Many of us have had occasions in life where things looked so bad we had no idea how they could ever work out well. Then as time progressed, things changed and worked out. I like the expression, “even when we can’t see a way God can make a way.”

In Mark 10:27, “Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”

We need to remember that no matter how bad things may seem to us, “all things are possible with God.”

Dear Lord, help us to remember that you can always make a way for things to work out for us. Help us put our trust in you and believe that with you all things are possible. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

You probably know people who are thankful all the time, they never forget to tell, the waiter, cashier, bank teller, and anyone they encounter, thank you. Do you notice that these people tend to be generally happy and content as well? When you have a thankful perspective, it is very difficult to complain or feel sorry for yourself, because it contradicts the thoughts of thankfulness on which you are focusing.

Paul says in 1 Thessolonians 5:18, “No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” TLB

When you are thankful to God for your current situation, it demonstrates your faith and indicates that you accept that where you are today is where God wants you to be, for now.

Dear Lord, Thank you for all that we have in this life, our family, friends, and possessions. Most of all, however, thank you that you have saved us so we can live on with you when this physical life is over. Help us to never stop being thankful for all you have given us. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

If you have ever played the poker game, Texas Hold ’em, you’ve realized that the game is not so much about what cards you or your opponents have, it is more about being able to read the actions and body language of your opponents.

In a similar way, much of being a Christian is not about what is happening physically, It is about what is going on spiritually.

Ephesians 6:12 Paul writes, “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.”

I have heard this concept described, “The main battle is supernatural.” So the tools we need to defend ourselves and win this battle are spiritual.

Dear Lord, sometimes it is so apparent when we are being attacked spiritually, but sometimes it is subtle. Help us have the strength and faith to overcome those spiritual forces which try to destroy our relationship with you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Happy New Year!

As we begin the new year and decade, let us remember the blessing God had Aaron give, “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

May this blessing of Gods grace, favor and peace be with you this new year.

Dear Lord, thank you for your blessings of grace, favor, peace and salvation. Help us renew our faith in your blessing, and reflect your love to those we encounter in the new year. In Jesus name. Amen.

Do you exercise regularly and read about health and fitness routines to keep yourself healthy? Do you take vitamins and manage what you eat? These are good things to do, as it says in 1 Corinthians 6 our bodies are the Lord’s temple, and we should, as it says in verse 20, “glorify God in our bodies.”

But even more important than our health and fitness routine, is trusting in God’s wisdom and doing what he tells us. Proverbs 3:7,8 says, “Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil. Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones.” NLT

Dear Lord, help us turn away from those evil things we know we should avoid, and follow your will in our lives. Help us look to your word in the Bible, and believe your promise for the healing and strength. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.