need or a financial shortfall, ask Him to reveal different streams of income to you. And stand on these two promises: "My God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Php

4:19). "God has not given us a spirit of fear [of losing your job], but of power and of love and of a sound mind" (2Ti 1:7 NKJV). Fear and faith are powerful forces that seek to rule your life. One will take you in the wrong direction, the other will take you in the right direction. So, strengthen your faith by reading God's Word, praying, and entrusting the outcomes of your life to Him.

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"Jesus answered...'I also will ask you one thing.'" Mt 21:24 NKJV

Jesus often answered a question with a question. When asked about paying taxes, He took a coin and said, "Whose image and inscription is this?' They said to Him,

'Caesar's.!' And Jesus answered...Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marveled at Him" (Mk 12:16-17 NKJV). It seems we're afraid of asking questions, and afraid of answering them. But God would much rather receive a genuine question born of humility than a disingenuous prayer born out of pride. We have to keep it real with God, and with one another. If we aren't talking about real problems people are facing, we are going to lose our prophetic voice. When people ask us, "Who is God? Who am I? What is the true purpose of my life?" they won't be satisfied with easy answers or clichés we have picked up along the way. God isn't intimidated by those questions. He loves them. Like the parent of a curious toddler, God occasionally laughs at our questions. But he always welcomes them. The church ought to be a safe place where people can ask dangerous questions. But all too often we're guilty of answering questions no one is even asking. We ought to be challenging the status quo, but all too often we're guilty of defending it. But what if? What if we stopped force-feeding answers and learned to unleash the primal curiosity in our churches? It's our curiosity regarding God that fuels an insatiable desire to know Him. So, let's keep asking questions, and encourage others to do the same.

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"Grow in the grace and knowledge of our

Lord." 2Pe 3:18 NIV

When Peter exercised enough faith to get out of the boat and walk on water, he sank and looked worse than any of the other disciples.

When he tried to defend Jesus, he cut off a man's ear. When he promised to be loyal, he fell flat on his face. When he tried to advise Jesus, he was the devil's advocate (See Mt

16:22-23). Eventually he became a leader in the church-but he got worse before he got better. And his behavior didn't surprise or discourage Jesus one bit. He will never stop helping a follower of His who is sincerely seeking to grow. He will always lead us forward in growth; but growth requires risk, and risk sometimes means failure. Jesus knows that, but He never gives up on a student just because he or she fails. For example, if you haven't been confronting people when you should, once you start, the odds are that you will do it badly. If you have rarely encouraged people, your initial attempts may be clumsy. If you have never shared your faith, the first time you do, you may stumble all over yourself. Go ahead and stumble! Failure isn't about falling down; it's about refusing to try. One man told his pastor,

"If I were God, I wouldn't put up with someone like me." The pastor replied, "Then be glad you're not God, and I'II be twice as glad-for we would both be sunk." As long as you hunger for God, He will work with you and in you. Growing in grace means growing spiritually through the stages of childhood, adolescence, and into maturity. So, don't give up on yourself--God won't!

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"When you give. don't shout about it." Mt

6:2 TLB

Jesus said: "Take care! Don't do your good deeds publicly, to be admired, for then you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. When you give a gift to a beggar, don't shout about it as the hypocrites do-blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you.. they have received all the reward they will ever get. But when you do a kindness to someone, do it secretly-don't tell your left hand what your right hand is doing. And your Father who knows all secrets will reward you" (vv. 1-4 TLB). Give generously and gladly but keep it to yourself.

It's nobody's business but yours and God's.

And if you make it somebody's business, you immediately have your reward and forfeit the opportunity to receive something even greater when you arrive in heaven. And you will receive it because, "God...will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people" (Heb 6:10 NIV).

Others may not notice your generosity, or quickly forget it, but God won't, and He will reward you for it. The next time you're sitting in church, realize there are faithful people all around you who have given and given again without ever letting it be known. You may even be one of them! Every Sunday you rub shoulders with some of the greatest givers of our day, and they do it "as to the Lord" (Col

3:23) by keeping it to themselves and waiting for His promised reward. Others may never know-but God will never forget.

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"They go from strength to strength." Ps

84:7 NIV

The phrase "discover your strengths" was made famous by researcher Marcus Buckingham in what's referred to as the

"Strengths Movement." It calls us to stop focusing on our weaknesses and name and develop our strengths-which reflects God's design. God didn't say, "Moses, your craftsmanship skills are weak. Let's have you stop leading this people for a while and try to become more like Bezalel." (See Ex 31:1-5).

The Bible speaks of going "from strength to strength." And a strength is an activity which when you engage in it, makes you feel strong.

Certain activities will thrill and challenge you; others will bore and drain you. Once you discover this, you're not simply engaged in

"career planning," you're acknowledging

God's handiwork and your own core strengths. It matters that you do this, because the single little patch of creation you're responsible for stewarding is your own life. Dorothy Sayers said: "Work is not, primarily, a thing one does to live, but the thing one lives to do. It is, or it should be, the full expression of the worker's faculties, the thing in which he finds spiritual, mental and bodily satisfaction, and the medium in which he offers himself to God." What if your job doesn't fulfill your need for purpose or utilize your God-given gifts? Sometimes necessity requires that. That's why the Bible says,

"Whatever you do, do well" (Ecc 9:10 NLT). In the meantime, pray for opportunity, prepare yourself, and volunteer in an area that utilizes your strengths. Sometimes people who don't enjoy the work they do are miserable, and they make everybody around them miserable too. But God expects better from you!

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"Jesus...laid aside His garments." Jn

13:3-4 NKJV

When it came to serving others, Jesus went first. He "rose from supper... laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself... poured water into a basin...began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded...Peter said to Him, 'Lord, are You washing my feet?'" (vv. 4-

6 NKJV). Try to imagine God incarnate with an apron on, kneeling to wash the feet of those who were unworthy. The Bible says, "Jesus... laid aside His garments." If you want to serve others, you must be willing to lay aside your image, your comfort, and your agenda. By laying aside His garments, Jesus demonstrated that God has no time for form or fashion. Real ministry isn't image conscious; it's done with complete disregard for distinction. But Peter didn't get it! He was embarrassed to think Jesus would let Himself be seen in such a demeaning light. So, Jesus said: "You call Me Teacher and Lord... If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you...If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them" (vv. 13-15, 17 NKJV). There are certain things in your life that must be set aside in order to serve others and do the will of God. If you want to be blessed, don't join those who delight in their own speeches and who trumpet their own accomplishments. Set aside everything you privately glory in and pick up the towel of servanthood. Don't wait for someone else to do it. You go first!

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"It was three years before I went." Gal

1:18 MSG

God's direction will often be followed by a season of preparation. And the length of that season is determined by the size of your assignment. So when God speaks to you, it's not always wise to rush out and tell people.

Who wouldn't want to talk about the amazing experience Paul had with Christ on the Damascus road? And there would be a right time for Paul to do that-but not yet. So don't move until God gives you the green light.

Why? Two reasons: (1) You need time, maturing, and equipping so that the word you have received can take root within you, grow, and be fulfilled in the way God wants. (2)

Sometimes God takes time to prepare the hearts of those He is sending you to. Paul writes: "Immediately after my calling-without consulting anyone around me and without going up to Jerusalem to confer with those who were apostles long before I was -I got away to Arabia... It was three years before I went up to Jerusalem to compare stories with Peter...Then I began my ministry" (vv. 17-21 MSG). Paul knew people would find his calling unbelievable, and he had the wisdom to wait. He allowed God to go ahead of him and orchestrate the circumstances. And while he was waiting, he allowed the word he had received to grow and make changes in his life.

Then, and only then, did he start doing what he was called to do. Paul didn't try to convince anybody; he let God do that. And the end result? "Their response was to recognize and worship God because of me!"

(v. 24 MSG).

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"When you pray, go into your room." Mt

6:6 NIV

Jesus said, "When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you" (v. 6 NIV). The Christian life could be compared to the Old Testament tabernacle, which was divided into three compartments. There was an outer court to which everyone had access.

And you too have an outer court; the place you go to work, shop, and play. It represents your outward appearance or public persona, the part of you everyone sees. The tabernacle also had an inner chamber called the Holy Place, where most people weren't permitted to go. You also have a holy place where designated people like close friends or family can enter. You decide who comes in and who doesn't, and no one can force their way.

Certain people may have authority over you vocationally or financially, but that doesn't automatically allow them entrance. When it comes to that inner chamber, you get to decide who comes and goes. The third compartment in the Old Testament tabernacle was the Most Holy Place, a very small, carefully guarded place, deep inside. It was accessed only by the chief priest, and there was room for only one person and God. You have one of those places inside you as well.

We sometimes refer to it as "the secret place" because only God is allowed in. And here is a truth you need to know: Your level of peace, joy, contentment, guidance, and victory is regulated by the amount of time you spend with God in your secret place. Prioritize it, protect it, and spend time there each day.

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"It was three years before I went." Gal 1:18 MSG

God's direction will often be followed by a season of preparation. And the length of that season is determined by the size of your assignment. So when God speaks to you, it's not always wise to rush out and tell people.

Who wouldn't want to talk about the amazing experience Paul had with Christ on the Damascus road? And there would be a right time for Paul to do that-but not yet. So don't move until God gives you the green light.

Why? Two reasons: (1) You need time, maturing, and equipping so that the word you have received can take root within you, grow, and be fulfilled in the way God wants.

(2) Sometimes God takes time to prepare the hearts of those He is sending you to. Paul writes: "Immediately after my calling-without consulting anyone around me and without going up to Jerusalem to confer with those who were apostles long before I was -I got away to Arabia...It was three years before I went up to Jerusalem to compare stories with Peter...Then I began my ministry" (vv. 17-21MSG).

21 MSG). Paul knew people would find his calling unbelievable, and he had the wisdom to wait. He allowed God to go ahead of him and orchestrate the circumstances. And while he was waiting, he allowed the word he had received to grow and make changes in his life.

Then, and only then, did he start doing what he was called to do. Paul didn't try to convince anybody; he let God do that. And the end result? "Their response was to recognize and worship God because of me!" (v. 24 MSG).

Don't move until God gives you the green light.

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"Christ's anointing teaches you the truth on everything you need to know about yourself and him." 1Jn 2:27 MSG

When you pray diligently and believe you have heard from God, but then you start asking other people what they think, you're honoring their opinions above God's. That kind of mindset will prevent you from developing a relationship where you constantly hear from Him. You need to trust Him. If you have made bad decisions in the past, this can be difficult.

But you must learn to listen to God without constantly needing reassurance from others.

The Bible says: "The anointing (the sacred appointment, the unction) which you received from Him abides [permanently] in you; [so]... you have no need that anyone should instruct you... His anointing teaches you concerning everything and is true...so you must abide in (live in, never depart from) Him" (v. 27

AMPC). That doesn't mean you don't need teaching and instruction when it comes to understanding God's Word; it means you have God's Spirit living inside you and that He will guide and direct you personally. You might have to ask somebody for advice from time to time, but you needn't constantly go to other people and ask them about decisions you're making for your life. If you're ever going to develop the ability to listen to God and be led by His Spirit, you must start making your own decisions-and trust the wisdom God has deposited in your heart. The devil wants you to think you're not capable of hearing from God. Don't believe him. The Holy Spirit who dwells inside you will give you confidence, comfort, and counsel for your life. So, learn to listen to Him.

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"If you willingly obey me, the best... will be yours." Isa 1:19 CEV

People think they can't hear from God, when in reality, there are things they already know He wants them to respond to, and so far they haven't done it. The quicker you do whatever the Lord has already told you to do, the sooner He will reveal the next step to you. His promise is, "If you willingly obey me, the best...will be yours." Hearing from God is something you only develop with practice-especially if you're a talker! That's why He says, "Be still, and know that I am God" (Ps

46:10). Our flesh is full of energy; we always want to be doing something, and it can be difficult for us to be still. Don't just talk to God when you need something; spend time listening. He will open up many issues if you will just be still before Him. You say, "I don't think I have ever heard God talk to me." Maybe that's because you haven't learned to listen! When you ask God for something, tune your "receiver." Even if He doesn't respond at that very moment, rest assured He will in due time. You may be doing some ordinary task when He decides to speak to you. And if you have honored Him by learning to listen as you fellowship with Him, He will speak to you at exactly the right time. Perhaps you have spent years going your own way. If so, don't despair; it's not too late to change direction. If you're willing to obey God, He will guide you on the exciting journey of learning to hear from Him every day of your life.

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"Christ.makes all of its parts work perfectly." Eph 4:16 CEV

You have probably heard that unless you're the lead dog, the view seldom changes. The problem is, however, not everybody can be the leading man or woman. And it's better to be a working actor than an out-of-work star; at least you get to be in the play! Besides, most great achievers, if they are honest, will tell you they couldn't have done it alone; they needed the contributions of each member of the team. So if God has placed you in a supporting role today, accept it without complaining. Do your part to make the entire production stronger. Not only will you learn all about team spirit, and that's important for when you do get to lead, you will also learn the Christlike virtue of humility. The Bible says you will "grow in every way and be more like Christ, the head of the body... [who] holds it together and makes all of its parts work perfectly" (vv. 15-16 CEV). So, put your heart into your part. Stop and think about how you're living your life. Are you giving it everything you've got, or are you holding out, hoping somebody else will recognize your talent? It's not about the greatness of the part you have been given, it's about how much effort you put into doing it. If God has placed you in a supporting role rather than a starring one, it's because He recognizes that the team needs vour particular strengths and talents.

Ask Him to help you accept the role He has given you-whatever it is--and learn to fulfill it with gratitude and dignity. Contribute from wherever you are today.

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"Teach us to use wisely all the time we have." Ps 90:12 CEV

We all get the same twenty-four hours every day. That's 1,440 minutes, or 86,400 seconds. And we "must give an account to God" for how we use them (See Ecc 11:9 NLT).

A good place to start is by asking yourself,

"How would I spend the next twenty-four hours if I knew I would stand before God tomorrow?" Your answer can help you prioritize your life. Think about it: If somebody steals your car, you can get another one. If they steal your wallet, a few phone calls to the credit card company usually resolve the matter. But who can you call when you lose your time? How you spend your time is how you spend your life! Ephesians 5:16 says, "Make every minute count" (CEV), so learn to do these:

(1) Stop saying yes to everybody.
When your spiritual gut says no, but your people-pleasing gut says yes, go with your spiritual gut. Jesus did. It's what enabled Him to tell His Father, " have finished the work... You have given Me to do" (Jn 17:4 NKJV).

Don't let the good rob you of the best; back off on some activities so you can excel in others.

(2) Be led by the Spirit, not the flesh.
Paul says, "If you are guided by the Spirit, you won't obey your selfish desires" (Gal 5:16 CEV). Furthermore, when you walk in the Spirit, you burn the oil, not the wick; the Holy Spirit supplies you with strength. (3) Put first things first. A mark of real maturity is doing what you don't feel like doing when you don't feel like doing it. So, this year, put first things first-and keep them there!

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"Whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle." Heb 11:34 NIV

The writer of Hebrews said: "I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah, about David and Samuel and the prophets..whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies" (vv. 32, 34 NIV).

Some of the biggest success stories in Scripture are about people who struggled with weaknesses and character flaws. They were mired in seeming failure and defeat, yet by God's grace they overcame the obstacles and odds stacked against them. The overriding theme of the Bible is resurrection-getting back up again! Here is the question: If you can't avoid failure, and you're not supposed to give in to it or let it color your thinking, how do you handle it? First, change your attitude. Cartoon character Homer Simpson summarized the attitude of many of us when he said, "Kids, you tried your best and you failed miserably. The lesson is-never try." Suffice it to say, Homer is a classic underachiever! In another episode, he quips,

"Trying is the first step toward failure!" The bottom line is, Homer never tries, so like many real people, he stays stuck. The people who succeed in life have faith and tenacity. They refuse to quit; they have decided not to let failure defeat them. Note the words "whose weakness was turned to strength.! You may start out weak, but by God's grace, you can become strong. You can rise from the ashes of failure, achieve your goals, and live the life God intends. How do we know? Because God's Word savs so!

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"Many. say of me, 'There is no help for him.'" Ps 3:2 NKJV

A Christian leader writes: "Oliver Goldsmith was born the son of a poor preacher in Ireland in the 1700s. Growing up, he wasn't a great student. In fact, his schoolmaster labeled him a 'stupid blockhead! He did manage to earn a college degree, but he finished at the bottom of his class. He was unsure of what he wanted to do. At first he tried to become a preacher, but it didn't suit him...Next he tried law but failed at it. He then settled on medicine, but he was an indifferent doctor...not passionate about his profession. He was able to hold several posts only temporarily. Goldsmith lived in poverty, was often ill, and once even had to pawn his clothes to buy food. It looked like he would never find his way. But then he discovered an interest and aptitude for writing and translating. At first, he worked as a Fleet Street reviewer and writer. But then he began to write works that came out of his own interests. He secured his reputation as a novelist with The Vicar of Wakefield, a poet with 'The Deserted Village,' and a playwright with She Stoops to Conquer." Goldsmith's story sounds a lot like the psalmist David's-and maybe yours too: "Many are they who say of me, 'There is no help for him in God. But You, O Lord, are a shield for me, my glory and the One who lifts up my head" (vv. 2-3 NKJV).

You may be down today, but God will lift you up if you turn to Him for guidance and cooperate with His plan for your life.

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You are snarea ny une woras oT your mouth." Pr 6:2 NKJV

A noted psychiatrist remarked that two of the saddest words in human vocabulary are "if only." He believes people who get trapped by their failures spend their lives saying, "If only I had tried harder...if only I had been kinder to my kids...if only I had been more truthful...if only..." The way to change that mindset is to change your vocabulary by substituting the words "next time." "Next time I will try harder...next time I will be kinder to my kids... next time I will be more truthful." The Bible says, "You are snared by the words of your mouth. And a snare is a trap. Have you ever seen an animal caught in a trap, struggling to be free? Your words can do that. And they don't just affect you, they affect others.

Maybe you think we're making too big a deal out of this. If you do--read on: "A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit" (Pr 15:4 NKJV). "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit" (Pr 18:21 NKJV).

Jesus said, "Whoever says to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea, and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says" (Mk 11:23 NKJV). What do these Scriptures have in common? They confirm that our words breathe life (or death) into everything! So instead of defeatist talk, speak victory over your situation. Instead of speaking failure, start speaking success.

When you do, God will honor the fruit of your lips.

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"There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." Pr 18:24 NIV

Cicero said, "Friendship improves happiness and abates misery, by the doubling of our joy and the dividing of our grief." The fact is, it's impossible to have more than a few close friends, because true friendship takes time, attention, and commitment. "One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother" (v. 24 NIV).

The hallmarks of real friendship include these:
(1) Trust. Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote: "The glory of friendship is not in the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when he discovers that someone else believes in him and is willing to trust him."

(2) Giving and receiving. Sometimes one person will be the primary giver, and sometimes the other. But true friendships are always two-sided.

(3) Sharing your lives. Helen Keller said: "My friends have made the story of my life. In a thousand ways they have turned my limitations into beautiful privileges and enabled me to walk serene and happy in the shadow cast by my deprivation."

(4) Mutual enjoyment. In a true friendship, you spend time together just for the joy of it. What you do isn't necessarily of significance. Unfortunately, the busyness of life makes us forget what a joy this can be.

(5) Respecting one another. How do you build respect? By not letting obstacles or circumstances become more important than the relationship.

When the pressure is on, you continue to treat one another with patience and kindness. And when the relationship is struggling, you work to preserve it.

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"Whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle." Heb 11:34 NIV

The writer of Hebrews said: "I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah, about David and Samuel and the prophets..whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies" (vv. 32, 34 NIV).

Some of the biggest success stories in Scripture are about people who struggled with weaknesses and character flaws. They were mired in seeming failure and defeat, yet by God's grace they overcame the obstacles and odds stacked against them. The overriding theme of the Bible is resurrection-getting back up again! Here is the question: If you can't avoid failure, and you're not supposed to give in to it or let it color your thinking, how do you handle it? First, change your attitude. Cartoon character Homer Simpson summarized the attitude of many of us when he said, "Kids, you tried your best and you failed miserably. The lesson is-never try." Suffice it to say, Homer is a classic underachiever! In another episode, he quips,

"Trying is the first step toward failure!" The bottom line is, Homer never tries, so like many real people, he stays stuck. The people who succeed in life have faith and tenacity. They refuse to quit; they have decided not to let failure defeat them. Note the words "whose weakness was turned to strength.! You may start out weak, but by God's grace, you can become strong. You can rise from the ashes of failure, achieve your goals, and live the life God intends. How do we know? Because God's Word savs so!

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"Wisdom is far more valuable than rubies. Nothing you desire can compare with it." Pr 8:11 NLT

To keep learning and growing, you must recognize these:

(1) Successful people view learning differently than unsuccessful people.Joshua learned from Moses. Timothy learned from Paul. Who have you chosen to learn from? Author Sydney J. Harris wrote: "A winner knows how much he still has to learn, even when he is considered an expert by others. A loser wants to be considered an expert by others before he has learned enough to know how little he knows." It's all a matter of attitude. It's truly remarkable how much a person has to learn before he or she realizes how little they know.

(2) Nothing is interesting if you're not interested.
In Quality Is Free, Philip B. Crosby writes: "There is a theory of human behavior that says people subconsciously retard their own intellectual growth. They come to rely on clichés and habits. Once they reach the age of...personal comfort with the world, they stop learning and their mind runs on idle for the rest of their days. They may progress organizationally, they may be ambitious and eager, and they may even work night and day. But they learn no more." The Bible says, "Jesus increased in wisdom and stature" (Lk 2:52). He didn't just grow physically; He grew spiritually, mentally, and emotionally. It's a tragedy when you let yourself get into a rut and never climb out; you miss out on the best that God has to offer.

By contrast, teachable people are completely engaged in life. They are enthusiastic about things. They're interested in discovering, discussing, applying, and increasing. So, never stop learning and growing!

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"Children are a blessing and a gift from the Lord." Ps 127:3 CEV

A Christian psychologist writes: "Several months ago I talked to a man who described one of the most painful experiences of his life.

When he was seventeen, he was one of the stars on his high school football team. But his father, a very successful man in the city, was always too busy to come and see him play.

Quickly the final game of the season came around, which happened to be the state championship. The boy was desperate to have his dad there. The night of the big game he was on the field warming up when he looked into the stadium just in time to see his father arrive with two other men, each wearing a business suit. They stood talking together for a moment or two, and then left.

The man who told me this story is now fifty-eight years of age, and yet he had tears streaming down his cheeks as he relived that moment long ago. It's been forty years since that night, and yet the rejection and pain are as vivid as ever. I was struck again by the awesome influence a father has in the lives of his children. When he is uninvolved, when he doesn't show love or care for them, it creates a vacuum that reverberates for decades. My friend's father died not long ago. As he stood by his dad's body in the mortuary, he said,

'Dad, I never really knew you. We could have shared so much love together-but you never had time for me!" Mom, Dad, your children are a "gift" from God. Treasure and enjoy them.

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"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says." Rev 2:11 NKJV

You can read the same Scripture on different occasions, and it will speak to you in totally different ways. The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is attributed with saying, "You never step into the same river twice." And you never read the same Bible verse the same way twice. That is a testament to its heavenly Author. And His illumination is based on His intimate and unlimited knowledge of your circumstances, your desires, your fears, your past, your personality, and your destiny. But you must take time to listen and cultivate your sensitivity to what He is saying. The story is told of a music trainer hired to work with opera singers who could not hit certain notes even though they fell within their vocal range.

It was a musical mystery. The trainer did extensive testing on their vocal cords, but he couldn't find any reason why they couldn't hit those notes. Then, on a whim, he tested their hearing. And what he discovered was that these opera singers could not sing a note they could not hear. The problem wasn't singing.

The problem was hearing. "He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says." Until you hear the voice of God, you won't be able to sing His song. Why? Because you're out of tune. That's how we get trapped in sinful lifestyles and negative cycles and destructive patterns. But when you open up the Bible and truly hear the voice of God-His loving voice, His affirming voice, His graceful voice, His convicting voice, His authoritative voice, His powerful voice-your life begins to harmonize with the Holy Spirit.

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"See how good the Lord is. Happy is the person who trusts him." Ps 34:8 NCV

What you believe about God is crucial to the quality of your life, especially in difficult times. So, starting today, tell yourself, "God is good-all the time," and keep saying it until it gets down into your spirit. What does it mean to be "good?" It means living up to the best and highest one knows. And since God always knows what's best and highest, His goodness is beyond question. If God is good-genuinely, practically, consistently good-then your cup of well-being, security, peace, confidence, and joy should be overflowing! A good God can't break His promise, abandon His children, or fail to love and provide for them.

In every trial and circumstance, you can be sure He will treat you in the best possible way.

When things seem to be falling apart, when you stumble confused in the dark, it's hard to see God's goodness or feel that things will get better. That's when you must draw on the faith God has deposited in you (See Ro 12:3), and by an act of your will, trust Him. A troubled parishioner once asked his pastor, "Does the world look like a wreck to you too?" He replied, "Yes, like the wreck of a bursting seed! Without the 'wreck' stage when its world appears to be falling apart, the acorn could never give birth to an oak tree." So, embrace God's will in your time of testing because it's "good, and acceptable, and perfect" (Ro 12:2). Ultimately, you will "see how good the Lord is" and that "happy is the person who trusts him."

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"Hear Me, everyone, and understand." Mk

7:14 NKJV

Jesus said, "Hear Me, everyone, and understand." He spoke life-changing words, but He understood that preoccupied minds don't always listen too well. Are you a good listener? (1) If you're a leader, do you listen to your followers? The kind of leaders people want to follow do more than conduct business when they interact with you; they take the time to get a feel for who you are as a person.

Philip Stanhope, the earl of Chesterfield, believed, "Many a man would rather you heard his story than granted his request." If you're accustomed to listening only to the facts and not the person who expresses them, change your focus--really listen. (2) If you're in business, do you listen to your customers? A Cherokee saying states, "Listen to the whispers and vou won't have to hear the screams." Never get so caught up in your own ideas and products that you don't hear your customers' concerns, complaints, and suggestions. In his book, Business @ the Speed of Thought, former Microsoft CEO Gates said, "Unhappy customers are always a concern. They're also your greatest opportunity." That's why you should make it a priority to keep in contact with the people you're serving. (3) If you're committed to growth, are you listening to your mentors?

You will never become so advanced or experienced that you can afford to be without mentors. If you don't have some, go out and find them. If you can't get some, begin by reading the right books, starting with your Bible. If you're not following in the footsteps of someone wiser, there is a good chance you're not on the right path.

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"Though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them." Ps 62:10 NIV

Let's settle it once and for all. If God can trust you with money, He will bless you financially (See 2Co 9:6-11 NIV).

But His blessings come with certain conditions, and here are four you need to honor.

(1) Don't try to claim credit.
God told the Israelites, "You may say to yourself. My hands have produced this wealth for me! But remember the Lord...for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth...If you ever forget. you will surely be destroyed" (Dt 8:17-19 NIV).

(2) Don't forget others.
The Bible commands "those who are rich in this present world...to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds...generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves" (1Ti 6:17-19 NIV).

(3) Don't become arrogant.
Jeremiah admonishes us, "Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong..of their strength or the rich...of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the Lord" (Jer 9:23-24 NIV).

(4) Don't allow anything to take God's place.
"Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, 'Who is the Lord?!" (Pr 30:8-9 NIV). Remember, you don't own anything-you're just an administrator of God's estate and an executor of His will. It's an awesome responsibility, so make sure you do a good job.

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"As we live in God, our love grows more perfect." 1Jn 4:17 NLT

In today's culture, the word "love" means different things to different people. You can love your husband or wife, your country, your dog, your new cell phone, and your car. But you don't love your husband or wife the same way you love your cell phone or your car, right? The television and tabloid kind of love where you fall in and out of love at the drop of a hat isn't real love, it's selfishness and immaturity. The Bible word "agape" (God's love) is an unconditional commitment to love that's rooted in an unchanging decision. It always gives, and doesn't change whether the love is returned or not. It's a decision of your heart to seek the other person's highest good, no matter how they may respond. When the King James Bible translators came upon the Greek word "agape," in addition to using the English word "love" to translate it, they often chose the word "charity." This was meant to reinforce the idea that love is a selfless, unconditional, giving love. And as such, it directs kindness, respect, and loyalty toward the loved one. "God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect" (vv. 16-17 NLT). What causes us to stand out from the world isn't our words but our love for one another. When we can overcome our differences, when we can cross lines of denomination, race, and culture and truly love one another, the world is drawn to Christ and it pays attention to what we say (See Jn 13:35).

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"If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles." Mt 5:41 NIV

Jesus said, "If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles." Roman soldiers were permitted to force a Jew to carry a burden a mile for them. They treated Jews as tools to be used. However, in those days, a Roman soldier was likely to be very young, a stranger in the city, poor, and deeply resented by the locals. So, what would you do in that situation? Jesus invites you to take the high road. When you carry someone's burden and finish the first mile, say, "You look tired. Can I help you some more? Can I carry your burden another mile?" Can you imagine doing that?

But it's what you're called to do. Often when someone takes advantage of you, you want to think of them as unlikable instead of a real person with their own story. It's said that a friend offered to introduce English essayist Charles Lamb to a man whom Lamb had disliked for a long time. "Don't make me meet him," Lamb said. "I want to go on hating him, and I can't do that to a man I know."

Understand this: You can give the gift of empathy. You can remember that the person you don't like is also a human being. You can put yourself in his place. You can take the time to imagine how he feels, what he has been through, and how life has treated him.

When you do that, your problem becomes an opportunity to practice the Christ life. Isn't that what you want? Isn't that what you signed up for in the first place?

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"David gave...Solomon...the plans of all that the Spirit had put in his mind for the..temple of the Lord." 1Ch 28:11-12 NIV

The first Jewish temple ranks as one of the architectural wonders of the ancient world.

Built in the tenth century BC, the project's scope was so massive that Solomon employed thirty thousand loggers and eighty thousand stonecutters. More than three thousand foremen managed the seven-year project. The temple was the epicenter of Judaism. It was the place of sacrifice. It was the place of worship. It was the place of pilgrimage. But like everything else, the temple was once a figment of the imagination.

The cumulative history of the Jewish temple can be traced all the way back to an idea in the mind of King David. But it wasn't David's idea. "David gave his son Solomon the plans for the portico of the temple, its buildings, its storerooms, its upper parts, its inner rooms and the place of atonement. He gave him the plans of all that the Spirit had put in his mind for the courts of the temple of the Lord." We have no idea how God downloaded the plans to David. JPEGs? PDFs? Mental images?

Detailed drawings? One thing is sure: The plans for the temple were not manufactured in David's mind, they originated with the Spirit of God. The temple wasn't just a good idea, it was a God idea. So, ask God for an idea. Pray for a plan. Why? Two reasons. First because the Bible says, "Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart" (Ps 37:4 NIV). Second, when something is conceived by God's Spirit, it is sure to succeed.

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"Then I saw 'a new neaven and a new earth."" Rev 21:1 NIV

Perhaps the reason many of us are not as excited about heaven as we should be is because of what we have been told; that we will stand around playing harps, singing songs, and worshiping God forever. Think about it. When the singing and prayers in the average Sunday-morning service last longer than fifteen minutes, many get bored. So when we hear we will be doing this nonstop, twenty-four hours a day, forever in heaven, you understand why we can't comprehend it or celebrate it. But there is more than one way of worshiping God. Astronomers approximate the existence of hundreds of billions of galaxies, more than ten galaxies for each person alive today! So, you won't run out of things to do in heaven, and it certainly won't be boring. It has taken thousands of years for billions of humans to explore a single tiny planet, and we have barely scratched the surface. Exploring the marvels of the new heavens and the new earth will keep us intrigued forever. And our love for God will grow infinitely bigger as a result. So, we will never cease to worship Him. Jesus told the woman at the well that God is looking for those who "worship..in the Spirit and in truth" (Jn 4:23 NIV). If you worship out of ignorance, worship is empty. God doesn't just want you to worship Him; He wants you to know who you are worshiping and why you are worshiping Him. Worship is twofold; "in the Spirit and in truth." So, learning the truth about God will keep you busy, excited, satisfied, and fulfilled for all eternity.

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"My son is like tne smell oT a tield tnat tne

Lord has blessed." Ge 27:27 NIV

Every child longs for their father's blessing, and every father is called to bless their children. When Isaac blessed his sons, he was acting on God's behalf, using his divinely delegated power to impart blessing. A father's blessing was a cherished institution, but its effectiveness rested on the fact that Isaac blessed his sons as an act of faith and not out of mere sentiment or favoritism. By Hebrew custom, a father's blessing comprised two elements. (1) A meaningful touch. "Jacob went close to his father Isaac, who touched him...Then his father Isaac said to him, 'Come here, my son, and kiss me'" (Ge

27:22, 26 NIV). A patriarch's blessing included the laying on of hands, a kiss, and embrace of acceptance and love. Jesus knew exactly what children needed, that's why "he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them" (Mk 10:16). And such expressions of love still bless our children who crave them from us. (2) A spoken word of affection. Before blessing Jacob, his father said to him, "Ah, the smell of my son is like the smell of a field that the Lord has blessed" (Ge 27:27 NIV). To a city dweller these words may not mean much, but not to Isaac's boys. This old outdoors patriarch who loved nature was in essence saying, "That's my boy-a hunter, a man's man, just like his dad!" He couldn't have spoken more affirming words to his son. Dad, let your words not be critical, demeaning, or insensitive, but words that say, "I couldn't be prouder than to call vou my child!"

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"I have voluntarily become a servant to...

all." 1Co 9:19 MSG

Whether you're applying for a job, trying to win someone to Christ, counseling and advising, or correcting someone's behavior, to be effective you must look for common ground. Let's look at some of the qualities that calls for. Paul writes: "I have voluntarily become a servant to...all...to reach a wide range of people." Establishing areas of common interest takes time. It also takes effort. It's been reported that today a typical business executive has an on-the-job attention span of six minutes. That's pathetic!

In six minutes a person can hardly get his or her feet on the ground, much less find common ground. Identifying areas you can agree on calls for empathy and a willingness to listen to what the other person has to say.

In her book How to Talk So People Listen, Sonya Hamlin reports that most people find this challenging because of the "Me-First Factor." She writes: "Listening requires giving up our favorite human pastime-involvement in ourselves and our own self-interest. It's our primary, entirely human focus. And it's where our motivation to do anything comes from.

With this as a base, can you see what a problem is created when we're asked to listen to someone else?" So, what's the solution?

First of all it's essential to acknowledge and answer two of the listener's instinctive, unspoken questions, which are: "Why should I listen to you? What's in it for me if I let you in?" Anytime you're willing to listen to people and figure out how what you're offering meets their needs, you are halfway toward your goal of finding common ground.

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"We stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God." 2Co 1:9 NLT

Are you feeling hopeless about the situation you're in and don't know which way to turn?

Maybe you're struggling to find a reason to keep going, but you're so tired and overwhelmed that you just want to give up. If that's the case, you're in a vulnerable place.

Look out-Satan will try to convince you there must be sin in your life, or that you're out of God's will, or that He is unhappy with you because you have disobeyed Him in some area you're unaware of. Don't buy it! You can be in the center of God's will doing everything the right way, and still experience adversity.

The apostle Paul writes: "You ought to know... about the trouble we went through in the province of Asia. We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it. In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead. And he did rescue us from mortal danger, and he will rescue us again. We have placed our confidence in him, and he will continue to rescue us. And you are helping us by praying for us. Then many people will give thanks because God has graciously answered so many prayers for our safety" (2Co 1:8-11 NLT). Two elements are at work in your life today. First, God is teaching you to lean on Him instead of on yourself. Second, people around you are being strengthened and encouraged as they see the grace of God at work in your life.

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"Let my teachings become part of you."

Jn 15:7 CEV

According to one count, there are 3,573 promises in the Bible. That's almost ten promises for each day of the year. When you know which of those promises apply to you, and you fulfill the conditions that go with them, you can literally begin to pray God's promises into existence in your life (See Jn

15:7 AMPC). Will your prayers be answered overnight? Some will, others won't. "Be... followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises" (Heb 6:12).

The most powerful prayer you can pray is,

"Lord, you promised in your Word that you would…and today I am praying and believing you for it." Here is how to pray: (1) When you need guidance and direction. "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye" (Ps 32:8 NKJV).

(2) When you need deliverance from a situation, or to be set free from a habit. "Call upon Me in the day of trouble, I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me" (Ps 50:15

NKJV). (3) When you need the strength to stand. "Fear not; for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand" (Isa 41:10 NKJV).

(4) When you don't have enough to meet your needs. "My God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Php 4:19). If you meditate in God's Word every day, each time a need arises, you will know which of His promises to claim in prayer (See 2Pe 1:4 NIV).

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"I try to find common ground with everyone." 1Co 9:22 NLT

To influence someone, you must first connect with them. And to do that, you must look for common ground. Paul writes, "I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some." In The Message, Eugene Peterson paraphrases

Paul's words: "Even though I am free of the demands and expectations of everyone, I have voluntarily become a servant to any and all in order to reach a wide range of people: religious, nonreligious, meticulous moralists, loose-living immoralists, the defeated, the demoralized-whoever. I didn't take on their way of life. I kept my bearings in Christ-but I entered their world and tried to experience things from their point of view. I've become just about every sort of servant there is in my attempts to lead those I meet into a God-saved life. I did all this because of the Message. I didn't just want to talk about it; I wanted to be in on it!" (vv. 19-23 MSG). Note the words " entered their world and tried to experience things from their point of view." When it came to preaching the truth, Paul wouldn't yield an inch. But when it came to reaching and influencing people for Christ, he tried to remove every roadblock between them and Christ. And you must be willing to do the same. People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.

That's why you must approach them heart-first, not headfirst. Before someone can receive the truth you have to share, they must be convinced that you love and care for them.

And that means finding common ground.

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"The slingers surrounded and attacked it." 2Ki

3:25 NKJV

In Old Testament times, "slingers" were people who enjoyed going around blocking other people's wells by throwing mud and rocks into them-wells of water that were essential to their survival. Today, mudslingers are people who make malicious attacks against others. Now, chances are that you may have encountered some "mudslingers" yourself, and even suffered at their hands. What should you do?

Avoid them because they're dangerous. You can't mud wrestle with a pig without getting dirty. Not only will the pig win-he will enjoy the fight! And if you yourself have become a slinger, here is a portion of Scripture you would do well to read and keep in mind: "If you stop making trouble for others...then your light will shine in the darkness, you will begin to get attention from and have influence with the right people]...The Lord will always lead you [you will begin to make the right moves]. He will satisfy your needs in dry lands [He will give you success in the most unlikely places, and in spite of adverse circumstances] and give strength to your bones [cause you to live a long and healthy life]" (Isa 58:9-11 NCV). Now there is a benefit package worth working for! So, guard your thoughts because they become your words. Guard your words because they become your actions.

Guard your actions because they become your character. And guard your character because it determines the level of God's blessing in your life.

So, here is the word for you today: Don't be a mudslinger.

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"It is finished!" Jn 19:30 NIV

One of Christ's last declarations from the cross was,

"It is finished." That phrase comprises just one word in Greek, tetelestai, meaning "paid in full." It was the word merchants wrote on a bill when it was canceled. It was also the word stamped on a document announcing that a prison sentence had been commuted. Jesus paid the price in full for every sin you have ever committed! "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" (Ro 8:1 NIV). The question is, if God forgets your sin the second you confess it, don't you think you should forget it too? How long do you think about an invoice you have paid? You forget it the minute you have paid it. Similarly, since Christ has paid your bill in full, you don't need to remember it anymore. Paul, who once described himself as "chief among sinners" (See 1Ti 1:15), wrote, "Forgetting what is behind... press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward" (Pho

3:13-14 NIV). We can short-circuit God's power in our lives by not trusting that He has truly forgiven us or by deciding not to forgive ourselves. Why do we do that? Sometimes because of how we were raised. Our parents told us, "I forgive you," but they constantly brought it up. Good news: Your heavenly Father is different from your earthly parents. When He forgives your sin, He expunges your record, cancels your past, can't remember it, doesn't talk about it, and will never bring it up again. So, today accept His forgiveness. And if you need to, forgive yourself and move on.

I Forgive yourself and move on.

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"We stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God." 2Co 1:9 NLT

Are you feeling hopeless about the situation you're in and don't know which way to turn?

Maybe you're struggling to find a reason to keep going, but you're so tired and overwhelmed that you just want to give up. If that's the case, you're in a vulnerable place.

Look out-Satan will try to convince you there must be sin in your life, or that you're out of God's will, or that He is unhappy with you because you have disobeyed Him in some area you're unaware of. Don't buy it! You can be in the center of God's will doing everything the right way, and still experience adversity.

The apostle Paul writes: "You ought to know... about the trouble we went through in the province of Asia. We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it. In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead.

And he did rescue us from mortal danger, and he will rescue us again. We have placed our confidence in him, and he will continue to rescue us. And you are helping us by praying for us. Then many people will give thanks because God has graciously answered so many prayers for our safety" (2C0 1:8-11 NLT). Two elements are at work in your life today. First, God is teaching you to lean on Him instead of on yourself. Second, people around you are being strengthened and encouraged as they see the grace of God at work in your life.

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"Grab..hope with both hands and never let go."

Heb 6:18 MSG

Does your situation look impossible? Are you getting ready to quit? Don't! Emilie Batisse was seventy-nine when she was injured in a hit-and-run accident and wasn't expected to live. When Norman Vincent Peale went to visit her, he noticed a row of brand-new poetry books that hadn't been opened.

When he asked her about them, she said, "I love poetry, but haven't read those... 'm saving them for my old age." Mrs. Batisse lived to read those books many times, and when she eventually died at ninety-one, she was planning a trip to Europe. Hope is wishing for something to come true; faith is believing it will happen. Hope is wanting something so desperately that despite all evidence to the contrary, you keep believing God for it. And the remarkable thing is that the act of hoping produces a strength of its own. When Cornell University conducted a study on the effects of hope, Dr.

Harold G. Wolff reported that people with hope can endure incredible burdens. One group comprised twenty-five thousand soldiers imprisoned during World War II. Subjected to forced labor, bad food, and filth, many died while others showed only slight damage. Interviews with survivors revealed a far-above-average ability to hope! How were they able to keep their hope alive? By drawing pictures of the girls they planned to marry, designing their future homes, and organizing business management seminars. Hope not only kept them well, it kept them alive! It's easy to see why Paul describes hope as "an unbreakable spiritual lifeline, reaching past... appearances...to the very presence of God" (v. 19).

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"Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find?" Pr 20:6 NIV

Pastor Rowland Croucher writes: "The children had gone to school, my wife was off to work, and I did something I'd never done before. I turned the phone down, put a note on the door, and went back to bed.

Iwas burned out. Within two months I had resigned my ministry...Three out of four pastors report anger, depression, fear, and alienation. The reasons include.a disparity between idealistic expectations and hard reality... lack of boundaries...workaholism... feelings of incompetence... conflict between being a leader and being a servant at the same time...

'playing it safe' to avoid upsetting powerful parishioners..and loneliness (pastors are less likely to have a close friend than almost anybody)."

Ministering in your own strength virtually guarantees you will end up as another statistic. Paul was able to go the distance and finish strong because he depended on God to give him the needed strength. One Bible teacher says avoiding burnout means (a) having a definite call on your life and a strong relationship with Jesus, (b) seeking His vision and being willing to do whatever He asks, (c) never losing sight of the people behind the work, (d) never taking your position for granted, (e) respecting the guy above you, and submitting willingly to authority, (f) knowing that you're fulfilling God's will and your reward is laid up in heaven, (g) having a servant's heart, (h) putting loyalty above personal feelings, and () never being too big to do small things, or too small to do big things. Practice these principles and you won't burn out.

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"I know you by name and you have found favor with me." Ex 33:12 NIV

Moses talked with God like a friend, sharing what he felt and thought. And God wanted it that way. Here is how the conversation went: "Moses said to the Lord,

'You have been telling me, "Lead these people,"... You have said, "I know you by name and you have found favor with me."''" Moses is mirroring back to God what God had previously said to him. Remember saying to your spouse or your best friend, "You were the one who said."? That's what Moses is doing here:

reminding God of His own words. And God wants you to remember His Word and to speak it back to Him (See Isa 43:26). Not because He needs to be reminded but because you do! And because His Word is the only Word that He is committed to fulfill (See Mt 24:35). When you pray using God's Word, you are praying in His will, and you're guaranteed to get a hearing. So, learn and memorize Scriptures that touch on your needs and desires, and when you talk to God, recall them, and pray them back to Him. For example, when you pray, "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours" (Mk 11:24 NIV), God will acknowledge it! The more you learn of His Word, the more your prayer time will conform to His will and the more you will feel aligned with Him. Keep your Bible handy when you talk to God so that He can direct your thoughts to the words He wants you to pray.

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"Clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

Col 3:12 NLT

The poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote, "If we could read the secret history of our enemies, we should find in each man's life sorrow and suffering enough to disarm all hostility." In his documentary on twentieth-century wars, Jonathan Glover refers to what he calls "sympathy breakthroughs." Even in the situation of war, acts of compassion supersede the conflict. Most sympathy breakthroughs, according to Glover, are triggered by eye-to-eye contact, and that eye-to-eye contact displaces hand-to-hand combat. Have you ever had a sympathy breakthrough? If not, pray for one. It's a moment when your tendency to hate is overcome by your will to love. A moment when proactive compassion overrules negative anger. A moment when you're concerned more about someone else's pain than vour own. Those are the moments when you discover what it really means to love God with all your heart. It's much simpler to act like a Christian than it is to react like one. Anybody can put on an act. But your reactions expose what is really in your heart. And if you love God with all your heart, you won't merely act like it. You will react like it. The apostle Peter puts it this way: "Clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony" (vv. 12-14 NLT).

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"To him who is afflicted, kindness should be shown." Job 6:14 NKJV

A pastor writes: "What makes you glad or sad or mad? What puts a holy smile on your face?

What causes your spirit to sob uncontrollably? What makes you pound your fist on the table out of righteous indignation?

Somewhere in the mixture of that gladness, sadness, and madness is your God-ordained passion. Or maybe we should say compassion, because you are feeling what God feels. And once you identify it, doing something about it isn't optional. You can't not do something about it." In 2006, Blake Mycoskie was touring Argentina when he noticed that many of the children didn't have shoes. He could have returned to the United States and gone about his business. Instead, he started TOMS shoes, a business with a mission of putting shoes on the feet of children in third-world countries. It works like this: When you buy a pair of TOMS shoes, you're giving a pair of shoes to a barefoot child somewhere. For every pair of shoes purchased, a pair is given away. Their mission is straightforward: one for one. Blake identified a need. He personalized it. And he decided to do something about it. It didn't start out big, it started out small. Yet that is how primal moments begin. A person decides to do something about something that makes him glad or sad or mad. It was barefoot kids who broke Blake's heart. And he literally placed shoes on his faith. When you discover the thing that makes you glad or sad or mad, the only question left is this: What are you going to do about it?

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"The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.!"

Ps 23:1 NIV

We need to know two things: (1) Our shepherd's character. Jesus distinguished good shepherds from bad ones (See Jn 10:11-

16). Bad shepherds look out for their own interests, not the welfare of the sheep.

They're unreliable; when a threat arises, they abandon the flock. But Jesus claimed, "I am the good shepherd" (Jn 10:11). What makes Him good? "The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep" (v. 11 NKJV). Their needs and their security come before his own, and if necessary, he will die for them. "I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me" (v. 14 NIV). Jesus knows each of His sheep individually and desires an intimate relationship with them. He calls each one by name; they trust Him and follow where He leads (See Jn 10:3). You can rely on your shepherd to protect and guide you! (2) The sheep's condition is the shepherd's business.

He can't be a good shepherd if his sheep's needs aren't being met. Sheep don't know the path to the pasture, the location of the watering hole, or the strategy for their own safety. But the shepherd does. His sheep believe in him, rely on him, and follow him. But believing in and relying on His protection and provision isn't instinctive-it's the only decision you make; an act of your will.

Regardless of your feelings or circumstances, you make up your mind to trust the shepherd to handle things and act as your security.

When you turn your worries and concerns over to Him and rest in His goodness, He fulfills His promise that you will "lack nothing."

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Do not be drunk with wine.. but be filled with the Spirit." Eph 5:18 NKJV

The Christian life isn't only a changed life but an exchanged life. At the moment of conversion, we give our old life to God and He gives us a new life in its place. But He does more; He comes to live within us by the power of the Holv Spirit. Paul made the contrast between being drunk with wine and being filled with the Spirit. One causes you to be out of control, while the other enables you to be in control.

One is counterproductive, while the other is productive. One makes you powerless, while the other empowers you. One brings you sorrow, while the other brings you joy. This Scripture is not a promise or even an option, it's a command: "Be filled with the Spirit." And Paul gives us three evidences of a Spirit-filled life: (1) "Singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord" (v. 19 NKJV). This song isn't induced by circumstances but despite them. "At midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God...and immediately all the doors were opened and evervone's chains were loosed" (Ac 16:25-26 NKJV). Praising God can open doors and break chains. (2) "Giving thanks always for all things to God" (Eph 5:20 NKJV). Spirit-filled people have troubles like everyone else. But they don't focus on their troubles; they count their blessings and stay positive, upbeat, and grateful. (3) "Submitting to one another in the fear of God" (v. 21 NKJV). Spirit-filled people are "others focused." They know that what you make happen for someone else, God will make happen for you (See Eph 6:8).

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"Those who trust in the Lord…cannot be shaken." Ps 125:1 NIV

People are naturally attracted to leaders who convey poise and self-assurance; they won't follow one who lacks self-confidence. An excellent illustration of this is an incident that took place in Russia during an attempted coup. Army tanks encircled the government building that held President Boris Yeltsin and his prodemocracy supporters. As the army moved into position, Yeltsin strode from the building, climbed up on a tank, stared the commander in the eye, and thanked him for turning to the side of democracy. Later the commander admitted that although he hadn't intended to go over to Yeltsin's side, the Russian leader appeared so confident, the soldiers decided to join him. Great achievers exhibit confidence regardless of circumstances. But true confidence doesn't come from having the approval of people around you. The Bible says, "The Lord will be your confidence" (Pr 3:26 NKJV); it's about knowing He has called you and equipped you to do the job. Paul wrote, "We feel certain before God...It is God who makes us able to do all that we do" (2Co 3:4-5

NCV). Even though others may not believe in you, knowing God believes in you enables you to believe in yourself. David wrote, "Many are saying of me,

'God will not deliver him.' But you are a shield around me...the One who lifts my head high" (Ps

3:2-3 NIV). A confident leader can say to those who follow him or her, "I have confidence in the God who called me. I have confidence in you. I believe that together we can accomplish what God wants done."

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"I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?" Jer 32:27 NKJV

Remember past victories. Notice how King Jehoshaphat prayed: "Are You not our God, who drove out the inhabitants of this land before Your people Israel, and gave it to the descendants of Abraham Your friend forever?" (2Ch 20:7 NKJV). If God has ever performed a miracle for you or for anybody else, He can do it again. So, read His Word and strengthen your faith by recalling His great deeds. E Exalt God above the problem. "O Lord God of our fathers, are You not God in heaven, and do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, and in Your hand is there not power and might, so that no one is able to withstand You?" (V. 6 NKJV).

In his anguish, Jehoshaphat asked rhetorical questions that exposed how big his God was compared to the problem. Sometimes it's difficult to look past the problem when the reality of it is so close. If you close one eve and put a coin over your other eye, you can blind yourself to something as big as the sun. Getting the idea? S-Solicit the prayers and support of others. "Jehoshaphat... proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah...they came to seek the Lord" (vv. 3-4 NKJV). Jehoshaphat didn't ask the people for their opinions but for their prayers, because that's what moves the heart of God. S Stand on the promises of God. When you do, you can say like the psalmist, "As pressure and stress bear down on me, I find joy in your commands" (Ps 119:143 NLT). That's God's formula for stress-now use it.

I Remember past victories.

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"Clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Col 3:12 NLT

John Gray wrote the best-selling book Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus. His underlying thesis is this: In order to get along with someone, you have to try and see life from their perspective.

And that's not easy. Paul writes: "Clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you.

Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts" (vv. 12-15 NLT). Those who need others to think and act exactly the way they do are often masking insecurities. They have a deep-seated need to have their views and actions confirmed in the behavior and thoughts of others.

But that's not how life works. Disagreements happen in any relationship where more than one person is involved. We are all unique, and we are not likely to agree on everything. But the way we approach our disagreements can determine whether our relationship makes it to the finish line.

Fighting fair, opening yourself to the ideas of others and to new ways of doing things, is how you grow.

And who knows, in the end you may even "agree to disagree." The important thing is to respect the other person's ideas and seek to create an environment where the two of vou can feel free to express your feelings and be who you really are without fear of being judged.

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"Then [Elisha] arose and followed Elijah, and became his servant." 1Ki 19:21 NKJV

To get the job done right, you must surround yourself with the right people. That's why good leaders are continually on the lookout for good people. But the person you get isn't always determined by what you want but by who you are. In most instances, you attract people who possess many of the same qualities you do. Not only was Elisha like Elijah, he wanted a double portion of the Spirit that was upon Elijah. Who you are, is who you will attract. It's possible to go out and recruit people unlike vourself. but it's crucial to recognize that those who are different from you may not naturally be attracted to you. Furthermore, if you're not entirely happy with the kind of people you attract, it may be time to improve yourself. You need to be aware of these five tendencies in yourself, and when you see them, deal with them: (1) Pride. Nobody wants to follow someone who thinks thev're better than everyone else. (2) Insecurity. If you're uncomfortable with who you are, other people will be too. (3) Moodiness. If people never know quite what to expect from you, they stop expecting anything. (4) Perfectionism. People respect the desire for excellence, but they don't like unrealistic expectations. (5) Cynicism. Others don't want their parade rained on by someone who sees a black cloud around every silver lining. These five hang-ups are so damaging that if you're wise, you will surround yourself with people who are willing to point them out and help you become a more effective leader.

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"Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?" Lk 12:25 NLT

King Jehoshaphat heard that he was about to be attacked by three different armies. Talk about stress! His response is the example you need to follow when life gets overwhelming. His story is told in 2 Chronicles 20. Using the word S.T.R.E.S.S., we learn the following lessons: S- Seek God's guidance. "Jehoshaphat…set himself to seek the Lord" (v. 3). Years prior when his father, King Asa, faced a similar threat, he responded by collecting the silver and gold from the temple and his palace and using it to bribe one of the raiding kings to defect to his side. That solved the immediate problem-but not without negative consequences.

Although the invasion endeavor was abandoned,

God became angry at his reliance on another king to help him conquer his enemies (See 2Ch 16:1-9). So, He pronounced Asa's punishment for the rest of his reign: "In this you have done foolishly; therefore from now on you shall have wars" (v. 9 NKJV). He would live with the stress of constantly being at war, because he had not sought after God's counsel first.

So, Jehoshaphat, his son, decided that he wasn't going to take that route. How about you? Do you stress out, attempting to figure out a solution instead of finding out how God wants you to deal with it? Think of the last problem you faced. Did you rely on the opinions of others or on your own ideas, or was your first idea to seek God? God promises this: "You will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart" (Jer 29:13 NKJV).

So, talk to God about it!

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Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you." 2Ch 20:17 NKJV

Trust what God tells you. "You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord...Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you" (v. 17 NKJV). God's way of resolving our problems can frequently go against our logic. Maybe that is why we are hesitant to approach Him in certain matters. Why would God instruct Jehoshaphat's army, which was clearly no match for three armies, to show up prepared for a battle they were not intended to fight? That didn't make any sense! God will many times tell us to

"position" ourselves to deal with a demanding task or problem we feel completely inadequate to tackle.

Our challenge is to obey Him and position ourselves to win. How do you do that? (1) You "position" yourself when you choose to enter college, even though you may not have achieved well in high school. (2) You "position" yourself when you resign from a job at God's urging and start a new business, even though a long list of customers or clients isn't waiting in the wings. (3) You "position" yourself when you sit down at your computer each day to write a book you have always desired to write-without a head full of knowledge but with a heart full of faith that God will join you there with His words. God's instruction is to position ourselves for victory. He wants us to show up, so He can show Himself strong on our behalf See 2Ch 16:9 NKJV).

"Do not fear or be dismayed."

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"It is good to give thanks to the Lord." Ps 92:1 NKJV

Journalist Fulton Oursler tells the story of an elderly nurse called Anna. Born a slave on the eastern shore of the state of Maryland, she had attended Fulton's birth, plus that of his mother. He honors her for teaching him the best lesson he ever learned about giving thanks and finding contentment: "I remember her as she sat at the kitchen table in our house; the hard, old, brown hands folded across her starched apron, the glistening eyes, and the husky old whispering voice, saying, 'Much obliged, Lord, for my vittles! I asked, 'Anna, what's a vittle?' 'It's what I've got to eat and drink-that's vittles, the old nurse replied. 'But you'd get your vittles whether you thanked the Lord or not,' I said. 'Sure,' said Anna, 'but it makes everything taste better to be thankful!" The excitement that comes from getting something new, or even something you have worked hard for, is often short lived and quickly replaced by your desire for the next thing. Solomon put it this way: "The eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing" (Ecc 1:8). So, what's the solution? Having an attitude of gratitude! Stopping regularly to remember the goodness of God that makes it possible for you to enjoy every blessing you have, and remembering to say, "Thank you, Lord." The psalmist had a heart of gratitude. He wrote, "It is good to give thanks to the Lord, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; to declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, and Your faithfulness every night" (Ps 92:1-2 NKJV). So, always be thankful to God.

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We are each responsible for our own conduct."

Gal 6:5 NLT

Being accountable for yourself, your thoughts, and your actions is a very important part of being a contributing member in a relationship. But sometimes we take things too far by assuming an unhealthy responsibility for others, then using it as an excuse for not being accountable for ourselves and our own circumstances. For example, we blame an unplanned pregnancy for our failure to go to college. Or we blame our unhappiness on the fact that we stayed married for the sake of the children.

We focus so much on other people and taking responsibility for their lives that we never take time to look for solutions to rise above our own situation.

And eventually all the woe and hard times become our identity. We don't just complain; we become chronic complainers. Let's be honest, sometimes our tales of woe are simply excuses, made-up versions of the truth to hide the fact that we have decided to blame everyone else for our circumstances. That way we don't have to take responsibility for our lives. The fact is, we all make choices in life; to go or stay, to confront or ignore, to complain or look for a solution. Whether it's your spouse, your kids, or your parents, it's never a good idea to take responsibility for others if you're doing it to avoid deciding what you need to do for yourself. The Bible says, "Pay careful attention to your own work...then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won't need to compare yourself to anyone else. For we are each responsible for our own conduct" (vv. 4-5 NLT).

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"Her children respect and bless her; her husband joins in with words of praise." Pr 31:28 MSG

Where do children learn to think highly of their mothers? Who sets the pattern for their young minds, positioning Mom as the much-loved and respected member of the family-instead of being merely considered "chief cook and bottle washer?" At school, children learn the skills necessary to succeed on the job, but at home, they learn the skills necessary for building a family. And the best public relations agent for Mom-is Dad. Father, you wield tremendous influence over what your children think of their mother and women in general. When your children grow up with warring parents, they think, "If Dad can argue with Mom, then so can I." In short, your attitudes and actions become the attitudes and actions of your children. In a world that often discounts the contribution of women, especially homemakers, it's up to you as a husband and father to say in a dozen different ways, "Your mother is a wonderful woman! She works hard and she deserves tremendous credit for what she gives us all. As far as I'm concerned, she is number one!" Proverbs 31 says, "Her children respect and bless her." Who did they learn that from? Television? Their peer group? School? No, they learned it at home.

Here is the bottom line: The way you treat your wife is probably the way your son will treat his wife. Your children may not follow your advice, but often they will follow your example. "Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise" (V.

31 NLT).

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"Jesus answered...he will have whatever he says." Mk 11:22-23 NKJV

Jesus taught us that when we speak His Word in faith, we will "have" whatever we say. That's a powerful faith! When you speak God's living Word over your situation, it's like flipping a switch; His power is activated, and His promises start coming to pass in your life. So, begin each day by speaking the following Scriptures over your life: (1) "This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it" (Ps 118:24 NKJV). Confession: "Lord, thank you for the gift of this day. I will celebrate your goodness and enjoy each moment of it." (2)

"His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness" (La 3:22-23

NKJV). Confession: "Lord, today I will seek to honor You in all that I do. And if I fail and fall short, I will still walk in Your mercy and grace." (3) "The Lord God has given Me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him who is weary" (Isa 50:4 NKJV). Confession: "Lord, I will know what to say because You have instructed me and given me the tongue of the learned." (4)

"This is the day in which the Lord has delivered [your enemy] into your hand. Has not the Lord gone out before you?" (Jdg 4:14 NKJV). Confession:

"Lord, regardless of what comes my way today, You will defend, protect, and vindicate me. So, this day I will walk in your joy, favor, mercy, guidance, protection, and blessing."

"You will defend, protect, and vindicate me."

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"The Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved." Ac 2:47 NKJV

The church has only two options: evangelize or fossilize. When we fail to share our faith with those outside the church, we either end up in a holding pattern or in death throes. The New Testament church's growth is described in these words: "The Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved." Not only did they influence every level of society, but their enemies said, "These who have turned the world upside down have come here too" (Ac 17:6 NKJV). Question: If your church closed its doors tomorrow, would anyone other than your congregation notice the difference? Think about those early believers. Their assignment seemed geographically impossible; most people still believed the world was flat. They had no air travel, radio, television, printing presses, internet, or any other modern means at their disposal for communicating the gospel. It seemed legally impossible; they were forbidden by the government authorities to speak in Jesus' name. And it seemed socially impossible; after all, who would really listen to a bunch of Galileans, devoid of culture and class?

Yet they were witnesses through the power of the Holy Spirit, and people did listen. They did so much with so little, and we seem to do so little with so much. It's reckoned that if just 10 percent of the members in the average church got serious about evangelism, their church would double in one year.

By the way, the word translated "witness" is the same word from which we get our English word martyr. These early believers reached the world for Christ because they were willing to lay down their lives for His cause. You must be too.

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"You shall be witnesses to Me." Ac 1:8 NKJV

Coach Vince Lombardi led the Green Bay Packers football team to victory after victory. But one day, they lost to a team they should have easily defeated. So, Lombardi gathered his team together.

He put his hand into a bag and brought out a football. With his inimitable smile, he told them,

"Gentlemen, this is a football!" In other words, it was time to get back to basics. Jesus is "the captain of [our] salvation" (Heb 2:10). And before He went back to heaven, He gave us the game plan: "You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Jude and Samaria, and to the end of the earth" (Ac 1:8 NKJV). And since a person's last words are some of their most important ones, it leads us to ask this: Who was Jesus talking to? You! "You shall...be witnesses to Me." There are people around today who will never go to church. Their only chance of hearing the gospel is through you; through what your lips declare and your life demonstrates. What is this

"power" Jesus spoke of? The Greek word for

"power" is dynamos, from which we get the word dynamite. Dynamite is an explosive force, which when properly harnessed can remove any obstacle that stands in the way of progress. You say, "I have never been to seminary, and I don't feel qualified to share the gospel!" God doesn't call the qualified; He qualifies the called by filling them with His Spirit and using them to reach a hurting world. Today you have been called to do that.

I "You shall. be witnesses to Me."

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"Train up a child in the way he should go." Pr 22:6

The Bible says, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it" (v. 6). Observe the word "child." You must begin early when: (1) Their will is flexible. A twig is much simpler to bend than a trunk. In the early years, your child's will is like soft clay; malleable and flexible. You see, it's when they're young that you are to "set their ways," because when they grow older, their "ways are set." The Hebrew phrase

"train up" refers to training a vine to grow in a certain shape or direction. If you wait, it will be too late! (2) There is still hope. "Chasten your son while there is hope, and do not set your heart on his destruction" (Pr 19:18 NKJV). When a parent says,

"My kids are hopeless," too often you find out those parents didn't train their children while there was still hope. Listen to the urgency in Solomon's voice:

"He who spares his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him promptly" (Pr 13:24

NKJV). The Hebrew word for "promptly" refers to dawn, or early in the day. So, start early! Maybe you have a little darling running around in your house right now that you think is an angel. But someday those legs will grow longer, those wings will become shorter, and sometimes a little "angel" even sprouts horns! While your child is young and more apt and ready to listen to your advice and counsel, teach and train him or her how to live God's way. If you do, you will never regret it.

While your child is young, teach and train him or her how to live.

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"The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat."

2Th 3:10 NIV

Compassion without accountability is just indulgence. The Bible teaches that we have a responsibility to feed those who are truly hungry and can't provide for themselves. But let's face it, there are some folks who would rather go hungry than go to work. Solomon writes, "Laziness casts one into a deep sleep, and an idle person will suffer hunger" (Pr 19:15 NKJV). Centuries later the apostle Paul was even more explicit: "For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: 'The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.'" Listen to what Solomon says about the sluggard: "The lazy man does not roast what he took in hunting" (Pr

12:27 NKJV). "A lazy man buries his hand in the bowl, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again" (Pr 19:24 NKJV). Talk about laziness! He wants his bread buttered, but he wants someone else to butter it for him. If he kills a deer while he is hunting, he won't even clean the meat and cook it; he wants someone else to cook it for him and serve it to him. What's the Bible talking about here? It's talking about the person who never starts a job; and if you give them one, they either won't finish it or they will do it only halfway. Then Solomon wraps it all up in one final zinger. "The desire of the lazy man kills him, for his hands refuse to labor" (Pr 21:25

NKJV). There are no two ways about it; if you want God's blessing on your life, you have to be willing to work!

Be willing to work!

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"You must go...And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you." Dt 31:7-8 NKJV

When God tells you to "go," remind yourself that every detail of your future is already known to Him.

Centuries ago when a mapmaker ran out of the known world before he ran out of parchment, he would frequently draw a dragon at the edge of the scroll. This was intended as a sign to explorers that they were entering unknown territory at their own risk. Many, however, didn't regard the dragon as a mapmaker's warning sign but instead as a prophecy. They foresaw disaster beyond the known worlds they traversed, and their fear kept them from pushing on to discover new lands and peoples.

Other more adventuresome travelers, however, saw the dragon as a sign of opportunity and a doorway to new worlds worth exploring. Each of us has a mental map that contains the information we use for guidance as we begin each day. And like the maps of long ago, our mental maps have edges to them, and sometimes those edges seem to be marked by dragons or fears. We fear failing, or being rejected, or ridiculed, or that we won't have enough, or that we will lose what we have. If that's how you feel today, read these words spoken by God to His people when they stood on the threshold of the promised land without knowing what awaited them when they went into it. "The Lord, He is the One who goes before you." So, write down your goal, map out a strategy, and set a deadline. Then commit it to God, believing that He has gone before you to prepare the way.

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"From any tree of the garden you may freely eat." Ge 2:16 NAS

Adam had the perfect job, perfect home, perfect marriage, and the perfect environment; all the things we strive for. So how did it come about? As a result of his relationship with God! God basically gave him two rules to live by: "From any tree of the garden you may freely eat; but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat from it you will certainly die" (vv. 16-17 NAS). So, the two rules are these: (1)

With God, what you get back is always greater than what you give up. "From any tree of the garden you may freely eat." But what we so often do-and what legalistic religion does-is look at that Scripture and similar Scriptures and focus on what we can't do.

The truth is, when our list of can't do's exceeds our list of what we're free to do, we have gone far beyond what the Scriptures intended. The Christian life should be measured by what you're free to enjoy, not by what you're denied. (2) When you live your life according to God's Word instead of your own impulses, you're blessed. "Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to...keep all my commands...so that it might go well with them" (Dt 5:29 NIV). The only thing God denies us is the right to determine for ourselves what's "good or evil," because He knows we're not qualified to do it. We must live by divine revelation rather than human inclination. God in His love and wisdom set this limitation in place to protect and bless us.

I "That it might go well with them"

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"Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence." Heb 4:16
NIV

If you feel unworthy to approach God in prayer, stop and read these words: "Let us...approach God's throne of grace with confidence...that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need" (v. 16 NIV). The word "grace" means

"undeserved kindness, mercy, favor, and help when you need it." Notice three important things: (1)

When you need grace, you can approach God with complete confidence. Why? Because you're coming to a throne of grace and mercy, not a throne of judgment. All your sins-past, present, and future-were paid for the moment Jesus said, "It is finished." Satan, whom the Bible calls "the accuser," wants you to feel condemned, guilty, and unworthy to approach God. But the moment you placed your trust in Christ, God clothed you in Christ's righteousness. Therefore, you can always come to Him with confidence. (2) When you need more grace, pray more. God has all the grace needed to help you, but you must go before His throne and ask for it. A prayerless Christian is a graceless Christian.

The Bible says, "Grow in grace" (2Pe 3:18), and if you're not praying every day, you're not growing in your spiritual life. So, what's the answer? Spend more time hanging around the throne that dispenses grace. (3) God's grace is given based on your need at that moment. He won't give you tomorrow's grace until tomorrow, so don't bother asking for it. But don't be concerned; the supply of grace you have in Christ will not run out tomorrow-or ever! That means you can't wear out your welcome by going to the throne of grace too often.

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"Talk of them when you sit in your house, [and] when you walk by the way." Dt 6:7 NKJV

Dr. Armand Nicholi, a psychiatrist from Harvard University, was invited to speak at a White House conference on the status of the American family. He explained how an overcommitted lifestyle that makes parents inaccessible to their children produces much the same effect as divorce itself.

Cross-cultural studies sav that parents in the United States spend less time with their children than parents in almost any other nation in the world. For generations fathers have devoted themselves exclusively to their occupations. But today, mothers have joined the workforce, rendering themselves exhausted at night and burdened with domestic duties on weekends. As a result, no one is at home to meet the needs of the lonely preschoolers and latchkey children. Nicholi stressed the undeniable link between the interruption of parent-child relationships and the escalation of psvchiatric problems we are seeing. "If the trend continues," he said, "serious national health problems are inevitable." Year after year we are seeing more and more children suffering from depression, anxiety disorders and panic attacks. And that figure will continue to grow with the incidence of divorce, child neglect, child abuse, and child molestation continuing to soar. You say, "What's the answer?" Sacrifice and simplify! Even if it means sacrificing certain material things and simplifying your lifestyle, spend time with your children! God told the Israelites, "You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in vour house."

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"Trust (lean on, rely on, and be confident) in the Lord and do good; so shall you dwell in the land and feed surely on His faithfulness." Ps 37:3 AMPC

Sometimes when we have problems, we withdraw from normal life and spend all our time obsessing and trying to solve them. We talk about them to anyone who will listen. All this is unproductive activity which prevents us from doing what we should be doing, which is "doing good." If you want to experience the benefits of God's faithfulness, you must do two things: (1) "Trust (lean on, rely on, and be confident) in the Lord." (2) "And do good." When we have problems, it feels counterintuitive to focus on blessing others. But it's not; it's actually a very powerful thing to do. It takes your mind off you and your problem. Plus, you're sowing good seed that ultimately brings your good harvest. Falling into self-pity, fretting, and talking negatively prevent

God from helping you. But trusting Him and persisting in doing good for others release Him to work on your behalf. We may know it's wrong to worry and yet continue worrying. We must realize that none of God's promises work for us until we actually obey His Word. Knowledge alone won't solve your problems; you must take action and be obedient no matter how you feel. You might not feel like keeping a commitment or doing something to help someone else, but when you do it, God goes to work on your behalf. So, one of the keys to overcoming fear and worry is doing what God has told you to do regardless of how you feel.

I God goes to work on your behalf.

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"Turn thou me, and I shall be turned." Jer 31:18

When we have been hurt, our first instinct is to retaliate. We know it's wrong because the Bible says we must forgive in order to be forgiven (See Mk

11:25. We also know that bitterness can hurt us physically and emotionally. But sometimes we can't bring ourselves to forgive, so we keep wrestling with it in our mind. Stop and think what happens in a wrestling match. You focus on your opponent, clinging to them and trying to control them. Your aim is to put them on the mat and bring them into submission, and it requires all your energy. Plus, you risk getting hurt in the process. The only real power you have over someone who hurts you is the power of forgiveness. So for your own sake, forgive them and move on! Even though you don't feel like forgiving, pray, "Turn thou me, and I shall be turned; for thou art the Lord my God." In other words, "Lord, make me willing to forgive." The old saying, "To err is human, to forgive is divine," is the truth. Now, small offenses can be forgiven quickly, but big ones require divine assistance. And you can have it: "God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him" (Php 2:13 NLT). Yes, you may want your offender to suffer, but when your greatest desire is to please the Lord, He will give you the grace to forgive. When you realize the blessings God has in store for you in the future, you will refuse to spend another moment stuck in the past.

Forgive them and move on!

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We can come to God with bold confidence." 1Jn 3:21 NLT

When you knowingly sin, it puts your body under stress. There is actually no such thing as a "lie detector test." The fact is, the test cannot determine if someone is lying. It simply measures how a person's response to certain questions impacts their nervous system. God designed our system to glorify Him (See 1Co 6:19-20). So when you sin, it negatively impacts your body. Even if you have never taken a polygraph exam, you can agree that when you have lied, you probably experienced an increase in your heart rate. So when God tells you not to sin, He is not trying to steal your joy but preserve it. Sin robs you of three things: (1)

Comfort. "'There is no peace for the wicked, says the Lord" (Isa 48:22 NLT). When you knowingly violate your values, you become uneasy in your own skin. (2) Character. Your reputation is how others see you, but your character is what you see when you look at yourself in the mirror each day. Your thoughts determine your deeds, your deeds determine your habits, your habits determine your character, and your character determines your destiny. (3) Confidence. Nothing in life is more important than to be able to approach God with confidence. "If we don't feel guilty, we can come to God with bold confidence. And we will receive from him whatever we ask because we obey him and do the things that please him" (1Jn 3:21-22 NLT). So the next time Satan tempts you to sin, stop and do the math. By looking at the bottom-line result, you will be able to make the right choice every time.

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"Be still, and know that I am God." Ps 46:10 NIV

If Job had a weakness, it was his tongue. He talked excessively. Not that you could blame him. After being hit by calamity, there wasn't a wall standing in his house or a loved one living. And his wife, empathetic soul that she was, told him to "curse God, and die" (Job 2:9). Then his four friends with the bedside manner of drill sergeants told him he had probably brought all this trouble on himself.

We're thirty-seven chapters into the book of Job before God speaks a word. Chapter 38 begins, "Then the Lord answered Job." And after God got through speaking, Job said, "I am not worthy; I cannot answer you anything, so I will put my hand over my mouth" (40:4 NCV). Notice, before he heard from God, Job couldn't talk enough. But after he heard from Him, he couldn't talk at all. The only thing Job got right was: "Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him" (13:15 NKJV). Sometimes the best way to handle your problem is to trust and not talk.

To submit and not speak. Job didn't know it at the time, but God's plan was to give him twice as much in the end as he had lost. And it happened when he stopped focusing on his own problems and started praying for his friends (See 42:10). So, be still. Be open and willing. God is still on the throne. He is in control of every detail of your life. Even in the worst of circumstances, He has your best interest at heart. "The Lord will vindicate me" (Ps 138:8 NIV).

That's all you need to know!

God is in control of every detail of your life.

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"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God." Jas 1:5 NKJV

Here is a time-tested and proven formula for obtaining wisdom: (1) Acknowledge that you need it. Benjamin Franklin correctly said, "The doorstep to the temple of wisdom is a knowledge of vour own ignorance." (2) Go to the right source. "The Lord gives wisdom" (Pr 2:6 NKJV). He alone can give you true wisdom, because He alone has true wisdom.

Indeed, His wisdom makes ours look like foolishness. Paul says, "The foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom" (1Co 1:25 NIV). Think about that. If God were capable of a stupid thought, which He is not, it would still be wiser than the wisest thought we could ever conceive. (3) Ask for it. God doesn't hoard His wisdom; He is ready to give it away. Solomon says: "If you call out for insight..cry aloud for understanding...look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding" (Pr 2:3-6 NIV). James writes: "If any of you need wisdom, you should ask God, and it will be given to you. God is generous and won't correct you for asking. But when you ask for something, you must have faith and not doubt.

Anyone who doubts is like an ocean wave tossed around in a storm. If you are that kind of person, you can't make up your mind, and you surely can't be trusted. So don't expect the Lord to give you anything at all" (Jas 1:5-8 CEV). Today, pray for wisdom.

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"The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom." Pr 4:7 NIV

Why does the Bible talk so much about Solomon's wisdom? Because it's not human wisdom raised to a supernatural height; it's supernatural wisdom lowered to human understanding. Lest you think the water is too deep and wisdom is beyond you, listen to what Solomon, the wisest man in the world, said:

"Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Cherish her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you" (vv. 6-8 NIV). Along those lines Haddon Robinson observes: "Since 1955 knowledge has doubled every five years... High school graduates today have been exposed to more information about the world than Plato, Aristotle, Spinoza, or Benjamin Franklin.

In terms of facts alone, neither Moses nor Paul could pass a college entrance exam today. Yet, by everyone's standards, even with all our knowledge... society today is peopled with a bumper crop of brilliant failures...men and women...educated to earn a living often don't know anything about handling life itself. Alumni from noted universities have mastered information about a narrow slice of life-but couldn't make it out of the first grade when it comes to living successfully with family and friends. Let's face it. Knowledge is not enough to meet life's problems. We need wisdom, the ability to handle life with skill." Spurgeon once said, "There is no fool so great a fool as a knowing fool; but to know how to use knowledge is to have wisdom." Bottom line: The more information you're exposed to, the more you need to pray for wisdom.

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iWisdom is worth much more than...anything else vou desire." Pr 8:11 CEV

When King Solomon asked God for wisdom instead of power, fame, or riches, God told him: "You could have asked me to make you rich or famous or to let you live a long time. Or you could have asked for your enemies to be destroyed. Instead, you asked for wisdom and knowledge to rule my people. So I will make you wise and intelligent. But I will also make you richer and more famous than any king before or after you" (2Ch 1:11-12 CEV). Did God keen His promise? Well, consider this: What would you get if you crossed Mickey Mouse, an Arab oil sheikh, the president of the United States, and Socrates? The most famous, richest, most powerful, wisest person on the planet! That's a fitting description of King Solomon in his time. He ruled the world's greatest empire. His merchant ships plied the seas, bringing him back the treasures of the earth. He designed and built some of the world's most important buildings, including the temple. He constructed reservoirs, parks, gardens, and vineyards. He mastered commerce, science, and literature. He became a poet laureate, a distinguished writer, and a gifted musician. He learned the incredible worth of wisdom, enjoyed all its benefits, and wrote: "Let instruction and knowledge mean more to you than silver or the finest gold. Wisdom is worth much more than precious jewels or anything else you desire" (Pr

8:10-11 CEV). There are thirty-one chapters in the book of Proverbs-one for every day of the month-so here is a suggestion: Why don't you read a chapter a day for the next twelve months and become wise?

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"Set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things)." Col 3:2 AMPC

To have a disciplined life, you must have a disciplined mind. Jesus said Satan's threefold purpose is to "steal, and to kill, and to destroy" (Jn

10:10). And you forget it at your own peril! In your own strength, you're no match for Satan, but God will give you strength to overcome his strategies and exercise self-control. And the Bible tells us how: "Set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things), not on the things that are on the earth." Note the words "set vour minds and keep them set." Many cars come with speed control.

When you reach the speed limit, you simply "set" the car's computer by pushing a lever or hitting a button and the car maintains that speed. It won't go above it or drop beneath it. Similarly, when your mind is programmed with God's Word, you "set" your thoughts and desires on that which pleases God rather than that which satisfies the cravings of your lower nature. Self-discipline is the price of freedom. When you're controlled by your impulses, you're not free, you're a slave. Even legitimate things can enslave you. The saying goes, "Too much of a good thing quickly becomes a bad thing!" Paul writes: "Everything is permissible allowable and lawful) for me; but not all things are helpful (good for me to do, expedient and profitable when considered with other things...I will not become the slave of anything or be brought under its power" (1Co 6:12 AMPC). So, the secret of self-control is to program your mind with God's Word.

I Self-discipline is the price of freedom.

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"The Righteous man walking in his integrity." Pr 20:7 NKJV

When the Bible speaks of integrity, it means having a good character. And a good character sets boundaries. It may not always determine what you will do, but it always determines what you won't do. Character lets you realize how much you're willing to pay to get what you want. When someone in a relationship has no character, they're dangerous. the writers of proverbs says, "the righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him." Character doesn't have to be in the spotlight, excessively running the show. And it doesn't resort to intimidation or shaming to get its own way, The person who thinks he or she can get what they want by lying, cheating, or manipulation is sadly mistaken. Understand this: No matter where you go, the real you will eventually show up! And if you don't work on you character, you won't be able to build healthy relationships. Genuine relationships require integrity; someone who shows consistent character in all circumstances; someone who plays by the rules and can be relied upon; someone who offers credit where credit due; someone who lives by faith; someone who trust God to enable them to accomplish all that he or she was created and called to do. the Bible tells us the wicked may prosper for the season, but they will not endure. And ultimately, they will most certainly not triumph (See Pr 11:21). The psalmist says,"The integrity of the upright will guide them, but the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them" (Pr 11:3). So, the word for you today is- work on your character.

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"If you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!" 1Co 10:12 NIV

The time to be careful is after you have reached your goals and you're celebrating your victories.

There are three crucial points in every battle, and believe it or not, the easiest one is sometimes the fight itself. The most difficult point is the period of indecision right before the conflict-whether to stand and fight or run away-the battle between faith and fear. But by far the most dangerous period is the aftermath. With your resources spent and your guard down, you need to watch for things like overconfidence, dulled reactions, and faulty judgment. Remember King David's story? "In the spring of the year, at the time when kings go out to battle... David remained at Jerusalem. Then it happened...he saw a woman bathing...Then David sent messengers, and took her" (2Sa 11:1-2, 4 NKJV). Pay particular attention to the phrase, "Then it happened." David chose to stay home rather than go to battle. Who knows why? Maybe his impressive record of successes made him soft, or he got careless, or arrogant? It was only a brief affair, but it changed everything. His peace vanished, his character was ruined, and his family life destroyed.

Don't fall prey to the perils of past victories!

Remember your H.A.L.T. sign. When you're Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired, you're in a vulnerable place and need to be extra careful. Resting on your laurels is synonymous with flirting with disaster. Trouble awaits the man or woman who dwells in the comfortable land of accomplished dreams. So, the word for you today is-"If you think you're standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!"

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"We were gentle among you." 1Th 2:7 NKJV

Wrecking balls are used to demolish things, but they're useless in the building process. With that picture in mind, ask yourself, "Do I use the force of my personality and the power of my position to impose my will on people and get them to do things my way?" If your answer is yes, then understand this: Those who are the most controlling are often the most afraid of being controlled! Question: What do you fear would happen if you treated others with respect and considered their input, ideas, and choices? Are fear and intimidation the only ways you can imagine of holding on to relationships?

Wouldn't you rather earn the love of others by being considerate rather than cruel, or are you willing to settle for fearful submission? If you need to, talk to a friend or counselor and try to get to the root of the deeper issues that are driving your behavior. Over the next week, try not to criticize or rob anyone of his or her right to choose. Remember that even God gives people the power of choice. And you're not God. Keep this challenge going for two more weeks or for as long as it takes to get your controlling attitude under control. Paul was prolific enough to write the epistles and powerful enough to raise the dead, yet he said, "We were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children" (v.

7 NKJV). When people made mistakes, Paul said,

"Restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted" (Gal

6:1 NKJV). So, the word for you today is-try to be more gentle.

Wrecking balls

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"While he was still speaking, a rooster crowed."

Lk 22:60 NAS

The Bible says: "While he was still speaking, a rooster crowed. The Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had told him, 'Before a rooster crows today, you will deny Me three times.' And he went out and wept bitterly" (vv. 60-62 NAS). Before God entrusts you with a great assignment, He will permit Satan to test you. Why? To reveal your weaknesses and strengthen you in those areas. God will allow you to fail in a smaller sphere to keep you from messing up in a larger one, hurting not only yourself but others too. One of the wonders of the Christian life is that Jesus can take rubble and build something beautiful out of it. Peter promised never to deny Jesus, but by the time the rooster crowed, he had already done it three times. Repeated failure! Can you relate? You said you wouldn't lose your temper, but you did.

Cock-a-doodle-doo! You said you wouldn't give in to temptation, but you did. Cock-a-doodle-doo!

When does a rooster crow? Early in the morning.

Good news! That means the rooster announces the beginning of a brand new day. After his worst night of failure, the sun came up for Peter. And it will come up for you too. By God's grace you can start your life over any day you choose to. Today you can repent of your sin and go on to do great things for the Lord. Peter ended up winning multitudes to Christ and leading the church. So no matter how badly you have failed, God will forgive you, restore you, and redirect your steps.

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"Tarry...until you are endued with power from on high." Lk 24:49 NKJV

You may be educated, experienced, and talented, but you will never fulfill God's purposes for your life until you're "endued with power from on high." Read these two Scriptures: (1) "I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high" (v.

49 NKJV). (2) "When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.

And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting ...And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit" (Ac 2:1-2, 4 NKJV). The transformation was amazing! Peter, who had just denied Jesus, stood before the crowd and preached the gospel to them. Did he get results? Yes. "That day about three thousand souls were added to them" (v. 41 NKJV). And the power they had just received was also their source of strength when they faced hardship and persecution. "When they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness" (Ac 4:31 NKJV). This wasn't a onetime experience; they were continually filled with the Holy Spirit. You say, "I'm not good enough to be filled with God's Spirit. Jesus said, "If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!" (Lk 11:13

NKJV). Today ask God to fill you with His Spirit, and He will.

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"I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee." Jer 1:5

The word "sanctified" means "to be set apart for the exclusive use of." The word "ordained" means

"ordered according to a plan." Here are two things you need to know: God doesn't waste anything He created, and He doesn't waste anything He can use.

Before you were saved, God permitted experiences, both good and bad, that were equipping you for what He had in mind. That includes who your parents were, the places they came from, where you were educated, the number of years you spent in school, the jobs you held, and the training you received. It also includes things God put inside you at the time of your birth, even though some of those things may have seemed to work against you while you were growing up. Do you hold on to ideas like a pit bull? God can use that. Do you enjoy poring through books and research? God can use that. Are you quick to confront, excited to run right at the enemy? God can use that. Today you may feel like you're in the wrong place, doing the wrong things, with the wrong people. You may be wondering how you're going to dig yourself out of the hole or turn your life around. And truthfully, the answer may be that you can't. But God can! He makes miracles out of mistakes. So, give Him the things in your life that aren't so good, the things you're not proud of, and say, "Lord, here they are. I wish my life was different, but it's not. I wish I could change it, but I can't." Then let God go to work.

God makes miracles out of mistakes.

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"Christ died for us." Ro 5:8

If you watched Schindler's List, you probably came away asking, "How could they do it?" The showers... the ovens...the smokestacks belching out human ashes. Trains arriving every day with mothers, fathers, children, and old people-herded like cattle on the way to a slaughterhouse. And worst of all-soldiers who carried out orders without a shrug of conscience. How could they do it? The answer is sin! And if you think Hitler and his henchmen had a corner on it, think again! David says, "I was brought forth in iniquities, and in sin my mother conceived me" (Ps 51:5 NAS). His own sordid chapter of adultery and murder confirms that. Read this résumé; it describes each of us: "They've all taken the wrong turn.. all wandered down blind alleys..

Their throats are gaping graves, their tongues slick as mud slides...They open their mouths and pollute the air. They race for the honor of sinner-of-the-year" (Ro 3:12-15 MSG). If God did an evaluation on any one of us, that would be it. And you must understand that in order to appreciate this: "God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Ro 5:8

NKJV). When you read that Scripture, the question changes to, "How could He do it?" Thank God we didn't get what we deserved -punishment. We got what we needed--grace! Hymnist William R. Newell wrote, "Oh, the love that drew salvation's plan! Oh, the grace that brought it down to man! Oh, the mighty gulf that God did span at Calvary!" Take a moment today and thank God for the grace that redeemed you. It's what Good Friday is all about.

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"I have prayed for you, that your faith will not fail." Lk 22:32 NAS

God wants you to do His will, but you'll never reach the place of spiritual maturitv in which vou're

"Satan-free." You can overcome him, but you can't eliminate him. Look at Peter. He had only one gear: overdrive. He was always in the middle of everything that was going on, but he wasn't always on top of things. The man who ended up leading the church, first denied being a disciple of Jesus. Pretty shocking, eh? But nothing about us surprises God.

He doesn't call you and say, "I hope you're the right person." No; Jesus told Peter, "Satan has demanded...to sift vou like wheat: but I have praved for you, that your faith may not fail" (vv. 31-32

NAS). Isn't that an amazing revelation? Even when you don't know how to pray for yourself, Jesus is praying for you. "He ever liveth to make intercession for them" (Heb 7:25). Jesus told Peter, "When...you have turned again, strengthen your brothers" (Lk

22:32 NAS. Out of the mess you're in today can come a ministry to others. Not only can God turn your life around, He can use you to turn the lives of others around too. And one more thing: God isn't apt to think you're worth "sifting" if you aren't doing something right in the first place. Sifting is a method of purifying, of straining out the debris and refining what remains. That means there had to be something worth salvaging in you at the outset.

Today God is calling you. Don't waste another moment; surrender your life to Him.

I Sifting is a method of purifying.

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That we may sing for joy and be glad all our days." Ps 90:14 NIV

It doesn't help the cause of Christ when His followers go around looking miserable. You say,

"But I have problems." Everybody does. When the apostle Paul was in prison, he wrote, "Rejoice in the Lord always" (Php 4:4 IV). Expressing joy is something you do in spite of your circumstances, not because of them. The Bible says, "With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation" (Isa 12:3

NIV). God has put a well of joy within you, but you have to draw it out and share it with others. Joy is contagious. Happiness travels through relational networks like ripples on a pond. It's so robust, in fact, that it can permeate three degrees of separation. That means your happiness quotient is more likely to increase when a friend of a friend of a friend becomes happy. We hunger for joy. "Satisfy us in the morning," writes the psalmist-but not with more money or power or applause. No, "Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days" (Ps 90:14 NIV).

Jovful people make us come alive. The Bible says,

"The joy of the Lord is your strength" (Ne 8:10 NIV).

We love joy, but often we forget how powerful it is.

Joy gives us the strength to resist temptation. It gives us the ability to persevere. It's the Velcro that makes relationships stick. It gives us the energy to love. We don't just need air, food, and water; we need joy. And the person who brings it is like an oasis in a desert land. So today, be joyful.

Joy is contagious.

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"The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them." Pr 20:7 NLT

Here are six ingredients which are always found in lasting success: (1) Information. If you don't stay informed, you will be left behind. (2) Intuition. This is sometimes referred to as "to know in your knower." (3) Initiative. This is when you are willing to step out in faith and act on what you know intuitively. (4) Intentionality. This is when you are willing to set specific goals and timelines for reaching them. (5) Intensity. This calls for more than starting power, it requires staying power. (6)

Integrity. This is the glue that holds the previous five things together. And it's rooted in that private life you develop alone with God. We often hear architects, engineers, and builders say, "This building has structural integrity." What do they mean? That the public beauty of a tall skyscraper relies on its private, unseen foundation that is dug deep into the earth and solidly constructed. It is that hidden life of a building that brings structural integrity. Likewise, it's the hidden life of a fruit tree

-the unseen root system that digs deep into the earth-that produces those juicy, delectable fruits.

And so it is with you. Integrity must be rooted in your private life. Don't wait until you're thrust into the public arena before paying attention to your integrity, for then you will have waited until it's too late. Your talent may bring you success, but it takes character to protect and maintain your success. The truth is that when your integrity is rooted in your private world, it's reflected in your personal world, your professional world, and your public world.

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The spirit of Jacob their father revived." Ge

45:27 NKJV

If the dream you believe God gave you seems dead, read this: "And they told him, saying, 'Joseph is still alive, and he is governor over all the land of Egypt.' And Jacob's heart stood still, because he did not believe them. But...when he saw the carts which Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of Jacob their father revived" (vv. 26-27 NKJV). For years Jacob believed his son, the dreamer, was dead. But it was a lie. In his old age, wagons loaded with riches came to carrv him back to see his son who was now the prince of Egypt. Notice, when Jacob first heard it, "he did not believe them" (v. 26

NKJV). When you have lived in defeat and discouragement for years, it's hard to anticipate victory. No problem; God is patient. He will keep working with you. He will demonstrate His grace and goodness in such a way that you will start to trust Him again: "When he saw the carts which Joseph had sent to carry him, the spirit of Jacob their father revived" (v. 27 NKJV). Don't believe your dream is dead and will never be fulfilled. And don't believe those who tell you that you're too old to fulfill the dream God gave you. God can pack more into the last chapters of your life than all those that preceded them. "Your old men [and women] shall dream dreams" (Joel 2:28). God is the giver of dreams. And He doesn't just give them, He resurrects them and empowers you to fulfill them.

It's not too late. You're not too old. What God did for Jacob-He can do for you.

I God is the giver of dreams.

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"As I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless." Ecc

2:11 NLT

Here are two more scriptural values you should live by: (1) Equality. "For there is no respect of persons with God" (Ro 2:11). In God's eyes, no person is more important than another. Not one! Some have received more access to the things the world offers, achieved more education, or been called to higher ranks of responsibility. But in God's eyes, no one is innately better. The ground is level at the foot of the cross, and we all approach God as sinners in need of salvation. So no matter what your position is in life, God expects vou to treat everyone with the same respect. (2) Generosity. Jesus said, "Your gift will return to you in full-pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over...The amount you give will determine the amount you get back" (Lk 6:38 NLT). Others don't determine what you receive. Even God doesn't. You do! "The amount you give will determine the amount you get back." You're never more like God than when you give, and you can never surpass Him at giving. The truth is, you have no reason to be anxious about not having enough if you offer generosity to others. Why is it important to have values that you live by? Solomon answers: "As I looked at everything I worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless-like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile."

Treat everyone with the same respect.

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"The winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell." Mt 7:27 NKJV

Today about 50 percent of all marriages end in divorce. Sadly, that's true whether you're a Christian or not. Sometimes the reasons are circumstantial, such as a job layoff or a home foreclosure. Other times it's relational, such as a betraval of trust or an addiction to drugs and alcohol. If you're committed to rebuilding your marriage, you must learn how to reconnect and work to restore what you once had. In order to accomplish this, you must both be willing to enter into the process and commit for the long haul. For the next few days, let's look at four key areas. First, you must know the other person. It's a mistake to try and figure out your spouse, put them in a box, and label them for the remainder of their lives.

Knowing someone is an art in progress, not a static science with unchangeable data. You must view your mate as a mystery who requires ongoing scrutiny and lifelong learning. The Bible says, "Treat your wife [and your husband] with understanding as you live together" (1Pe 3:7 NLT). In order to restore your marriage, take a new look at your partner. They may not be who you assumed they were-but neither are you. So you must allow room for each of you to evolve, and resolve! And be sure to include God in the process. Jesus said that a house built on the solid foundation of God's Word will stand strong in the storm while others around it are falling apart (See Mt 7:24-27). So today begin the process by recommitting to God-and each other.

I Take a new look at your partner.

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"My God sent his angel, and he shut the moutns of the lions." Da 6:22 NIV

Here are some more situations when God might send an angel to help you. (1) When doing the right thing gets you into trouble. Doing God's will put Daniel in a lions' den, but God brought him out and publicly vindicated him. The king declared, "Every part of my kingdom..must…reverence the God of Daniel. For...his dominion will never end" (v. 26

NIV). (2) When you're tired of battling temptation.

When the urge to pick up a drink, drug, or a cigarette feels overwhelming, or you think the only way out is to lie, or loneliness is driving you into the arms of the wrong person. After Jesus had battled temptation for forty days, the Bible says, "The devil leaveth him, and behold, angels came and ministered unto him" (Mt 4:11). (3) When the load you have been called to carry feels too heavy.

Facing the indescribable agony of being crucified on a cross, Jesus prayed the defining prayer of His life:

'Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.' An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him" (Lk

22:42-43 NIV). God will strengthen you through His Word and praver. Sometimes He will send people you know to help you do it. Paul wrote, "We were harassed at every turn conflicts on the outside, fears within. But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus" (2Co 7:5-6 NIV). Other times, He will send an angel. Bottom line: When you call on God for help, you can be sure that help is on the way.

I Help is on the way.

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"Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."

1C0 10:31 NKJV

When you're about to do something and you're not sure if you should, ask yourself, "Will doing this glorify God?" If you follow that rule, you won't go wrong in life. Let's get specific. If you earn your money honestly, then it's yours to spend as you wish. Once you give God His portion, which begins at 10 percent, you get to choose what you will do with the rest. However, your financial decisions have consequences that affect not only you but your family. When you go into debt you can't repay, they suffer with you. So does your reputation with others. The question is not even can you afford it, but will it bring glory to God? Will He be pleased?

And how about your relationships? You're single, lonely, and longing for companionship. So, you find someone you really like. Today when unchecked passion leads to sex before marriage, society doesn't blink at it. But as a redeemed child of God, you are different. Jesus said we are in the world, but not of it. That means we live by a different set of rules: scriptural ones. Perhaps your partner will see your refusal of sexual intimacy as rejection. And they may even decide to leave you. What should you do? Ask yourself, "Will this glorify God? Will He be pleased?" You say, "Pleasing God isn't easy." It never has been. And the Bible doesn't say it will be.

But if you want to live with joy, self-respect, confidence, and integrity, you have to choose the right path. And that's the path which always brings glory to God.

You have to choose the right path.

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"I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me." Php 4:13 AMPC

Paul writes: "I have strength for all things in Christ

Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency]" (v. 13 AMPC). Paul believed he could handle whatever life threw at him. Do vou believe that too? What are the things that trigger your fear and cause you to say, "I could never do that"?

Suddenly losing a loved one? Facing an unexpected illness? Having your adult child with two toddlers move into your fastidiously clean and tranquil house after you have had an empty nest for years? Going on a stringent diet because vour life depends on it?

Putting yourself on a budget to prevent foreclosure of your home? Suddenly having to take care of a disabled, elderly parent? Most people have some sort of situation that truly seems impossible to them, something they are unsure they can handle.

The truth is, while some situations may be extremely undesirable or challenging for you, God says you can do whatever you need to do in life. He doesn't say everything will be simple for you; He doesn't promise you will enjoy every little thing you do, but that you can enjoy life in the middle of doing them. How? Through the power of the One, "Who infuses inner strength into you." When you need money, you make a withdrawal from your bank account. When your car is empty, you make a withdrawal from the gas pump. So when life gets overwhelming, pray and make a withdrawal on God's grace, love, strength, power, and guidance.

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"Many waters cannot quench love, nor can rivers drown it." SS 8:7 NLT

You must be open with one another. You must be transparent, sensitive, responsive, and willing to trust one another. Stop and think about how you feel when the doctor is about to give you a shot. Your first reaction is to tighten up, right? Similarly, our hearts naturally tighten up after the pain of rejection, or betrayal, or neglect. It's a reflex mechanism in the soul; a way we protect ourselves subconsciously. And it's a great attribute anywhere else, except in marriage. If you don't turn off this mechanism, you will close your soul. This is the state where vou love the person and vou still come home to them every night, but you are braced, apprehensive, and no longer present in the moment.

You have closed yourself off, for fear of disappointment and hurt. Marriage is an open covenant consummated by physical intimacy, which removes all barriers and celebrates the joy of having nothing between the two of you. And it's difficult to attain and maintain such intimacy both emotionally and physically if you have experienced betrayal and disappointment. But there is good news. The central theme of the Bible is resurrection; that which is dead can live again. So if you have lost the closeness, you can get it back if you are willing to relax your soul and open your heart toward the other person. Solomon writes, "Love flashes like fire, the brightest kind of flame. Many waters cannot quench love, nor can rivers drown it" (vv. 6-

7 NLT). If you seek God's help and you are willing to work at it, you can rekindle your love and rebuild your marriage.

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"You husbands must give honor to our wives."

1Pe 3:7 NLT

Second, you must listen to each other. This requires time, patience, and focused attention. Too many couples give each other a monologue, without leaving room for genuine dialogue. This is where marriage counseling is effective. It forces both of you to slow down, interpret your spouse's language, understand their feelings, and discover their needs.

When a marriage breaks down, couples are often so busy trying to get their own point across and win the fight that they don't listen for solutions and places of negotiation. Divorce would be less common if we would listen with open hearts rather than closed minds. Jesus pointed out that the law of Moses permitted divorce "because of the hardness of your hearts" (Mt 19:8). This means their hearts would not melt to the level of understanding and place of negotiation for the relationship to work.

Some couples find it simpler to write each other letters revealing their feelings as they relearn how to communicate at a deeper level. Counselors and marriage enrichment seminars use this technique, and sometimes it works wonders. By putting your feelings down on paper before expressing them, you get to ask yourself, "Is this how I really feel? Is this how want to express my feelings? Am I saying too much? Or too little?" Unloading on your mate may be a catharsis for you, but what if it buries them?

These are some of the questions you must ask in order to rebuild your marriage. And if you both pray and keep your hearts open, God will help you to do it.

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"If God is for us, who can be against us?" Ro

8:31 NKJV

To overcome fear, you must believe that God is with you. It's the key to your ability to obey what He tells you to do. As you become confident that He is with you, your fear will lessen. When David volunteered to fight Goliath, King Saul said to him, "You are not able to go against this Philistine...for you are a youth, and he a man of war from his youth" (1Sa

17:33 NKJV). David replied, "The Lord...will deliver me from...this Philistine" (V. 37 NKJV). You're not in this battle alone; the Lord is with you. When you're convinced of that, your fear will subside. You may not always know what God will do, but you can relax in knowing He will do what needs to be done at the right time. When you think about the future and all the things that are unknown to you, it's easy to feel afraid. But you can view it two ways. You can either be pessimistic and fearful, or you can say to yourself, "The battle is the Lord's, and He has never lost a battle!" You may not always know what to do in a tense situation, but God does. He knows everything prior to it happening, and He has planned your deliverance in advance. Just put one foot in front of the other, confident that He is guiding you. You don't have to see God or feel Him in order to believe that He is with you. Faith is a matter of the heart instead of the natural senses.

God is with you! Believe it and refuse to live in fear.

You're not in this battle alone; the Lord is with

you.

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"Perfect love casts out fear." 1Jn 4:18 NKJV

When God says, "Fear not," He is basically telling you, "You're going to have to deal with fear, but you can conquer it. You can act in spite of it." The Bible says, "Perfect love casts out fear." Sometimes we mistakenly think that Scripture means if we love God perfectly enough, we won't be afraid. No, the only perfect love is God's love for you. And it's unconditional. Knowing that He always loves you, walks with you, defends you, supports you, and has promised to bless you in all that you do is what casts out your fear. And it does one more thing: It strengthens your faith. "Without faith it is impossible to please [God]" (Heb 11:6). When you know that God is pleased with you, you begin to rise above your fears. When fear knocks on your door and finds you full of faith, it cannot enter. That's why you need to meditate continually on God's Word and let your conversation be filled with faith. If you're used to allowing your mind to go everywhere it pleases, meditating on God's Word will require making a new habit. Don't become discouraged if you discover you have good intentions but many failures. The Bible says, "We walk by faith" (2Co 5:7 NKJV). How did you learn to walk? By getting up one more time than you fell down, until you finally did it. When you set your mind to speaking fear-defying words of faith, the Holy Spirit will come to your aid and strengthen you. As one minister says,

"Courage is not the absence of fear, it is progress in its presence." So just keep progressing, and you will get there!

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"He will order his angels to protect you wherever you go." Ps 91:11 NLT

In what situation might God send an angel to help you? (1) When those you love and trust have disappointed you. Imagine how Hagar felt. In a joint decision with his wife, Sarah, Abraham got Hagar pregnant in order to try and fulfill God's promise.

Then when Isaac was born a year later, he sent her away without child support. Weeping and believing they would both die, Hagar left baby Ishmael under a tree and walked away. But God sent an angel to tell her that her son was a child of destiny from whom would come a great people (See Ge 21:18).

(2) When vou're facing embarrassment and can't defend yourself. Mary planned to get married first, then have a baby. But God had a different plan. Not only was she facing public humiliation, but according to the law, she should be put to death.

But God sent an angel to vindicate her and tell her that she was in the center of His will (See Lk 1:34-

(3) When you're grieving the death of someone you love and fearing for your future. Mary Magdalene loved Jesus more than life itself, so when He died and was buried, she was distraught and heartbroken. That's when God sent an angel to announce: "He is not here: for he is risen" (Mt

28:6). The Bible says, "Some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it" (Heb 13:2 NIV). If you allow it to, a cynical world will make you doubt that God actually loves you so much He would send an angel to help you. But it's true.

"Some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it."

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"The Lord is on my side; I will not fear." Ps 118:6

NKJV

God has created you for a life of growth, adventure, and acceleration. But vou must take bold steps of faith. And you can't do that if you're perfectly satisfied to live in "the safe zone." Even when you feel afraid, don't let it stop you! Feel the fear and do it anyway! You say, "Will I ever stop being afraid?" Yes, when you get to heaven. Feeling fear is part of being alive. You will experience fear when you try something for the first time, or when the obstacles in your path seem insurmountable, or when you feel like vour resources are not equal to the challenge.

None of this means you're a coward; it just means you're human. You are only cowardly when you let your fears control your actions and decisions.

Feeling fear is merely the temptation to flee from what you should confront. Feeling fear is not the same as being afraid, because being afraid means allowing fearful feelings to take control of you. But you don't have to. You can feel anger yet choose not to act on it, and instead respond with forgiveness and love. In the same way, you can feel fear and not let it make your decisions. "He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.' So we may boldly say: 'The Lord is my helper; I will not fear.

What can man do to me?'" (Heb 13:5-6 NKJV). Note those two phrases: "He...has said" and "we may boldly say." So, stand on God's Word today and declare, "I will not live in fear."

Feeling fear is part of being alive.

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The day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief." 2Pe 3:10 NLT

Don't let "date-setters" make you cnical about Christ's soon return. When the founder of a major church denomination predicted in print the date of Christ's second coming, his successors faced the embarrassment of having to publicly acknowledge that they were wrong. Do you remember the alarmists of Y2K? Declaring to a scientific certainty that the year 2000 would bring the end of the world and the return of Christ, they caused people to leave their jobs, sell their homes, stock up on food, and head for the hills. And because of such embarrassments, many preachers today have silenced or toned down the truth of Christ's second coming. Yes, when some folks hear the message, they roll their eyes and say, "Not again!" But doubt about Christ's return is one of the signs that guarantees it will happen. The Bible says: "In the last days scoffers will come, mocking the truth...

They will say, 'What happened to the promise that Jesus is coming again? From before the times of our ancestors, everything has remained the same since the world was first created...The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise, as some people think.

No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. But the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief...the earth and everything on it will be found to deserve judgment...so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight"

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"Let God transform you... by changing the way you think." Ro 12:2 NLT

When you think creatively, you're thinking like God your creator. But not everybody will welcome your creative ideas. Jesus wasn't crucified because He worked miracles; He was loved and applauded for those. He was crucified for having ideas that challenged the status quo. God is the giver of great concepts, truths, and ideas. So when He gives you one, don't let anybody talk you out of it. Don't let the fear of rejection or failure kill your idea either.

After all, you can't do something new and exciting if you force yourself to stay in the same old rut. Don't just work harder at the same old thing; make a change. And the first thing you will have to change is how you think, what you listen to and believe.

Take a look at the following phrases: "I'm not a creative person. Follow the rules. Don't ask questions. Don't be different. Stay within the lines.

There is only one way to do it. Don't be foolish.

Think of your image. That's not logical. It's not practical. It's never been done. It can't be done. It didn't work for them. We tried that before. It's too much work. We can't afford to make a mistake. It will be too hard to administer. We don't have the time. We don't have the money. Yes, but..." Paul writes, "Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect" (v. 2 NLT). The word for you today is-change your thinking, change your life.

God is the giver of great concepts, truths, and

ideas.

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"Be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

Ro 12:2 NAS

Long before William James, the father of American psychology, was attributed with saying, "The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes," God said, "As [a man] thinks in his heart, so is he" (Pr 23:7 NKJV). Often it's our thoughts, not our circumstances, that determine our happiness. We keep thinking we will be happy when certain things happen. For example, some mothers say, "When little Tommy starts elementary school, I will be happy." And they are, for a while. Next,

"When Tommy graduates from high school, I will be happy." And they are, at least for the summer. Next, Tommy's graduation from college brings the same promise; so does his marriage, and the birth of the first grandchild. But the problem is, mom hasn't learned how to be happy between "happenings." When your happiness is controlled by something outside yourself, you will always be hostage to people, places, and things. That's not how God wants you to live-a victim of circumstances beyond your control. The psalmist said, "I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth" (Ps 34:1). David chose the right attitude, and you have to do the same! You also must maintain it. That's the hard part. It's like the old farmer who said, "The hardest thing about milking cows is--they don't stay milked!" And it's the same with attitudes; they don't stay changed. You have to work on them every day; it's called "renewing..your mind." And the way you do it is by getting into God's Word and getting His Word into you. Are you doing that regularly?

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"No one should seek their own good, but the good of others." 1Co 10:24 NIV

Self-pity can be deadly. It tells the wife and mother who works hard, "You're not appreciated." It says to the office worker, "Look how valuable you are, yet you're never recognized or rewarded." It says to the unemployed, "No chance!" To the divorced, "No place!" To the bereaved, "No hope!" And to the struggling, "No way!" Look at the prophet Elijah.

Twenty-four hours after his greatest victory, he is deeply depressed and wallowing in self-pity. "I have had enough...Take my life...I have zealously served.

But the people of Israel have broken their covenant with you, torn down your altars, and killed... your prophets. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me, too" (1Ki 19:4, 10 NLT). There it is-self-pity in the raw! Generally speaking, there are two reasons behind self-pity. The first is emotional manipulation. We use self-pity as a weapon to guilt-trip others and get our own way. That's immaturity and you have to deal with it, whether it's in ourself or somebody else. On the other hand, self-pity can also stem from sheer exhaustion. Recorded in the Old Testament, God showed Elijah four behaviors he needed to correct to get himself back on track: (1)

He needed more rest. (2) He needed to eat better.

(3) He had to turn this eyes to God and stop trying to do everything in his own strength. (4) He was isolated and needed a friend. So, God gave him Elisha. That did the job, and the next time we see Elijah, he is back on top. Take a moment today and think about how you can apply this to your life.

I Self-pity can be deadly.

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The day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief." 2Pe 3:10 NLT

Don't let "date-setters" make you cnical about Christ's soon return. When the founder of a major church denomination predicted in print the date of Christ's second coming, his successors faced the embarrassment of having to publicly acknowledge that they were wrong. Do you remember the alarmists of Y2K? Declaring to a scientific certainty that the year 2000 would bring the end of the world and the return of Christ, they caused people to leave their jobs, sell their homes, stock up on food, and head for the hills. And because of such embarrassments, many preachers today have silenced or toned down the truth of Christ's second coming. Yes, when some folks hear the message, they roll their eyes and say, "Not again!" But doubt about Christ's return is one of the signs that guarantees it will happen. The Bible says: "In the last days scoffers will come, mocking the truth...

They will say, 'What happened to the promise that Jesus is coming again? From before the times of our ancestors, everything has remained the same since the world was first created...The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise, as some people think.

No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. But the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief...the earth and everything on it will be found to deserve judgment...so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight"

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"In Your presence is fullness of jov." Ps 16:11 NKJV

If you were miserable before you met Jesus, it's easy to make the mistake of thinking that the only place His presence can be enjoyed is in church. No, you can enjoy His presence everywhere. At home, at work, at school, in business, and even in times of suffering and adversity. Brother Lawrence, a Carmelite monk in a French monastery, wrote the best-selling book, The Practice of the Presence of God. He resented his daily routine in the kitchen.

Then God showed him that everything he did each day could be done for God and with God. That truth transformed his life. You can cultivate your mind to be more productive, and you can also cultivate your spirit to be more sensitive to God. You can reach the place where you sense His presence and His pleasure in all that you do. Believing God is present with you won't help you much if you think He is always upset with you. But when you see yourself as accepted in Christ, you realize that He is not only present with you at all times but pleased with you (See Eph 1:6). That will radically change your thinking about God. There are dozens of things pertaining to everyday life, and you can enjoy them all if you just make the decision to do it- getting dressed, going to work, organizing things, running errands, grocery shopping, etc. After all, these are the things life is made up of. Joy comes not merely from being entertained, but from a decision to be grateful for each moment you are given as a rare and valuable gift from God.

I You can enjoy His presence everywhere.

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He defended the cause of the poor and needy...so all went well.'" Jer 22:16 NIV

When he was a seminary student, Jim Wallis and some of his classmates took scissors to the Bible and cut out every verse about poverty, wealth, justice, or oppression. And would you believe it, by the time they had finished, there were some two thousand verses lying on the floor! The fact is, when you cut concern for the poor from your Bible, you cut the heart right out of it! Here is one such verse:

" He defended the cause of the poor and needy...so all went well. Is that not what it means to know me?' declares the Lord" (v. 16 NIV). Jesus often quoted Scripture, but only on one occasion do we find Him selecting and reading from it. And what portion did He choose to read publicly? "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor...to proclaim freedom for the prisoners…recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free" (Lk 4:18 NIV). Here was His to-do list: help for body and soul, strength for the physical and spiritual, and therapy for temporal and eternal.

Now some people (albeit a minoritv) are poor because they're lazy and need to be taught that God's Word says, "those unwilling to work will not get to eat" (2Th 3:10 NLT). But others are poor because parasites have weakened their bodies, or they spend six hours every day collecting water, or rebel armies have destroyed their farms, or AIDS has claimed their parents. These are the people God has assigned us to care for!

Help for body and soul

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"Jacob set up a memorial...to mark the place where God had spoken with him." Ge 35:14 GWT

There are events in all our lives that, looking back, had to be the hand of God at work. One author puts it like this: "Maybe you bumped into somebody who introduced you to your spouse...or a coworker resigned and suddenly you were promoted...or a stranger said something that spoke to your heart.

These are all signs of God's favor, and when you're tempted to get down, you need to remember how God opened the door for you...how he made a way... how he spared your life...how he healed your child.

There is no such thing as coincidence...when something good happens, recognize that it's God, and recall it often." In the Old Testament, "Jacob set up a memorial...to mark the place where God had spoken with him." Have you established any memorial stones lately? A sure way to build your faith is to remember all the times God made a way when every door was locked and barred against you...days when you were lonely and God brought the right person into your life...nights when you felt so bad you didn't think you would make it until the next morning. Then suddenly, out of nowhere, God turned things around...gave you the oil of joy for mourning...lifted you out of the pit...gave you a new beginning...and today you're happy, healthy, and whole. And best of all: If He did it before, He will do it again! He is the same today as He was yesterday, and when you take time to remember His goodness and faithfulness, it strengthens you to keep fighting the good fight of faith.

Keep fighting for the faith.

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"Christ's love...is too wonderful to be measured." Eph 3:19 CEV

Princess Alice was Queen Victoria's daughter. When her son contracted an incurable disease called black diphtheria, the doctors quarantined the boy and warned his mother to stay away from him lest she get infected. Yet she couldn't. One day she overheard her son whisper to his nurse, "Why doesn't my mother kiss me anymore?" His words melted her heart and she ran to him, smothering him with kisses. Within a few days, she died and was buried. What would compel a mother to risk her life for her child? Love! Now stand at the cross and ask what would lead Christ to do something even greater for us? Love! Writing to the believers at Ephesus, Paul says, "I want you to know...Christ's love...is too wonderful to be measured." You can trace the greatest action of Christ to his greatest attribute-love. Perhaps the people who should have loved you, didn't; and those who could have loved you, wouldn't. Maybe you were left at the hospital, or left standing at the altar, or left with an empty bed and a broken heart. Regardless of the cause, you were left with the question, "Does anybody love me?" And today Christ answers unequivocally, "I do!" The truth is, His love for you

"is too wonderful to be measured." Hymn writer

Charles Gabriel wrote: "I stand amazed in the presence of Jesus the Nazarene, And wonder how he could love me, a sinner, condemned, unclean.

How marvelous! How wonderful! And my song shall ever be: How marvelous! How wonderful! Is my Savior's love for me!" God couldn't love you more than He does right now, and that will never change.

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"Their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food." Ac 6:1 NIV

Since the government didn't care for widows and orphans back in New Testament times, the church took on that

responsibility. Unfortunately, bias raised its ugly head and Jewish widows and orphans were given preferential treatment over Gentile widows and orphans. How did the church leaders respond? They could easily have dismissed it, like we so often do. They could have said, "We're called to feed souls, not stomachs. We deal in matters of sin and salvation, not sandals and soup." Instead, here is what they did. First, they called a meeting to resolve the problem (See Acts 6:2). They let every member know that their church took poverty seriously, and they were each personally responsible before God to do something about it. The Scripture doesn't endorse forced communism, but it clearly teaches Spirit-led volunteerism. Second, they assigned the problem to their brightest and best.

They selected seven men -well respected, full of the Holv Spirit and wisdom-and gave them this responsibility (See Ac 6:3 NLT).

Instead of grooming our children for

"important" fields like medicine, law, politics, or government, let's teach them that caring for the needy is one of God's highest callings. Why do a billion people go to bed hungry each night? Or thirty thousand-plus children die every single day (one every three seconds) from malnutrition and preventable diseases when we can do something about it? No one can do everything, but God has called each of us to do something! "Pure and genuine religion... means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let world [systems] corrupt you [into believing that it's not your responsibility]" (Jas 1:27 NLT).

"Caring for widows and orphans in their distress

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"You are precious...in my sight." Isa 43:4 NIV

Have you ever gone to a garage sale hoping to find a bargain? To the untrained eye, much of the stuff looks like rubbish. It may even have been gathering dust and mildew in somebody's attic. But the trained eye sees treasure in disguise; items that just need to be cleaned, polished, and restored in order to become valuable again. That's what God does with us. When Satan tells you you're worthless, God looks inside you and sees hidden treasure. When you make Jesus the Lord of your life, He enables you to overcome your past, resist temptation, conquer bad habits, rise above your self-imposed limitations, and realize that in God's eyes, you have great worth. You actually start believing what He said: "You are precious.. in my sight." A man went to visit a psychiatrist who told him, "I've diagnosed your problem. It's low self-esteem-and it's very common among losers!" We smile, but the truth is when you keep putting yourself down, you tend to gravitate toward people who do the same. But once you begin to realize the value God places on you, your entire outlook changes. With God, you can't lose. Even when you stumble, He will help you to get back up, become stronger and wiser, and move on to victory. When you see yourself only as somebody who makes mistakes and falls short, you're looking in the wrong mirror. Once you start to see yourself in the mirror of God's Word, you see someone who is being transformed day by day into the likeness of Jesus (See 2Co 3:18). And that's how God sees you today.

I Are you looking in the wrong mirror?

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"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." Pr 16:3 NIV

As a follower of Jesus Christ, vour direction shouldn't come from people and be confirmed by God, it should come from God and be confirmed by people. The Bible says: "Mortals make elaborate plans, but God has the last word. Humans are satisfied with whatever looks good; God probes for what is good. Put God in charge of your work, then what you've planned will take place. God made everything with a place and purpose" (vv. 1-4 MSG).

You may be able to do what someone else has done and do it even better. But has God called you to do that particular thing? Before you follow someone else's guidance, do these: (1) Check the source of their wisdom. "The Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless...he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. Then you will understand what is right and just and fair--every good path" (Pr 2:6-9 NIV).

(2) Check their motives. John writes, "I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened" (Rev 20:12 NKJV). Will one of those be "the book of motives"? And if it is, will your actions and accomplishments stand up under divine scrutiny? (3) Check the outcome they're pursuing.

If you seek success in order to have power and prestige, or seek riches only to have comfort, you violate one of the core principles of God's Word:

You're blessed in order to be a blessing to others.

I Blessed to be a blessing to others

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I The word of the Lord endures forever.' Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you." 1Pe 1:25 NKJV

In the fourteenth century, there was not a single copy of the Bible in English! It was available only in Latin, the language of the clergy, and those were chained to the podiums of the cathedrals. Then a prominent professor of divinity at Oxford University said, "This is not right. People should be able to read the Bible in their own language." Church leaders branded him a heretic and an instrument of the devil. Like Noah who pounded the nails into the ark while people ridiculed and scorned him, John Wycliffe began translating the Scriptures as a flood of persecution emerged around him. When he finally completed his translation of the Scriptures, he wrote this in the flyleaf of the first copy of the English Scriptures: "This Bible is translated and shall make possible a government of the people, by the people, and for the people." Five hundred years later, President Abraham Lincoln borrowed that statement for his famous Gettysburg Address.

Thirty years after Wycliffe died, he was again proclaimed a heretic. Consequently, his body was exhumed, and his bones were burned to dust, and his ashes cast into a river. A contemporary historian describes the scene like this: "Thus this brook hath conveyed his ashes into (the river) Avon, Avon into Severn, Severn into the narrow seas, they into the ocean. And thus ashes...are the emblem of his doctrine…now..dispersed the world over." Hence Peter writes, "'The word of the Lord endures forever.' Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached unto you."

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"Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more." Jn 8:11 NKJ

"The scribes and Pharisees brought to Him a woman caught in adultery... they said to Him,

'Teacher...Moses, in the law, commanded us that such should be stoned. But what do You say?'..

Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger, as though He did not hear. So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, 'He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first...When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, 'Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?' She said,

'No one, Lord.!' And Jesus said to her, 'Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more'" (vv. 3-7, 10-11 NKJV). That day Jesus demonstrated three things:

(1) The hypocrisv of a double standard. Since this woman had been "caught in the very act." surely they knew who the man was, too. There is still a double standard todav that looks down on a woman because of her past while excusing a man by saying,

"He was just sowing his wild oats." The Pharisees used stones, we use words, but the victim ends up wounded regardless. (2) Who alone is qualified to judge. "He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first." Who was the only sinless one among them that day? Jesus! So He alone is qualified to judge. (3) You can rise above your past.

"Go and sin no more." Those words could be rephrased, "Go, and because you have had an encounter with Jesus, you can rise above your past."

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"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Ps 119:105 NAS

The words "Your word is a lamp to my feet" mean you're supposed to walk according to God's will and not your own thoughts, wishes, or impulses. The words "and a light to my path" mean you can't go in any direction you choose; you must follow the path that God has planned for you. You will never go wrong consulting the Scriptures for direction, but make sure you keep the Scriptures in context. Don't use the "open-window method," allowing the wind to blow across the pages of your Bible, then shutting your eyes, pointing to a verse and saying,

"This is God's leading on this." If you do that, you could wind up with the verse, "Judas went away and hanged himself" as the verse for your day! Would you want to go to a doctor with an illness and hear him say, without ever examining you, "It's your gallbladder"? You would ask, "How do you know?" And he would say, "Well, I sat by the window a few moments ago and trusted God to blow the pages of my anatomy book to your problem-and the topic on the page was 'gallbladder.!" You would run out of there pretty fast, wouldn't you? Some people practice this kind of theological voodoo, then get into trouble and say, "Well, God led me," when God had nothing to do with their choices. Whenever you read the scriptural phrase, "This is the will of God," you can be sure that it's His will. If you disobey Him, you will suffer the consequences, and if you obey Him, you will be blessed.

If you obey Him, you will be blessed.

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"Working for the Lord." Col 3:23 NIV

If you were in charge of hiring people at work, what would you look for? Skill, dedication, punctuality, reliability, patience, kindness, and consistency?

Jesus said, "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much" (Lk 16:10 NIV). Life mostly consists of little things, so if you're unfaithful in little things, you will be unfaithful in most of life. Do you possess a "guilt pile" at work?

It's that little stack of items you haven't gotten around to yet. Faithfulness includes how vou handle it. It may not matter much to you that someone has sent you an email or written you a letter, but that person anticipates an answer. Their world may be counting on it. How do you manage the little things in life? Jesus said, "If you have not been trustworthy with someone else's property, who will give you property of your own?" (v. 12 NIV). If you owned the business you work for, would you be taking all those extra coffee breaks? Would you buy the rental car you just abused for a week? How you handle the things that are not yours is a test of faithfulness to God. See how sensible this is? Faithfulness is important in all areas of life. God says you will be rewarded for your faithfulness, so do your best at work. "Work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters" (Col 3:23 NIV). As a follower of Christ, you should have a reputation for being the most dependable person on the job. Why?

Because vou're aware of who vour true boss is!

How do you manage the little things in life?

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"Cast vour cares on the Lord and he will sustain you." Ps 55:22 NIV

If you grow up in hard times, you will automatically do one of these two things: (1) Trust God more because you have experienced His faithfulness. (2)

Worry, think, and incessantly talk about the "what ifs" in life. And there are lots of them to think about, because the future rests in God's hands and not yours. It's possible for a thing to seem much bigger to you than it really is. That's the essence of worry.

It's like a snowball; it starts small, but as you roll it over and over in your mind, it becomes bigger and bigger until it has the potential to bury you. What's the answer? "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding" (Pr 3:5 NKJV). Fill you heart with God's Word. Then develop the habit of letting what's in your heart be more real to you than what you see, think, or feel. You can choose to think about what God can do instead of what you cannot do. If you continue to obsess about the difficulty of your situation, you will end up in despair. In other words, you will feel trapped. When that happens, it's easy to panic and begin to do irrational things that just make the problem worse.

Instead, "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken." The word "sustain" means to strengthen, support, and hold you up. God may not take you out of the situation immediately, but His sustaining grace will bring you through it. Today, give your problem to God.

His sustaining grace will bring you through.

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"I have told you these things, that My joy and delight may be in you." Jn 15:11 AMPC

You need to enjoy each day of your life for Christ's sake, because He paid a very high price for you to be able to. He said, "I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows)" (Jn 10:10 AMPC). He said: "I have told you these things, that My joy and delight may be in you, and that your joy and gladness may be of full measure and complete and overflowing" (Jn 15:11

AMPC). He said, "Ask and keep on asking and you will receive, so that your joy (gladness, delight) may be full and complete" (Jn 16:24 AMPC). Jesus actually prayed that you would have joy: "Now I am coming to You...so that My joy may be made full and complete and perfect in them [that they may experience My delight fulfilled in them, that My enjoyment may be perfected in their own souls, that they may have My gladness within them, filling their hearts]" (Jn 17:13 AMPC). With Jesus Himself praying such powerful words about His desire for you to have joy, how could you ever doubt that God wants you to be happy and enjoy your life? As a redeemed child of God, you're a walking billboard for Christianity! Don't go around looking severe, stern, strict, sour, and sensorial, believing that you're coming across as "spiritual." No, that's a turnoff to non-Christians! You need a new mindset; a scriptural one that will enable you to enjoy life and make you a more enjoyable person to be around.

God wants you to be happy and enjoy life.

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"Do not dwell on the past... I am doing a new thing!" Isa 43:18-19 NIV

Author Ellen Vaughn continues: " (3) We must also forget our successes. That doesn't necessarily mean we must forget the great projects we have completed. We are to work and live with excellence unto God, and He takes pleasure in our successes as they are offered to His glory. But we should forget past successes if they have defined our identity or caused us to be complacent, smug and self-congratulatory. We're not to fondle the past, dwelling on past glories. (Similarly, we must make sure our stories of God's work and grace in our lives are not all old. If we can only point to instances of God's faithfulness from five years ago but none from this week, our connection with Christ isn't very current.) Paul warns the Philippians against those who would put their confidence in human criteria and accomplishment: 'If someone...thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more' (Php 3:4 NIV), he said, citing his power résumé that many in his day would have coveted. But his focus wasn't on his past: 'Whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ... But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus' (Php 3:7, 13-14 NIV)." The good news is, God doesn't analyze your past in order to determine your future. He says, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past... I am doing a new thing!" Learn from the past, leave it, and don't look back!

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"I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." Ps

23:6 NIV

For some of us, the love of God doesn't feel real.

Why is that? Because we have tried to make this earth our home. And as a result, we live with worry and frustration. Only when you have the right view of there will you have the right view of here. When you understand where your true home is, death is never a period; instead, it's a conjunction. Less than one second after you die, you will be escorted into the presence of God. You won't even be dead long enough to know you died. You don't expire; you transfer. Quicker than you can blink, you move from one dimension to another. You go from living in this time to dwelling "in the house of the Lord forever." Most of us will not die suddenly of a heart attack, or a stroke, or in a car crash. For most of us, death will come gradually as we wear down over time. You will feel your body deteriorating and atrophying, and you will know you're nearing death. Then God will put you into transition mode. He will make heaven look much more appealing than earth so that you will be thinking, "I wish God would just hurry up and take me home." He may even give you a little preview of glory and let you see your Savior waiting to welcome you. When you glimpse those arms wide open, you will want the trip to hurry up and take place. You will say like David, "As for me, I will see Your face in righteousness; I shall be satisfied when 1awake in Your likeness" (Ps 17:15 NKJV). Home sweet home.

You don't expire; you transfer.

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"All the days of my life." Ps 23:6 NKJV

Most insurance companies are trustworthy. They will cover you through most of the seasons and adversities of life. But not all insurance companies are that way. In some cases, the moment you make a claim against them, they either hike your premiums through the roof or cancel your policy.

But the insurance policy you have with God is awesome. The premiums were paid in the crimson cash of Jesus' blood when He spoke these words:

"It is finished " which means "paid in full." There are different kinds of insurance that cover things like fire, property, theft, health, automobiles, and death.

But the only insurance policy that can cover you beyond death is the one God offers. And you don't have to worry about reading the "fine print." because He will not cancel it. Paul lays it out for us:

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?

Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?...in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Ro 8:35, 37-39 NKJV).

Have you repented of your sins? Have you placed vour trust in Christ to be vour Savior? Then vou're covered for time and eternity. "Through many dangers, toils, and snares, I have already come; 'tis grace hath brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home."

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Without faith it is impossible to please Him."

Heb 11:6 NKJV

The Bible says, "Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him" (v. 6 NKJV). Here is something God can't do: Be pleased without faith! Twelve spies entered the promised land, but only two came back and said, "We are well able to overcome it" (Nu

13:30 NKJV). God had promised it to them, but the majority thought it couldn't be done. People who think "possible" not only create forward-looking, optimistic pictures of the future in their own minds, but also in the minds of others. And the opposite is true. Sam Ewing said, "Nothing is so embarrassing as watching someone do something that you said couldn't be done." Now, believing you can doesn't guarantee you will. But believing you can't guarantees you won't! So how's your approach to life? When you face the unknown, the undone, or the untried, do you focus on all the things that can go wrong or all the things that can go right? Ballistic rocket pioneer Wernher von Braun said, "I have learned to use the word 'impossible' with the greatest caution." You say, "Who was he?" The scientist who made it possible for the first man to walk on the moon! John Andrew Holmes said:

"Never tell a young person that something cannot be done. God may have been waiting centuries for somebody ignorant enough of the impossible to do that very thing." If you want to achieve something, give yourself permission to believe it is possible-and trust God for success.

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'Do not dwell on the past... I am doing a new thing!" Isa 43:18-19 NIV

In the words of the legendary baseball plaver

Satchel Paige, "Don't look back. Something might be gaining on you." That's good advice! Paul bottom-lines it like this: "Focus on...Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead" (Php

3:13 NLT). Author Ellen Vaughn writes: "Before our spiritual vitality can really flow, we must forget three things. [Today, here are two: (1) We must forget our sins. Obviously we must remember our sins in order to confess them. But having done so, we must let them go. The fact that God forgets is like calling heaven and hearing, 'There is no record of any offense. They're expunged, as if they never existed.

Satan would lure us to live in guilt and fear. He pulls us into the shadowboxes of memory in which our worst sins replay on the walls of our minds...We need to be very clear here, or we'll miss the liberating point. It's not as if forgiveness is real only if we experience some kind of holv amnesia. It's not up to us. It's up to God. And the Scriptures say that God forgets our sins (See Heb 8:12). (2) We must forget our shame. Paul could have been a prime candidate for shame. He had presided over the harassment, imprisonment, torture, and murder of innocent human beings. But God's grace is stronger than our shame. It was defanged when Jesus died and rose again. We can forget our slithering shame, for Jesus took it. He scorned it, beat it, broke it. We need not take it back." The word for you today is-

"Do not dwell on the past...I am doing a new thing."

God's grace is stronger than our shame.

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Thank God for his gift that is too wonderful for words!" 2Co 9:15 CEV

One afternoon a little girl stood outside Pete

Richardson's antique shop studying the treasures in the window. Then she went in and asked to see a string of blue beads. When Pete set them on the counter, she said: "They're perfect. Will you gift wrap them, please? They're for my sister. She takes care of me. This will be our first Christmas since Mom died, and I've been looking for the perfect present." "How much do you have?" asked Pete cautiously. Pouring a stack of coins on the counter, she said, "I emptied my bank." Pete picked up the necklace, the price tag visible to him and not her.

"What's your name?" he asked, walking into the back room. "Jean Grace," she replied. Pete returned with a beautifully wrapped package, and the little girl thanked him and left. On Christmas Eve when the last customer had left and he was locking up, a young woman rushed into the store and handed him a familiar package. "Do you remember who you sold this to?" she asked. "A girl called Jean bought them for her big sister," he replied. "How much are they worth?" she inquired. "The price," Pete replied, "is always confidential between the seller and his customer." Her sister asked, "But how could she pay for them?" Carefully rewrapping the present, Pete handed it back to her and said, "She paid the biggest price anyone can ever pay. She gave everything she had." When "God sent forth his Son" (Gal 4:4) to redeem us, He gave everything He had.

"Thank God for his gift that is too wonderful for words!"

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"Children. are like arrows." Ps 127:4 NLT

Our children are like arrows; they must be aimed in the right direction. When they're aimed in the wrong direction, they can end up in violence, drugs, and destructive lifestyles. And as long as we jeer at or judge them, they will never feel comfortable turning to us for help as they go through life. Broken arrows come in all colors and forms: black, white, rich, poor. Pain isn't prejudiced; it spares no age group or social strata. What's the answer? Let the strong bear the infirmities of the weak (See Ro 15:1).

"Jesus...had compassion on them and healed their sick" (Mt 14:14 NLT). Compassion is the mother of miracles! When the disciples thought they would die in the storm, they didn't challenge Christ's power, they challenged His compassion: "Carest thou not that we perish?" (Mk 4:38). Where there is no compassion, there will be no miracle. Only when you're moved by someone's pain rather than turned off by their symptoms can you bring healing to them. One author writes: "We can build all the churches we want. But if people cannot find a loving voice within our hallowed halls, they will pass through unaltered by our clichés and religious rhetoric. Church is not a club for the well-heeled, but a hospital for those needing to be healed and set free. You don't have to like everything about the people you're called to minister to, but you do have to love them because God does." We have been called to gather up those the world has thrown away because they matter to God: ''They shall be Mine,' says the Lord of hosts, 'on the day that I make them My jewels'" (Mal 3:17 NKJV).

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"He makes me to lie down in green pastures."

Ps 23:2 NKJV

Even when you're living right and doing all the right things, life can still be draining. We have all received mail addressed simply to "Occupant." Sometimes you're drained not because you did anything wrong, but because you happen to "occupy" the planet.

The combination of the world, the flesh, and the devil will suck the spiritual vitality right out of you if you let them. You try to pray, but no words come.

You know you ought to read your Bible, but when you try to, the letters on the page all run together and none of it makes sense. And you don't want to listen to spiritual people, especially when you suspect they may be faking their positive viewpoints. You're just going through the spiritual motions, nodding and saying amen; yet in your soul, you're running on empty. David, who had been a shepherd, said that God "makes" us lie down. Why?

Because just like sheep, we would keep on wandering all over the place and wearing ourselves out. Note two things David says: (1) "He makes me to lie down in green pastures." The word "green" means "fresh." Each day you need a fresh encounter with God through praver and a fresh intake of His Word. Bread is not the only thing that can go stale; your spiritual life can, too. (2) "He leads me beside the still waters" (v. 2 NKJV). The word "still" means you need times of quietness and reflection. "Be still, and know that I am God" (Ps 46:10). The only way to know God intimately, sense His leading, and draw on His strength is to "be still."

I Running on empty

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"My suffering was good for me." Ps 119:71 NLT

God uses problems, pressures, and people to prune you for greater fruitfulness. Are vou aware of Him using any of these three things in your life today?

God can use all situations in vour life to help you grow if you will just have the right attitude. He will use a major frustration, a financial setback, a sudden sickness, a broken marriage, a rebellious child, or even the death of a loved one to get your attention. You say, "But it hurts so much!" Yes, pruning is painful. Sometimes a gardener will prune a tree until it looks like a totem pole or a giant toothpick. It's not a pretty sight. But the pruning process is positive. God is not mad at you. "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus" (Ro 8:1 NKJV). God does not punish His genuine children. Jesus took your punishment on the cross. God's pruning is for your best, for more fruitfulness in your life. Can God's pruning fail to produce? Sure, if you don't cooperate. How does God produce "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" in your life? (Gal 5:22-23 NLT). He produces these qualities by allowing you to face situations and people with exactly the opposite qualities. He teaches you to love by putting you around difficult people. He teaches you patience by letting things frustrate you. You say, "How can I cooperate with God?" The Bible tells you: "Alwas be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus" (1Th 5:16-18 NLT)

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"In Christ we, though many, form one body." Romans

12:5 NIV

The Bible describes the Christian life in war terms: fight, conquer, strive, battle, overcome, victory.

You're in a spiritual battle whether vou realize it or not, and you need support and backup. When you became a Christian, you became a member of God's army. Imagine you go to a recruiting office to join the Army. They say, "Wonderful, sign here." You say: "Wait! I have one stipulation. I don't want to be committed to any particular platoon. I want to be able to float around. I'll be part of the Army, but I don't want to be committed to a certain group of soldiers. If the battle gets too hot in one area, I'll move to another area and join another platoon. And if I dislike one platoon's leadership, I'll join another." Would you want a person like that fighting by your side? Of course you wouldn't! But that's how many Christians today relate to God's army. They float around from church to church with little or no commitment to any particular group of Christians-so while the battle is being fought, they are awol.

There is no such thing as a free-floating believer in the Bible. The difference between just attending church and becoming a member is like the difference between getting married and just living together. The distinction is commitment. The Greek word for fellowship is koinonia, which means being committed to one another. Jesus said, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (Jn 13:35 NIV). And you can't love in absentia. So, be committed and connected.

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"Speak the truth in love, growing. more like

Christ." Eph 4:15 NLT

Jon Walker says: "It's hard to. confront...it's easier to stay superficial...to demonize one another when we don't agree...and to cut and run at the first sign of trouble... But the Bible says, 'An honest answer is like a kiss of friendship' (Pr 24:26 NLT); it deepens relationships...and keeps our fellowship open and authentic, freeing us to speak the truth in love"... No more lies or pretense. Tell your brother the truth.

Remember, 'In Christ's body we're all connected...

When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself.'" (Eph 4:25 MSG). Author Annette Smith observes: "Touchy topics are difficult for even close friends. Yet relationships involve flawed people who make mistakes and get into messes. Friends need to be able to count on each other, not just for fun and affirmation, but for instruction and correction.

Committing ourselves to a friendship means because we care on a deep intimate level, we have the courage to speak up when a friend needs to hear tough words...True friendship comes with joy and responsibility...To avoid talking truthfully about a situation that's hurtful, dangerous, or out of God's will, is to dishonor the friendship and the friend.

When we've been trusted with the blessing of friends, we must love them enough to be willing to experience hurt, rejection, even anger. In the end, truth heals. Before addressing a difficult situation, if there's any self-righteousness or the tiniest desire to get even, we should keep silent. Honesty...when it comes to touchy subjects must be accompanied by pure, loving motives." The Bible says, "Speak the truth in love…growing...more like Christ."

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"Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find?" Pr 20:6 NIV

A new employee once asked a coworker, "How long have you been working for the company?" He replied, "Ever since the boss threatened to fire me!" Seriously, employers scramble to find workers who are faithful and dependable. Citizens long for politicians who will faithfully carry out all of their campaign promises. In the marriage ceremony, newlyweds are asked to be faithful to the vows they make to each other. The truth is, without faithfulness, your influence will be restricted-or wiped out. Without faithfulness, the sum total of all your other wonderful talents is diluted. Faithfulness turns the mundane into the miraculous and transforms ordinary individuals into dependable achievers. Wise King Solomon asked this soul-searching question: "Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find?" The world wants people who are faithful. There are more than 300 geysers in Yellowstone National Park approximately half the known geysers in the world. But one stands above the others. It's not the largest, and its waters don't reach the greatest height, but it's by far the most popular. And its popularity is due solely to one thing-its dependability. People stand in long lines under the hot sun to see it, because according to a precise schedule, it shoots a stream of boiling water more than 120 feet into the air. You can nearly set vour watch by it. That's why it's called Old Faithful.

People are attracted to our faithfulness. God is glorified by our faithfulness. So in all you do this day, practice faithfulness.

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"Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks." 1Th 5:16-18

In order to succeed in life, you need good coping skills. The salesperson has a quota. The performer has rehearsals. The therapist counsels one depressed soul after another. The pilot has to sit in the cockpit for hours. The preacher is never free of sermon preparation. Then there is the mother with tiny children facing fourteen hours a day of making decisions, competing with strong wills, and trying to be everything to everybody. How do you develop the coping skills required to live the abundant life Jesus promised? (See Jn 10:10.) Paul tells us,

"Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks." Rejoice in the things that never change, can't fail, and won't let you down (like God's promises!). And when you feel like you can't cope, pray. Better yet, live with a prayerful heart!

With every breath, say, "I trust you, Lord; I turn it over to you, for I know you have everything under control." And don't forget to give thanks. Remember the old adage: "I grumbled because I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet." Instead of complaining, start counting your blessings. Do you remember what life was like before vou met Jesus?

Weren't there days when you thought you wouldn't make it? Now look where you are! On the other side of the Red Sea, looking back, the Israelites declared that the Lord was their strength, their song, and their salvation (See Ex 15:2). And isn't that what He has been to you, too? Come on, praise God!

Instead of complaining, start counting your blessinas.

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"His heart went out to him." Lk

15:20 PHPS

When the father saw his prodigal son, "his heart went out to him." Jack Graham writes:

"This isn't a father who can't wait to punish his sinful son...who has written him off as wasted and worthless. This is a loving, caring father who can't wait to embrace and welcome him. He runs down the road to meet him...What you see...is a picture of the Father's love for you...eager...excessive... approachable…abundant." Max Lucado adds: "The tale involves a wealthy father and a willful son [who]...takes his inheritance [to] Las Vegas and...wastes [it] on slot machines and call girls... Broke [and] too proud to go home, he gets a job sweeping.stables at the racetrack. When he finds himself... [eating].. their oats, he realizes enough is enough...Off he goes, rehearsing his repentance speech... But...

'When he was...a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion' [v. 20 NKJV]..We expect crossed arms...a furrowed brow..a guarded handshake...a stern lecture...Instead [the father said],

'Bring out the best robe...a ring...sandals... and... the fatted calf' [vv. 22-23 NKJV]."
The ring symbolized delegated authority. The one who wore it carried on business in the name of the one who gave it.

Would you have given this prodigal the power of attorney over your matters?

Entrusted him with your credit card? When you came to God, you were given authority to conduct business in His name. When you speak truth, you're His ambassador (See 2Co 5:20). As you steward finances He gives, you're His business manager. When you proclaim forgiveness, you're His priest.

He has given you the privilege to do for others what He does for you. Don't withhold encouragement or affirmation! Speak words that strengthen others. Why? Because you represent your Father!

You're His ambassador.

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"Give all your worries... to God." 1Pe 5:7 NLT

Doug Coldiron writes: "I'm a trucker, and my Jack Russell Terrier, Dee Dee, rides shotgun on my road trips. We were playing fetch outside Atlanta when something caught her eye and she shot into the woods. I paced the perimeter calling her name. I alerted other truckers and searched until it was pitch black. Nothing. Eventually the others left; some said, 'I'll pray for you.' I wasn't so sure God was listening. I'd already been praying for hours.

Next morning, I had to get on the road, and when I opened my laptop and pulled up my Facebook page, it was filled with postings: 'We're praying for you.'

'Hang in there.' 'Trust God. I felt comforted; someone besides me was worried about my dog. If only I could get back to Atlanta soon! I thought about praying, 'Lord, get me an assignment in Atlanta…..NOW!' I knew that could take weeks, but when I clicked on my company website to check the destination for my next job...it was Atlanta! Could prayer be working? Next morning my cell phone woke me. It was Russ, the maintenance supervisor.

'I saw your dog on my way to work.' I couldn't believe my ears. I had to get to Atlanta! From the truck center, Russ drove me to where he had seen Dee Dee. After searching for hours, I glanced over my shoulder...and there she sat on the doorstep of a house. She bolted over, and as I picked her up, I prayed, 'Thank you, God." The Bible says, "Give all your worries…..to God, for he cares about you" (v. 7 NLT). Coldiron adds, "Who knows what goes on in a dog's mind! One thing I know is we're never alone.

God always answers prayer."

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"Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much." Lk 16:10 NIV

Pastor James Merritt said, "The other day I asked my beautiful wife if she married me for my looks." She replied, "No, I married you for your brains-it's the little things that count!" Merritt was joking of course. What really counts in life is faithfulness in little things; it's how dependability begins, grows, and matures. Longfellow wrote, "Most people would succeed in small things if they weren't troubled with great ambition." Sometimes we think we're too big for small things; we would rather get on with what we perceive as bigger, more important matters. But here is how Jesus sees it: "Anyone who can be trusted in little matters can also be trusted in important matters. But anyone who is dishonest in little matters will be dishonest in important matters.

If you cannot be trusted with this wicked wealth, who will trust vou with true wealth? And if you cannot be trusted with what belongs to someone else, who will give you something that will be your own?" (vv. 10-12 CEV). If you want to succeed on the job, come to work on time; stick with the job until it's finished; when you see something that needs to be done, do it -even if it's not in your job description. Give an honest day's work for an honest day's pay; take your designated lunch break, not a three-hour paid vacation; report your expenses truthfully; support the team; and uphold the company's reputation. In other words, be faithful on the job: "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might" (Ecc 9:10 NIV). That's the kind of

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"God causes everything to work together." Ro

8:28 NLT

When Joseph was thrown in prison, it was hard for him to see how this road would lead to the fulfillment of his dream, but it did. That's because God had a plan for his life. And He has one for yours too! Your current job may just be preparation for the job God really has in mind for you. Perhaps not today or tomorrow, but, if you stay faithful, there will come a time when you look back and realize how God directed your steps (See Ps 37:23). Refuse to embrace any concept of victimhood that would steal your contentment. Your job, in spite of its difficulties, would have been the dream of some of your forefathers. Didn't you pray for this job you're now complaining about? As difficult as this may be to accept, you're where you are for a reason-and for a season. So study, do the coursework, take the tests, graduate, and move on to what God has for you next. There are certain qualities you need to take with you from your present position into vour next one. Things like skill building and character development. You may need to learn computer and social media skills-plus patience and gratitude. You may need to learn how to manage an office-plus how to manage your moods. When you're led by God, no experience is ever wasted because "God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them" (Ro 8:28 NLT). God knows what He is doing, so trust Him; He uses every experience to bring about His will and fulfill our joy.

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Changing Lives, Building Strong Families and Impacting Our Communities For Jesus Christ.

"To everything there is a season." Eccl. 3:1 NKJV

When change happens in the workplace, we often feel threatened. We get used to the personalities of our co-workers and bosses, and we want them to remain in place, stay the same, and require nothing more from us than what we have given in the past.
Out of our desire for stability, security, and predictability, we fail to prepare for instability, uncertainty, and surprises. How ironic! If we were willing to adjust our expectations and be more realistic, we wouldn't be so traumatized when change comes. Things can change overnight. It may be the loss of a parent, or a job, or your health.
Change is the only constant in life. And it has the potential to move you on to better things or flatten you like a steamroller. The choice is yours. "To everything there is a season." The truth is, God is your only secure anchor in life, so if you're wise, you will build a strong relationship with Him. Ultimately, He will never allow you to depend on anything but Him. Here is Elijah's story: "The ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning, ...and he drank from the brook. And it happened after a while that the brook dried up, because there had been no rain in the land" (1Ki 17:6-7 NKJV). Elijah may have panicked, but God didn't. "The word of the Lord came to him, saying, 'Arise, go to Zarephath...and dwell there. See, I have commanded a widow there to provide for you'" (vv. 8-9 NKJV). Notice what God used to provide for Elijah: ravens, a brook, and a penniless widow. So enjoy your job, excel in it, but depend only on God!
I Instability, uncertainty, and surprises

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"The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart." Ps 19:8 NKJV

"The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; the statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes...More to be desired are they than gold...sweeter also than honey...by them Your servant is warned, and in keeping them there is great reward. Who can understand his errors?

Cleanse me from secret faults. Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and I shall be innocent of great transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer"

This prayer shows that the psalmist regarded meditation as an utter necessity to his spiritual life.

And if that was true for him in his day, how much more vital is it for you today! You need to bathe your mind each day in the waters of God's Word so that your words and your thoughts are pleasing in His sight. Use your time-the start of the day, at coffee break, during your lunchtime, riding home from work, before falling asleep at night-to reflect upon the truth of God's Word. The greatest changes in your life will come through the process of meditating on the Scriptures-just letting the Word of God filter and percolate through your mind and into your life. First-class Bible reading calls not for snapshots but for timed exposures.

You need to bathe vour mind each dav in the

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"You shall meditate on it day and night." Jos 1:8

Bible meditation has fallen out of favor. Why?

Because we live in an instantaneous society, and a preoccupied society. We have so much stuff coming at us from TV, cell phones, email, texts, snail mail, satellite links, cable news feeds, and podcasts that we hardly have a moment to react--much less reflect. Get real! You can't "download" spiritual maturity by hitting a few keys on a computer. That's why the Scriptures speak so often about meditation.

God, the author of the Bible, gave Joshua the formula for succeeding in your career and prospering in whatever you put your hand to: "This Book of the law shall not depart from your mouth [speak the Scriptures every chance you get], but you shall meditate on it [when?] day and night, so that you may be careful to do [not just know, but do!] according to all [you can't pick and choose] that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success" (v. 8

NAS). Note the words "you will make." To succeed in life, you must do something. Do what? Meditate in God's Word! How often? "Day and night." So what portion of Scripture were you thinking about this morning as you started your day? Or while driving to and from work? For that matter, when was the last time you conscious v reflected on any Bible truth or principle? If you can't remember, start making some changes right away. Paul told Timothy: "Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that vour progress mav be evident to all" (1Ti 4:15

NKJV). And that's still the rule!

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"A time to gain, and a time to lose, Ecc 3:6 NKJV

How can we help our children navigate life's losses?
(1) Don't underestimate their capacity for grief. Children are often the "forgotten" grievers. Their pain is real and intense; recognize and validate it.
(2) Don't avoid talking about the loss when they're present. Excluding them from adults in mourning denies them the
opportunity for support, and increased understanding about their loss. Include them in the family's collective grief
experience.
(3) Encourage them to share their feelings about the loss.
Teach them that being "real" is more important than being "strong," and confirm that their feelings matter. Very young
children have limited understanding about the meaning, permanence, and irreversibility of death. They can only talk
about it briefly and concretely. Older children understand its meaning and should be encouraged to talk about it.
(4) Make allowance for each child's personality.
Our personality determines our grieving style. Introverted children may need their own space; extroverted ones may need to be verbal and sociable. Dependent children need strong adults around them; independent ones can handle a lot on their own.
(5) Communicate realistically with them. Adults often use language that confuses children. "Your dad has gone home...fallen asleep..passed away…gone to his rest" etc. Speaking of death as the end of this physical life is biblical, clarifies the significance of the loss, and allows children to ask questions that matter to them. Your children can handle loss, and they can understand that everlasting life is God's great solution and one day we will join our loved ones in heaven (See Jn 14:2-3).

Don't avoid talking about the loss.

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"Dear friends, don't try to get even. Let God
take revenge." Ro 12:19 CEV
When someone has hurt or betrayed you, it goes
against your grain to resist the instinct for revenge-
especially when there is an opportunity to settle the
old score and your friends urge you to capitalize on
it. They tell you, "It's only right and fair." Before you
decide, consider the story in 1 Samuel 24. King Saul,
consumed by jealousy, took every opportunity to try
and destroy his God-ordained successor, David.
Driven by a desire to eliminate him, Saul took three
thousand soldiers to find him and kill him. By divine
appointment, Saul stopped to rest in a large cave
where David and his men were hiding. David's men
said, "Now is a perfect opportunity to kill him and
take the throne." Instead. David iust cut off a corner
of Saul's robe and showed it to Saul later as
evidence he had spared the king's life. David's men
probably considered his strategy ludicrous, but
David lived by a different code-God's Word! He told
his men, "Don't kill him. For who can remain
innocent after attacking the Lord's anointed one?"
(1Sa 26:9 NLT). And God hasn't changed His mind.
The Bible says don't take revenge. That's God's
territory-stay out of it! (See Ro 12:17-21.) So what
should you do? Be prepared to act contrary to your
instincts! The Bible says, "If your enemy is hungry,
feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to
drink……overcome evil with good" (Ro 12:20-21 NIV)
Will that change your enemy? Maybe, and maybe
not. But it will change your attitude, and God will
bless you for it.

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"We are wrestling with.the powers who
govern this world of darkness, and spiritual
forces that control evil." Eph 6:12 GWT
In his classic book, War on the Saints, Jessie Penn-
Lewis writes, "The chief condition…for the working
of evil spirits in human beings, apart from sin, is
passivity." That's why the apostle Peter urges us
"Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the
devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking
for someone to devour" (1Pe 5:8 NLT). Have you
ever seen a hungry lion devour its prey? That's a
picture of what Satan is out to do to you. And he will
use things like pleasure, power, pressures,
possessions, passions, and people to do it. Paul
tells us to be on guard "so that Satan will not
outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil
schemes" (2Co 2:11 NLT). How can you defend
yourself? Neil Anderson says, "Our defense against
direct attacks by the evil one is to speak aloud
God's truth." Why speak aloud to Satan? Because
God knows the thoughts and intents of your heart
Satan doesn't (See Jer 17:9-10 and Ps 139:1. 23-
24). When you're in Satan's crosshairs, remember
James 4:7: "Submit yourselves therefore to God.
Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Take
these two powerful steps: First, talk to God before
engaging the Enemy. "Call upon me in the day of
trouble: I will deliver thee" (Ps 50:15). Second, talk
to the Enemy. And keep it short and authoritative!
"Satan, in the irresistible name of Jesus, cease all
activity against me now. Leave and don't return!"
Will he obey? You have submitted and resisted-he
has no option.

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"Not looking to your own interests but each of
you to the interests of the others." Php 2:4 NIV
Often in marriage we are unaware of our partner's
needs. We become calloused. We stop listening.
We're oblivious to the pressure thev're under.
Simply stated, the root of many marital problems is
insensitivity. Everyone you meet needs kindness.
The people who sit around you in church have major
hurts; you're just unaware of them. We find a great
example of sensitivity in the life of King David.
David's friend, Jonathan-Saul's son--had been
killed. Now, safely enthroned for several years,
David made a rare request. He asked if anyone was
left in Saul's family that he could help. He
discovered Saul's grandson-Jonathan's son-
Mephibosheth, who was crippled in both feet. When
David sent for him, Mephibosheth almost certainly
thought, "I'm going to be killed because I am a
member of the enemy's family, the old dynasty." But
notice David's words: "Don't be afraid…for I will
surely show you kindness for the sake of your father
Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land that
belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will
always eat at my table" (2Sa 9:7 NIV).
Mephibosheth's reaction is interesting: "What is
your servant, that you should notice a dead dog like
me?" (v. 8 NIV). He felt like a dog and expected to
be treated like one. But the point you need to notice
is this: David took time, made the effort, and was
sensitive to his needs. One of the dangers of
success is that the pressures that accompany it can
make you insensitive toward others. Question: To
whom do you need to become more sensitive today?

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"Clothe yourselves with…kindness." Col 3:12

When you get up in the morning, you must not only
clothe yourself physically but spiritually and
emotionally too. You must ask ourself, "What sort
of attitude am I going to wear today? Will I be
controlling or cooperative? Positive or negative?
Complimentary or critical? Selfish or serving?" You
say, "But when I'm kind, people take advantage of
me." Yes, sometimes that will happen. But that's the
difference between taking the low road or the high
road. Which do you want to walk on? Despite the
risks, here are two reasons to be kind: (1) "Because
of [God's] kindness you have been saved" (Eph 2:8
TLB). Grace and kindness go together. Always! Poet
Robert Burns said that the kind heart most
resembles God. (2) Because you want people to be
kind to you and treat you right. Jesus said, "Do to
others what you would have them do to you" (Mt
7:12 NIV). If you are rude, people are going to be
rude to you. But if you are kind, most people will
desire to respond the same wav. "Be kind and
honest and you will live a long life; others will
respect you and treat you fairly" (Pr 21:21 GNT).
And here is another reason to be kind: "Your own
soul is nourished when you are kind: it is destroyed
when you are cruel" (Pr 11:17 TLB). So when you are
kind to others, you are really doing yourself a favor.
Let's read it again: "As God's chosen people, holy
and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with
compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and
patience" (Col 3:12 NIV). Now go out and try living
that way for one whole day.

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"The lips of the godly speak helpful words." Pr
10:32 NLT
How do you feel when someone tries to put you
down? Then don't do it to others! "Kind words bring
life, but cruel words crush your spirit" (Pr 15:4
GNT). You can crush someone with what you say, so
be careful. Some of the people you meet each day
need an emotional lift, so encourage them.
"Righteous people know the kind thing to say, but
the wicked are always saying things that hurt" (Pr
10:32 GNT). Don't be the kind of person who
pounces on a weakness in someone. Maybe you do
it in a joking way, but you do it, and you enjoy doing
it. In a cartoon, Charlie Brown is talking on the
phone to a girl who says, "Guess what I'm running
for? The Queen of the May at our school." Charlie
Brown says, "That's very interesting. Lucy has
always been chosen at our school." The girl on the
phone responds, "Your school has pretty low
standards, huh, Chuck?" After Charlie Brown hangs
up, he looks at Lucy and says, "She says,
'Congratulations!'" Now, that's diplomacy! It's also
supportiveness. How supportive are you? If God
gave you a dollar for each kind word you said and
took away a dollar for each unkind word you said,
would you be wealthy or poor? When the brothers
who betrayed Joseph knelt before him in Pharaoh's
palace, he held the power of life and death over
them. But he forgave them, was gracious toward
them, and promised to take care of them.
Supportive words can build a bridge in a strained
relationship. So the word for you today is-build
people up.

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"Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with man
advisers they succeed." Pr 15:22 NIV

A good adviser does three things: they observe you,
instruct you, and motivate you. At first, the thought
of having someone evaluate you may be
intimidating. But think about it: people are watching
you anyway, so why not have a good adviser among
the crowd? Here is a list of some areas in which you
might consider inviting an adviser to evaluate you.
These things are not options, they're essentials:
spiritual development, personal discipline, family
relationships, decision making, handling finance,
conflict resolution, picking the right people,
breaking bad habits and establishing good ones,
goal setting and planning for the future. If you're
serious about succeeding, look for an environment
where you will be mentored, not just paid. Initially,
what you learn is more important than what you
earn, because what you learn early determines what
you earn later. What you don't know can hurt you
and put a lid on your potential. Opening doors of
evaluation is something you owe to yourself and
those who depend on you. And don't let it stop with
you. Pass on what you've been given to somebody
else. Jesus said, "Freely ye have received, freely
give" (Mt 10:8). "But I'm too young, nobody is going
to take me seriously" you say. Paul told Timothy,
"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are
young, but set an example" (1Ti 4:12 NIV). You're
not responsible for knowing everything; you're just
responsible for sharing what you know with others.
As you pour into them what God and others have
poured into you, they will go further and faster too
So ask God for a good adviser and become one to
somebody else.

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"A time to be born, and a time to die." Ecc 3:2
Researchers at the Colorado Institute of Grief offer
us this helpful four-stage path to recovery. Stage
one - Shock. Our initial response is one of denial
and disbelief. "I can't believe this is happening.it's
not real!" There is a numbing of our senses, a God-
designed natural "anesthesia" that buffers the early
blow and allows us time to gather our coping
mechanisms. Stage two - Protest. We feel anger
and resentment against God, yet we feel guilty for
blaming Him. We may blame ourselves, the doctors,
the patient, and question God's love and
faithfulness-even bargaining with Him. "If You will
just do a miracle and bring them back, I will..." Stage
three - Disorganization. Everything comes apart at
the seams. The lifestyle we knew and loved
unravels. The dreams we cherished evaporate. We
feel hopeless, powerless, lost in a strange, empty
universe. Secondary losses may loom: financial
insecurity, social dislocation, depression, loss of
concentration, etc. We're convinced that life will
never be normal again. We survive moment to
moment, afraid to anticipate the road ahead. Stage
four - Reorganization. Unrelenting grief gives way
to waves of sadness varying in frequency and
intensity. We begin to accept and accommodate our
loss. The energy we expended on grief work
becomes available again, enabling us to adjust to
the demands and opportunities of our new lifestyle.
Slowly we reemerge and take hold of the reins
again. The process will take many months, and full
recovery even years. But God promises it will come!
There will be "a time to heal...build up..laugh...
dance...gain!" (Ecc 3:3-4, 6 NKJV).

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"He gave us his Son-will he not also freely give
us all things?" Ro 8:32 GNT
Do you like to collect Bible promises for challenging
times? When your collection seems inadequate, do
you add to it, thinking, "I just haven't found the right
promise yet?" Claiming the promise without
understanding the all-sufficiency of the Promiser
can disappoint you. Since there is no lack in God, He
is all you need. And He is all you will ever need! The
Bible says, He can do "immeasurably more than all
we ask or imagine" (Eph 3:20 NIV). Seeking relief
during a difficult time in life, author Hannah Whitall
Smith visited a respected Bible teacher, hoping to
find an answer. After listening attentively, the
teacher told her, "Yes, all you say may be very true,
but then, in spite of it all, there is God." Frustrated,
Hannah responded, "Surely you did not understand
how very serious.my difficulties are." "Oh yes, I
did, but then, as I tell you, there is God." Several
disappointing visits later, after hearing the same
response, "There is God." the light dawned. She
realized she had received the answer she needed;
God alone was enough for all her needs! She writes:
"The all-sufficiency of God ought to be...[to us], as
the all-sufficiency of a good mother is to [her]
child……[Her] presence and…..love…make all fears.
disappear. [She doesn't need] to make any
promises and…explanations, [she alone] is all that
the child needs." All God's blessings come in one
package-Himself! Paul reminds you, "Everything
belongs to you, [because] you belong to Christ, and
Christ belongs to God" (1Co 3:22-23 CEV). You will
get what you need because you are His redeemed

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"Pour out your heart before Him; God is a
refuge for us." Ps 62:8 NKJV

Life can feel overwhelming when you're responsible
for mortgage and rent payments, medical bills,
clothes for the family, escalating food and fuel
expenses, college fees, plus the reality of preparing
for your retirement! And the pressure is even
greater if you're underemployed or unemployed.
Where can you turn? Surrounded by enemies, David
turned to God: "My soul, wait thou only upon God:
for my expectation is from him. He only is my rock
and my salvation…I shall not be moved" (Ps vv. 5-
6). Where does your "expectation" lie? In the hope
for an improved economy or job market? Or the
promise of better times to come? David's hope was
more certain: He expected the answer to be found in
the unchanging character and faithfulness of God.
When anxiety arises, we sometimes resort to our
OMGWI list-"Oh my God, what if?" We focus on our
fears, feel inadequate, and give in to despair. Being
aware of your needs is being responsible but being
overwhelmed by them is evidence you're looking to
the wrong source for answers. George MacDonald
said, "We look upon God as our last and feeblest
resource. We only go to Him when we have nowhere
else to go. And then we learn that the storms of life
have driven us, not upon the rocks, but into the
desired haven." Remember David? "My soul, wait
thou only upon God; for my expectation is from
him." By Himself, plus nothing, God is your
adequate source. Since He gave us His Son, you
have all the evidence you need that He will also
"freely give us all things" (Ro 8:32 GNT).

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"His faithful love endures forever" Ps 118:2 NLT
Do yourself a favor - read Psalm 118! (1) "In my
distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered
me" (v. 5 NLT). What are you battling today? A
destructive habit? A crippling fear? A sense of
worthlessness? God wants to set you free. (2) "The
Lord is for me, so I will have no fear" (v. 6 NLT). Your
future doesn't rest in the hands of people, but God;
a good God who has good plans for you. (3) "He will
help me. I will look in triumph at those who hate me"
(v. 7 NLT). When people try to put you down, God
will raise you up. When they withhold from you, He
will supply all your needs. (4) "I will not die; instead,
I will live to tell what the Lord has done" (V. 17 NLT).
We will all die someday; but you don't have to die
before your assignment is complete and you have
brought glory to God. (5) "The Lord has punished
me severely, but he did not let me die" (V. 18 NLT),
Is God correcting you? Rejoice: His correction is not
rejection. It's protection against future mistakes. (6)
"This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice
and be glad in it" (v. 24 NLT). Whether yesterday
was a triumph or a tragedy, God is giving you a new
day. Seize it. Rejoice in it! (7) "Give thanks to the
Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures
forever" (v. 29 NLT). You may experience days
without enough money, but you will never have a
day without God's mercy. These seven Scriptures
are for you, so stand on them today.

"You will never have a day without God's
mercy."

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"We take captive every thought to make it
obedient to Christ." 2Co 10:5 NIV
How would you describe yourself? Are you naturally
positive, or negative? Are your decisions driven by
faith in God, or by the fear of failure, rejection, or
lack? Do you feel good about yourself, or do you put
yourself down and feel like a loser? Whatever your
answer may be, this much is certain: The patterns
and attitudes that rule your life were not formed
overnight-so don't expect an overnight cure. But
you can make a start by obeying this Scripture: "Set
your minds and keep them set on what is above (the
higher things)" (Col 3:2 AMPC). The Bible refers to
the Christian life as a "walk." "Walk worthy of the
vocation wherewith ye are called" (Eph 4:1). "We
walk by faith, not by sight" (2Co 5:7 NKJV). "Let us
also walk in the Spirit" (Gal 5:25). "Walk in love"
(Eph 5:2). Notice, walking is the slowest mode of
transportation there is! God doesn't invite you to fly
with Him but to walk with Him. Just put one foot in
front of the other and keep walking day by day.
When are we most apt to slip and fall? (1) When we
are learning to walk. (2) When we are in
circumstances we didn't create and over which we
have no control, such as ice and snow. (3) When we
feel drained, tired, and weak. (4) When we get
careless and don't keep our eyes open and stay
focused. Your challenge is twofold: adopting the
right mindset and maintaining it. And if you seek
God faithfully, He will help vou to do both these
things successfully.

"Adopting the right mindset and maintaining it"

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"For as he thinks in his heart, so is he." Pr 23:7
NKJV
AA
Every family has generational "issues" they struggle
with. These are things our parents and
grandparents passed to us like addiction, abuse.
anger, anxiety, lust, fear, etc. Often we say, "It just
runs in my family, I can't do anything about it." Yes,
you can! You may not be able to do anything about
your family's past, but by God's grace, you can
change the future for yourself and your children.
The Bible says, "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new
creation; old things have passed away; behold, all
things have become new" (2Co 5:17 NKJV). Note
the words "in Christ." By yourself you can't change
your family's dysfunction, but "in Christ" you
receive the power needed to go in a new direction. If
your computer can be reprogrammed, your mind
can too. "Be transformed by the renewing of your
mind" (Ro 12:2 NKJV). You say, "How do I renew my
mind?" By saturating it in the Scriptures! Just like
soaking your body in water removes sweat and
grime, soaking your mind in the Scriptures cleanses
and corrects your thinking. The old saying goes:
"Watch your thoughts for they become your words.
Watch your words for they become your deeds.
Watch your deeds because they become your
habits. Watch your habits because they become
your character. Watch your character because it
becomes your destiny." God told Gideon, "Tear
down the [old] altar of Baal that our father has"
(Jdg 6:25 NKJV). In its place Gideon built a new
altar to the Lord, and the lives of he and his family
were changed forever. And by programming your
mind with God's Word, you can do the same!

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"Set your minds and keep them set on what is
above (the higher things)." Col 3:2 AMPC
What's your biggest challenge right now? Breaking
a bad habit, or putting a new one in place?
Launching a new business, or turning an old one
around? Recovering from a bad marriage, or making
a good one better? Getting out of depression, or
keeping yourself from falling into it? Paul gives us
two powerful keys: (1) Set your mind in the right
direction. (2) Keep your mind set in the right
direction. Setting your mind is the easy part,
keeping it set calls for a daily commitment. Anybody
can make a start, but you need the heart of a
finisher. "Looking unto Jesus, the author and
finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set
before Him endured the cross, despising the shame,
and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of
God. For consider Him who endured such hostility
from sinners against Himself, lest you become
weary and discouraged in your souls" (Heb 12:2-3
NKJV). The word "souls" could be translated
"feelings and emotions." That's where you're
susceptible to "become weary and discouraged." A
sober driver will get you safely to your destination,
but a drunk one won't! What's driving your life? Your
feelings? Your impulses? Your moods? Here are two
life-changing Scriptures: "We take captive every
thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2Co 10:5
NIV). "Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever
is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely,
whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or
praiseworthy-think about such things..
And the
God of peace will be with you" (Php 4:8-9 NIV).

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"Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my
God." Php 1:3 NLT
Paul often acknowledged those who helped him.
"Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God...
for you have been my partners in spreading the
Good News" (vv. 3, 5 NLT). "You Philippians were
the only ones who gave me financial help…No other
church did this. Even when I was in Thessalonica
you sent help more than once. I don't say this
because I want a gift from you. Rather, I want you to
receive a reward for your kindness" (Php 4:15-17
NLT). He writes to the believers in Thessalonica:
"We can't help but thank God for you, because your
faith is flourishing and your love for one another is
growing. We proudly tell God's other churches
about your endurance and faithfulness in all the
persecutions and hardships you are suffering" (2Th
1:3-4 NLT). Author Barbara Glanz tells about a
gentleman who remembered his eighth-grade
literature teacher. He wrote to her and received this
reply: "You will never know how much your letter
meant. I'm 83 years old, and……living all alone. My
friends are all gone. My family's gone. I taught
school 50 years and yours is the first 'thank you'
letter I have ever gotten from a student. Sometimes
I wonder what I did with my life. I will read and
reread your letter until the day I die." Ironically, she
was the teacher students talked most about at class
reunions, but nobody ever told her. Showing
appreciation costs so little in terms of time and
money, but it can mean the world to somebody. So
today, who do you need to express your
appreciation to?

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"My God shall supply all your need." Php 4:19
NKJV
God promised to supply your need, not your greed
When you get into debt by buying things you
shouldn't, don't expect Him to bail you out. No
responsible parent would do that, and God is a
responsible parent. He gives you choices, and He
points out consequences. He told Adam and Eve not
to eat the forbidden fruit. Then Satan came along
and said, "God doesn't really mean it, you can do
what you want and be okay." Sound familiar?
Advertisers do the same thing. One furniture
company offers a house full of furniture with no
monthly payments for two years. Question: If you
can't afford it now, how will you pay for it two years
from now? It's time for you to get out of debt, not
deeper in. And the Bible tells you how: (1) Don't be
greedy for the things of this life, "for greed is a form
of idolatry" (See Col 3:5 GNT). Instead of craving
things you don't need, enjoy the things you have
(2) If you're not tithing, start now! You will be
switching from the world's faltering economy to
God's fail-safe economy. When you tithe, He
promises to protect your interests and bless you
"There shall not be room enough to receive" (See
Mal 3:8-12). (3) Before you go shopping, try
praying. Ask God about what you "need," then wait
for Him to respond. (4) Start giving away some of
what you have. "It is possible to give away and
become richer.[and] to hold on too tightly and lose
everything……the liberal man shall be made rich!" (Pr
11:24-25 TLB). Obey God. Be patient and watch
what happens.

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"This is the Lord's battle, and he will
give you to us!" 1Sa 17:47 NLT

To defeat giants like addiction, resentment,
fear, lust, pride, envy, or anger, you must
understand these three Scriptures: (1) "The
temptations in your life are no different
from what others experience" (1Co 10:13
NLT). Goliath was born a baby, but he grew
into a giant. Our giants are often little sins
we overlooked and indulged until they
assumed a life of their own and came back
to haunt us. So as you begin to say no to
small impulses, you will gain the strength to
say it to bigger ones. (2) "As Goliath moved
closer to attack, David quickly ran..to meet
him" (1Sa 17:48 NLT). David faced Goliath
head-on. You must force your giant out into
the light, and not let him back into your life.
Establish boundaries! And if necessary,
make yourself accountable to someone
who can strengthen and encourage you.
Stay out of the wrong company. And above
all, don't view God in the light of your
problem, view your problem in the light of
God. (3) "This is the Lord's battle, and he
will give you to us!" You're not in this fight
alone. God wants to help you to overcome
old habits and establish new behaviors. His
will for you is "to live in a way that is worthy
of the people God has chosen to be his
own" (Eph 4:1 CEV). When you repent,
which means to do an about-face, turn, and
resolve to walk with God, He will give you
the strength to conquer the giant you're
facing. God has never lost a battle yet, and
when you invite Him to join you, you will
win.
You must force your giant out into the
light, and not let him back into your life.

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"Set aside a tenth of all." Dt 14:22 NIV

Why did God command His people to give Him the first tenth of their income? He tells us: "So that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands" (v. 29 NIV).
That means tithing doesn't cost, it pays! When you give God the first tenth of your income, He promises to bless "all the work of your hands." So the question is not does the church need
your tithe, but do you need God's blessing? God's work won't go broke if you don't tithe, but how well will you do if you disobey Him? Paul writes, "On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income" (1Co 16:2 NIV). You say, "I thought tithing was only the rule under Old Testament law. Did the New Testament Christians practice it too?" Consider Paul's words: "Each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income." That's proportionate giving! And since the only "Bible" the New Testament believers had was the Old Testament, what sum of money do you think they gave to God? Certainly not less than a tenth! Jesus told the Pharisees: "Woe to you, teachers of the law..You give a tenth…But you have neglected the more important matters of the law-justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter [tithing], without neglecting the former" (Mt 23:23 NIV). Question: Would you give God less under grace than you do under law? The tithe is the minimum, but only your love for God and His kingdom can determine the maximum.

He promises to bless "all the work of your hands."

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"He forever made perfect those who are being made holy." Heb 10:14 NLT

Stop putting yourself down by saying, "I keep failing, so I'm no good. I never do anything right." If you keep telling yourself that, you will find evidence to prove it. One counselor says: "Putting yourself down reinforces rather than corrects your imperfections by placing unnecessary attention and energy on everything that's wrong, rather than what's right with you. Why would you do this knowing the only possible result is a negative outlook, more negative feelings, and less appreciation for the gift of life? People who regularly put themselves down are seen as complainers, not to mention the example they set.

Everyone has aspects of themselves they'd like to improve, but this doesn't mean you should beat yourself up." The Bible says, "He forever made perfect those who are being made holy." Max Lucado writes: "Underline the word perfect. Note, the word isn't better. Not improving. Not on the upswing. God doesn't improve; He perfects. He doesn't enhance, He completes…I realize there's a sense in which we're imperfect. We still err. We still stumble. We still do exactly what we don't want to do….that part of us is 'being made holy.' But when it comes to our position before God, we're perfect.

When He sees each of us [who have placed our trust in Christ to save us], He sees someone who has been made perfect through the One who is perfect-Jesus Christ." Yes, you should continue to work on improving yourself, but go easy; stop often and remind yourself that you are "being made new... becoming like the One who made you" (Col 3:10 NCV).

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An elderly lady says, "One benefit of living so long is
sharing what I've learned. So make my day by
letting me share three secrets that can make your
life better." Then she offers us some great counsel:
(1) "Time is precious; don't waste it. After my
husband died, I was staying with friends. One
evening they started arguing and eventually
stopped speaking to one another. Now, I know
arguments happen; my husband and I had several
doozies. But at that moment. I understood as never
before that the time we have together is precious.
Don't waste it bickering about things that won't
matter when your loved one is gone. Do everything
you can to live in harmony and show your love.
Why? Because no matter how long you have
together, it's never enough. (2) You're making
memories; make them good ones. Looking back, I
thank God for so many unforgettable moments. The
day my husband died we kissed (as we always did
when we parted), at noon. By five-thirty that
evening, he was dead. I've always been glad about
that final kiss. So create memories-not regrets! (3)
It's not what happens, but how you respond that
counts. Every day holds new challenges that will
test your love and resolve. You have the power
through Christ to make each test an occasion for
growth. Life is full of seemingly unpleasant events.
Try to handle them in such a way that when you're
old, you will be able to look back and say, 'I thank
you, God, for that experience; it helped me grow."
And that's how to live wisely and well!

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Jesus said: "I've told you all this so that trusting me,
you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at
peace. In this…world you will continue to experience
difficulties. But take heart! I've conquered the
world" (n 16:33 MSG). Life keeps handing us
problems that test our faith. How do you know how
much weight a bridge can handle? By testing it.
Daniel's success made him a target. Knowing he
prayed regularly, his enemies persuaded King
Darius that all prayers should be made to him as the
king. Yet Daniel kept praying each day-in front of
an open window, no less. When the king heard
about it, he threw Daniel into a lions' den. But God
turned the tables. Next morning Daniel came out,
his enemies went in, and the king announced,
"Daniel's God……is the living God" (Da 6:26 MSG),
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to
worship the king's idols. Even when they were
warned to bow or burn, they said, "God..is able to
deliver us...But if not…we will not serve thy gods"
Da 3:17-18). And because they walked by faith,
God delivered and promoted them. Facing Goliath,
David refused to wear the king's armor. He said, "I
cannot go with these; for I have not proved them"
(1Sa 17:39). So what did he go with? "The name of
the Lord" (1Sa 17:45), and the rest is history. Now,
chances are you will never find ourself in lions'
den, a fiery furnace, or facing a giant, although
some days it will feel like it. But when you're under
attack, (1) pray and claim God's power, (2) walk by
faith, and (3) go "in the name of the Lord."

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It's said that the Titanic sank because of cheap
rivets and poor planning. Faced with a shortage of
quality bolts, the shipbuilders used substandard
ones that popped when the ship hit the iceberg. So,
how sturdy are the bolts of your faith? Reinforce
them daily with God's Word, seasons of in-depth
prayer, and fortifying fellowship. Describing signs of
the end times, Jesus said, "All these are the
beginning of birth pains" (Mt 24:8 NIV), and birth
pains signal the onset of the final push. The
obstetrician says, "This will hurt for a while, but it's
going to get better" and Jesus offers us the same
assurance about end-time events. We're in the final
hours-just a few pushes away from delivery. John
said: "I saw 'a new heaven and…earth, ..the first
heaven and……earth had passed away, and……the new
Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven...prepared
as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I
heard a loud voice from the throne saying...'God's
dwelling place is now among the people, and he will
dwell with them. They will be his people, and God
himself will be…their God. He will wipe every tear
from their eyes. There will be no more death or
mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of
things has passed away.' He who was seated on the
throne said, 'I am making everything new!'" (Rev
21:1-5 NIV). People everywhere are searching for
answers. So don't isolate, engage! Your goal isn't to
get out of this world in one piece: it's to take as
many people as you can to heaven along with you.

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"Anyone who does not love remains in death." 1Jn
3:14 NIV
There is a direct link between your health and your
relationships. When you're disconnected and isolated
from others, you're two to five times more likely to die
than people with close ties! Even people with bad
habits like smoking, overeating, and physical inactivity
-but who remain socially connected-live longer than
people with great health habits but who are isolated.
We see the physical, life-giving power of connection in
the life of Winston Churchill. He had a wonderful
marriage, was deeply connected to his family, his
friends, his nation, and his work. But his health habits
were terrible. His diet was awful, and he constantly
smoked cigars. He drank too much, had weird sleep
habits, and was completely sedentary-yet he lived to
ninetv ears old. That reminds me of the newspaper
reporter questioning an old man about his longevity: "I
suppose it's because you take systematic exercise.
The man quipped, "The only exercise I take is acting
as a pallbearer to my friends who have indulged in
strenuous exercise!" (Note: We're not condoning bad
habits!) God said, "It is not good...to be alone" (Ge
2:18 NIV), because when you're alone, you're more
likely to succumb to temptation and discouragement,
become self-absorbed, and spend money in selfish
ways. Not only do you suffer, the people God put in
your life get cheated out of the love He intended vou
to share with them. You say, "But I've been hurt by
people." We all have. But just as the answer to a
snakebite is snake venom, the answer to bad
relationships is good relationships. And God has some
in store for you-so talk to Him about it today.

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"How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter
than honey to my mouth!" Ps 119:103 NIV

The fact that we now enjoy the vegetables we hated
as children indicates that as we mature, we can
cultivate a taste for healthy, life-giving food. And since
the Bible is soul food, you can cultivate a taste for that
too. Eugene Peterson writes: "Christians feed on
Scripture. Holy Scripture nurtures the holy community
as food nurtures the human body. Christians don't
simply learn or study or use Scripture: we assimilate it,
take it into our lives in…a way that it gets metabolized
into acts of love." Consumer research indicates the
average Bible owner has nine Bibles and is looking for
more. What's wrong with this picture? The
unexpressed secret is that many people find the Bible
boring. This is quite a recent problem-and a serious
one. Ancient Greek, the language of the New
Testament, has no word for boredom. The word didn't
acquire its current meaning in English until the last few
centuries. When we consider the ancient world-no
television, internet, movies, and virtually no books-
we're inclined to think how boring it must have been.
But the ancients weren't bored. We're the generation
that gets bored, because capacity to focus our
attention and delight our minds in prolonged thought
has been diminished b dependency on external
stimuli. We have too many tempting alternatives.
That's why becoming a faithful Bible reader begins as
a discipline, continues as a dutv, and finallv becomes
a delight. "How sweet are your words…sweeter than
honey to my mouth!" And that can be your experience,
too, when it comes to reading God's Word. You just
need to get serious about it.

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"I am...discouraged, but I will remember you." Ps 42:6 NLT

Max Lucado says: "When God doesn't do what we want [Him to do l, it's not easy; it never has been, and it never will be. Faith is the conviction that God knows more than us…and He'll get us through.

Disappointment is caused by unmet expectations... and it's cured by revamped expectations..Don't panic……don't give up...be patient…God is in control. It ain't over till it's over." So, when you're disappointed:
(1) Look inward. David asked, "Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad?" (v. 5 NLT). Admit how you feel. You can't deal with what you don't acknowledge. Ask God to show you the root of the problem. Is it pent-up anger? Envy? Unforgiveness? Pride? Lust? Physical and mental fatigue? Be open to what He reveals.
(2) Look upward. David said, "I will…hope in God! I will praise him" (v. 5 NLT). Instead of focusing on your discouragement, focus on the One who knows the way out.
(3) Remember God's past faithfulness. David said, "I am... discouraged, but I will remember you." Through every trial Joseph clung to the assurance that God still controlled his destiny Recalling God's faithfulness builds your confidence that He'll continue to provide.
(4) Remember, you don't have to understand. Just because you can't
figure out what God's doing right now, doesn't mean it won't make sense later. He "causes all things to work together for good to those who love [Him]" (Ro 8:28 NAS).
(5) Don't give in to bitterness. When your hopes are dashed. resentment can set in. "If God is for us. who can be against us?" (v. 31 NKJV). Regardless of how deep the pit may seem, God is on your side!

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"If God has given you leadership ability, take the
responsibility seriously." Ro 12:8 NLT

As a leader, here are three things you shouldn't do:
(1) You shouldn't be afraid to try something new (See Isa
43:19). When you put someone into a new role, they
will make mistakes: it's inevitable, but it's how they
learn. While locking them into the same routine takes
the wind out of their sails, being a leader means
risking their failures and biting your lip as you let them
toddle out into the unknown. Like a parent who prays
harder when their teen takes the family car out for
their first drive, you must accept that the challenges
which frighten you are actually liberating to others.
(2) You shouldn't confuse individual loyalty with team
building (See 1Co 3:9). It's good to work closely with
key individuals, but it's also important to stay
"connected to each other" (Ro 12:5 GWT). You must
make sure that everybody gets to be on the team,
feels valued, and learns how to interact with one
another.
(3) You shouldn't try to micromanage people
(See 2Co 7:16 GWT). There is a difference between
managing people and leading them. Managing people
requires an eye for detail, whereas leading them
involves vision sharing, goal setting, and motivating.
And you must know the difference. When you
micromanage rather than lead, morale plummets,
because people need clear objectives and the
freedom to figure out how to reach them. Don't
micromanage; it diminishes the sense of ownership
those under you and around you need for good team
dynamics and problem-solving. President Eisenhower
once said, "Pull the string, and it will follow you
wherever you wish. Push it, and it will go nowhere.!"

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"Josiah…did not turn away from doing what was right." 2Ch 34:1-2 NLT

When Josiah became king, he cleansed Israel of
idolatry and began rebuilding the temple. That's when
a priest discovered some long-lost scrolls containing
God's Word. As Josiah heard what they said, he was
deeply moved upon realizing his people had drifted far
from God. So he sent word to the prophetess Huldah
asking what would become of the people. She told
him that since he had repented when he heard God's
Word, his nation would be spared while he lived (See
V. 14-27). An entire generation received grace
because of the integrity of one man. And that one man
had a lot to overcome. Josiah's grandfather,
Manasseh, was like the Hitler of the Old Testament.
He filled Jerusalem "from one end to the other with...
blood" (2Ki 21:16 NLT). And Josiah's father died at the
hands of his own officers. "He did what was wrong,
most likely reads his epitaph. Josiah was only eight
when he ascended the throne. Immediately he chose
righteousness and didn't stop doing what was right all
his life. What's the point? You can't pick your parents,
but you can pick your role models. You can't change
vour past, but vou can rise above it. Your parents may
have given you your DNA, but Jesus will give you a
new beginning. "Follow God's example, therefore, as
dearlv loved children" (Eph 5:1 NIV). Your past doesn't
have to be your prison. You have a say in your life, you
have a voice in your destiny, and you have a choice in
the path you take. So choose well, and someday-
generations from now-others will thank God for your
legacy.

You can't change your past, but you can rise above it.

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"So I gave up in despair, questioning the value of all my hard work." Ecc 2:20 NLT

When you're disappointed in those vou work with. You won't succeed in life without the right people. But when the people you count on fail you, it's painful. Imagine Moses' disappointment. He leaves his brother Aaron in charge while he spends forty days on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments. When he returns, what does he find? Israel worshiping a golden calf-made by Aaron. When Moses needs him most Aaron fails miserably. But watch Moses: true leadership shines in disappointment. He confronts Aaron, takes the mess to God, and prays for the forgiveness of Israel. God responds, then reminds Moses of his assignment. "Go, lead the people...my angel will go before you" (Ex 32:34 NIV).

Disappointment doesn't cancel your assignment-or God's presence. So do what God has told you to do!

When you're disappointed in those you have poured your life into. Let's check in again with Moses, founding pastor of the church in the wilderness. His congregation is made up of former slaves who have been delivered, blessed, and who are en route to the Promised Land, but without a shred of loyalty or gratitude for the man who put everything on the line to make it possible. Fresh out of Egypt, they turn on Moses, accusing, blaming, and berating him (See Ex 14). Was Moses disappointed and hurt? Yes. But each time he wanted to quit, he would discuss it with God, pray for his complaining flock, get fresh orders from headquarters, and return to work. That's what God- called men and women do when they're disappointed and feel like giving up.

And it's what you must do, too

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"Your word is settled in heaven " Ps 119:89 NKJV

God's Word must be a "settled" issue in your life. Heaven is the Supreme Court; when it rules on a matter, it's settled. Now, since God's Word is a settled issue in heaven, the question is, "Is it a settled issue in your life?" Jesus said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away" (MK 13:31 NKJV). The Bible never needs updating; it's perfect and can't be improved upon. That's why Jesus instructs you to let His "words remain in you" (n 15:7 NIV). In other words, program your mind with the Scriptures. How do you do that?

(1) Give it permanent residence, not visitor status. "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly" (Col 3:16). Take it in richly, meaning copiously and abundantly. Call it Operation Saturation! Read the Bible, meditate on it, speak it out loud.
Yes, and even sing its words; "Teach them to each other and sing them out in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs" (v. 16 TLB).

(2) Keep it before you at all times. "Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night…do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful" (Jos 1:8 NIV).
Talk it out, think it out, walk it out! You say, "But my memory doesn't retain things too well." No problem. Jesus said, "The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name... will remind you of everything I have said to you" (Jn 14:26 NIV). As you meditate on God's Word, the Holy Spirit will come to the aid of your less-than-perfect memory.

God's Word must be a "settled" issue in our life.

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"The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness." Ro 8:26 NLT

The twin pillars of a believer's daily life should be
prayer and Scripture. But, while praying may be
simple, it's not always easy. We lack motivation, we're
easily distracted, and we are not always sure what we
should be praying for. So, recognizing our human
inadequacies, God provides help for us in the form of
the Holy Spirit. Paul writes: "The Holy Spirit prays for
us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.
And the Father…knows what the Spirit is saying, for
the Spirit pleads for usin harmony with God's own
will" (vV. 26-27 NLT). That means, no matter how you
feel when you pray, the Holy Spirit is in prayer with you
and for you, transforming your feeblest prayers into
powerful appeals to the Father. And when it comes to
the second pillar, namely the Word of God, the Holy
Spirit's role is equally dynamic. Jesus said, "When he,
the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all
truth..whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak:
and he will shew you things to come" (Jn 16:13). Note,
the Holy Spirit does three things. (1) He guides us as
we study the Word of God and seek to understand it.
(2) He takes what Jesus wants us to know and reveals
it to us. (3) He opens our understanding about things
that are still to come. No question, good reference
books. Scripture-based resources, and skilled Bible
teachers are necessary and helpful, but they're no
substitute when it comes to hearing from the Holy
Spirit for yourself and listening carefully to what He
wants to tell you.

While praying may be simple, it's not always easy.

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"They…spend their time gossiping…meddling in other people's business." 1Ti 5:13 NLT

The Bible says gossip is nothing less than "meddling in other people's business." Jon Zens says: "I have watched friends and..families suffer untold pain because of gossip.…[the] information someone dumps on you without your consent and consent of the
person [involved]. [lt] can be true, partially true, or completely false. It can be motivated by good intentions, but it always contains negative... information…[and colors] people's perceptions of [someone] unjustly. The person being torn down is out
of the loop [because] talebearers usually avoid speaking directly to the one they are demeaning." One Christian leader said, "The Christian army is the only one that shoots its wounded." So set the standard for your own life by evaluating people based on your
experience with them, not on what somebody else says. Secondhand information is notoriously unreliable and misleading, and it violates Christ's command to "treat people the...way you want them to treat you" (Mt 7:12 NAS). When you have been hurt by tittle- tattle, you can relate to the wisdom of those words. Rumors and innuendos may seem innocent and come to you subtly, but even if someone isn't operating in
malice, their motive is irrelevant. Spreading gossip defies walking in love and looking "for the best" in others (1Co 13:7 MSG). A. W. Tozer said, "Never pass anything on..that will hurt [somebody]. 'Love covers... a multitude of sins' (1Pe 4:8 NIV), and the talebearer has no place in God's favor. If you know something that would hurt one of God's children…take it out. bury it and say, 'Here lies in peace the story about my
brother! God will take care of it."

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"Be of good cheer: I have overcome the world."
Jn, 16:33
In the mid-eighties, Steven Patrick Morrissey, better
known as "Moz," dominated the British rock charts.
Known for his melancholy as much as for his music,
Morrissey's songs had predominantly depressive
themes. They dwelled on fractured relationships,
lonely nightclubs, and the hopeless weight of the past.
In short, Morrissey was a singer who lived a cheerless
life in a minor key. How different from the life Jesus
called his followers to live! On three different
occasions He encouraged his disciples to "be of good
cheer." Bible teacher Philip De Courcy calls them "the
three cheers of The New Testament." The first reason
to be cheerful is because your sins are forgiven and
forgotten in Christ (See Mt 9:2). Because of Calvary,
your faults and failings will never be used in judgment
against you (See Jn 5:24). The second reason to be
cheerful is because we're not fighting for victory but
from the vantage point of victory. "In the world you will
have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have
overcome the world" (Jn 16:33 NKJV). And the third
reason to cheer is because Jesus will be with you no
matter what life throws at you or who comes against
you. Like the terrified disciples on board a storm-
tossed boat, He will be there when you need Him. You
have His word on it: "They were troubled...But
immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'Be of good
cheer! It is I; do not be afraid'" (Mt 14:26-27 NKJV).
Peace isn't the absence of storms. It's knowing Christ
is with us and "nothing…will..be able to separate us
from the love of God…in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Ro
8:39 NLT).

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"You will keep in perfect peace..all whose thoughts are fixed on you!"
Isa 26:3 NLT

Have vou heard of stress dots? They are little pressure-sensitive dots that you place on your hand. As adrenaline changes in your body, the dots change color and reveal if you are under stress. Wouldn't it be great if we had a tiny internal warning light that informed us every time our focus was off the Lord? Or if we had a small beep or signal light that cautioned us we were out of tune with God? We do! It's known as tension, or stress. Becoming tense is a sure indication that we have taken our eyes off the Lord and set them on circumstances. We are staring at the problem
rather than the solution. And when we do that, we are going to get tense. When you think about it, stress can be God's way of saying, "Get your focus in line: Look at me."

The Bible says, "You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!" You have the choice of focusing on your troubles or focusing on the One who holds the solution. Corrie ten Boom wrote: "The blacker the night around us grew, the brighter and truer and more beautiful burned the word of God. If you look at the
world, you'll be distressed. If you look within, you'll be depressed. But if you look at God, you'll be at rest.!" It's what you concentrate on that decides your amount of peace. So when trouble comes, focus on God's
presence: He is with you, and He has promised that He will never leave you (See Heb 13:5).

When trouble comes, focus on God's presence.

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"I chose you...[to] bear fruit-fruit that will last." Jn 15:16 NIV

Ever wonder how some people are able to accomplish
so much? What makes them so productive? Fast-
forward to the end of vour own life. What will it take
for you to be able to say, "I led a productive life.
accomplished what I set out to do"? What do you
consider to be a productive life? More importantly, do
you know God's definition of a productive life? Let's
consider what it means to be a fruitful Christian. The
word "fruit" occurs sixty-six times in the New
Testament. Three different kinds of fruit are referred
to: the kind we eat-figs and grapes; biological fruit-
infants; and spiritual fruit-Christlike character. The
Bible defines this spiritual fruit as nine things: love,
joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness, and self-control (See Gal 5:22-23 NLT)
Now you know the kind of fruit that God wants
produced in your life. That's how He defines a
productive life. Jesus said, "This is to my Father's
glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to
be mv disciples" (Jn 15:8 NIV). The proof that vou are
a disciple of Jesus is that you bear spiritual fruit.
Perhaps you're a good "fruit inspector" when it comes
to examining the lives of others. But what kind of fruit
is growing in your own life? Are you growing more
carnal or more Christlike? To know how fruitful you
are, examine what's growing in your life. If you like
what you see, keep doing what you're doing. If you
don't, get down on your knees and pray, "Father, help
me to bring forth fruit that glorifies you."

Examine what's growing in your life.

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"Preach God's message…even if it isn't the
popular thing to do." 2Ti 4:2 CEV

Paul describes our generation: "People won't listen to
good teaching. Instead, they will look for teachers who
will please them by telling them only what they are
itching to hear" (v. 3 CEV). Popular thinking says,
"Tickle my ears, but don't step on my toes!" Sadly, we
have also lived to see many Christians get caught up
in political correctness. Political correctness dictates
we should avoid saying anything that offends others,
especially when it comes to God's Word. Count on it:
Christ's virgin birth, His miraculous power, His sinless
life, His death, burial, resurrection, soon return, and
the truth that salvation comes only through Him will
offend some people. The mention of a hell for
unbelievers, a heaven for believers, the absolute
authoritv of Scripture, biblical mandates concerning
sex, marriage, parenting, and the sanctity of human
life are guaranteed to bring a backlash from the
politicallv correct. Where does God expect us to stand
in such a culture? On the truth! Jesus often offended
His hearers, including those who claimed to be His
disciples (See Jn 6:66). Recognizing that young
Timothy would face rejection and ridicule from some
of his hearers, Paul told him, "Preach God's message.
Do it willingly, even if it isn't the popular thing to do.
You must correct people and point out their sins."
We're not called to be popular: we're told, "Be my
witnesses, telling people about me everywhere" (Ac
1:8 NLT). God's Word will aggravate some and liberate
others-so be it! (See Jn 8:32.) You must never be
arrogant or offensive, but you must always stand up
for the truth of God's Word.

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"I always try to maintain a clear conscience before
God and all people." Ac 24:16 NLT

It's been said that our conscience was given to us
after the fall of mankind in the garden of Eden. In
other words, our desire to know the difference
between good and evil was granted through the
mechanism God placed within us known as a
conscience. So we must not ignore its promptings,
silence its voice, or allow it to become calloused,
because it's a built-in warning system that protects us
from danger and harm. That means you shouldn't be
troubled when your conscience bothers you; you
should be troubled when it doesn't. Here are ten
principles for keeping your conscience clear: (1)
Always pay attention to the inner nudging that makes
you stop and question your decisions. (2) Think of
your conscience as a God-given filter that helps keep
your heart pure. (3) Examine your motives in all
"giving" situations. (4) If you think you may have hurt
someone's feelings, ask for forgiveness. (5) Invite God
to examine your heart and reveal changes that need to
be made in your attitudes and actions. (6) To the best
of your ability, don't knowingly involve yourself in
compromising situations. (7) Consider others first, and
honor them with your words and actions. (8)
Remember that your conscience is your moral
compass. (9) Establish ethical guidelines in all your
business dealings. (10) When a thought leaves you
feeling unsettled, take time to pray and talk about it
with someone you trust. The word for you today is-
always maintain a clear conscience before God

Your conscience is your moral compass.

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"Take a lesson from the ants." Pr 6:6 NLT

"Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn
from their ways and become wise! Though they have
no prince or governor or ruler to make them work,
they labor hard all summer, gathering food for the
winter. But you, lazybones, how long will you sleep?
When will you wake up? A little extra sleep, a little
more slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest-
then povertv will pounce on vou like a bandit: scarcitv
will attack vou like an armed robber" (vv. 6-11 NLT).
The winter season of your life is coming, and you need
to be prepared for it. Eighty-five out of one hundred
Americans end up with less than $1.000 cash in
savings by the time they're sixty-five. That's one-third
of what residents in Germany save, and one-tenth of
what people in Japan save. Any fool can spend money,
but it takes a wise person to save some as well. After
sitting at his calculator for about three hours and not
saying a word, a guy looked up and said to his wife,
"Honey, if we continue to save at our present rate, by
the time I retire, we're going to owe $700,000." The
key to getting ahead in life financially is to spend less,
save more, and avoid getting ripped off. Instead of
saying, "I'm going to start saving someday," start
giving God 10 percent, saving 10 percent, and living
off the rest. And one more thought: The word disciple
and word discipline sound alike-because they are
alike. When you discipline yourself financially, you're
practicing true discipleship, and God will bless you for
Spend less, save more.

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"What I'm interested in seeing you do is..." Isa 58:7 MSG

Max Lucado writes: "Ours is the wealthiest generation
of Christians ever. We are bright, educated, and
experienced. We can travel around the world in
twenty-four hours or send a message in a millisecond.
We have the most sophisticated research and
medicines at the tips of our fingers. We have ample
resources. A mere 2 percent of the world's grain
harvest would be enough, if shared, to erase the
problems of hunger and malnutrition around the world.
There is enough food on the planet to offer every
person twenty-five hundred calories of sustenance a
day. We have enough food to feed the hungry.When
your grandchildren discover you lived during a day in
which 1.75 billion people were poor and 1 billion were
hungry, how will they judge your response?" More
importantly, what will God say? When the Israelites
complained that God wouldn't answer their prayer, He
told them: "What I'm interested in seeing you do is:
sharing your food with the hungry, inviting the
homeless poor into your homes, putting clothes on the
shivering ill-clad, being available to your own families.
Do this and the lights will turn on, and your lives will
turn around at once…Then when you pray, God will
answer. You'll call out for help and l'Il say, 'Here I am!..
If you are generous with the hungry and start giving
yourselves to the down-and-out, your lives will begin
to glow in the darkness...I will always show you where
to go. I'll give you a full life" (vv. 7-11 MSG). So instead
of focusing on your own needs, focus on the needs of
others. That's a key to answered prayer.

Focus on the needs of others.

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"You will not leave in a hurry, running for your
lives. For the Lord will go ahead of you…[and]
protect you from behind." Isa 52:12 NLT

Have you heard of "hurry sickness"? Those who have
it zoom in and out of lanes in congested traffic; try to
be the first off the plane, even though they must wait
forever at baggage claim; honk at you if you don't take
off like a racehorse when the traffic light turns green;
tap their fingers against anything they can find when
they have to wait; punch the elevator button
repeatedly to attempt to move it faster. Thev remind
us of hummingbirds. These tiny birds can fly forward,
then hover in mid-air going nowhere. Their tiny wings
can move up to seventy-five times each second! The
trouble is, their average life span is only three years
compared to an eagle that lives thirty years. What's
the difference? The eagle has learned to conserve its
energy by riding the God-given wind currents. The
message here is simple: When you draw on the
indwelling power of the Holy Spirit, you last longer and
go higher than you ever dreamed. One pastor said he
was a "stress-distributing machine" when he was
younger, and everybody around him felt it. One day
one of his kids said to him, "Daddy, I'll try to hurry up
and tell you this." He replied, "It's okay, honey, you can
speak slowly." After a long pause, he had an "aha"
moment when his child said. "Then-listen-slowlv!"
Deciding to move at a slower pace will definitely
improve the quality of your life and your relationships.

"Hurry sickness"

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"'Bring the whole tithe...Test me in this.'" Mal 3:10 NIV

Gangaram Mahes became known in New York as the
"Serial Eater." This immigrant loved elegant dining but
didn't have the money to pay for it. Instead of denying
his appetite, he merely walked into a fine restaurant,
ordered the best meal on the menu, the finest wines,
and the costliest desserts, and ate and drank to his
heart's content. When the tab arrived, he simply told
the waiter that he wasn't able to pay the bill. The
police would arrive, arrest him, and he received at
least a few days of free meals in the local jail. Guess
what: Our churches are full of people who drink the
milk of God's blessing, eat the steak of God's
kindness, savor the dessert of God's love-and don't
even "tip" Him 10 percent. Don't be one of them!
When you give God the first 10 percent of your
income, a divine dynamic comes into play. God
blesses the 90 percent you have left, and it goes
much further than our 100 percent without His
blessing. Does that mean God will give you back more
money than you gave Him? Not necessarily, but He
does promise to bless you more than you have ever
dreamed possible. It may be with good health, or favor
with your boss, or guidance for your life, or protection
for you and your loved ones. God says: "'Bring the
whole tithe.Test me in this. see if I will not throw
open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much
blessing that there will not be room enough to store
it.'" Go ahead: take the tithe test.

More than you have ever dreamed possible

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"I have prayed for you." Lk 22:32 NKJV

"Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for
you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have
prayed for you, that your faith should not fail;
and when you have returned to Me,
strengthen your brethren" (VV. 31-32 NKJV).
Are you involved in things you never thought
yourself capable of doing? You never thought
you would have an affair. You never thought
you would cheat, steal, and lie to get ahead
You never thought you would become jealous
and resentful of someone else's success. You
never thought you would neglect or mistreat
your family. You never thought you would get
hooked on pornography. You never thought
you would become addicted to drugs and
alcohol. You're not alone! Peter swore that he
would never deny Jesus, but he did. And not
just once but repeatedly. Did Peter love the
Lord? Absolutely. But because he was weak,
he turned his back on Him. What a load of
guilt to carry. No wonder he "went out and
wept bitterly" (v. 62 NKJV). But Jesus knew in
advance it would happen and told Peter that
He would be praying for him. Here is an
amazing thought: When you sin, Jesus
He would be praying for him. Here is an
amazing thought: When you sin, Jesus
prays for you! "Therefore He is also able to
save to the uttermost those who come to God
through Him, since He always lives to make
intercession for them" (Heb 7:25 NKJV).
Picture this: You're struggling with a sinful
habit, while at the same time, Jesus presents
His cleansing blood to the Father and
petitions Him for help and mercy on your
behalf. Will Jesus' prayers on your behalf be
answered? Of course. And like Peter, however
long it takes, He will work with you until you're
restored.

He will work with you until you're restored.

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"Do not remember the former things, nor consider
the things of old." Isa 43:18 NKJV

We all have emotional attics and basements where we
store our "junk." And it's the same in our relationships.
It's hard for a relationship to thrive when either party
hasn't processed their mental and emotional iunk. We
are talking about (1) regrets we have over past
mistakes, (2) grudges we hold on to when we feel we
have been wronged, and (3) hurts we hide under
clouds of anger, scepticism, and isolation. If you're the
type to hold grudges and hang on to past mistakes,
even your own, you know the feeling of being weighed
down by your mental and emotional junk. Clinging to
hurts and nourishing grudges will eat your soul,
consume your happiness, and rob you of all progress.
Like blame, this junk keeps you trapped in the past. If
an old beau has hurt you and you have never let it go,
every time your mate does something like it, you will
react with unjustified fervor, as if they were the
original person who hurt you. As a result, your mate is
left upset and baffled at vour excessive reaction to a
slight infraction that on its own was insignificant. You
won't know what you have in your life, let alone what
you need, until you clear out the junk of the past so
that you can experience the blessings of the "here and
now." It all comes down to obeying these two
Scriptures: (1) "Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our
debtors" (Mt 6:12 NKJV) and (2) "Do not remember
the former things, nor consider the things of old.
Behold, I will do a new thing" (Isa 43:18-19 NKJV).
Today, deal with the junk.

Clinging to hurts and nourishing grudges will eat
your soul.

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"Is it not my family God has chosen?" 2Sa 23:5 NLT

Whether in church or in the workplace, if you're "the
person in charge" here is a question you need to
seriously address: If you don't love and take care of
your own family, why should the people who look to
you for direction think vou will love and take care of
them? Does that question make you uncomfortable?
Does it cause you to react by saying, "My personal life
is nobody else's business?" Well, that's where you're
wrong! You lead by example. And while the people
around you may not feel free to tell you what they
think of you, that doesn't keep them from thinking it or
voicing it to others. In your quest for success, are you
taking your family with you or are you leaving them
behind? Are you giving them the time and attention
they deserve, or are they routinely subjected to your
frustrations at the end of a trying day? Are they more
important to you than your career, your success, or
your personal happiness? They should be. If you win
everv accolade and award available in the workplace
and fail on the home front, what have you gained?
Who will celebrate with you? Psychologist William
James said, "In every person...there is a deep craving
to be appreciated." And the shallow comments of
fellow workers who praise your talent and
accomplishments won't meet that need. It can only be
met in a home where acceptance, love, and
encouragement bonds each family member together.
Your home should be your haven-the place where
you find shelter from the storms of life. What are you
doing to make it like that?
Your home should be your haven.

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"Don't make rash promises." Ecc 5:2 NLT

When it comes to making commitments and keeping
them, Solomon doesn't mince any of his words: "Don't
shoot off your mouth, or speak before you think...
When you tell God you'll do something, do it-now
God takes no pleasure in foolish gabble. Vow it, then
do it. Far better not to vow in the first place than to
vow and not pay up. Don't let your mouth make a total
sinner of you. When called to account, you won't get
by with 'Sorry, I didn't mean it'" (VV. 2, 4-6 MSG). That
means don't be impulsive, listen as much as you
speak, get as much information as you can, then
consult God in prayer before you make a commitment
People often say what they think others want to hear,
but that can get them into a lot of trouble. Don't
promise something you can't deliver. And don't make
excuses. Nothing diminishes your influence like trying
to reverse a mistake with a lame excuse. When vou
make a commitment based on emotion, you will only
follow through if you feel a certain way. True
commitment doesn't work like that. It's not a feeling;
it's a character quality. Human emotions constantly
fluctuate, but commitment has to be rock solid. Real
dedication shines through in times of trouble and
adversity. It doesn't depend on gifts or abilities, but on
integrity. It's a result of choice, not conditions. And it
only lasts when it's based on values. Bottom line: "Do
not be rash with your mouth, and let not your heart
utter anything hastily before God" (v. 2 NKJV). So look
before you leap, and think before you commit.

Don't promise something you can't deliver.

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"The Lord spoke to Moses." Nu 1:1 NIV

A good leader is like a ship's good captain; they plan
the whole trip in their mind before they leave the dock.
They have a clear vision of their destination, they
understand what it will take to get there, they know
who needs to be on board for the trip to be
successful, and they recognize obstacles long before
they appear on the horizon. And because they prepare
well, good leaders can take their people just about
anvwhere. Moses was such a leader. He spent fortv
days praying and fasting on a mountain, refusing to
leave until he understood what God wanted him to do.
Then he came back and communicated it to the
people so they could participate in the vision. In
Leadership Promises For Your Week, Dr. John Maxwell
writes: "As a good leader, Moses methodically
arranged the tribal camps in the wilderness (See Nu
2:34). We would do well to.organize as he did. (1)
Give time for planning and organizing. Determine your
primary purpose. (2) Understand where you are
before trying to develop a strategy. (3) Prioritize the
needs and goals of the team by asking the right
questions. (4) Write goals that are realistic,
measurable, and convicting. (5) Clarify goals and
communicate with your team. (6) Identify possible
obstacles. Have an open system approach to your
planning. (7) Budget your cost and time by scheduling
everything you can and setting deadlines. (8) Study
the results. Evaluation prevents stagnation and
exaggeration." If you want God to bless your plan, you
must have a plan He can bless. And it must come from
God Himself.

So, talk to God today about His plan for your life.

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"Listen…to a father's instruction; pay attention
and gain understanding." Pr 4:1 NIV

Author Jim Killam writes, "In a few days our oldest son
will marrv.I have no coherent advice to offer on
planning a wedding [but]…..based on 24 years'
experience, I can offer a few bits of advice on how to
navigate marriage. So here goes! (1) Praising your wife
in front of others does wonders for her self-esteem.
(2) Criticizing her in front of them, even in jest, is
always a bad idea. (3) Sometimes she doesn't need
you to solve her problems, she just wants you to
listen. I know; I don't understand it either! (4) Don't fall
for that line of garbage that marriage is a ball and
chain. The people who tell you that would give
anything to have what you have. (5) Sometimes, as
impractical as it seems, it's better to spend $500 on a
trip than on furniture-provided you have the money.
(6) Credit card debt is a monster. Don't fall for it, even
short term. And don't keep financial secrets; they
never remain secret. Live on less than you make; if
possible, live on one income. Swim against the tide.
Be stewards, not consumers. (7) Tithe. Not only does
it honor God, it brings focus to the rest of your money
decisions. (8) Laughing together is better for you than
exercising together. (9) Don't be so afraid of hurting
each other's feelings that you never talk about how
you really feel. (It took me 5 years to tell your mom I
didn't like the grape jelly she'd been putting on my
peanut butter sandwiches! (10) Don't be too
embarrassed to talk about sex together."

A few bits of advice on how to navigate marriage

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"Your faith has made you well." Lk 8:48 NKJV

The Bible says: "Now a woman, having a flow of blood
for twelve years…touched the border of His garment.
And immediately her flow of blood stopped…Jesus
said, 'Somebody touched Me, for I perceived power
going out from Me.' Now when the woman saw that
she was not hidden…she declared…she had touched
Him and how she was healed immediately" (vV. 43-44,
46-47 NKJV). There are three important lessons for
us in this story: (1) Recognize and seize your moment
of opportunitv. This woman understood that Jesus
was visiting her town and might not be back. There
are "God moments" in life when you must rearrange
your priorities, overcome your fear, and exercise your
faith. If you don't, you will miss God's best. (2) Be
willing to try a different approach. Since she couldn't
get Christ's attention because of the crowd, this
woman touched the hem of His garment and was
healed. Many times, faith calls for stepping into the
unknown, doing something you have never done
before, and discovering God's grace at work in ways
vou never expected. (3) Establish a precedent for
others to follow. Until this time, no one in Scripture
had been healed by touching Jesus' garment, and this
woman's faith opened a door for others to follow her
example. "People brought all their sick to him and
begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his
cloak, and all who touched it were healed" (Mt 14:35-
36 NIV). The fact is, God is looking for people who are
willing to break with tradition. And when He finds
them. He uses them to unlock new dimensions of His
power so others can be blessed and made whole.

Recognize and seize your moment of opportunity!

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"Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ." Ro 13:14 NIV

Since first impressions are important, we're encouraged to "dress for success." And that's a good thing. But as a redeemed child of God, your first concern shouldn't be how you look to others, but to
God. Just like a mirror reflects your physical appearance so that you can make adjustments, the Bible reveals your spiritual condition and tells you what to do about it. James writes: "Anyone who listens
to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror..goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives
freedom and continues in it-not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it-they will be blessed in what thev do" (Jas 1:23-25 NIV). You must spend time each day in the Scriptures; otherwise, you will run around spiritually threadbare. Paul writes, "Clothe yourselves
with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh" (Ro 13:14 NIV).
As Chuck Swindoll observes: "The number one enemy of change is the hard-core, self-satisfied sin nature within you. Like a spoiled child, it has been gratified and indulged for years, so it will not give up without a violent temper tantrum.The flesh dies a slow, bitter,
bloody death--kicking and struggling all the way down." Lasting change takes place in first gear, not overdrive. So expect occasional setbacks, and don't let them derail you. When you feel like throwing in the towel, get down on your knees and ask God to help you get back on track. He will do it.

Spiritually threadbare!

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"I exhort…….that…intercessions..be made." 1Ti 2:1 NKJV
Paul writes: "I exhort…that…intercessions…be made
for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that
we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness
and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the
sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be
saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth" (vV.
1-4 NKJV). Intercession means "to mediate between
parties with a view to reconciling those who differ or
contend." It happens every day in the court system
when lawyers intercede on behalf of their clients. It
also happened in Scripture. When Israel made a
golden calf and worshiped it, Moses interceded with
God on their behalf, saying: "Oh, these people have
committed a great sin...Yet now, if You will forgive their
sin-but if not, I pray, blot me out of Your book which
You have written" (Ex 32:31-32 NKJV). And it worked.
God told Moses, "Go, lead the people to the place of
which I have spoken to you. Behold, My Angel shall go
before you" (v. 34 NKJV). Later when Israel turned
again to worship false gods, Samuel said, "Gather all
Israel to Mizpah, and I will pray [intercede] to the Lord
for you" (1Sa 7:5 NKJV). As a result, the Lord sent a
loud thunder upon the Philistines that day, and so
confused them that they were defeated before Israel
(See 1Sa 7:10 NKJV). Interceding can be a lonely
business, and it's also hard work: "Always laboring
fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand
perfect and complete in all the will of God" (Col 4:12
NKJV). But when nothing else works, intercessory
prayer does!

When nothing else works, intercessory prayer does!

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"Perfect love casts out fear." 1Jn 4:18 NKJV

Question: Since we're naturallv drawn to people who love us, why is it so difficult for us to go to God in prayer? Answer: Because we need a fresh revelation of His love for us! Paul prayed that the Ephesian church would "be able to take in….the extravagant dimensions of Christ's love" (Eph 3:18 MSG). The word "extravagant" means going above and beyond all that's expected or deserved. The truth is, God couldn't love you any more than He does right now.
"What's His love like?" you ask. Look at the cross. Had you been the only person who ever lived, Jesus would have died just for you. "What does His love cost?" you ask. Nothing! It comes with no strings attached. You didn't do anything to deserve it, and when you mess
up, you don't forfeit it. "Absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love" (Ro 8:39 MSG). Once you accept that, you can acknowledge your weaknesses, seek God's help, grow strong, and use the talents He has given you. When you believe God loves you based on who you are in Christ, you have the ultimate self- esteem-born of God's esteem for you. And since His
is the only "perfect love," it removes your "fear" So, what are you afraid of? That you won't get what you need? That you will lose something you have? John tells us: "His perfect love for us eliminates all dread..
If we are afraid, it……shows…we are not fully convinced. that he really loves us" (1Jn 4:18 TLB). Ask God today for a fresh revelation of His love for you, bearing in mind that what He loves, He prizes, protects, and provides for.

God couldn't love you any more than He does right now.

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"Your life is shaped by your thoughts." Pr 4:23 GNT

Someone has wiselv said. "You're not what vou think you are, but what you think-you are.!" Lasting change always begins with new thinking. How do you become a Christian? By repenting of your sin and placing your trust in Christ. The Greek word for repentance is
metanoia, and it means to change your mind. We're not changed by willpower, but by the transforming power of God's Word when we use it to renew our minds each day. The Bible clearly teaches that the way we think determines the way we feel, and the way we feel determines the way we act. So if you want to change your actions, you have to return to the source and change the way you think. At times you may act resentful. Why? Because you feel resentful. And do you know why you feel resentful? Because you are thinking resentful thoughts. The same is true of anger, worry, lust, and other destructive thought patterns.
Jesus said, "You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (Jn 8:32 NLT). When you base your life on truth-when you live with the right kind of thoughts, not misconceptions or false beliefs, and you base your life on thinking from God's Word-you will be set free. You will find your old habits, feelings, and actions beginning to fall away. When you focus solely on removing bad thoughts, you create a vacuum into which the bad thoughts can return. But when you replace bad thoughts with good ones-scriptural ones -you are empowered by God to live the life of blessing He wants you to enjoy.

Lasting change always begins with new thinking.

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"Beatings purge the inmost being." Pr 20:30 NIV

Another way God changes us is through circumstances. Problems, pressures, sorrows,
hardships, and stress always get our attention. C. S. Lewis said, "Pain insists on being attended to. God whispers to us in our pleasures...but shouts to us in our pain." The J. B. Phillips translation of Romans 8:28-29 reads: "To those who love God. who are called according to his plan, everything that happens fits into a pattern for good…God…chose them to bear the family likeness of his Son." Nothing can come into your life without your heavenly Father's permission; it must be "Father filtered." The interesting thing about how God uses circumstances is that their source makes no difference to Him. We often bring problems
on ourselves. Sometimes they're caused by other people. Other times the Enemy causes things to happen to us. But the source of the circumstances is irrelevant. God said, "I will make it fit into mv plan for your life, to make you like Jesus Christ." That means there is no circumstance from which we can't learn if we maintain the right attitude. Why did Solomon say, "Blows and wounds scrub away evil, and beatings purge the inmost being"? Because we change only when our fear of change is surpassed by our pain. If you want to become more like Jesus, think about this: "Though He was a Son…He learned obedience by the
things which He suffered" (Heb 5:8 NKJV). If God used the challenges, conflicts, and circumstances of life to prepare His Son for His destiny, won't He do the same in our lives? So instead of trying to escape your circumstances, learn from them and grow stronger.
Instead of trying to escape your circumstances,

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"It...teaches us to do what is right." 2Ti 3:16 NLT

One of the ways God changes us is through His Word.

"All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work"(vV. 16- 17 NLT). The story is told of a converted cannibal in the South Sea islands. He was sitting by a large pot
reading his Bible when an anthropologist approached him and asked, "What are you doing?" The native replied, "I'm reading the Bible." The anthropologist scoffed and said, "Don't you know that modern, civilized man has rejected that book? It's nothing but a pack of lies. You shouldn't waste your time reading it."

The cannibal looked him over from head to toe and slowly replied, "Sir, if it weren't for this book-you'd be in that pot!" The Word of God had changed his life- and his appetite. If you're serious about changing your life, you have to get into the Bible. You need to read it, study it, memorize it, meditate on it, speak it, and apply it. "But my faith is weak," you say. Are you
reading your Bible regularly? Are you studying it? Are you memorizing it? No? Then how do you expect vour faith to grow? The Bible says, "Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Ro 10:17 NKJV).

Bottom line: The Spirit of God uses the Word of God to make us more like the Son of God

If you're serious about changing your life, get into the Bible.

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"Work out vour own salvation...for it is God who works in you... to will and to do...His good
pleasure." Php 2:12-13 NKJV

The Bible says, "Work out your own salvation…for it is God who works in you..to will and to do..His good pleasure." This Scripture almost sounds like a contradiction, doesn't it? But instead, it is a paradox. And G. K. Chesterton described a paradox as "truth standing on its head to get attention." The key to understanding this particular paradox lies in the little
word out. Notice that the Bible doesn't say, "Work for your salvation." To work for something means to earn it, deserve it, merit it. And the Bible plainly teaches that salvation isn't something we have to work for or earn. It's a free gift of God's grace (See Eph 2:8-9).
When Paul says, "Work out your salvation," he is talking about a "spiritual workout." What do you do during a physical workout? You develop and tone the muscles God has already provided you. To "work out" means to grow and make the most of what you have been given. What Paul is saying here is this: Develop vour spiritual life! God has a part in our spiritual
growth, and we, too, have a part. He provides the power, but we must access it, flip the switch, and let it flow through our lives to fulfill His will for us. Practically speaking, how do we do that? By spending time praying and reading God's Word each day. By sharpening and strengthening one another through fellowship. By exercising the gifts God has given us
The fact is, He has already done His part; now it's up to you to do yours.
A "spiritual workout"

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"He said. 'Tomorrow.'" Ex 8:10 NKJV
Every plague God sent on Egypt mocked one of their gods. For instance, the Egyptians deified lice, so God sent them a lot of lice-and frogs. Finally, Pharaoh called for Moses and said, "All right, I give up." But when Moses asked him, "When do you want me to get rid of the frogs?" Pharaoh's response was classic; he said, "Tomorrow." He must have been insane! Why
would you wait any longer to have the frogs removed? But we do the same, don't we? We procrastinate by putting off the changes we know would be good for us. Maybe we're unconcerned. Maybe we're too lethargic to change. Maybe we're fearful because we
don't know what the changes will entail. Maybe we're just too proud and stubborn. Whatever the reason- we procrastinate. NASA space engineers tell us most of the fuel that is used in a rocket launch is burned during the initial few seconds of liftoff. It takes enormous energy and thrust to move the rocket off the launching pad. Once it's moving and headed for orbit, it needs much less fuel and is simpler to control and direct. It has conquered inertia. It's one thing to know God can solve your problem and change your life. It's another matter to overcome your inertia and let Him begin to do it now! We keep saying, "One of these days.." The truth is, Jesus Christ has the power to make changes in your life todav. He will give you
the power to begin and the power to keep going. It's not too late. He can put your life back together again. So the word for you today is-do it today!

God can solve our problem and change your life.

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"You were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things." Mt 25:21 NKJV

In Scripture, to be faithful means to be steady, stable, dependable, and consistent. Do those attributes describe you? They should, because faithfulness pays big dividends with God. "A faithful man will abound with blessings" (Pr 28:20 NKJV). Jesus said, "Many are called, but few chosen" (Mt 20:16 NKJV). Why is that? Because talent may open the door and get you
the job, but character and faithfulness will keep you there. When it comes to faithfulness, God will test you in two was: (1) Your faithfulness in someone else's vision. "If you have not been faithful in what is another man's, who will give you what is your own?" (Lk 16:12 NKJV). If you're critical, caustic, complaining, competitive, or constantly comparing yourself with others, you will be disqualified for what God has in mind for you. Faithfulness calls for serving with love and humility.
(2) Your faithfulness in small things. "His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things..For to everyone who has, more will be given...but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away' (Mt 25:23, 29 NKJV). God wants to know He can trust you. You prove that by how well you serve others and by your faithfulness in small things. These are proven biblical principles that don't just work in spiritual matters, but in everyday life. So today, take a few moments to prayerfully ask yourself the question, "Am I faithful?"
When you are,
God will bless you. Steady, stable, dependable, and consistent

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"I press toward the mark for the prize." Php 3:14

Paul writes: "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect [mature], be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded God shall reveal even this unto you" (vv. 14-15). Paul describes the Christian as a marksman. In Paul's day, the mark would have been hit by an arrow, but in our
day, the mark could also be hit at a firing range. If you have ever fired at a target, you know this: (1) Your aim must be unbroken by distractions. When you have the bull's-eve in your crosshairs, something as insignificant as taking a breath at the wrong moment can make you miss the mark. So what is Paul saying? Simply this: "Forget what's behind you and around you
and stay focused on winning the prize." He is not referring to your salvation. Jesus already purchased that and gives it to you freely by grace. No, he is talking about fulfilling your God-given destiny and obtaining the reward that waits beyond it. (2) Your bullet has to have the right amount of powder. Otherwise, it will start dropping off before it hits the mark. Are you getting the idea? Your powder is your power! And where does your power come from? The Holy Spirit! Jesus said: "You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem [at home], and in all Judea and Samaria [on the job and in your relationships], and to the end of the earth"(Ac 1:8 NKJV). So the word for you today is-aim for the mark.
"I press toward the mark for the prize."

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"He…[died]……leaning on….his staff." Heb 11:21 NKJV
The Bible says, "By faith Jacob, when he was dying... worshiped, leaning on…..his staff." Picture this: Each time Jacob had an experience with God, he took a knife and cut a ring around his staff as a reminder of what happened. The rings started at the bottom and worked their way to the top. One would surely have symbolized the night he wrestled with God and his name was changed to "Israel...a prince..with God" (Ge 32:28).
Another would have represented the night God showed him a vision of a ladder extending into heaven with angels on it. In short, Jacob's staff represented a lifetime of experiences with God. So, it's not surprising that he died worshiping God-and leaning on his staff! Now consider the story of the Shunammite woman in 2 Kings 4. Her son suddenly became ill and died. so Elisha sent his servant Gehazi ahead with his staff to let the woman know he was coming. But when Ghazi placed the prophet's staff on the dead boy, nothing happened. Only when Elisha himself came was the child restored (See 2Ki 4:32-35).

The fact is, you can't lean on anyone's staff but your own! You can't stand on anyone else's experience with God but yours. When it's time to face life's challenges-including death-you can only lean on the faith you have developed during your personal walk with God. That's why it's essential to be faithful and consistent in your spiritual journey. By leaning on his staff when he was dying, Jacob, in essence, declared,

"The God who preserved, protected, and prospered me thus far will take me the rest of the way."
What blessed assurance!

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"I felt a fire burning inside." Ps 39:3 CEV

David wrote, "I felt a fire burning inside, and the more I thought, the more it burned, until at last I said: 'Please, Lord, show me my future'" (vV. 3-4 CEV). Passion is like fire; unless you feed it and stoke it, it will die. Question: On a scale of one to ten, how wholehearted are you about serving the Lord? Before you answer, think about these Scriptures:

***"Love the Lord your God with all your heart…all your soul and. all your strength" (Dt 6:5 NIV).

"Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart" (Ps 119:2 NIV).

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" (Pr 3:5 NIV).

"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart" (Jer 29:13 NIV). "Fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you" (2Ti 1:6 NIV).

''Return home and tell how much God has done for you! So the man went awav and told all over town how much Jesus had done for him" (Lk 8:39 NIV).

"Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church" (1Co 14:12 NIV).

"To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works
in me" (Col 1:29 NIV).

"Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus" (Php 3:13-14 NIV).***
All these Scriptures can be reduced to one sentence: Be passionate about what God has called you to do.

Be passionate about what God has called you to do.

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On a Sabbath Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues, and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God.

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“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit —fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. This is my command: Love each other.

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Instead, you yourselves cheat and do wrong, and you do this to your brothers and sisters. Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians 6:8-11

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“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

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You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.

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Good people obtain favor from the LORD, but he condemns those who devise wicked schemes. No one can be established through wickedness, but the righteous cannot be uprooted. Proverb 12:2-3

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God spoke through the prophet Joel saying, "Your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions. And also on My menservants and……maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days" (vv. 28-29
NKJV). Regardless of your age or gender, God has a vision for you to fulfill. And sometimes it won't make sense because you don't feel qualified. In the musical Man of La Mancha, there is a scene where Don Quixote and his servant stand gazing at a dilapidated inn. When Quixote describes his vision of turrets and magnificent gates, his servant tries hard to see the same picture, but all he can see are ruins. And when he attempts to describe them, Quixote says, "Stop! I will not allow your facts to interfere with my vision!" Most great achievements begin as a vision in someone's heart. And many times people try to convince the person it can't be done--or that he or she can't do it. Often this confirms the visionary's deepest fears about his or her abilities. And that's the crucial point! If you can disregard your critics and rise above your fears, God will enable you to fulfill the vision He has given you. But keep in mind that while your vision may come to you in an instant, it can take a lifetime to fulfill. Habakkuk writes, "The vision is...for an appointed time... Though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come" (Hab 2:3 NKJV). A God-given dream often defies the facts, so if you have a vision, look for supporters, not critics. And when someone shares his or her vision with you, become a cheerleader.
Regardless of your age or gender, God has a vision for you to fulfill.

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But you, O LORD, are a shield around me;
you are my glory, the one who holds my head high.
I cried out to the LORD,
and he answered me from his holy mountain.
Interlude
I lay down and slept,
yet I woke up in safety,
for the LORD was watching over me.
I am not afraid of ten thousand enemies
who surround me on every side.
Arise, O LORD!
Rescue me, my God!
Slap all my enemies in the face!
Shatter the teeth of the wicked!
Victory comes from you, O LORD.
May you bless your people.

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The Power of Prayer
Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray. Are any of you happy? You should sing praises. Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven.
Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. Elijah was as human as we are, and yet when he prayed earnestly that no rain would fall, none fell for three and a half years! Then, when he prayed again, the sky sent down rain and the earth began to yield its crops.

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For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.

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Paul’s Concern for the Corinthians
You have made me act like a fool—boasting like this. You ought to be writing commendations for me, for I am not at all inferior to these “super apostles,” even though I am nothing at all. When I was with you, I certainly gave you proof that I am an apostle. For I patiently did many signs and wonders and miracles among you. The only thing I failed to do, which I do in the other churches, was to become a financial burden to you. Please forgive me for this wrong!
Now I am coming to you for the third time, and I will not be a burden to you. I don’t want what you have—I want you. After all, children don’t provide for their parents. Rather, parents provide for their children. I will gladly spend myself and all I have for you, even though it seems that the more I love you, the less you love me.

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The Shepherds and Angels
That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished, but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them.

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Charge to Carry Out the Ministry
I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when he appears to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.
For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths.
But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.
As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.

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Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see. Through their faith, the people in days of old earned a good reputation.
By faith we understand that the entire universe was formed at God’s command, that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen.
It was by faith that Abel brought a more acceptable offering to God than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man, and God showed his approval of his gifts. Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith.
It was by faith that Enoch was taken up to heaven without dying—“he disappeared, because God took him.” For before he was taken up, he was known as a person who pleased God. And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.

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God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen.

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Whoever has no rule over his own spirit
Is like a city broken down, without walls.

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And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?
“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

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Give your burdens to the LORD, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall. Psalm 55:22.

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Living by the Spirit’s Power (Eph.5:15-20)
So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. Trouble chases sinners, while blessings reward the righteous. Good people leave an inheritance to their grandchildren, but the sinner’s wealth passes to the godly. Proverb 13:20-22

Living as Children of Light
With the Lord’s authority I say this: Live no longer as the Gentiles do, for they are hopelessly confused. Their minds are full of darkness; they wander far from the life God gives because they have closed their minds and hardened their hearts against him. They have no sense of shame. They live for lustful pleasure and eagerly practice every kind of impurity.
But that isn’t what you learned about Christ. Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.
So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.
If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need. Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.
Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Eph. 4:17-31

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Therefore, this is what the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says: I am determined to destroy every one of you! I will take this remnant of Judah—those who were determined to come here and live in Egypt—and I will consume them. They will fall here in Egypt, killed by war and famine. All will die, from the least to the greatest. They will be an object of damnation, horror, cursing, and mockery. I will punish them in Egypt just as I punished them in Jerusalem, by war, famine, and disease. Of that remnant who fled to Egypt, hoping someday to return to Judah, there will be no survivors. Even though they long to return home, only a handful will do so.”
Then all the women present and all the men who knew that their wives had burned incense to idols—a great crowd of all the Judeans living in northern Egypt and southern Egypt—answered Jeremiah, “We will not listen to your messages from the LORD!

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Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit. Hebrew 13:17.

And now, a word to you who are elders in the churches. I, too, am an elder and a witness to the sufferings of Christ. And I, too, will share in his glory when he is revealed to the whole world. As a fellow elder, I appeal to you: Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example. And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor. In the same way, you younger men must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you, serve each other in humility, for “God opposes the proud but favors the humble.” 1 Peter 5:1-4

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Then Delilah pouted, “How can you tell me, ‘I love you,’ when you don’t share your secrets with me? You’ve made fun of me three times now, and you still haven’t told me what makes you so strong!” She tormented him with her nagging day after day until he was sick to death of it.
Finally, Samson shared his secret with her. “My hair has never been cut,” he confessed, “for I was dedicated to God as a Nazirite from birth. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak as anyone else.”
Delilah realized he had finally told her the truth, so she sent for the Philistine rulers. “Come back one more time,” she said, “for he has finally told me his secret.” So the Philistine rulers returned with the money in their hands. Delilah lulled Samson to sleep with his head in her lap, and then she called in a man to shave off the seven locks of his hair. In this way she began to bring him down, and his strength left him.
Then she cried out, “Samson! The Philistines have come to capture you!”
When he woke up, he thought, “I will do as before and shake myself free.” But he didn’t realize the LORD had left him.
So the Philistines captured him and gouged out his eyes. They took him to Gaza, where he was bound with bronze chains and forced to grind grain in the prison.
But before long, his hair began to grow back.
Samson’s Final Victory
The Philistine rulers held a great festival, offering sacrifices and praising their god, Dagon. They said, “Our god has given us victory over our enemy Samson!”
When the people saw him, they praised their god, saying, “Our god has delivered our enemy to us! The one who killed so many of us is now in our power!”
Half drunk by now, the people demanded, “Bring out Samson so he can amuse us!” So he was brought from the prison to amuse them, and they had him stand between the pillars supporting the roof.
Samson said to the young servant who was leading him by the hand, “Place my hands against the pillars that hold up the temple. I want to rest against them.” Now the temple was completely filled with people. All the Philistine rulers were there, and there were about 3,000 men and women on the roof who were watching as Samson amused them.
Then Samson prayed to the LORD, “Sovereign LORD, remember me again. O God, please strengthen me just one more time. With one blow let me pay back the Philistines for the loss of my two eyes.” Then Samson put his hands on the two center pillars that held up the temple. Pushing against them with both hands, he prayed, “Let me die with the Philistines.” And the temple crashed down on the Philistine rulers and all the people. So he killed more people when he died than he had during his entire lifetime.
Later his brothers and other relatives went down to get his body. They took him back home and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol, where his father, Manoah, was buried. Samson had judged Israel for twenty years. Judges 16:15-31

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“In the future, when you experience all these blessings and curses I have listed for you, and when you are living among the nations to which the LORD your God has exiled you, take to heart all these instructions. If at that time you and your children return to the LORD your God, and if you obey with all your heart and all your soul all the commands I have given you today, then the LORD your God will restore your fortunes. He will have mercy on you and gather you back from all the nations where he has scattered you. Even though you are banished to the ends of the earth, the LORD your God will gather you from there and bring you back again. The LORD your God will return you to the land that belonged to your ancestors, and you will possess that land again. Then he will make you even more prosperous and numerous than your ancestors!
“The LORD your God will change your heart and the hearts of all your descendants, so that you will love him with all your heart and soul and so you may live! Deuteronomy 30:1-6

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He did all this so you would never say to yourself, ‘I have achieved this wealth with my own strength and energy.’ Remember the LORD your God. He is the one who gives you power to be successful, in order to fulfill the covenant he confirmed to your ancestors with an oath.

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The lips of the righteous feed many, But fools die for lack of wisdom. The blessing of the LORD makes one rich, And He adds no sorrow with it. Proverb 10:21-22

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For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn’t know how to do what is right. Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong.

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And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us. So we urged Titus, just as he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part. But since you excel in everything —in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.
I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.
And here is my judgment about what is best for you in this matter. Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have.
Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. The goal is equality, as it is written: “The one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little.”

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Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you? You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
Such confidence we have through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant —not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

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“If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.”
Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?”
Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.
“All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 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.
“You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe. I will not say much more to you, for the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold over me, but he comes so that the world may learn that I love the Father and do exactly what my Father has commanded me.
“Come now; let us leave. John 14:15-31

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Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 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.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

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He picked up five smooth stones from a stream and put them into his shepherd’s bag. Then, armed only with his shepherd’s staff and sling, he started across the valley to fight the Philistine. Goliath walked out toward David with his shield bearer ahead of him, sneering in contempt at this ruddy-faced boy. “Am I a dog,” he roared at David, “that you come at me with a stick?” And he cursed David by the names of his gods. “Come over here, and I’ll give your flesh to the birds and wild animals!” Goliath yelled. David replied to the Philistine, “You come to me with sword, spear, and javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies—the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. Today the LORD will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! And everyone assembled here will know that the LORD rescues his people, but not with sword and spear. This is the LORD’s battle, and he will give you to us!” As Goliath moved closer to attack, David quickly ran out to meet him. Reaching into his shepherd’s bag and taking out a stone, he hurled it with his sling and hit the Philistine in the forehead. The stone sank in, and Goliath stumbled and fell face down on the ground.

So David triumphed over the Philistine with only a sling and a stone, for he had no sword. Then David ran over and pulled Goliath’s sword from its sheath. David used it to kill him and cut off his head. When the Philistines saw that their champion was dead, they turned and ran. Then the men of Israel and Judah gave a great shout of triumph and rushed after the Philistines, chasing them as far as Gath and the gates of Ekron. The bodies of the dead and wounded Philistines were strewn all along the road from Shaaraim, as far as Gath and Ekron. Then the Israelite army returned and plundered the deserted Philistine camp. (David took the Philistine’s head to Jerusalem, but he stored the man’s armor in his own tent.)

As Saul watched David go out to fight the Philistine, he asked Abner, the commander of his army, “Abner, whose son is this young man?”

“I really don’t know,” Abner declared.

“Well, find out who he is!” the king told him. As soon as David returned from killing Goliath, Abner brought him to Saul with the Philistine’s head still in his hand. “Tell me about your father, young man,” Saul said. And David replied, “His name is Jesse, and we live in Bethlehem.” 1 Samuel 17:40-58

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He replied, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

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Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.
You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.

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O LORD, you are righteous, and your regulations are fair. Your laws are perfect and completely trustworthy. I am overwhelmed with indignation, for my enemies have disregarded your words. Your promises have been thoroughly tested; that is why I love them so much. I am insignificant and despised, but I don’t forget your commandments. Your justice is eternal, and your instructions are perfectly true. As pressure and stress bear down on me,
I find joy in your commands. Your laws are always right; help me to understand them so I may live. I pray with all my heart; answer me, LORD! I will obey your decrees. I cry out to you; rescue me, that I may obey your laws. I rise early, before the sun is up; I cry out for help and put my hope in your words.

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When Asa heard this message from Azariah the prophet, he took courage and removed all the detestable idols from the land of Judah and Benjamin and in the towns he had captured in the hill country of Ephraim. And he repaired the altar of the LORD, which stood in front of the entry room of the LORD’s Temple.
Then Asa called together all the people of Judah and Benjamin, along with the people of Ephraim, Manasseh, and Simeon who had settled among them. For many from Israel had moved to Judah during Asa’s reign when they saw that the LORD his God was with him. The people gathered at Jerusalem in late spring, during the fifteenth year of Asa’s reign.
On that day they sacrificed to the LORD 700 cattle and 7,000 sheep and goats from the plunder they had taken in the battle. Then they entered into a covenant to seek the LORD, the God of their ancestors, with all their heart and soul. They agreed that anyone who refused to seek the LORD, the God of Israel, would be put to death—whether young or old, man or woman. They shouted out their oath of loyalty to the LORD with trumpets blaring and rams’ horns sounding. All in Judah were happy about this covenant, for they had entered into it with all their heart. They earnestly sought after God, and they found him. And the LORD gave them rest from their enemies on every side.
King Asa even deposed his grandmother Maacah from her position as queen mother because she had made an obscene Asherah pole. He cut down her obscene pole, broke it up, and burned it in the Kidron Valley. Although the pagan shrines were not removed from Israel, Asa’s heart remained completely faithful throughout his life. He brought into the Temple of God the silver and gold and the various items that he and his father had dedicated.
So there was no more war until the thirty-fifth year of Asa’s reign.

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For He satisfies the longing soul,
And fills the hungry soul with goodness.
Those who sat in darkness and in the shadow of death,
Bound in affliction and irons—
Because they rebelled against the words of God,
And despised the counsel of the Most High,

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Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God. You must warn each other every day, while it is still “today,” so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God. For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ. Remember what it says:

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So now it happened on a certain day, as He was teaching, that there were Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting by, who had come out of every town of Galilee, Judea, and Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was present to heal them. Then behold, men brought on a bed a man who was paralyzed, whom they sought to bring in and lay before Him. And when they could not find how they might bring him in, because of the crowd, they went up on the housetop and let him down with his bed through the tiling into the midst before Jesus.
When He saw their faith, He said to him, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.”
And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?”
But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, He answered and said to them, “Why are you reasoning in your hearts? Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Rise up and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”—He said to the man who was paralyzed, “I say to you, arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” Immediately he rose up before them, took up what he had been lying on, and departed to his own house, glorifying God. And they were all amazed, and they glorified God and were filled with fear, saying, “We have seen strange things today!”
Matthew the Tax Collector
(Matt. 9:9–13; Mark 2:13–17)
After these things He went out and saw a tax collector named Levi, sitting at the tax office. And He said to him, “Follow Me.” So he left all, rose up, and followed Him.
Then Levi gave Him a great feast in his own house. And there were a great number of tax collectors and others who sat down with them. And their scribes and the Pharisees complained against His disciples, saying, “Why do You eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?”
Jesus answered and said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.”
Jesus Is Questioned About Fasting
(Matt. 9:14–17; Mark 2:18–22)

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Serve God with Spiritual Gifts
For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

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He who has pity on the poor lends to the LORD,
And He will pay back what he has given.

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1 John 3:16-17

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I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings.
Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing.

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My eyes are always on the LORD,
for he rescues me from the traps of my enemies.
Turn to me and have mercy,
for I am alone and in deep distress.
My problems go from bad to worse.
Oh, save me from them all!
Feel my pain and see my trouble.
Forgive all my sins.
See how many enemies I have
and how viciously they hate me!
Protect me! Rescue my life from them!
Do not let me be disgraced, for in you I take refuge.
May integrity and honesty protect me,
for I put my hope in you.
O God, ransom Israel
from all its troubles.

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Discerning False Prophets
Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world. This is how we know if they have the Spirit of God: If a person claiming to be a prophet acknowledges that Jesus Christ came in a real body, that person has the Spirit of God. But if someone claims to be a prophet and does not acknowledge the truth about Jesus, that person is not from God. Such a person has the spirit of the Antichrist, which you heard is coming into the world and indeed is already here.
But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world. Those people belong to this world, so they speak from the world’s viewpoint, and the world listens to them. But we belong to God, and those who know God listen to us. If they do not belong to God, they do not listen to us. That is how we know if someone has the Spirit of truth or the spirit of deception.

God Is Love
Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 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. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.
Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is brought to full expression in us. And God has given us his Spirit as proof that we live in him and he in us. Furthermore, we have seen with our own eyes and now testify that the Father sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. All who confess that Jesus is the Son of God have God living in them, and they live in God. We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world.
Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love. We love each other because he loved us first.
If someone says, “I love God,” but hates a Christian brother or sister, that person is a liar; for if we don’t love people we can see, how can we love God, whom we cannot see? And he has given us this command: Those who love God must also love their Christian brothers and sisters.

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So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. The law of Moses was unable to save us because of the weakness of our sinful nature. So God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin’s control over us by giving his Son as a sacrifice for our sins. He did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us, who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit.
Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God.
But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.) And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.
Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live.

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All the people of Judah had crowned Amaziah’s sixteen-year-old son, Uzziah, as king in place of his father. After his father’s death, Uzziah rebuilt the town of Elath and restored it to Judah.
Uzziah was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-two years. His mother was Jecoliah from Jerusalem. He did what was pleasing in the LORD’s sight, just as his father, Amaziah, had done. Uzziah sought God during the days of Zechariah, who taught him to fear God. And as long as the king sought guidance from the LORD, God gave him success. Uzziah declared war on the Philistines and broke down the walls of Gath, Jabneh, and Ashdod. Then he built new towns in the Ashdod area and in other parts of Philistia.
2 Chronicles 26:1-6

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This is what the LORD says: “You will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Her.29:10-11

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Later, Jesus appeared again to the disciples beside the Sea of Galilee. This is how it happened. Several of the disciples were there—Simon Peter, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples.
Simon Peter said, “I’m going fishing.”
“We’ll come, too,” they all said. So they went out in the boat, but they caught nothing all night.
At dawn Jesus was standing on the beach, but the disciples couldn’t see who he was. He called out, “Fellows, have you caught any fish?”
“No,” they replied. John 21:5

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Don’t lose sight of them.
Let them penetrate deep into your heart,
for they bring life to those who find them,
and healing to their whole body.
Guard your heart above all else,
for it determines the course of your life.
Avoid all perverse talk;
stay away from corrupt speech.

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We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves. We should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord. For even Christ didn’t live to please himself. As the Scriptures say, “The insults of those who insult you, O God, have fallen on me.” Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled. May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.

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By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. Prov. 24:2-6

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Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony.

By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts; and through it he being dead still speaks.

By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, “and was not found, because God had taken him”; for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Hebrew 11:1-6

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Oh, that they were wise, that they understood this,
That they would consider their latter end! Deuteronomy.32:29

For the LORD gives wisdom;
From His mouth come knowledge and understanding; Pro. 2:6

Happy is the man who finds wisdom, And the man who gains understanding; Pro. 3:13

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:58

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Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.
Prov. 22:6

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But the LORD said to Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”

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The LORD remembers us and will bless us. He will bless the people of Israel and bless the priests, the descendants of Aaron. Psalm 115:12

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Jesus traveled through all the towns and villages of that area, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And he healed every kind of disease and illness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” Matt.9:35-38

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But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. 1 Corinthians 15:57-58

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He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat.
When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.”
Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.”

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He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat.
When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.”
Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.”

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He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat.
When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.”
Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.”

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He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat.
When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.”
Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.”

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He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat.
When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.”
Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.”

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The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious, But the lips of a fool shall swallow him up; Eccl.10:12

The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, But the mouth of the wicked what is perverse. Pro. 10:32

And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” So all bore witness to Him, and marveled at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth. And they said, “Is this not Joseph’s son?” Lk. 4:21-22

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. Colossians 4:5-6

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Oh, how I love your instructions!
I think about them all day long.
Your commands make me wiser than my enemies,
for they are my constant guide.
Yes, I have more insight than my teachers,
for I am always thinking of your laws.
I am even wiser than my elders,
for I have kept your commandments.
I have refused to walk on any evil path,
so that I may remain obedient to your word.
I haven’t turned away from your regulations,
for you have taught me well. Psalm 119:97-102

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Submit to God, Resist the Devil
Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for
“God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

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Results of the Sinful Nature When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.Fruit of the Spirit But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!Follow the Spirit’s Leading Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. Galatian 5:19-26

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The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus. But since they could see the man who had been healed standing right there among them, there was nothing the council could say.
Act 4:13-14

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Disagreement Between Paul and Barnabas
Some time later Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us go back and visit the believers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.” Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them, but Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work. They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the believers to the grace of the Lord. He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches. Act 16:36-41

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They are the people of Israel, chosen to be God’s adopted children. God revealed his glory to them. He made covenants with them and gave them his law. He gave them the privilege of worshiping him and receiving his wonderful promises. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are their ancestors, and Christ himself was an Israelite as far as his human nature is concerned. And he is God, the one who rules over everything and is worthy of eternal praise! Amen. Rom.9:4-5

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Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

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But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith; that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. Php. 3:7-11

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The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him. Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down. They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short.”

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And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18

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You who are slaves must accept the authority of your masters with all respect. Do what they tell you—not only if they are kind and reasonable, but even if they are cruel. For God is pleased with you when you do what you know is right and patiently endure unfair treatment. Of course, you get no credit for being patient if you are beaten for doing wrong. But if you suffer for doing good and endure it patiently, God is pleased with you. For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.

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“I know all the things you do. I have seen your hard work and your patient endurance. I know you don’t tolerate evil people. You have examined the claims of those who say they are apostles but are not. You have discovered they are liars. You have patiently suffered for me without quitting.
“But I have this complaint against you. You don’t love me or each other as you did at first! Look how far you have fallen! Turn back to me and do the works you did at first. If you don’t repent, I will come and remove your lampstand from its place among the churches. But this is in your favor: You hate the evil deeds of the Nicolaitans, just as I do.

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My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. James 1:2-5

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As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people, for not everyone has faith. But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.

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Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrew 12:1-2

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After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed:
“Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began. John17:1-5

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Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. 2 Corinthians 9:11

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“That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?
“And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?
“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.
“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today. Matthew 6:25-34

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The memory of the righteous is blessed, But the name of the wicked will rot. Proverb 10:7

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"For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will" Ephesian 1:4-5

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"Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters." Hebrew 2:11

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"After a little while, those standing there went up to Peter and said, “Surely you are one of them; your accent gives you away.” Then he began to call down curses, and he swore to them, “I don’t know the man!” Immediately a rooster crowed. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly." Matthew 26:73-75

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Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. 1 Corinthians 9:26-27

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Words from the mouth of the wise are gracious, but fools are consumed by their own lips. Ecclesiastes 10:12

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***Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe. Proverb 29:25

Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD. Proverb 16:20***

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***Then my enemies will turn back when I call for help. By this I will know that God is for me. Psalm 56:9

in God I trust and am not afraid. What can man do to me? Psalm 56:11***

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On that day HOLY TO THE LORD will be inscribed on the bells of the horses, and the cooking pots in the LORD’s house will be like the sacred bowls in front of the altar. Every pot in Jerusalem and Judah will be holy to the LORD Almighty, and all who come to sacrifice will take some of the pots and cook in them. And on that day there will no longer be a Canaanite in the house of the LORD Almighty. Zec.14:20-21

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For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. 2 Corinthians 10:5

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But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. 2 Peter 3:18

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Jephthah the Gileadite was a mighty warrior. His father was Gilead; his mother was a prostitute. Judges 11:1

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The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off —for all whom the Lord our God will call.” Act 2:39

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Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:3-4

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But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” Joshua 24:15

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"You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands." Isaiah 55:12

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***Prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge will become useless. But love will last forever! 1 Corinthians 13;8

Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 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. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.
1 John 4:7-10***

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They passed on to the people the truth of the instructions they received from me. They did not lie or cheat; they walked with me, living good and righteous lives, and they turned many from lives of sin. Malachi 2:6

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My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. James 1:2-3

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***“But he knows where I am going. And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold.
Job 23:10 NLT

But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.
Job 23:10 NIV***

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The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He will drive out your enemies before you, saying, ‘Destroy them! Deu. 33:27

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My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. John 15:12-14Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8

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***The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts. One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys. Proverb 18:6-9

The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts. Like a coating of silver dross on earthenware are fervent lips with an evil heart. Proverb 26:22-23***

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***For the thing I greatly feared has come upon me, And what I dreaded has happened to me. I am not at ease, nor am I quiet; I have no rest, for trouble comes.” Job 3:25-26

Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea. Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”
Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.” And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts. He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son. But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” Rev.21:1-8***

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***The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1

“The sun shall no longer be your light by day, Nor for brightness shall the moon give light to you; But the LORD will be to you an everlasting light, And your God your glory. Your sun shall no longer go down, Nor shall your moon withdraw itself; For the LORD will be your everlasting light, And the days of your mourning shall be ended.Isaiah 60:19-20

Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; For YAH, the LORD, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.’ ” Isaiah 12:2

For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. Philippians 1:21-22***

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And it shall come to pass, as soon as the soles of the feet of the priests who bear the ark of the LORD, the Lord of all the earth, shall rest in the waters of the Jordan, that the waters of the Jordan shall be cut off, the waters that come down from upstream, and they shall stand as a heap.” Joshua 3:13

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Fear came upon me, and trembling, Which made all my bones shake. Then a spirit passed before my face; The hair on my body stood up. It stood still, But I could not discern its appearance. A form was before my eyes; There was silence; Then I heard a voice saying:
Job 4:14-16

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So he said, “I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself.” Genesis 3:10

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Love the LORD your God and keep his requirements, his decrees, his laws and his commands always. Remember today that your children were not the ones who saw and experienced the discipline of the LORD your God: his majesty, his mighty hand, his outstretched arm; the signs he performed and the things he did in the heart of Egypt, both to Pharaoh king of Egypt and to his whole country; what he did to the Egyptian army, to its horses and chariots, how he overwhelmed them with the waters of the Red Sea as they were pursuing you, and how the LORD brought lasting ruin on them. It was not your children who saw what he did for you in the wilderness until you arrived at this place, and what he did to Dathan and Abiram, sons of Eliab the Reubenite, when the earth opened its mouth right in the middle of all Israel and swallowed them up with their households, their tents and every living thing that belonged to them. But it was your own eyes that saw all these great things the LORD has done. Observe therefore all the commands I am giving you today, so that you may have the strength to go in and take over the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess, and so that you may live long in the land the LORD swore to your ancestors to give to them and their descendants, a land flowing with milk and honey. The land you are entering to take over is not like the land of Egypt, from which you have come, where you planted your seed and irrigated it by foot as in a vegetable garden. But the land you are crossing the Jordan to take possession of is a land of mountains and valleys that drinks rain from heaven. It is a land the LORD your God cares for; the eyes of the LORD your God are continually on it from the beginning of the year to its end.

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I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh,
Romans 9:1-3

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The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the LORD delivers him out of them all. Psalm 34:18-19

For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5

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Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14

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So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:16-19

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And God said, “Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: the livestock, the creatures that move along the ground, and the wild animals, each according to its kind.” And it was so. God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”
So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground. ” Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds in the sky and all the creatures that move along the ground—everything that has the breath of life in it—I give every green plant for food. ” And it was so. God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning —the sixth day. Genesis 1:24-31

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"Say to the Israelites: ‘Do not eat any of the fat of cattle, sheep or goats. The fat of an animal found dead or torn by wild animals may be used for any other purpose, but you must not eat it. Anyone who eats the fat of an animal from which a food offering may be presented to the LORD must be cut off from their people. And wherever you live, you must not eat the blood of any bird or animal. Anyone who eats blood must be cut off from their people.’”
Lev. 7:23-27

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***A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. Proverb 14:30

A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverb 17:23***

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***I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Tim 4:7

Timothy, my son, I am giving you this command in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by recalling them you may fight the battle well, holding on to faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and so have suffered shipwreck with regard to the faith. 1 Tim 1:18-19.

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me —the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. Act 20:24***

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The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs —heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. Roman 8:15-17

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And many who had believed came confessing and telling their deeds. Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver. So the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed. Act 19:18-22

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What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Romans 8:31-33

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“If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.
“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’ Luke 14:26-30

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The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty. Humility is the fear of the LORD; its wages are riches and honor and life. Proverb 22:3-4

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“The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’ As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’ Act 17:24-29

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***We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; Romans 12:6

So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Ephesians 4:11-14***

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***No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.1 Corinthians 10:13

Therefore “Come out from among them And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you.” “I will be a Father to you, And you shall be My sons and daughters, Says the LORD Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:17***

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Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. 1 Corinthians 10:12-13

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Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’ But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one. Matthew 5:33-37

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I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus. “And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me —the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. Act 20:21-24

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***Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God.
1 John 3:21-24.

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 1 John 5:14***

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***When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. James 4:3

Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’ Matthew 6:11-13

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24***

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Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’ Jeremiah 33:3.

But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia. Daniel 10:13

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesian 6:12

The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 2 Corinthians 4:4

So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD and afflicted Job with painful sores from the soles of his feet to the crown of his head. Job 2:7

Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right side to accuse him. Zechariah 3:1

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesian 6:18

“When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are safe. But when someone stronger attacks and overpowers him, he takes away the armor in which the man trusted and divides up his plunder. Luke 11:21-22

Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down. They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. Revelation 12:10-11

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They came back to Moses and Aaron and the whole Israelite community at Kadesh in the Desert of Paran. There they reported to them and to the whole assembly and showed them the fruit of the land. They gave Moses this account: “We went into the land to which you sent us, and it does flow with milk and honey! Here is its fruit. But the people who live there are powerful, and the cities are fortified and very large. We even saw descendants of Anak there. The Amalekites live in the Negev; the Hittites, Jebusites and Amorites live in the hill country; and the Canaanites live near the sea and along the Jordan. ” Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, “We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.” But the men who had gone up with him said, “We can’t attack those people; they are stronger than we are.” And they spread among the Israelites a bad report about the land they had explored. They said, “The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size. Number 13:26-32

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"Then the LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it." Genesis 2:15

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***“Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these."
Matthew 6:27

Cast your burden on the LORD, And He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved. Psalm 55:22

Who provides food for the raven, When its young ones cry to God, And wander about for lack of food? Job 38:41***

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***For by wise counsel you will wage your own war, And in a multitude of counselors there is safety. Proverb 24:6

His ways are always prospering; Your judgments are far above, out of his sight; As for all his enemies, he sneers at them. Psalm 10:5

Or what king, going to make war against another king, does not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand? Luke 14:30***

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***Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months. James 5:16-17

“Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’ Matthew 18:15-16

Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. James 1:21

And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:8-11***

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***Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

Therefore do not let your good be spoken of as evil; for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Romans 14:17.

rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion. Roman 12:12-16***

"***Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesian 4: 29-32

“So watch yourselves. If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.” Luke 17:3-4***

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***I gain understanding from your precepts; therefore I hate every wrong path. Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. I have taken an oath and confirmed it, that I will follow your righteous laws. I have suffered much; preserve my life, LORD, according to your word.
Psalms 119:104-107

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise. Psalms 111:10

And because I consider all your precepts right, I hate every wrong path. Psalms 119:128

The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.
Psalms 119:130***

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"***The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day." Proverbs 4:18

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-19

"When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
John 8:12***

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***For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
Philippians 2:13.

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
Serve God with Spiritual Gifts For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. Romans 12:1-4***

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***So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” John 20:21.

And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Matthew 28:18-20

As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth.And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth. John 17:18-19***

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***Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said, “Let us go up at once and take possession, for we are well able to overcome it.” Number 13:30

Where can we go up? Our brethren have discouraged our hearts, saying, “The people are greater and taller than we; the cities are great and fortified up to heaven; moreover we have seen the sons of the Anakim there.” Deuteronomy 1:28

Nevertheless my brethren who went up with me made the heart of the people melt, but I wholly followed the LORD my God. Joshua 14:8***

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***God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are —yet he did not sin. Hebrew 4:15

For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed —a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”
Romans 1:17

But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. 1 John 3:5***

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**You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24.

Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good. 1 Peter 2:1-3**

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It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them ready, even if he comes in the middle of the night or toward daybreak. Luke 12:37:38

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***Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you —unless, of course, you fail the test.
2 Corinthians 13:5.

But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. Romans 8:10***

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***Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.
I Corinthians 9:26.

And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops. Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things. 2Timothy 2:5-7***

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***The Spirit of God has made me, And the breath of the Almighty gives me life.
Job 33:4-7.

And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being. Genesis 2:7

And so it is written, “The first man Adam became a living being.” The last Adam became a life-giving spirit. I Corinthians15:45***

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***Until now you have asked nothing in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. John 16:24.

But now I come to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves. John 17:13.

“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. John 15:11***

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***“For My name’s sake I will defer My anger, And for My praise I will restrain it from you, So that I do not cut you off. Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction. Isaiah 48:9-10.

For You, O God, have tested us; You have refined us as silver is refined. You brought us into the net; You laid affliction on our backs. You have caused men to ride over our heads; We went through fire and through water; But You brought us out to rich fulfillment. Psalm 66:10-15.***

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***And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. Luke 6:34-35

Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
Romans 13:10***

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Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. Psalm 100:1-5

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***For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him. Genesis 18:19.

Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. Proverbs 3:7.

Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight.
Isaiah 5:21***

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By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible. Hebrew 11:27

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***Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward. Hebrews 11:26

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Romans 8:18

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 2 Corinthians 4:17

hen Pharaoh said to him, “Get away from me! Take heed to yourself and see my face no more! For in the day you see my face you shall die!” So Moses said, “You have spoken well. I will never see your face again.” Exodus 10:28-29***

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***By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward. Hebrews. 11:23-26

Now it came to pass in those days, when Moses was grown, that he went out to his brethren and looked at their burdens. And he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his brethren. Exodus 2:11***

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***By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. Hebrew 11:24-28.

In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples. “Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile; it is thrown out.
“Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.” Luke 14:33-35.***

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***The thoughts of the righteous are right, But the counsels of the wicked are deceitful. The words of the wicked are, “Lie in wait for blood,” But the mouth of the upright will deliver them.Prov. 12:5-6.

In the mouth of a fool is a rod of pride, But the lips of the wise will preserve them. Prov.12:5***

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***When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.”
Psalm 126:1-2

Sarah said, “God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me.” Genesis 21:6

He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy. "Your enemies will be clothed in shame, and the tents of the wicked will be no more.” Job 8:21-22***

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"***I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!” Galatians 2:20-21

You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you. “A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough.” I am confident in the Lord that you will take no other view. The one who is throwing you into confusion, whoever that may be, will have to pay the penalty. Galatians 5:7-10***

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***Command and teach these things. Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you.
1 Timothy 4:11-14.

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:6-7***

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Ship your grain across the sea; after many days you may receive a return. Invest in seven ventures, yes, in eight; you do not know what disaster may come upon the land. If clouds are full of water, they pour rain on the earth. Whether a tree falls to the south or to the north, in the place where it falls, there it will lie. Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap. As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things. Ecclesiastes 11:1-5.

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Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, In heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Do Everything Without Grumbling Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. Philippians 2:9-16

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***I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. Romans 8:18-19

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. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 2 Corinthians 5:1***

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For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. Hebrews 5:12-14

***And he is then also the father of the circumcised who not only are circumcised but who also follow in the footsteps of the faith that our father Abraham had before he was circumcised. Romans 4:12

As it is written: “I have made you a father of many nations.” He is our father in the sight of God, in whom he believed—the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being things that were not. Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead —since he was about a hundred years old —and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. This is why “it was credited to him as righteousness.” Romans 4:17-22***

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***Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.Prov. 23:4-5.

or riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations.
Prov. 27:24***

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***Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Joshua 1:8

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. Psalm 1:1-2

Praise the Lord. Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in his commands. Their children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever.
Psalm 112:1-3***

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***You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet: Psalm 8:6

It is not to angels that he has subjected the world to come, about which we are speaking. But there is a place where someone has testified: “What is mankind that you are mindful of them, a son of man that you care for him? You made them a little lower than the angels; you crowned them with glory and honor and put everything under their feet.”, In putting everything under them, God left nothing that is not subject to them. Yet at present we do not see everything subject to them. Hebrews 2:5-9***

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***Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. 3 John 1:2

Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. 3 John 1:2 NIV.***

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***But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own..6:33-34.

Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4.

And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first. Matt. 19:29***

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"W***hen you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; Ephesians 4:21-23.

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is —his good, pleasing and perfect will".
Romans 12:2.

"And have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator". Col. 3:10***

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Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check. James 3:1-2.

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And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 1 Corinthian 12:15-18

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so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. 1 Corinthians 12:25-26.

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Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. Prov. 22:6

The Truth of the matter is that while certain universal principles apply to all children, no two are alike, and it's a mistake to treat them as if they were. In fact here are two of the most common blunders we can make as a parent:

**Trying to mold your child into what you used to be.
Trying ti make them into what you want them to be.Here are three hallmarks of healthy self-esteem you should continually strive to teach your children: 1. Know who you are; 2. Like who you are; 3 Be** who you are.

" Don't try to relive your life through your children".

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*Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish them with the rod, they will not die. Punish them with the rod and save them from death. Pro. 23:13-14.

Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them. Pro. 13:24.

Discipline your children, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to their death. Pro. 19:18.*

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God has a good plan for each of us, but not all of us experience it. Why? Two reasons:
* We don't realize we have right and privileges.

We live far below the levelGod intended because we see ourselves in the wrong light.

For the Lord your God will bless you as he has promised, and you will lend to many nations but will borrow from none. You will rule over many nations but none will rule over you. Deu.15:6

The Lord will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none. The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom.
Deu. 28: 12-13.

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Therefore, “they are before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence.
Rev.7:15

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For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 2 Corinthians 5:1

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1 Chronicles 29:12
To negotiate well, you should do these three things:

Talk to God before you talk to others.
Think Long-Term.
Don't be pressured into doing anything.

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How to deal with difficult people

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