Rest in My Presence, allowing Me to take charge of this day. Do not bolt into the day like a racehorse suddenly released. Instead, walk purposefully with Me, letting Me direct your course one step at a time. Thank Me for each blessing along the way; this brings Joy to both you and Me. A grateful heart protects you from negative thinking. Thankfulness enables you to see the abundance I shower upon you daily. Your prayers and petitions are winged into heaven's throne room when they are permeated with thanksgiving. In everything give thanks, for this is My will for you.
Colossians 4:2
English Standard Version
Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.
I need to learn to walk through my day and not be in a rush all the time. I'm in a rush often because of fear and thinking that I may not get done what I need to get done. It is good to be productive but if I'm rushing I may miss out on something important. I may miss out on talking to a person and sharing the Love of Christ with them because I am too busy with my activities. I need to always make time for people, especially as the manager I am.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
New American Standard Bible
in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
My Prayer
Father, focus me daily on Your hand of providence. I surrender to You. Help me to accept what You provide. I want to have a thankful heart.
Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.
Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.
Thanks God for Your Daily blessings
ReplyDeleteAmen �� I read them daily :)
DeleteAmen go by Sarah Young's words and prayers every morning!
DeleteI often feel a little guilty when I use this website but then remind myself that I have purchased Ms. Young’s book. I’ve actually bought several of them so that I could give them to friends as well as have my own. I use the site because I like reading each day from my iPad and having the babile verses right there and see her helpful notes on them. Sarah, you cannot imagine how helpful your “Jesus Calling” and “Jesus Today” have been in my life. Thank you
ReplyDeleteThanks for bringing this up. I've thought of this as well. I also have bought and given away many Jesus Callings. I am beyond grateful for the divinely-insprired book series. This site is a such a blessing when I do not have my book with me. It's so convenient! Grateful! Thank you!
DeleteAmen to both replies. Jesus is Calling is my go to Devotional
DeleteEvery morning. This blog is such an inspiration to me letting me know I'm not alone in my thinking. Also, the prayers continue to ring in my heart as if God is speaking to me through so many others. Thank you all and May God continue to
Work through you to reach other's in need��
2023 and I couldn’t agree more with this book. I have had it for a few years and have copied pages for others. This book has carried me through as a reminder of gods love and I appreciate all the input others have commented with. These readings, prayers. thoughts always help start my day with the Lord
DeleteAmen! Me too! These readings and this Group starts each morning for me over the last 2 years. It has helped me get and stay closer to the Lord. Always Incredible! Thank you ALL!👍🙏❤️
DeleteMe too 9 times through
DeleteI love this blog, my Jesus Calling book is on my shelf all withered and torn, I've had it for years, so sometimes I like just looking up the devotional message online for the day to keep me on track when my arms feel to weak to pull the book off the shelf, I've been stressed about finances and well allot of things and this was a good reminder to let it go and let God ♡
DeleteHeavenly Father, this remind me to be aware of all the mercy you have shown my family. My kids are healthy, my husband works hard, we have a nice comfortable home. The hard things are showing me the good I already have. Fear gripped my heart yesterday, i default back to You dont care about the details of my life. It is a blurry area for me. I know it came from family of origin and will do an inventory on it. Meditating and thanking you I have some time to wait upon the Lord today.
ReplyDeleteFamily of origin. I like that.
DeleteCompletely understand and can relate. And because we are human will revert back from time to time. But the awesome thing is that The Lords love and Peace is always here with us as long as we can redirect ourselves back to Him with thanksgiving and trust in Him.
DeleteHe is ALWAYS there.
JT
Let your peace stand still and let Jesus handle your heart in his way, because is gone and you can't see tomorrow and pray for love that who knows you better than yourself and that person is God Almighty. Amen ➕
DeleteLord thank you for speaking to us through each other and through our word. I love you. You are the only one who is always there For me. I'm trying so hard to be thankful lord. I go to individual therapy every week. Thank you for her. We go to marriage therapy every week. I've changed meds and increased meds for depression but lord I still feel empty. You know my story lord. Please help me. I don't feel I can continue living like this. Lord thank you for directing my life. Help me trust you. Help me focus on my blessings. Help me. I'm so sorry that I focus on negatives. I think you know i'm trying. Thank you for this blog where I can share with other believers
ReplyDeleteTrusting the Lord you are in my prayers. Depression is a tough thing but you are doing the right things to combat it. Seeking the Lord for guidance is #1. He can get you through anything. Hang in there and things will get better. You have a community of Christians here who are praying for you.
DeletePraying for you too "trusting the Lord". There's mercy every morning just for you. The Lord loves you and is "a very present help in times of trouble".
DeleteI'm praying for you. You are on the right path. Stay the course. The Lord will guide you.
DeleteMy prayers are wrappping you as well! Dear Lord, please help "Trusting the lord" to see the light even among darkness, it IS there. Trusting: Please know that you are loved and are worthy of God's love! Amen.
DeleteRecognize your enemy!
DeleteSatan seeks to destroy you and your family!
Put on the full armor of God so that you will be able to defend yourself against his evil schemes. Our battle is not against flesh and blood but against things we can't see. The war is raging over you and your family. Arm yourself with Gods Word. With His truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, the sword of the spirit. Read Ephesians 6:10-18
Trusting the Lord - Joining warriors in prayer. Your prayers are mine. Jesus loves ♥ you.
DeleteYears later, to you, TrsutinginthLord, I pray for your Peace. I pray that the tentacles of negativity have been severed and that you and your family are healthy and whole. May the Grace of God that takes time be your new normal. I pray this in Jesus's name for you, me, and all who may be in need. Amen!
DeleteWhen God gives you something can't no Man take it away from you , but to whom that gave it and that's God Almighty himself. Amen ➕💯
Delete"Do not bolt into the day like a racehorse suddenly released. Instead, walk purposefully with Me, letting Me direct your course one step at a time." That first line was me this morning! I had to slow myself down, take a few "Bob-Deep-Breathing" breaths and re-group. Rather than high, highs and low, lows, I seek the calmness that comes from living in the moment with God. Lisa mentioned above - a year ago - her 'family of origin' and yesterday, when we talked with one of our sons, it came up several times. I am not one to cast blame on my parents; I am an adult and have my own free will to change some things from the way I was raised and to keep the Word that they endeavored to teach. We had a good, honest conversation and some changes will be made. I am thankful. My prayer is that I go through this day giving thanks in everything and praying steadfastly. Father, let me glean the good and leave the rest at my Lord's feet. Prayers for my sister-in-law and brother-in-law - that their health be restored. Again, I'm so very thankful for this blog and Sarah's Jesus Calling. How blessed are we to be able to turn on our computer and be fed The Word, daily. Learning from those who have gone before us and renewing our commitment to heed His Word? So thankful.
ReplyDeleteRecognize your enemy! Satan seeks to destroy you and your family. Put on the full armor of God so that you are able to defend yourself against his evil schemes. Our battle is not with flesh and blood but against the things we can't see. The war is raging over your family. Arm yourself with Gods word: with His truth. Righteousness. Peace. Faith. Salvation. Sword of the Spirit. And Gods Word
ReplyDeleteRead Ephesians 6:10-18
Put on your Jesus suit - wear Him daily,and you will not live in fear.
DeletePrevious comment was meant to reply to Trusting the Lord. Sorry. First time blogger
ReplyDeleteDon’t give up! Even when you fail or fall you are falling into His everlasting arms. You are sealed with the Holy Spirit until the day of redemption. I struggle with depression also. I have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder. I take my meds religiously (they saved my life). I also have a husband and children that are my safe place. One of the ways I overcome my depression is to practice a lot of self-care. Ex: daily exercise, eating somewhat healthy, focusi on the positive scriptures of God’s word, relax in a warm bath, get a pedicure, color, do nothing...Romans 8:38-39, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Ephesians 2:8, Hebrews 10:14 etc.. I also remind myself very often to love the messy side of me and that Jesus in me has made me perfect. When I screw up God still sees me perfect without sin because Jesus in me is perfect. His love for me and my worth is based on what He did for me and not what “I” do or don’t do. When I do mess things up like I got a speeding ticket the other day but Romans’ 8:28 says He works ALL things out for the good for those who love Him. I try to remember and trust His word and love for me. Everyday I want to look at the cross as a reminder that no one or nothing can pluck me out of His hand. John 10:28
ReplyDeleteReferences are made above to depression and in the responses, it can be seen there can be a variety of causes of it. Some causes are physiological and we need assistance from the God given medical knowledge as Sharon posted above. Some experience depression because of weather conditions (limitations of light) of which I have noticed in my own life. From a completely spiritual perspective, I have experienced depression from God creating within me a compassionate heart which is a good thing except when I allow my heart to attach itself to personal desires rather than the love of God. It is interesting that the seven deadly sins that the Church has held up as a warning for all believers use to be eight when it was originally created in the 4th century by Evagrius. The eighth one was depression and it came right after gluttony, lust, and greed. Those three are choices that are made for self gratification. If one denies them yet still has a longing for them, this will lead to depression thus originally it was placed as the fourth deadly sin. What is seen there is that self indulgence and an inability to get what we want sets us up for depression. In these circumstances, we are the cause of our depression. This is dealt with through prayer and meditation which reorients the soul from selfish desires to desiring only God. This is not an overnight accomplishment but a daily effort in seeking the admonition of today's reading in Jesus Calling. For me this is what has been most helpful. The potential for depression will never go away, but it is kept under wraps in daily turning to God for wholeness within my soul. I share this with you for any way you might find help through my experience of dealing with depression. God be with you.
ReplyDeleteBob thank you again for adding clarity and prespective I always learn something from your posts.
DeleteThank you, Bob. The 7 deadly sins? I never knew about #8. “Choice” is a powerful word, we use every day and we take advantage. 🎶 “Each step I take, my Savior goes before me and with His loving hand, He leads the way. And with each breath, I whisper I adore thee, oh what joy to walk with him each day!” 🎶 This comes from a song I learned when I was a child (1960’s). I sing to Lord daily.
DeleteAmen Bob!
DeleteFriends: Depression is insidious. Many symptoms are masked by other issues. Plus, it often builds over time as personal and professional challenges accumulate in one's life. I did not know that at one time the church had despair as the eighth deadly sin. However, I believe that it can be a sin for some folks.
ReplyDeleteI had a family member that was very blessed; but lived by grasping depression as the basis for all of their problems and sins. In truth there are people who do have medical issues with depression; but I also believe that some blame depression when self-inflicted setbacks occur, instead of "moving past" the challenge as Bob states above. This family member used depression as the reason they couldn't change or alter their behavior. It was a shame as many weeks, months, and years were spent trying to persuade them that their life was far better than they perceived. This person as far as I know never asked or prayed for God to help them with issue... thus at least in this case, I do think their depression was sin.
However, I would caution all of us to also recognize that sometimes there are medical issues and that brain chemistry can be altered to provide relief to the afflicted. Pray that all who suffer from depression get the assistance they need in whatever form that takes. Amen
If you had ever suffered from depression your viewpoint may be different. I had a far different impression until it struck my dear "happy" Mom then my sweet and precious son's and then myself during menopause. It was torture and I am greatful the darkness was finally lifted by our great and powerful Lord. The Lord allows so many afflictions in our lives..hopefully and ultimately they all lead directly to Him for His touch. Watching my adult son ( living with us now) and his severe " melancholy " or depression is so hard to witness, the meds he has tried made it worse with horrid side effects. He turned to self medicating and it almost killed Him. By the grace of God He is with us. Thank you Jesus. His life is difficult, I dont know why.He does not complain, nor does He trust Jesus. I pray that God has the solution for His life soon. Clearly He is mostly merely existing. Telling Him to recognize all the gifts He has been blessed with is salt on His wounds..He is aware. Please be extra gentle with these precious children of God..their struggle is quite real for I experienced it first hand and it was exhausting just to do each mundane task set before me. Thank you for praying for all who are challenged with this. Please know the medicine for depression and anxiety is riddled with side effects that often make things worse...please never say insinuate it is their fault, it is like any other disease. Thank you for your prayers.
DeleteFern, as you may know I had a major heart issue -surgery 3.5 years ago,, and now been through chemo for cancer, and face a rather risky transplant. I've taken self-assessmemts and talked with my docs, who and which all said it would be nearly impossible to not have some mild depression and to be careful. Im sorry about your family and the ongoing bouts with this issue.
DeleteThis family member was an alcoholic and I know the situation first hand. This person rarely took responsibility for their actions and the wounds to other family members were profound... however, I also loved this person without judgment. Saying it was sin is simply an observation and my sins are just as wrong as their's were. I almost responded last year, but did not, as just felt it was better to leave it alone. However, given my circumstances today, my goal is to always be positive and look to how to respond in peace,, or inject love in all situations. I do not want to be seen as condemning by calling the "crutch" of depression, or alcohol, or drugs as sin... sin is a given, and done daily by all. Period. God then looks at us through the "filter" of Christ, in Him, our addictions, depression, lying, gossiping, cheating in taxes, failure to love other races, failure to provide food to the hungry, are all sin too.
May we remember that each person is on their own journey, and that God can and does extend His right hand as a gesture of love and peace. We can defeat any sin or problem with Him and our family of believers and our faith. It doesn't mean that we will not continue to sin or have that same problem but in God's eyes it will be "transparent". Godspeed and In Him, peace.
Dear Fern, I struggled with depression almost all my life on and off, and it can be debilitating at times. You're correct about the medications also. They can have horrible side effects. I too became suicidal at times. I also didn't have the love of God in my life either then. I was so far from Him that now I can't even imagine that. I am praying for your son and your family. May the Lord heal the brokenness that this causes and rebuild a new life. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen 🙏. Peace be with you and God bless.
DeleteDear MadFox, I hope you're getting your rest my brother. Praying always for your healing. Take it one day at a time holding His Hand.
DeleteI do understand how some people use their illnesses, mental or physical as a crutch. But I also can relate to the utter misery of being depressed. When my 3rd son was born I had a terrible case of Postpartem depression and I was not myself for a whole year, I was on medication and hated it so I took myself off of it and went through a terrible time of such severe depression and hopelessness until I finally found a doctor that could help me. I wanted to end my life because I couldn't get better but my faith in God and my 3 little sons and husband were my reasons to live. God brought me through that trial so I could help others who were depressed and also lead them to Him. The fact is when you are so sick because your chemical balance is way off, you can't just "cheer up and get better". It is a difficult battle to get better. But I have seen God's faithfulness in my life so many times that I must just say: Wait On The Lord. Remain Hopeful and Look Always for the Light, even if it is just a pin prick of light. God is always there to light our darkest days.
Father, I thank you for leading my brothers and sisters out of their depression. Shine a flood of light onto their paths, lead them to the help they need to live a life of true peace and joy. Rid them of anxiety, fear and doubt. Show them Your mercy and faithfulness. Thank you for this in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen
Jeanne, so glad you're better. This subject is always so challenging... I understand and agree. This situation was different. It does not mean, there are not significant scientifically provable chemical issues in a depressed person's brain... there are! What I'm saying is in this case depression and many other reasons were used to rationalize bad behavior. And no outward interest in trying to have God in their life as a Savior to their disease if that truly was the cause, or their sin which created havoc with their family. Godspeed. Peace.
DeletePraying for brothers & sisters that have & some still plagued by this condition. Grant them victory in Jesus' name. MadFox, you're always in my prayers, the challenges before you has not escaped God's heart. He has been, is & will be aside you in all of it. Hallelujah!
DeleteMy "non medical" opinion. Highs and lows - mental, emotional, physical AND spiritual - are a part of our normal course of life in this fallen world. Addictions of all kinds are often our way to self medicate. Medications are prescribed to change chemical balances to help many with the roller coaster ride of life, some much more severe for some people, whatever reason, but our body chemistry is "real" and our brains are very powerful and mysterious in how they work. God's hand is outstretched towards us all and MUST be grasped as the key to any solutions for depression. I am so grateful for discovering HIS living Word to put perspective on my life, Peace in my mind, and love in my heart. Thank you, Jesus!
DeleteI understand MadFox. You can't rationalize bad behavior by always blaming it on your condition. We have free will to either do the right thing or the wrong thing. Even when we are impaired by physical or mental illness, we still know right from wrong. Pleasing God is so much more important than pleasing ourselves. I just wish more people understood that. There sure would be less sin in this world.
DeleteI'm pausing in prayer today again for all those dealing with depression from any origin. I felt the heaviness of these past posts, the frustration that expands beyond those who are majorly affected. Please, Lord, comfort them all with your love, with a shot out to Ashley and Stu ♥️♥️🙏🙏
DeleteJust remember when you do “sin”don’t focus on it just get back up and move forward. Allow yourself to be human. I can remember when I used to attend church how condemned I felt because I never felt good enough. All they talked about was what sins you were committing so by the time I left I would even question my own salvation. Depression is debilitating enough without having to worry about which sin you are committing. Just remind yourself you are fearfully and wonderfully made. You are precious and beautiful in God’s eyes. I somewhat agree with what you are saying Bob. However, some people were raised in verbal, mental, and emotionally abusive homes. That alone has already influenced their perception of God in a negative way. He is not sitting there with gavel in hand waiting to pound them when they sin. That has been part of my journey with depression. I had to retrain my brain and see myself as God sees me and to see Him in a healthy way. Living in fear or depression (which can be from the root of fear itself) is not God’s plan for any of His children. He is a loving God and if you have children you know that no matter what they do you love them unconditionally. That is how He is with us.
ReplyDeleteSharon. Good thoughts. Church leaders, sadly, can also sin by laying guilt upon people that God never would. I think back to Jesus' time here and how He dealt with sinners... it was always with love. Those suffering from depression often felt unloved at home, church, or work. Friends, family, or co-workers can unintentionally exacerbate that unloved feeling or as you said FEAR. Fear is a terrible motivator and can lead to depression. What was so amazing is that Jesus was fearless in His interest to LOVE and help all. Godspeed.
DeleteAmen Madfox 🙏.
DeleteThere is no fear in Love. So those who are paralyzed by their fear must tune into God's unchanging love and share it with others as much as possible.
DeleteFear Is A Liar!
Delete🎶 https://youtu.be/bDnA_coA168
Oh my friends, you have no idea how much your words comforted me. Thank you for taking the time. All things work together for good. Much love to you all
ReplyDeleteAmen! Amen!
ReplyDeleteToday is a GREAT day to Trust the Lord and be grateful for everything he does to keep us, somethings we may never know that he protected us from! Today my prayer is that he protects me from ME, my fear, insecurity, sad thoughts and feeling of being alone! GOD is faithful and I commit this day to be grateful in everything because GOD knows whats best for me! Continuing in prayer for my JC Family.
ReplyDeleteIN HIS LOVE
Amen God's daughter 🙏.
DeletePraying for you God's daughter. We all have those feelings but God's love fills us up and leaves less room in us for the bad stuff. When we are filled with gratitude and praise, and when we concentrate on our blessings, it is hard to feel the fear, sadness or loneliness. Besides Jesus is the best company ever. He loves us just the way we are and He understands us better than even we understand ourselves.
DeleteToday I choose to slow down and give thanks for every opportunity that arises in my path. Like God's daughter's prayer above, my prayer today is that God protects me from me. That He keeps me out of my own head.
ReplyDeleteThe post from Bob, MadFox and Sharon above hit close to home today. You may remember you all prayed for me last November when my 'gentleman friend' and I broke up. One of his daughters committed suicide three years ago and as you might imagine, he's still dealing with depression because of it and likely will all his life. The guilt he feels on a daily basis is overwhelming. He has withdrawn and pushed everyone out of his life (including me) because of it and it is debilitating. My heart still hurts for him and I can't imagine losing a child.
Please continue to pray for him~ he is a good man. I pray on a daily basis that the enemy releases the grip on him and that he will one day have some sort of peace.
Thank you all for your posts above~ they really made a lot of sense this morning.
Peace and prayers to all of you. Stay connected to The Vine.
Keeping him and you in prayers Suzanne. Peace be with you 🙏.
DeletePraying for your gentleman friend that he will sincerely seek the Lord and find comfort in Him. His heart will always be missing his daughter but he is still alive and can lean on God's promises, love and peace. God can lead him to a better life in Him.
DeleteHeavenly Father,
ReplyDeleteI give Thanks To You the Holy One.
I give Thanks because You have given
Jesus Christ Your Son.
I give Thanks because of what You Lord have done and continue to do for me,
I give Thanks, Oh Yes, I give Thanks to You with a grateful heart.
When I am weak, I will declare that I am strong.
I give Thanks for the many blessings of today and walk with my head held high, knowing WHOSE I am.
In EVERYTHING Lord, I Give You Thanks.
"I will give thanks to you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” Ps. 9:1.
"Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!” 2 Cor. 9:15
We have so much to be grateful for in this life every day. But we tend to forget in the midst of busyness and pressures and can't even pause and give thanks, for all that God has done, and still doing in our lives. We have so much to be thankful for, including the little things we often neglect to thank Him for, not realizing they really are the biggest, most important things in this life.
Sometimes we have to make the sacrifice to offer praise and thanks even if we dont feel like it, whether struggling or weary, or we think God seems distant, or doesn't really care about what's troubling us, we should still give thanks. Be it painful life blows and losses that might have sent us spiraling, still give thanks to Him.
We have a choice, everyday, to give Him thanks with a grateful heart of thanksgiving. We should understand that no matter what we encounter, God doesn’t just work to change our situations and help us through our problems, He does more. His power, through hearts of gratitude and focused minds on Him, releases the grip of our struggles. We're strengthened by His peace and filled by His joy.
God's Word is filled with many reminders of how powerful and vital a thankful heart can be in this world. Giving Thanks takes our eyes off ourselves, and helps us to focus back on God. It keeps us in a place of humility and dependency on Him. Thankfulness helps us to reflect on and remember, the goodness of God's many blessings. God is the Giver of all good gifts. We were not made to be fully self-sufficient in this life. A grateful heart reminds us that ultimately God is our Provider and He cares.
Father, Thank you for your amazing power and work in our lives. Thank you that you are Able to bring hope through even the toughest of times, strengthening us for your purposes. Thank you for your mercy and grace. Thank you for your incredible sacrifice so that we might have freedom and life. Forgive us for when we don't thank you enough, for who you are, for all that you do and for all that you've given. Thank You Lord Jesus!
I Thank God for all of you, JC family. Remain Blessed!
Maplewood, NJ
Amen Maplewood 🙏. Thank you for such a beautiful post. God bless you.
DeleteChoosing to focus my eyes on Jesus, and give thanks to Him for my many blessings. I will try to stay in His presence and in the present today and not look back or forward. I will not compare myself or my life to others, and I will find time alone with Him so I can feel His peace fill me and surround me.
DeleteAmen He is always working in us as His Spirit gives us hope and strength as we go through our days.
Beautiful prayer, sweet Maplewood. Thank you!
Praying it with you. Amen!
I come to this blog this AM after completing meditation on James 4:1-10 & Mark 9:30-37. Both passages contained a strong emphasis on practicing humility. (Of course we all know that should be one of the primary characteristics defining who we are, right?). Then I read the above selection from JC. The analogy of a racehorse is a sobering one. How often does it define how we are living? Racehorses are trained to win; they are driven to be better than all the rest. Does that not characterize the prevailing attitude in our culture? And there is no place for humility in this thinking. So I gave thought to what would be the total opposite of “being a racehorse” (which is always The way Jesus taught)? The image of a pony ride in a carnival came to mind. (I don’t think you see those much anymore.) A humble pony (sometimes even a donkey) is strapped to a wheel that controls all its movement. Around & around it goes at a speed determined by the person in charge. And people put little children on it to enjoy riding a real pony (as opposed to a merry-go-round). And the children smile and laugh/giggle as they enjoy their ride. When they are done, they get off and are very happy because of how much fun they had, sometimes even asking if they can go again. Our reading admonishes us to not be a racehorse (driven to win), rather in following the rest of the reading, be like a pony in a pony ride that brings great delight to others. And when they want another ride, the opportunity may be present for us to tell of the love of God leading to their salvation.
ReplyDeleteMark 9:37: “Whoever receives one child such as this in my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but the One who sent me.”
Have a blessed day! With love, Bob
Wonderful analogy Bob. Thank you for sharing. Peace be with you 🙏.
DeleteWhat a sweet comparison Bob! The Lord loves a humble heart. Let us bring simple joy and light to others to give Him glory.
DeleteWishing you peace with my sister Janet! God bless you always.
Dear Heavenly Father God,
DeletePlease help me to clip clop behind You on the Path You have traced for me. I seek to use my energies following You, rather than seeking to understand Your Guidance. In Jesus' Name. Thank You. Amen.
To all our Texas JC Family,
ReplyDeleteIf you have utilities and can read this, please know we are Continuing steadfastly in prayer for you and yours.
If you do not yet have utilities and cannot read this, please know we are Continuing steadfastly in prayer for you and yours.
In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Joining in prayer with you Brie 🙏. God bless you.
DeletePraying for Texas
DeletePraying with you for all those who still do not have their power and utilities.
DeleteThank you Father for filling their needs, and then some.
Thank you warriors. Son#2 & family & myself are grateful for all the prayers. The house they were purchasing fell through because of too many repair issues. DIL in en route this day with the family dog, to join her family. Please pray for safety. What a "whirlwind" this has been! Can't wait to see what the Lord is up to. Hallelujah!
DeleteOffering prayers for all those in need as a result of fires, floods, storms, and any unfortunate disasters. Their time of need extends in phases after the event. I pray their needs are met one day at a time, in Jesus's name!
DeleteThis prayer needs repeating in the e wake of storms and cold sweeping across the country. Thank you Jesus, for meeting all our needs in perfect timing! ♥️✝️
DeleteI Praise You Lord. Thank You Jesus for always being there for and with me. And thank You for loving me even then - before I knew You. You are my Everything Lord. I can't make it without You - nor do I want to. Thank You Jesus!
ReplyDeleteAmen, Amen. Me too! Can't make it without you.
DeleteIts a beautiful sunny day in Nairobi . I overslept and thus didnt have my quiet time and bolted out of the house like a race horse . Forgive me Lord ! Thankfully I have a free hour in the morning so I am able to do my deovtions. Being thankful keeps our spirits happy and at peace ! Every hour of the day I will find something to thank God for ....Pray for mum , we lost my dad and sister from cancer and mum is really depressed about this loss . Every time we go to see her, she is angry and bitter with her care giver , with my niece and nephew who live with her and love her to bits. I think she is looking for a way to vent out and does it to anyone close to her. Please pray for me to find words and ways to encourage mum . I love today word from Sarah and I have sent it to her . Pray
ReplyDeletePrayers for your family MinAhadi. God is faithful & will give you the words needed to calm the storm surrounding you & yours. Amen
DeletePraying that the Spirit will give you the perfect words to soften your Mom's heart towards those who love and care for her. I'm glad you are sharing today's devotion with your Mom. That should certainly bring her comfort, light and encouragement. I just love your gratitude dear Min Ahadi. Hoping and praying your car is getting fixed.
ReplyDeleteThank You Father for blessing MadFox and healing and strengthening him. Thank you for blessing Norah's good husband in all ways as he prepares for his biopsy. Strengthen and guide their families. Thank You for granting all of our many prayers and healing our weaknesses too. We love You and we trust in You. Amen
ReplyDeleteAmen Jeanne. Joining in your prayers for Norah, Madfox, Min Ahadi, and everyone here. I don't comment as much as I used to as I'm a bit overwhelmed with university but I always make sure to read all your posts and each of your requests are being prayed for. Thanking the Lord for this precious family in Christ. Such a blessing to come here everyday. God bless you all abundantly.
DeleteBlessings from France
So happy to pray with you dear BFF. Hope you get your work done and all goes well. Love you sweet sister. Amen! What a blessing it is to come here and be lifted and encouraged every day. I sure am blessed, also by you!
DeleteBeing a fast paced racehorse most of my life, Today's devotion reminded me of a childhood story, "The Tortoise And The Hare". The hare is very confident of winning the race. It bolts ahead like a racehorse fresh out of the gate. It moves so quick, fast, and in a hurry that it tires itself out so it stops during the race and falls asleep.
ReplyDeleteThe tortoise continues to move very slowly yet very steadfastly, conserving enough energy to continue on without stopping. Finally it wins the race. The moral of the story for me, is that I can be more successful by doing things slowly and steadily than by bolting and bucking quickly, and tiringly.
Dear Heavenly Father God,
"Slow Me Down, Lord"
(by Wilfred Arlan Peterson)
Slow me down Lord
Ease the pounding of my heart
By the quieting of my mind
Steady my hurried pace
With a vision of the eternal reach of time.
Give me amidst the confusion of my day
The calm stillness of the everlasting hills
Break the tensions of my nerves and muscles
With the soothing music of Your singing streams
That live in my memory.
Help me to know
The magical restoring power of sleep
Teach me the art
Of taking minute vacations, i.e.,
Slowing down to look at a flower,
To chat with an old friend,
Or to make a new one,
To pat a friendly dog,
To read a few lines from a good book.
Remind me each day of the fable
"The Hare and the Tortoise"
That I may know that the race
Is not always to be swift
That there is more to life
Than measuring and increasing speed.
Let me look upward
Into the branches of the towering oak
And know that it grew great and strong
Because it grew slowly and well.
Slow me down Lord
And inspire me to send my roots
Deep into the soil
Of life's enduring values
That I may grow towards the stars
Of my greater destiny.
Slow Me Down Lord. I ask. I seek. I knock. I thank. I praise, In Jesus' Name. Amen.
P.S. Would You give me, and bless me to use, all the Patience and Faith in You that I need to slow down? Amen.
DeleteThank you for sharing "Slow Me Down, Lord". I have stopped into this with the choice in retiring. It is a scary choice, but tears are already surfacing. Left the race track for the carnival with the pony leaving more time to more fully follow Jesus.
DeleteOur Dear Audra,
DeleteI had the same scary angst when I chose to retire until I read Hope for the Flowers
Novel by Trina Paulus
On the path of Life, it's not where you go nor how fast you get there, but WHO is by your side that makes the difference!
Love and Blessing to you and our entire JC Family.
Side By Side ;)
I'll check it out, Brie. What a luxury, to have time to read!
DeleteI just loved that beautiful poem and it gave me rest, just reading it! Thanks sweet Brie!!!
DeleteAmen Audra! Retirement means time to be still with the Lord and to breathe deeply and smell the roses.
So very true Brie! It's Who is by your side. That's the key.
We will get to where we're going in God's perfect timing. We have a celestial Home in the sky.
Today is my Mom’s 91st birthday. She joins my Dad now at that age. I am with them right now to celebrate and to relieve my sisters of some caregiving. It is a gift. It also reminds me that nothing happens quickly at 91. Slow is the pace. Waiting is the posture. It challenges me. We live in a society where microwave cooking isn’t fast enough for us! But I see the gentle heart of God in my precious parents. Their dependence on us reminds me of my need for and dependence on God. May He be so glorified as we slow down and experience His grace and peace.
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday to your mom GTT. Enjoy your time with them and I pray that the spirit of the Lord gives you strength, comfort, and peace.
DeleteGod bless your parents and family as you celebrate together. What a beautiful slow motion picture show this day will bring!
DeleteHappy 91st Birthday to your good Mother! You are so blessed to still have both your parents. God has been good to you and them. And the true blessing is they love and trust the Lord. I'm sure He is glorified by your good caregiving and by their sweet and gentle hearts of love.
DeleteThank you dear hearts. It was a sweet sweet day.
Delete"In everything give thanks, for this is My will for you..." Dear Lord help me to see all that is good even among the hardships I face. Help us to know that your blessings are there. I can see them with an open heart. This is a challenge when we only see darkness in so many areas of life. But Your light is brightest in darkness. Thank you for being with me every step of the way. Amen.
ReplyDeleteSo very true ABC! Giving thanks to the Most High with you.
DeleteIn the darkest times, His light is like a brilliant beacon that sheds hope and peace everywhere it touches. I understand from past experience how it is to be walking down a very long and dark tunnel where there isn't even a smidgeon of light. But the light is still there. Faith is believing what we cannot see and He is the light that guides our wilderness. He already knows where we're going so we must let Him lead us. And just keep thanking Him. Gratitude and Praise.
Yes! Jeanne and ABC, The Sun is ALWAYS shining light and warmth; whether or not our earthly eyes can see it through the cloud cover, the sun is still shining light and warmth!
DeleteFrom Psalm 19: The heavens are ALWAYS declaring the Glory of God; they are a marvelous display of His Craftsmanship. 2 Day and night they keep on telling us about God. 3-4 Without a sound or word, silent in the skies, their message reaches out to all the world. The Sun lives in the Heavens where God placed it 5 and everyday it, with its light and warmth, moves out across the skies as radiant as a bridegroom[a] going to his wedding,* or as joyous as an athlete looking forward to a race! 6 EVERYDAY the Sun ALWAYS crosses the Heavens and Earth from end to end, and everything is exposed to its light and warmth.
Dear Heavenly Father God, On those days when our earthly eyes cannot see Your Sun, please help our hearts and minds to know it is still there and even when I can't see it, it's working!
I ask. I seek. I knock. I praise. I thank. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Thank you Jeanne and Brie! You words and reflection on my words and reflection :) ! Are so true. Praying with you both that Gods light shines bright for all those in any kind of darkness! Amen.
DeleteGrace Takes Time - A very blessed and Happy Birthday celebration to your mom. Abundant blessings to you for the gift of caregiving to your loved ones. God bless you!
ReplyDelete"Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations” Ps. 100:4-5.
ReplyDeleteMost gracious Father, Thank You, thank You, for Your mercy that is NEW every morning. As I walk with You on this journey call life, I thank You for the many, many blessings I find along the way, and even the trials You allow me to go through, by working in me for Your glory. Thank You Lord for JESUS and Your grace that is sufficient for me!
“O Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; Let us shout joyfully to the rock of our salvation. Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all god.” Ps. 95:1-3.
Blessings and Peace.
Maplewood, NJ
🎶🎶🎶🎶 Praise the Lord 🎶🎶🎶🎶
ReplyDeleteAmen dear Maplewood! He is so very good and His unending love never fails. We trust in Him and we have seen His faithfulness. The trials are part of His plan for us, to strengthen our faith and lead others to Him by our witness. We can do all things through Christ and in Christ. Praying you are feeling better every day.
ReplyDeletePraying also for dear MadFox and Norah's dear husband. May they continue to see God's faithfulness and favor. He is with them now and always. They are beloved and well taken care of. Thank You Jesus!
Thank You Jesus. Praise God always 🙌.
ReplyDeleteAmen.
DeleteAmen! Praise Him with a thankful heart! This devotional and prayer spoke to me because I often rush through my day trying to do all the things on my list. I must acknowledge Him and allow His guiding Hand to lead me. Sometimes I say out loud: Jesus I need Your help and He us always there to make things right. When I whisper His Name through my day everything falls into place. When He is in the Center, all things come together.
DeleteThank You Jesus for allowing ys to rest in Your Presence, as we allow You to take charge of this day.
ReplyDeleteThank You for directing our course one step at a time and for each blessing you provide with every step along Your way.
You already know the next best step for Keith, whether inpatient rehab, or home health rehab, as the Hospital Doctors are proposing, or something else that You propose. I pray to be like the tortoise following You rather than the hare, bolting into the day following me, myself, and i.
Speak Lord. Thy servant is listening. Thank You for helping me to Do Nothing Til I Hear From You. THY WILL BE DONE. In Jesus' Name I ask. I seek. I knock. I praise. I thank. I yield. Amen.
Thank You Father for guiding our dear sister Brie to make the right decisions and supply her with all the right words to say. Show her how to encourage and comfort Keith as You heal him, and strengthen her to do the work You have prepared for her. Keep her in Your peace and presence. Bless her, Keith and Larry and heal their weaknesses of body, mind and spirit. Thank You for this and for saving and guiding your people as this terrible war begins,.in the powerful Name of Christ Jesus our Risen Lord.
DeleteLet us pray for Ukraine.
ReplyDeleteI join you Min, let's keep Ukraine in our prayers and the plight of her people. Brothers & sisters in Christ were and are praying for their homeland. Let's join them🙏🙏🙏🙏
DeleteAmen! Praying with you dear Min and Jan. God is still in charge and He cares for His people. He is their shelter in this storm. He is our Great Captain leading us through the turbulence. Here’s where we must exercise our trust muscles. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
DeleteIn all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
Joining in prayer, JC WARRIOR-STYLE=CONTINUOUSLY, for all Ukraine, all countries, and all earthly "leaders". May we bow and bend to our one true Leader above all others. In Jesus' Name, Amen
DeleteAMEN! 🙏
DeleteAmen, sister Jeanne!
ReplyDeleteLord Jesus please take charge of this day, a gift from You. Thank You for Your constant Presence throughout this day, and when I sleep tonight. This is a day You have made I shall rejoice and be glad in it.
ReplyDeleteI don't know much about ponies; donkeys yes. I've watched racehorses, tight as a bowstring, skittish. Eager to show off their breeding, their pedigree and race to be first across the finish line.
The JC reading on bolting into the day like a racehorse brought the opposite to mind.
I recalled as a small child going for donkey rides on the beach. The donkey's back was at least twice my height. On being lifted up onto the small saddle, the donkey's back felt warm, hairy, comforting. It moved with slow steady steps along the beach. Its owner walking alongside. The donkey knew where to turn around and walked back along the beach. Sitting on a warm living breathing creature was a wonderful experience. I remember after being lifted down, moving to the donkey's head, patting it, looking into its large quiet peaceful eyes. It nuzzled my hand for a moment.
My 'racehorse' days belong to a previous chapter in life ( Thank you Lord!).
I am so so thankful to now be in my 'donkey' chapter. Donkey Days? :)
Racehorses are anxious to be off. The 'ratrace' of life causes us much anxiety. Yet in Philippians 4:6, Paul encourages us to "be anxious for nothing". Then goes on to write " but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." This is what we need to do to prevent anxiety which often leads to physical and mental illness issues. So present your requests to God, then trustingly, expectantly wait for His answer, tailor-made to meet your need.
Just what I needed, at the moment I needed it. Trying my best to clip clop along until Jesus speaks.. Thank You Peter. 😊
DeleteThat was wonderful Peter. Holding onto the true peace that surrounds me. Taking my time to watch where He is leading me.
DeleteGood morning God! Thank you for this new day. Thank you for the time to relax into the morning in preparation for our celebration of life for BIL Paul. Thank you for guiding our words today with just the perfect mix of glorifying you and acknowledging our brothers life and faith. Thank you for the details that will be handled with ease. Thank you for blessing those that come and join us, and those that don't. In Jesus's name I pray.
ReplyDeletePraying with you, our dear Audra, and i am there with you, in Spirit. May Paul's soul rest in peace, in Jesus' Arms. Amen.
DeletePraying your day of celebration of Paul’s life was filled with love and sweet memories. May God comfort your broken hearts and fill you with peace as only our loving Father can. Paul is in a better place now. He has been lifted up out of his misery and is just fine. You’ll be with him again. God’s promises are something we can stake our lives on. The best is yet to come.
DeleteThank you God for the reminder to be thankful in everything.
ReplyDeleteAmen! So happy for you dear SC. God is so faithful! There is always a reason to give Him thanks and praise. We serve a great God!
DeleteJC today says: "Thank Me for each blessing along the way... A GRATEFUL heart protects you from negative thinking. Thankfulness enables you to see the abundance I shower upon you daily." No question, just being positive will not heal you, far from it! Some cancers, heart damage, injuries, will take a toll and can lead to quick deaths (no matter how positive you are). But as stated today, gratitude will lead to less negative thinking and self-pity, which rob you of joy.
ReplyDeleteOkay, update... normally, I hear zero, zip, nada from the docs on tests prior to the follow-up meeting 10 days or so later. For whatever reason the PET-CT results were posted on the NEW patient portal late yesterday afternoon, while we were eating my now traditional Carrabbas "reward" meal. It was clear! My monthly tests show remission, but a PET-CT is far more accurate for Myeloma patients. GRATEFUL for the JC Warrior prayers. Hoping this means some reduction in the maintenance, which I will ask about March 7. Godspeed, thanks again for your prayers.
Great news MadFox! Thank you for sharing.
DeleteTJ
Hallelujah!!! Dear MadFox, Your good news made my heart so happy and thankful. You are wrapped in prayers and God is answering them. I am so grateful that He’s shining His faithfulness in your health and life. I believe He is healing my cancer too. I thank Him every day for healing us. I know He hears my prayers and all the prayers. He is so good and merciful. Celebrate this good news and continue to be blessed in His loving presence.
DeleteHallelujah! May your journey continue victoriously in and through Christ! God bless 🙏.
DeleteWoo hoo MadFox!, Great news! May the Lord bless you with continued great news. Hallelujah! Uh, question, what's Carrabba's? Foodie here you know😃
DeleteThank you Jesus!
DeleteOh, MadFox, this is such wonderful news! Congratulations and yes, Carrabbas is a well deserved reward meal.
DeleteJan~ Carrabbas is an Italian restaurant chain that has pretty good food. We have them here in Houston too. Being Italian, I am kinda picky about Italian food, but it's one of the better Italian chains.
Thanks to all. Very blessed, hoping the MRD and genetic tests echo the PET-CT.
DeleteYes, Carrabbas is good, not great, Italian. Nothing beats a family recipe served by an Italian family's best cooks: Mamas and Grandmas!
Victory dance going on right now, MadFox! What great news! You know and we know those results got to you sooner than expected because of our God. What relief and a huge exhale of gratefulness when you read the results! So very happy for you and your family! May your March 7th appointment prove to go your way with the reduction of maintenance therapy. In Jesus' name, amen!
DeleteAmazing NJS. Just in the past hour, the biopsy results were in. My local oncologist is amazing. I fwded for our Tues. appt. But he replied 8 minutes later with "great news, deep remission" yes, no question anxiety level less as in the past those results were hidden til the doc released them. They have a new system at Emory... also wasnt anxious to the point of checking... actually got emails saying new test results are posted! Very blessed. Very grateful for all the prayers.
DeleteThanking God for all the technology that helped in your healing and delivering prompt results. He is so good ALL THE TIME!
DeleteWell I just love your gratitude despite your troubles! Sorry about all your car troubles and that your trip was canceled. You did the right thing in looking above your situation to see God’s blessings and to feel His perfect, relentless and reckless love. May God shine bright light on your path up ahead, and bring you joy and peace as only He can.
ReplyDeletePsalm 37:5-6
Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass. He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, And your justice as the noonday.
James 1:17
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.
Psalm 80:19
Restore us, O Lord God of hosts; Cause Your face to shine, And we shall be saved!
Continue to let your light shine bright Jeanne! God bless 🙏.
DeleteHallelujah! Yes, shine Jeanne shine! We're joining you🥰🙏🌞🌞🌞
DeleteThanks! I love you dear sisters more than I can say.
DeleteYou are so blessed to have God working in your life (even when it can't be seen). For He makes beauty from ashes. Peace be with you 🙏.
ReplyDeleteBut thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57). Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. (1 Chronicles 16:34). For of Him and through Him and to Him, are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen. (Romans 11:36). And whatever you do in word or deed,do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. (Colossians 3:17). I will praise You, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will tell of all Your marvelous works. (Psalm 9:1).
ReplyDeleteAmen Amen!
DeleteDear Janet, picking out the Colossians 3:17 for today especially! I need a good helping of this one as I go full force into my kitchen preparing for an asian cooking class after church. I tend to barge through the day like a bull! I thank the Lord for this opportunity to share the gift He's given me & have fun with my students too! Thank you for reminding me. 🥰😍
DeleteThanks for those awesome verses! Better than bacon and eggs to start my day! Amen
DeleteHow great is that, Jan, that you teach cooking classes! Your students will be so blessed to have you as their teacher! (I've so wanted to try cooking pad woon sen but keep shying away from it.)
DeleteHeavenly Father, thank You and bless Your holy name! I praise You Lord always! Let my heart be filled with Your love, peace, and joy Lord! Let my Spirit overflow with an abundance of thankfulness and let my heart be completely surrendered to You Lord. I am Yours and You are mine. Thank You Jesus! In Jesus name, I pray, Amen 🙏.
ReplyDeleteNeed this prayer too!
DeletePraying your perfect right with you and dear Jan, and all our seen and unseen sisters and brothers here. Amen and Amen.
DeleteI need to get back to being a part of the Anointed Family that Father led me to the year this blog was taking place. Pray with me that my desire would be sustained with discipline.
ReplyDeleteCome on back dear Anonymous and be renewed and restored each day by God’s Word, the beautiful devotions and prayers, and all the encouraging posts and blessings. Come with an open heart and be filled. Like the old Nike commercial: Just do it! 😊💗
DeleteHe gives us Grace and Mercy, in return we give Him Thankfulness and Trust.
ReplyDeleteAmen.
DeleteGood morning dear family 🌞! I came up on some comments concerning lent. We automatically view lent as giving up certain food related vices. The spin I read was to give up character vices. For instance: give up complaining, worry, judging, fear, etc. Whatever is in your life that's hindering your walk. In other words, replace these with meditating on the fruit of the spirit during lent. Who knows, it may become a habit! Annnd there's the food too. I'm giving up chips! Blessings dear family. 😍🙏🌈
ReplyDeleteThis is great, Jan! Thanks for sharing.
DeleteAwesome!!! That’ll make us better people and also more of a blessing to others. Let’s follow the Spirit and righteousness instead of the world and the flesh. Emotions always mess me up. I’m giving up chips and chocolate. But I’ll try to follow your advice too. May I learn to please God more in the way I walk through my days. Thank You Jesus.
DeleteHow great is this, Jan! I'm going to apply it and try my very best to cease criticizing,
DeleteSomething to remember all through the year!
DeleteI woke up thinking, where's Brie? I read through yesterday's post & lo & behold! I'm not the only family member missing our Brie! Where are you dear girl? What's up? We're thinking of you. Hope all is well. 😍🙏🙏🌈
ReplyDeleteI was thinking the same thing. Praying that all is well with her.
DeletePraying with you that all is well with our sister Brie because God is with her.,
DeleteMissing Brie, also miss Min Ahadi, praying all is well with both of our sisters.
DeleteDear TJ, you blessed me by sharing this. You & your wife could've chosen to remain bummed, instead you chose contentment for disappointment. God is smiling. Be blessed.🥰🙏🌈
ReplyDeleteTJ~ it is so easy to get into a downward funk that spirals out of control. Kudos to you for pulling out of that and redirecting your thoughts and praise.
ReplyDeleteOk, all. I wasn't going to add this, but my sweet man and I could really use your prayers. Jon's son, Robert was arrested on Thursday night for driving while intoxicated. Jon and I have known about Robert's issues with alcohol for a long time and have offered help to no avail. He wrecked his car by hitting a stop sign (where's the irony there?) and slid into a ditch. He was released last night around midnight but we haven't seen him yet. We went and got his dog from his apartment so he'll have to come get her at some point and face us. My day yesterday was completely unproductive and my stomach was upset all day. I tried my hardest to stay positive and put the whole situation in His hands. I did a so-so job at this as there were times I just broke down and cried. This is going to be a very expensive lesson for Robert. It's hard watching someone be so destructive with their life and continually making poor decisions. Thank you all for listening and thank you in advance for your prayers for Robert, Jon and me.
ReplyDeletePraying that Robert will heed the "irony" of his accident and have the motivation for change. In Jesus's name I pray.
DeleteAdding Robert and the situation to my prayer list. Giving it all to God and trusting Him to make things right as only He can do.
ReplyDeleteFather God, We ask you for turning Robert’s life around right now. May this accident be a wake up call so he will see that his drinking problem is ruining his life and separating him from You and Your love. Give him eyes to see You have a plan for him, and You are already preparing a bright future for him that doesn’t include heavy drinking and bad consequences. Give his family peace of mind and give him a renewed strength of faith. Let him see You only want him to be blessed and prosperous to Your glory. Thank You for all this in the powerful Name of Christ Jesus our Risen Lord. Amen
It's so understandable why you were down and out. Holy cow, that is A LOT. So great, though, that you recognized where you were at in your thoughts, turned those thoughts to the blessings God has bestowed on you and turned your frown upside down! Thanks for sharing and reminding us to do the same! Be well and blessed.
ReplyDeleteSuzanne,I agree it is so hard to watch someone be destructive with their life. Praying for you, Robert and Jon.
ReplyDeleteGod loves a thankful and humble heart. Just waking up to a new day and being able to see the light through the window is a reason to be grateful to Him. And every good work we do is good fruit for Him and only accomplished by His strength and wisdom. I loved today’s devotion. Especially: “A grateful heart protects you from negative thinking. Thankfulness enables you to see the abundance I shower upon you daily.”
ReplyDeleteWe can’t feel sorry for ourselves while we are thanking Him and praising Him.
We have more reasons to thank Him than we could ever count. One reason is we’re still here. He has taken good care of us and has brought us through many trials. Even though He allowed some trials, He never left us and He strengthened our faith.
Isaiah 25:1
O Lord, You are my God. I will exalt You, I will praise Your name, For You have done wonderful things; Your counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.
I Chronicles 16:34
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.
Psalm 91:4
He shall cover you with His feathers, And under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler.
Amen and thank you Jeanne
DeleteRejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer. (Romans 12:12).
ReplyDeleteAmen.
DeleteAmen. All in Christ.
DeleteWhile in the process of waking this morning and thanking the Lord for this day of life, l had a clear picture of the day as a road stretching ahead winding through a forest. I thanked the Lord that although I couldn't see what was ahead, He could, that He also would help me through what ever difficulties were ahead.
ReplyDeleteDifficulties started fairly early, then after prayer time, I turned to today's Jesus Calling and already found it a perfect fit. At each difficulty I've thanked the Lord for it and asked for His help. Should I still be here this evening, I look forward to thanking Him for the day past and a good nights sleep ahead.
I commend Psalm 118 to all.
'This Is The Day The Lord Has Made, I shall rejoice and be glad in it: https://youtu.be/26atGdbKhwY?si=8-IK5JtAbAAvhggV
Amen and God bless you Peter
DeleteThanks dear Peter. The day was created by Him, prepared by Him and blessed by Him.
DeleteLove that song-thanks Peter.
ReplyDeleteYes! Uplifting song. I used to play it at the nursing home. Many sang along.
ReplyDeleteRest well. We are well taken care of. God is on the Night Watch.
ReplyDelete