Paul writes in Ephesians 5:20 “Always give thanks for everything to our God and Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Give thanks in everything? The flat tire, the IRS audit, the poor test grade? Why?

When we commit our lives to God, he works in us, and on us, if we let Him. He is trying to make us better able to do the things He wants us to do. Some of the experiences we must go through are not pleasant, but they are necessary to become the people God wants us to be

In 1 Corinthians 2:9 Paul Writes, “However, as it is written: ‘What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived’ the things God has prepared for those who love him.”

We may realize shortly why we had the flat tire or other negative experience, but we may never know; however, we do know that God is working on us, if we let him, to become the person He wants us to be

Dear Lord, thank you for working on us, making us better. Help us understand, and also be thankful even for the difficult things in our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

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The Bible uses the word “grumble” to describe complaining by a group of people. Shortly after God brought the Israelites out from slavery in Egypt, and miraculously parted the Red Sea, the people grumbled to Moses, about not having water; God provided it, they complained about not having food and God miraculously gave them manna and quail. God heard their complaining and gave them what they needed.

You would think that they would get the message and realize God was there to support them if they only asked. However, as a result of their lack of faith and obedience, God turned what would have been a short journey to the Promised Land into a 40 year struggle, and none of the adults were ultimately allowed to enter the Promised Land.

Paul describes in 1 Corinthians 10:10, “And do not grumble, as some of them did—and were killed by the destroying angel.”

We “grumble” too. When we are complaining, “grumbling,” and feeling sorry for ourselves, we are showing a lack of faith. We are indicating that we don’t believe that God cares about us and has a plan for us.

When we are tempted to “grumble,” instead we should remember to ask God to help us. This is following God’s direction, trusting in him and praying, then wait in peace for the answer to our prayer.

Psalm 84:11 says, “For Jehovah God is our Light and our Protector. He gives us grace and glory. No good thing will he withhold from those who walk along his paths.” TLB

Dear Lord, sometimes you let us struggle, maybe to strengthen us or maybe to discipline us. Rather than complaining and feeling sorry for ourselves, help us ask for your help to get through our struggle, and have faith that you will answer our prayer. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

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Someone I know recently described the characteristics he is trying to teach his children which were Grit (defied as a combination of hard work and persistence), Creativity, and Passion. I think in addition to a strong Faith and Trust in God, these are great characteristics, but there is one more that I think needs to be on all of our lists ant that is Purpose beyond ourselves.

Paul writes in Philippians 2:4-6, “Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being.”

Have you noticed that when we do things for others, it makes us feel useful and fulfilled. Having a purpose beyond our own personal interests is what is truly satisfying in life. We serve others with Jesus as our example.

Dear Lord, help us be like Jesus and search for ways to show your love to others. When we do, we are serving them, serving you, and also providing ourselves a fulfilled life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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The Bible is very clear that if we believe and trust in God, he will protect and guide us.

Among the passages about this is, 2 Thessalonians 3:3 “But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.”

It is also clear that if we turn our backs on God and his direction, he will leave us to the consequences of our actions.

Psalm 81:11-12 says, “But my people would not listen to me; Israel would not submit to me. So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own devices.”

And Romans 1:24 says, “So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired….” And verse 27, “…they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved.”

Dear Lord, you outlined a plan for us, and if we follow it, you have promised to protect and guide us. Help us acknowledge You and Your direction, and live in the peace and joy that you provide. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

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How often we get wrapped up in the stress of life, or the problems we encounter. It is easy to get bitter, jaded, and frustrated. It is at those times we need to remember the Joy of Being a Christian. Yes the joy of salvation and eternal life, but also the joy of knowing that we are loved and cared for by the ultimate power in the universe.

Jesus says in John 15:9-11 “I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Live within my love. When you obey me you are living in my love, just as I obey my Father and live in his love. I have told you this so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your cup of joy will overflow!” TLB

So when those challenges and frustrations of life come around, step back and take a breath; remember Jesus loves you and wants you to be happy and joyful. He is bigger than any problem we may have and can carry us through.

Dear Lord, Help us remember that you love us. Help us use this knowledge to overcome the negatives and experience the joy you promised. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.