You may have heard it said, “God gives you what you pray for or something better.” People who put their faith and trust in God can believe this and see it in their lives. People who do not believe often only see the times that “bad” things happen to people who believe in God, and use this to question believers.

Psalm 25:14 in the Living Bible translation describes one reason why this happens, “Friendship with God is reserved for those who reverence him. With them alone he shares the secrets of his promises.” It sheds some light on why people who don’t believe cannot understand faith.

When we first put our trust in God, surrender ourselves to his will, we then can know that he is guiding and protecting us. It may not be exactly in the ways we want or ask, but we know his ways are better. David says in Psalm 27:1, “The Lord is my light and my salvation–so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble.”

Dear Lord, thank you for the confidence we can have that you are always there for us. Help us share this faith with others so that they may come to you and experience this confidence that leads to peace. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

The use of Success Coaches or Life Coaches is growing in popularity. The concept is that the “coach,” someone who has studied the techniques, behaviors, and patterns of successful people, observes their clients activities then helps and guides them to adjust and become more successful in their life or profession; much like a sports coach.

An interesting parallel can be made, that God can be our “success coach.” Psalm 25:12-14 says “Who then are those who fear the Lord? He will instruct them in the ways they should choose. They will spend their days in prosperity, and their descendants will inherit the land. The Lord confides in those who fear him. He makes his covenant [promise] known to them” NIV

Wouldn’t it be amazing to have a coach that knows everything and can do anything, guiding our lives…..We do.

Dear Lord. Help us submit our lives to you and follow the guidance you have promised to give us if we follow. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

Do you know people who always have something positive to say about everyone. While they are bringing up the most favorable things about everyone, they are making themselves look good at the same time.

In Romans 14:19 Paul says, “So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.”

Of course everyone has areas that can be improved, but why bring this up to others.

The 8th commandment says, “Thou shall not bear false witness (lie) about thy neighbor.” I like Martin Luther’s words in the Small Catechism explanation of this Commandment. Regarding our neighbor, we should, “defend him, speak well of him, and put the best construction on everything.”

Wouldn’t it be great if we treated each other in this manner regularly.

Dear Lord, you tell us that after loving you, the second greatest command is to love our neighbor. Help us remember that speaking well of others is part of this love for them. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

You probably know someone, or maybe you are someone who doesn’t worry about things, has a general comfort that everything is going to work out fine, and are confident that God has things working just the way they are supposed to.

David writes about this in Psalm 5:11-12 saying, “But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.”

We all can be like those described above. If we really put or confidence and trust in God, we can be happy, regardless of our circumstances, knowing that God’s favor surrounds us and He has things under His control.

Dear Lord, thank you for caring for and protecting us when we rely on you for support. Help us demonstrate this trust in you in ways that show others your glory. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Paul writes, “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Some say, if there was one characteristic that would make us a better people, and make our lives better, it would be gratitude.

It is hard to be angry, jealous, feel sorry for ourselves and complain when we have gratitude. It is easier to be happy, kind, generous, friendly, and loving to others when we feel thankful for what God has given us.

The feeling of gratitude doesn’t always come on its own. Our thoughts start our feelings. We all have things in our lives for which to be grateful, if we think about it. Most of all we can be grateful for our salvation through Jesus Christ.

Give thanks for what you have while you pray for what you want.

Dear Lord, help us live lives of gratitude which will lead us to experiencing more joy in our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Happy Birthday Dad, We are grateful for you!