Word of the year: WAIT
"Wait for the Lord. Be Strong and don't lose hope. Wait for the Lord." -- Psalm 27:14
12/31/2022 — 1 Peter 5:7
“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”
1 Peter 5:7 — New Living Translation
Other translations of this verse says, “cast your cares” and “throw your anxieties”. Casting means to fling far away with no thought of going and bringing the thing back, so why do I give my problem to God and then grab it back again!
12/30/2022 — 2 Timothy 1:7
“Be strong, because God has given us his Spirit. And his Spirit does not cause us to be afraid. Instead, his Spirit causes us to be powerful to serve God. He helps us to love God and other people. And he helps us to control ourselves properly.”
2 Timothy 1:7 — Easy English Bible
With God’s Spirit I can grow, I can help others to grow, I can control my actions and my mind, and I can do all this with boldness knowing that God has my back!
12/29/2022 — Luke 10:41
“The Lord answered her, “Martha, my beloved Martha. Why are you upset and troubled, pulled away by all these many distractions? Are they really that important?”
Luke 10:41 — The Passion Translation
Worry and anxiety pull our minds in so many directions…. It takes me away from joy and peace, it causes me to be unfocused in my tasks. And really…. What is really as important as knowing that God is beside me no matter what I’m going through!
12/28/2022 — Philippians 4:6
“Don’t be anxious about anything; rather, bring up all of your requests to God in your prayers and petitions, along with giving thanks.”
Philippians 4:6 — Common English Bible
Last week I had a strategy for my anxious mind. Every time my thoughts went to the “what ifs” I would tell myself, I will worry when I know what I have to worry about. I would pray simply and briefly saying “God, You know my fear. Please keep this from happening. Thank You ahead of time.”
When the time came to be anxious I was still afraid which made me question my faith but God answered my prayer as I’d asked and I really did free myself from all that needless worry that would have drained me!
12/27/2022 — Psalm 62:5, 8
“Oh, I must find rest in God only, because my hope comes from him! All you people: Trust in him at all times! Pour out your hearts before him! God is our refuge! Selah”
Psalms 62:5, 8 — Common English Bible
Rest and Trust are connected. If I am really trusting God then I am able to sit back and let Him do the work, I can close my eyes and sleep deeply because God is in control.
Don’t worry. Don’t let your mind go into loops. Don’t be pressed for time. Take a few minutes to rest with God. Maybe in prayer?
12/26/2022 — Zephaniah 3:17
“For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.””
Zephaniah 3:17 — New Living Translation
It is a great comfort knowing that God is living with me.
It reminds me of parents watching over children, keeping their lives safe, loving the little quirks and accomplishments, holding them when they are afraid.
12/25/2022 — Matthew 5:3
“God blesses those people who depend only on him. They belong to the kingdom of heaven!”
Matthew 5:3 — Common English Bible
With every passing year there are less things I can do, more days I have to put aside my “plans”, more times I have to ask for help.
Part of aging and infirmity is to come to the realization that one isn’t really independent, that we need the help of others and that God will carry us when everything else fades away.
12/24/2022 — Psalms 103:1-2
“Let all that I am praise the Lord; with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me.”
Psalms 103:1-2 — New Living Translation
At God’s blessings I think “I’ll never forget this” but then the next problem comes along and I’m doubting and grumbling again. Have I forgotten how faithful and loving God is to me? Or am I just so used to the blessings that when they are hidden my heart becomes heavy and inward.
Directed remembering, visual reminders and important for keeping my heart turned towards God!
12/23/2022 — Psalms 62:1-2
“Only in God do I find rest; my salvation comes from him. Only God is my rock and my salvation— my stronghold!—I won’t be shaken anymore.”
Psalms 62:1-2 — Common English Bible
God gave us the Sabbath so that we could rest. Rest and not run around crazily. Rest and leave everything to God.
In this Christmas season I’m going to sit back, not pressure myself and let God direct my days!
12/22/2022 — Luke 1:12-13
“Zechariah was confused and afraid when he saw the angel. But the angel told him: Don't be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayers…”
Luke 1:12-13 — Common English Version
God works in the unexpected. We think we will find God in worship services and in prayer times but often God just does something that we don’t expect. And though we’ve prayed, we react in fear!
Expect God in the unexpected. A chance encounter. A challenging situation. God is there in all.
12/21/2022 — Luke 2:36-37
“…Anna was an aged widow who had been married only seven years before her husband passed away. After he died she chose to worship God in the temple continually. For the past eighty-four years she had been serving God with night-and-day prayer and fasting.”
Luke 2:36-37 — The Passion Translation
I have entered the senior citizen era of my life and my outreach gets narrower and narrower. What am I doing with this life? What will I be able to do in the coming years? How will I serve God with limited connection to the people around me?
Anna’s answer was with prayer and fasting. Another reminder to develop my prayer life.
12/20/2022 — Isaiah 11: 6-9
“The wolf will romp with the lamb, the leopard sleep with the kid. Calf and lion will eat from the same trough, and a little child will tend them. Cow and bear will graze the same pasture, their calves and cubs grow up together, and the lion eat straw like the ox. The nursing child will crawl over rattlesnake dens, the toddler stick his hand down the hole of a serpent. Neither animal nor human will hurt or kill on my holy mountain. The whole earth will be brimming with knowing God-Alive, a living knowledge of God ocean-deep, ocean-wide. * * *”
Isaiah 11:6-9 — Message Bible
Pray for peace.
12/19/2022 — Hebrews 13:2
“Don’t neglect to open up your homes to guests, because by doing this some have been hosts to angels without knowing it.”
Hebrews 13:2 — Common English Bible
In showing hospitality we don’t ask the guest to change but we are willing to change our behavior for them. God didn’t expect us to change and be good to be accepted as His children. He allowed Himself to come to us in Jesus to gain our salvation.
12/18/2022 — Luke 1:43
“And how has it happened to me that the mother of my Lord would come to me?”
Luke 1:43 — New American Standard Bible
God has given us friends and people we can go to and pray with and just enjoy. And God has also made us to be the same blessing to others.
Mary went to Elizabeth to share her news and Elizabeth recognized her as the mother of our Lord. God sends me, and I receive friends and we might even be recognized as God’s messengers, His ambassadors, His hands
and feet.
Reach out to friends.
12/17/2022 — Psalms 8:3-4
“When I look up at your skies, at what your fingers made— the moon and the stars that you set firmly in place— what are human beings that you think about them; what are human beings that you pay attention to them?”
Psalms 8:3-4 — Common English Bible
Isn’t it amazing that God cares about us? He has this gorgeous world and His beautiful creations and here is me with my little life and small (to God) problems. The Bible says that He has His eye on me and that is enough.
Look to the sky tonight and see the moon and stars and God’s magnificence.
12/16/2022 — Luke 1:46
“Mary said, “My soul praises the Lord’s greatness!”
Luke 1:46 — God’s Word
Wait with a purpose.
We are in the season of advent and the world is waiting for Jesus’ birthday. As the years pass, I put up less Christmas decorations, I plan less Christmas activities. If anything, as Christmas comes closer I’m feeling the dread of getting my Christmas/New Year’s cards written.
Make a reasonable plan for the holidays…. Add a bit of joy, whether a daily 3:00 coffee time or a special purchase. Thank God for our cozy home and make it pleasant. Use the waiting time to pray.
12/15/2022 — Matthew 28:20
“and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you. And I will be with you always, to the end of the age.””
Matthew 28:20 — Good News Bible
God is with us. God is with me! Throughout Covid, throughout rheumatism, throughout the busy season.
“With” was one of my words a few years ago…. How can I keep in my mind that God is with me through all of my life, the big things and the little things too.
By coming to the Bible daily. By looking for His glories around me. By being thankful for His blessings.
12/14/2022 — Ephesians 1:14
“The Spirit is God’s guarantee that he will give us the inheritance he promised and that he has purchased us to be his own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify him.”
Ephesians 1:14 — New Living Translation
God has promised us eternity and an inheritance of joy and peace everlasting. The Holy Spirit therefore just isn’t a mark of ownership, it is a symbol of God’s promise…. An engagement ring assuring us of a loving relationship with God.
12/13/2022 — Ephesians 1:13
“And you also became God's people when you heard the true message, the Good News that brought you salvation. You believed in Christ, and God put his stamp of ownership on you by giving you the Holy Spirit he had promised.”
Ephesians 1:13 — Good News Bible
In Japan we use stamps, or seals (also known as chops) to mark something as official or to claim ownership. I’m thinking of carving an eraser stamp to use on my art so that people will know what I’ve made, what is mine.
God puts His stamp on the people who belong to Him. The Holy Spirit is my stamp and though I may not see it with my eyes but God and His angels see it!
I am marked with God’s stamp!
12/12/2022 — Ephesians 1:13
“You heard and believed the message of truth, the Good News that he has saved you. In him you were sealed with the Holy Spirit whom he promised.”
Ephesians 1:13 — God’s Word
I hear, read, use the word “saved” a lot but I think I lose the emotion that should be involved.
If someone is saved then it is a “fall to your knees” in relief and gratitude emotion. It is a “I will spend the rest of my life indebted and being worthy of the life that was returned” emotion.
Being saved isn’t just a word, it’s could be/should be an emotion.
12/11/2022 — Ephesians 1:13
“And now you Gentiles have also heard the truth, the Good News that God saves you. And when you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago.”
Ephesians 1:13 — New Living Translation
I know to whom I belong. Sometimes I wish I could SEE the Holy Spirit residing inside of me just so I’d have a visual reminder of belonging to God… but again, it is all about faith….
The mark that God sees that marks me as His, I know is there every time choose to go to Him with my life.
12/10/2022 — Ephesians 1:7
“Since we are now joined to Christ, we have been given the treasures of redemption by his blood—the total cancellation of our sins—all because of the cascading riches of his grace.”
Ephesians 1:7 — The Passion Translation
All my sins have been blown away by the gales of God’s forgiveness. He showers down mercy and blessings instead!
12/9/2022 — Ephesians 1:7
“He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins.”
Ephesians 1:7 — New Living Translation
I picture myself standing in a ticket line knowing I don’t have enough money to pay my fare and suddenly Jesus sweeps in and purchases my ticket for me and even accompanies me to my destination! Sinless heaven!
12/8/2022 — Ephesians 1:6
“So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son.”
Ephesians 1:6 — New Living Translation
“Grace is the opposite of karma, which is all about getting what you deserve. Grace is getting what you don’t deserve.”
Justin Holcomb
What a great definition of grace! I belong to Jesus and only because of that God pours His love on me no matter what I’ve done or who I am!
12/7/2022 — Ephesians 1:5
“Because of his love he had already decided to adopt us through Jesus Christ. He freely chose to do this”
Ephesians 1:5 — God’s Word
I have been adopted by God as His child, not because He’s lonely, or He NEEDS someone to carry on His family name. Not because I’m cute or He pities me in my poor state. My adoption was predestined, and God adopted me because He loved me and being His child added to His pleasure!
12/6/2022 — Ephesians 1:5
“He predestined and lovingly planned for us to be adopted to Himself as [His own] children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the kind intention and good pleasure of His will—”
Ephesians 1:5 — Amplified Bible
I’m not good with planning and once my plan is fixed it rattles me when things don’t go “right”.
Maybe I need to get my mind off my own plans and realize that God’s plans are never thwarted and He chose me to be part of that plan! Even in my discouragement about my own plans, I can praise God that His plans include me!
12/5/2022 — Ephesians 1:4
“God chose us in Christ to be holy and blameless in God’s presence before the creation of the world.”
Ephesians 1:4 — Common English Bible
God will not point His finger at me. I may have things I try to hide, and sins I can’t erase but God does not blame me for my wickedness nor weakness. He does not lay burdens on those He loves. He only removes the weight I have laid on myself.
12/4/2022 — Ephesians 1:4
“Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.”
Ephesians 1:4 — New Living Translation
None of us are without fault and that is what makes this verse so meaningful. We all have faults which proves that it is not us choosing to place ourselves before God. We, His underserving children, are seen as without fault! I know my failures no matter how well I hide them from others, but God sees me as without fault!
12/3/2022 — Ephesians 1:3
“We praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. He has blessed us in very many ways. Because we belong to Christ, we enjoy all the good things that come from heaven. God blesses our spirits with those good things.”
Ephesians 1:3 — Easy English Bible
God chose me! God chose me!!
I didn’t/don’t get chosen for many things. I wasn’t sporty so I was always the last chosen on a team. I’ve no great speaking ability so I still am at the end of the line when assignments are given out.
But God chose me! Not I chose God, though that is still hard to get my head around. He decided to include me in His home and in eternity!
12/2/2022 — Ephesians 1:10
“And this is the plan: At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ—everything in heaven and on earth.”
Ephesians 1:10 — New Living Translation
God has a plan!!! Even though Covid has messed things up and brought hardship and sadness and inconvenience, God is using it all for His glory. And He chose us to be here at this space in time. My job is to continue to praise God even in uncertainty (to man). God is in control!
12/1/2022 — Philippians 4:13
“Christ gives me the strength to face anything.”
Philippians 4:13 — Common English Version
“It’s not what happens to you, it’s what happens inside you.”
There are always a lot of challenges and in hindsight I wonder why I didn’t meet them all with more faith. If nothing else, with each challenge (and even failure to trust God) I learn again how faithful He is. Over time I hope that recalling how He carried me through will have changed my heart and faith for the better.
11/30/2022 — James 4:14
“What do you know about tomorrow? How can you be so sure about your life? It is nothing more than mist that appears for only a little while before it disappears.”
James 4:14 — Common English Version
This morning had a layer of fog on it but within 30 minutes it was gone.
My life changes rapidly too. I know if I keep my focus on God, the unchanging, that there is always something solid to grasp. God’s presence and His love are two things I can be sure about.
11/29/2022 — John 14:9-10
““You’ve been with me all this time, Philip, and you still don’t understand? To see me is to see the Father. So how can you ask, ‘Where is the Father?’ Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I speak to you aren’t mere words. I don’t just make them up on my own. The Father who resides in me crafts each word into a divine act.”
John 14:9-10 — Message Bible
What is my image of God? What is my image of Jesus? I wonder if my relationship with my father reflects on how I see and communicate with God….
It is easier to picture myself with Jesus who I see as loving, comforting, weeping, reaching out for me.
They are the same. I’m thankful for God and Jesus. I can visualize myself with both.
11/28/2022 — 1 Timothy 6:17
“To all the rich of this world, I command you not to be wrapped in thoughts of pride over your prosperity, or rely on your wealth, for your riches are unreliable and nothing compared to the living God. Trust instead in the one who lavishes upon us all good things, fulfilling our every need.”
1 Timothy 6:17 — The Passion Translation
Though I don’t consider us “rich”, we have more than enough and live very comfortably. Even so we look at our savings and wonder if it will last our lives. We worry about inflation and our pensions…. We get pulled into thinking monetary security means life and happiness security.
God provides everything. If He is my focus then I have enough.
11/27/2022 — Hebrews 11:1
“This is what it means to trust God: We will be sure about the things that we hope for. We will be sure in our minds about things that we cannot even see.”
Hebrews 11:1 — Easy English Bible
I really love this simple Bible version.
I hope for something and ask God and I am sure He has heard me and will answer me. He always hears, He always acts, He is never too busy or tired. He sometimes asks me to wait but it is always the best for me.
11/26/2022 — Romans 8:18
“During this time now, we have troubles and pain. But I am sure that these troubles are not really very great. One day God will show us all the great things he has prepared for us. That will make the troubles that we have now seem very small.”
Romans 8:18 — Easy English Bible
Comparison is not a great practice but compared to history our problems today may not be as great… or they may be different whether bigger or smaller. The future will have different concerns but in all God is always bigger, always enveloping, always brighter!
11/25/2022 — Romans 3:4
“No, certainly it does not mean that! God will always do what he says. He will always say what is true, even if everyone in the world should tell lies. This is what is written in the Bible: ‘Your message is true. It shows that you are right. People may say that you are wrong. But it will always be clear that you are right.’”
Romans 3:4 — Easy English Bible
There are a lot of people who are cleverer than me and can use their logic and speech to make clearer points than I can. Still, I know what is true even if I can’t express it. God and His Word are the truth. No matter how good the human argument, I can trust God and what He says.
11/24/2022 — 1 Peter 5:7
“If you have any kind of trouble in your mind, give it to God. God has promised to take care of you.”
1 Peter 5:7 — Easy English Bible
The Bible says to take my problems and worries to God. That doesn’t mean He expects me to give them to God and forget about them. It means I give my worries to God and BELIEVE! If it takes repeating Bible verses then do it! Pray, leave the problem, believe God is working on it because He loves me!
11/23/2022 — Romans 8:37
“No, in all these things we have complete victory through him who loved us!”
Romans 8:37 — Good News Bible
In difficulties keep a literal song of praise in my heart. Get direction from the Bible. Focus my mind on being thankful. Be open to lessons and advice from people whom God uses.
11/22/2022 — Romans 10:17
“So then, people must hear the message before they can trust God. And people hear that message when someone tells them about Christ.”
Romans 10:17 — Easy English Bible
I am futzing around wishing M-San would give herself and her fears up to God, hoping that I can be a good influence through the snippets of my faith I flash at her.
Actually, she’s never heard the message and she’s not going to get it anywhere but me. Help me to be bold with sharing God’s Word!
11/21/2022 — Hebrews 13:6
“Because of that, we can bravely say this: ‘The Lord is the one who helps me, so I will not be afraid. I will not be afraid of anything that people can do to me.’”
Hebrews 13:6 — Easy English Bible
I’m sorry to say that I have relationships that have broken down… I can only say that because I feel bad about those that at least my heart is still soft enough to feel regret.
God will bring me to a situation where connections can be rejoined or where I feel good about the situations. Leave it to Him.
11/20/2022 — 1 Corinthians 2:9-10
“But as Scripture says: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined the things that God has prepared for those who love him.” God has revealed those things to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches everything, especially the deep things of God.”
1 Corinthians 2:9-10 — God’s Word
I can only imagine… and my knowledge is too small to imagine what God has in store for me. My remaining life, my eternity. The Holy Spirit reminds me not to give up, to stay on the road of faith and puts sparks of desire for God’s wonders in my heart.
11/19/2022 — Jeremiah 33:2-3
““I made the earth. I formed it. And I set it in place. The Lord is my name. Call out to me. I will answer you. I will tell you great things you do not know. And unless I do, you wouldn’t be able to find out about them.””
Jeremiah 33:2-3 — New International Revised Version
God is willing to share Himself and bring us into a place of peace within Him. Running around looking for peace only brings more busyness. Relax. Pray. Listen to God’s truth in music. Hear Him in the wind and see Him in the beauty of the world and eyes of your loved one.
11/18/2022 — Psalms 118:1
“Give thanks to the Lord, because he is good. His faithful love continues forever.”
Psalm 118:1 — New International Revised Version
How do I picture God as being with me? Is He the like the light of the sun that surrounds me? The air that I breathe that I don’t even notice? Is He the love I have for others and who love me though I can’t measure that love? Is He music and things of beauty? Is he silence and solitude? Is He the beating hearts of those He loves?
He is all these things but so much more.
11/17/2022 — 1 Peter 5:7
“Turn all your worries over to him. He cares about you.”
1 Peter 5:7 — New International Revised Version
God loves me and never tires of looking after me. He wants me to be free of worry and He wants me to trust Him with the things that spin in my mind. Remember to pray, to be thankful, to repeat, “God is in control.”
11/16/2022 — 2 Timothy 1:7
“God's Spirit doesn't make cowards out of us. The Spirit gives us power, love, and self-control.”
2 Timothy 1:7 — Contemporary English Version
I can control my thoughts by making it a habit to direct them. Instead of worry, choose prayer. Instead of dwelling on the “what if’s” choose to find something to be grateful for.
11/15/2022 — Matthew 6:33
“Instead, always think about the things that are important in the kingdom of heaven. Always do what God shows you is right. Then he will also give you the things that you need each day.”
Matthew 6:33 — Easy English Bible
Instead of worrying, think first of what God’s job for me is today. What is important to God this day and my role in it? He gives ME a job to do, I let HIM work out my problem knowing that He has everything in His hands.
11/14/2022 — Proverbs 12:25
“Worry makes the heart heavy. But a kind word cheers it up.”
Proverbs 12:25 — New International Revised Version
I don’t think I’m a person who worries to extreme but there are nights that I wake up and my mind goes down paths of “what if”. Before the bout in the hospital I found myself worrying about the dire possibilities…. As usual, my worries didn’t come to pass.
Worrying is not only a waste of time, it takes away from productivity and does nothing to relieve a problem. I try to change my worries into prayers as leaving a situation with God reminds me of how He loves me.
11/13/2022 — 1 Timothy 6:17
“Command those who are rich in the things of this life not to be proud, but to place their hope, not in such an uncertain thing as riches, but in God, who generously gives us everything for our enjoyment.”
1 Timothy 6:17 — Good News Bible
God gives us everything, and He gives it with pleasure! We don’t need to be collecting things and money to buy more things because at the necessary time God will supply all that I need!
11/12/2022 — Hebrews 4:16
“So we should come near to God and we should not be afraid. God is our King. We can ask him to help us when we need help. We know that he will forgive us and he will be kind to us in whatever way we need.”
Hebrews 4:16 — Easy English Bible
How wonderful that I don’t need priests or veteran Christians in order to speak to God. I can go right up to Him and ask that He listen and God always has time! He looks on me with love and is happy when I burst into His presence in prayer!
11/11/2022 — John 16:12-15
““I still have many things to tell you, but you can’t handle them now. But when the Friend comes, the Spirit of the Truth, he will take you by the hand and guide you into all the truth there is. He won’t draw attention to himself, but will make sense out of what is about to happen and, indeed, out of all that I have done and said. He will honor me; he will take from me and deliver it to you. Everything the Father has is also mine. That is why I’ve said, ‘He
takes from me and delivers to you.’”
John 16:12-15 — Message Bible
My humanness wants answers now, wants explanations, wants to know all the reasons so I can figure things out myself. But God does not promise to explain. He does promise that I won’t be alone when I need help, that His Spirit will take me by the hand and guide me, thus I don’t have to be preparing for every possible situation.
The greater gift is not being in the know but in having the Holy Spirit within me.
11/10/2022 — John 5:19
“So Jesus answered them, “I am telling you the truth: the Son can do nothing on his own; he does only what he sees his Father doing. What the Father does, the Son also does.”
John 5:19 — Good News Bible
Can I also claim this… that I do only what God is doing, that I base my actions and thoughts only upon what God has told me?
It is true, nothing in my life is done apart from God. My life is directed and controlled. If I do only what God does… will I even know what to do? I guess this is where the WWJD movement came about. What would God (Jesus) do?
11/9/2022 — Psalms 34:4
“I sought the Lord [on the authority of His word], and He answered me, And delivered me from all my fears.”
Psalms 34:4 — Amplified Bible
When I am afraid of worried the Bible is my answer and authority. God speaks to me through His Word, or at least I hear Him more through reading the Bible than waiting to understand His voice in my prayers. And I can go back and reread what I’ve known to been true in other times!
11/8/2022 — Psalms 119:89
“Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven [standing firm and unchangeable].”
Psalms 119:89 — Amplified Bible
There must be one thing that I rest my life and my faith upon and it has to be unchanging and solid. God’s Word is what I base all my beliefs, all my decisions upon. It is my rock in a changing world.
11/7/2022 — Colossians 4:12
“Greetings from Epaphras, another member of your group and a servant of Christ Jesus. He always prays fervently for you, asking God to make you stand firm, as mature and fully convinced Christians, in complete obedience to God's will.”
Colossians 4:12 — Good News Bible
Paul teaches us to persevere in prayer. We want results immediately, we want to feel connected, but my relationship with God is lifelong and His time is not my time. Pray continually. Pray fervently.
11/6/2022 — Colossians 4:12
“Epaphras sends greetings. He is one of you. He serves Christ Jesus. He is always praying hard for you. He prays that you will hold on tightly to all that God has in mind for us. He prays that you will keep growing in your knowledge of what God wants. He also prays that you will be completely sure about it.”
Colossians 4:12 — New International Revised Version
I think I should be praying this way for people, that they will turn to God, grow in their relationship with God, that their faith will not waver.
I also think how I need someone to pray this for me and realize Jesus is doing that very thing for me. Interceding, pleading my case to God. How blessed we believers are to have Jesus in our lives.
11/5/2022 — Psalms 145:18
“The Lord is ready to help everyone who asks him. He is near to everyone who prays honestly.”
Psalms 145:18 — Easy English Bible
Can I remember that I am not praying TO God, I’m praying WITHIN Him. He is surrounding me, knowing me, seeing my hurt and concerns and attempts at being godly. My honesty in prayer should be easy because He sees through all pretense.
11/4/2022 — Romans 8:1
“Now we know this: God has forgiven those people who are united with Christ Jesus. God will never say that they are guilty.”
Romans 8:1 — Easy English Bible
Do I feel judged? By God? By people? I find myself judging others in my heart and realize I take pride in not having the same habit or way of thinking or whatever which really means I feel I’m protecting myself from the judgment I think God might have.
God has already declared me forgiven and my sins and pride forgotten.
11/2/2022 — 1 John 3:19-20
“Here’s how we know that we hold to the truth. And here’s how we put our hearts at rest, knowing that God is watching. If our hearts judge us, we know that God is greater than our hearts. And he knows everything.”
1 John 3:19-20 — New International Revised Version
Even when my heart and mind are upset with worry, I can relax knowing that God is watching. Even when I feel guilty about that very worry, I remember that God is not even blaming me for that weakness. He is greater than my wavering heart.
11/1/2022 — Romans 8:34
“Who then is left to condemn us? Certainly not Jesus, the Anointed One! For he gave his life for us, and even more than that, he has conquered death and is now risen, exalted, and enthroned by God at his right hand. So how could he possibly condemn us since he is continually praying for our triumph?”
Romans 8:34 — The Passion Translation
Jesus is praying for me! Interceding for! Speaking to God for me on my behalf! What better prayer could there be! Non-believers may pray with their own words but I have the Holy Spirit and Jesus praying the language of God. Just add my heart to theirs.
10/31/2022 — Romans 8:26
“In the same way the Spirit also comes to help us, weak as we are. For we do not know how we ought to pray; the Spirit himself pleads with God for us in groans that words cannot express.”
Romans 8:26 — Good News Bible
God knows my frustrations with praying. My attempts and systems, my lack of doing over knowing why. For that very reason the Holy Spirit prays for me because none of us could “do it right.” Pray about prayer and know that God understands.
10/30/2022 — Luke 13:13
“He put his hands on her and immediately she could stand up straight. She praised God.”
Luke 13:13 — Easy English Bible
How I hope that some day I’m going to stop shuffling around, hanging on to railings and rubbing my hands and knees. Don’t give in to doubt. Wait for God’s miracles which may come in the form of doctors and medication.
10/29/2022 — Colossians 4:2
“Give a lot of time and effort to prayer. Always be watchful and thankful.”
Colossians 4:2 — New International Revised Version
I think about prayer. I understand the value of prayer. My mind know verse about prayer. I’ve tried making prayer journals. I read about how to pray. Do I actually pray?
10/28/2022 — Daniel 9:21-22
“As I was praying, Gabriel, whom I had seen in the earlier vision, came swiftly to me at the time of the evening sacrifice. He explained to me, “Daniel, I have come here to give you insight and understanding.”
Daniel 9:21-22 — New Living Translation
I understand that prayer will save me time and energy when I go to God first to get His guidance but actually I seem to have more trouble catching the “insight and understanding” that God sends. Asking is one thing but being in tune with God’s answer is another attribute I need to work on.
10/27/2022 — Jeremiah 32:40
“And I will make an everlasting covenant with them: I will never stop doing good for them. I will put a desire in their hearts to worship me, and they will never leave me.”
Jeremiah 32:40 — New Living Translation
God will never stop doing good for me. He will overcome and outlast any of my illnesses. He has promised to restore “my” lost time though my time is all His time. Relax. Enjoy the quiet. Let God do His work.
10/26/2022 — Romans 2:4
“Or do you have contempt for the riches of God’s generosity, tolerance, and patience? Don’t you realize that God’s kindness is supposed to lead you to change your heart and life?”
Romans 2:4 — Common English Bible
God uses everything. He is constantly teaching me and using my experiences to make my life and the people around me’s lives better.
What he allows me to experience today, concern, pain, He will use to teach me to be closer to Him.
10/25/2022 — Psalms 27:13-14
“I know that I will live to see the LORD's goodness in this present life. Trust in the LORD. Have faith, do not despair. Trust in the LORD.”
Psalms 27:13-14 — Good News Bible
This gives me such hope on the eve before entering the hospital. Trust…. Trust… Trust…. There is only goodness surrounding me. There is only God knowing me and loving me more than I can imagine.
10/24/2022 — Galatians 6:2
“Help to carry one another's burdens, and in this way you will obey the law of Christ.”
Galatians 6:2 — Good News Bible
I’ve learned this week from my friends that “carrying another’s burdens” means listening. Just letting me talk about my fears has helped and also let Tetsu off the hook of worrying about me alone. It also means taking on duties. My vet stepping in for John relieved us of a burden we didn’t even know we had. Another thing that has help has been reminding me of God’s word. I had no energy to go looking myself but reading a message with scripture gave me such hope and a resounding, “YES!”
10/23/2022 — Revelation 21:4
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more. There will be no mourning, crying, or pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.””
Revelation 21:4 — Common English Bible
I try to remember that God understands my anguish. He allows pain and heartache and suffering for reasons He doesn’t need to explain. My heart is down right now but there will be a time in this life or the next when all my tears will be wiped away.
10/22/2022 — John 1:5
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness doesn’t extinguish the light.”
John 1:5 — Common English Bible
I might be in a dark time but look around. God’s glowing shining somewhere if I open my eyes. Follow the glow. To normality, to a new adventure of eternity.
10/20/2022 — 1 Peter 4:16
“But don’t be ashamed if you suffer as one who belongs to Christ. Rather, honor God as you bear Christ’s name. Give honor to God,”
1 Peter 4:16 — Common English Bible
I hope I can continue to praise God and shine His light despite my moods and health challenges.
10/19/2022 — Romans 5:3-4
“We are happy even when we have troubles and pain. That is because we know that those troubles help us to become patient and strong. And when we remain strong, we show that we trust God. When we trust God like that, it causes us to hope for God's help.”
Romans 5:3-4 — Easy English Bible
Well, I’m not in a rejoicing mood…. More tears than anything. But I did stop my worrying to pray that I know God is good and that He will work out everything for my best.
10/18/2022 — John 16:33
“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]”
John 16:33 — Amp
God knows what I’m in the midst of and He offers me peace by resting in Him. Ask the Holy Spirit to anoint me with peace so that I can be confident in God’s goodness to me no matter how I feel.
10/17/2022 — Romans 8:28
“We know that God works all things together for good for the ones who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:28 — Common English Bible
A simple but unwavering faith pleases God the most. When any problem or bad news comes and I respond with a trust in God despite my tears, He has seen and recorded it in His book of my life!
10/16/2022 — James 5:16
For this reason, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous person is powerful in what it can achieve.
I still need to trust prayer. I run to books and devotions trying to learn how to be an effective prayer warrior yet that is an action seeking out humans rather than God’s direct words. The desire is always there but my actions do not always reflect. Go to God first!
10/15/2022 — Psalms 34:19
“Many hardships and perplexing circumstances confront the righteous, But the Lord rescues him from them all.”
Psalms 34:19 — Amplified Bible
God does not promise ease nor a life without problems. Then why do I think He doesn’t love me when I run into challenges? He is enough. Repeat to myself, I don’t need a pain free life. I don’t need perfect health and independence. I only need God. God rescues me from ALL!!!
10/14/2022 — 1 Samuel 17:37
“The LORD has saved me from lions and bears; he will save me from this Philistine.” “All right,” Saul answered. “Go, and the LORD be with you.””
1 Samuel 17:37 — Good News Bible
David had a simple faith. “God saved me before, He will save me again.”
I can get so involved with different ways of Bible study, of prayer journals and scripture memorization. Go back to simple. Go about my daily life trusting that God is with me. That is my faith.
10/13/2022 1 Peter 5:8
“Be watchful and control yourselves. Your enemy the devil is like a roaring lion. He prowls around looking for someone to swallow up.”
1 Peter 5:8 — New International Revised Version
Satan would love me to be in a bad mood, to
mope, to worry, to get emotional and angry. But that is his way into my heart and then he tries to push God out.
Be watchful. Too many complaints? Too many tears? Too many sleepless nights? Go immediately to God, in prayer, in Bible reading, in praise music! Protect yourself!
10/12/2022 — 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 — New Living Translation
It’s true that when I talk with someone who has overcome a problem or is standing firmly in faith during the suffering, it gives me hope and their words fall deeper into my heart.
In the same way, my suffering and my response will influence someone else and both our faiths will become stronger.
10/11/2022 — Psalms 100:4
“You can pass through his open gates with the password of praise. Come right into his presence with thanksgiving. Come bring your thank offering to him and affectionately bless his beautiful name!”
Psalms 100:4 — The Passion Translation
Begin by thanking God for the little things… the aroma of coffee, the lost book found, the sound of a bird singing. Especially when I feel it’s impossible to be thankful in the midst of great troubles, find the small thing to be grateful for. It is always there.
10/10/2022 — Isaiah 63:9
“In all their suffering he also suffered, and he personally rescued them. In his love and mercy he redeemed them. He lifted them up and carried them through all the years.”
Isaiah 63:9 — New Living Translation
Just as I would be sad and drop everything to comfort my children if they were hurting, God wraps me in His love and assures me that I’m not alone. This time is here for a reason and God is whispering that He’ll see me through it.
10/9/2022 — Lamentation 3:21-25
“Yet hope returns when I remember this one thing: The LORD's unfailing love and mercy still continue, Fresh as the morning, as sure as the sunrise. The LORD is all I have, and so I put my hope in him. The LORD is good to everyone who trusts in him,”
Lamentations 3:21-25 — Good News Bible
I may be in a season of sadness and pain but then I remember all God’s blessings, all that He’s done, His goodness and love. There’s no way I’m going to end up alone and angry and bitter. All things are working, God is working for my good. Relax and look forward to what He has planned!
10/8/2022 — Isaiah 43:2
“When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.”
Isaiah 43:2 — New Living Translation
Jesus is with me. He knows how I feel… tired, worried, sad. He understands and doesn’t expect me to be different. He doesn’t care that I’m not strong. In our house tonight there is Tetsu, me and Jesus. We make a family of three (with 5 cats and a dog).
10/7/2022 — Isaiah 43:19
“For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.”
Isaiah 43:19 — New Living Translation
I think my past healthy life is over. I’ve begun a new life with the label “ailing”. I’ve got to throw away all that I’d planned to be and do. I’ve got to believe that this new life is going to be abundant, joyful and content. It will not look like what my past life was.
10/6/2022 — 2 Samuel 5:20
“David attacked the Philistines and defeated them. Then he said, “I watched the Lord break through my enemies like a mighty flood.” So he named the place “The Lord Broke Through.””
2 Samuel 5:20 — Common English Version
Is God really going to break through this time of illness for me, or is His plan for no to live within this uncertainty with grace and patience? I’m feeling like I’m going to break before He breaks through.
10/5/2022 — Psalms 27:8
“My heart has heard you say, “Come and talk with me.” And my heart responds, “Lord, I am coming.””
Psalms 27:8 — New Living Translation
I think God says this to me everyday. I worry. I think over and over about what is, what was, what may be. I complain. I bargain. And God says, “Talk to me.”
In some ways, I think all this dwelling on what I feel both physically and emotionally, is my prayer to God. But other times I feel my prayer should be purer.
I am coming, God, but it’s taking me time.
10/4/2022 — Micah 7:8
“My enemies, don't be glad because of my troubles! I may have fallen, but I will get up; I may be sitting in the dark, but the Lord is my light.”
Micah 7:8 — Common English Version
I don’t think anyone would gloat over my weakness right now but they probably are curious and wondering (like me) why I’m in such bad health.
I have to claim this verse that one day I will be up and at ‘‘em again and out of this dark mental shadow.
10/3/2022 — Psalm 9:10
“Lord, those who know you will trust in you. You have never deserted those who look to you.”
Psalm 9:10 — New international Revised Version
God will not abandon me. He is there working in the trials and what happens is happening FOR me, not TO me. So… don’t abandon God just because you don’t like the place you are at right now. There is a reason that you (Tanya!) may never know! That’s okay!
10/2/2022 — Job 13:15
““Though He slay me, I will hope in Him. Nevertheless I will argue my ways before Him.”
Job 13:15 — New American Standard Bible
I hope in the these latter years of my life that I will continue to say this. I will continue to ask for healing and freedom from pain but even if I am in discomfort I want to say that I trust God. You can tell I’m feeling pretty good today but when I’m down I hope I’ll remember this commitment in my heart.
10/1/2022 — 1 John 2:1
“My dear children, I’m writing this to you so that you will not sin. But suppose someone does sin. Then we have a friend who speaks to the Father for us. He is Jesus Christ, the Blameless One.”
1 John 2:1 — New International Revised Version
This verse resounds with me considering my recent attitude and moods about my physical situation. Whining, weepy, doubting, frustrated, negative. Not anything God wants of me, yet…. Though I want to be prayerful and accepting and gracious, I fall to moods…. But God loves me and is teaching me and one day I will be perfected in Him. For now, my recognition and repentance is enough. Give myself grace.
9/30/2022 — Psalms 37:24
“Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.”
Psalms 37:24 — New Living Translation
This is a pretty apt verse for me right now. Recently I stumble daily, in body and in heart. I reach out for help walking and when I am sad. I wish I would first reach for God’s hand but I turn to human help. I take comfort knowing that God supplies the people that help me.
9/29/2022 — Exodus 14:14
“The Lord will fight for you, and you won't have to do a thing.””
Exodus 14:14 — Common English Version
I am not fighting my trials alone. I just have to stay calm and trust God to step in. God even uses other people to fight my fights for me! Am I sick? Tetsu steps in to relieve me of chores and he supports me with love. Kaoru-San encourages me with a doctor recommendation. Sumi-San and Mari-San bring food to entice me. God is supplying my needs.
9/28/2022 — Luke 23:34
“Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.”…
Luke 23:34 — New Living Translation
When I feel I’ve been wrong, I have to remember that the other party has had a different history than I’ve had, they come from a different set of experiences, their communication with Jesus is never what I understand. (They may even have a closer understanding than me!)
Forgiveness is hard but it is the only way.
9/27/2022 — Romans 8:28
“We know that God works to help those people who love him. He uses everything that happens to them to bring something good. He does this for those people that he has
chosen to serve him.”
Romans 8:28 — Easy English Bible
I like this translation.
“He uses everything that happens to them to bring something good.”
Job had a lot of sad things that he had to get through with his faith but God blessed him immensely in the end. What are problems for me now will one day be things I have overcome.
9/26/2022 — 1 Timothy 6:12
“Continue to believe God's true message. Be like someone who fights well to keep it safe. God has chosen you to live with him for ever. You stood in front of many people and said clearly that you believed in Jesus Christ. So live in a way that shows that you belong to him.”
1 Timothy 6:12 — Easy English Bible
In some translation this verse starts with “Fight the good fight of faith.”
I HAVE chosen to live with Jesus forever and my faith is worth protecting. I’ll not let doubts and fear and anger take away my faith.
I’m regret showing my frustration and confusion and I ask that God help me to endure trials with a positive heart.
9/25/2022 — Isaiah 30:15
“This is what the Almighty Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: You can be saved by returning to me. You can have rest. You can be strong by being quiet and by trusting me. But you don’t want that.”
Isaiah 30:15 — God’s Word
Oh my.
Yesterday I was at the doctors very upset because of his strong recommendation that I need to just let my body rest.
All I’ve done for the past two months is rest!!! Tetsu has taken over all household chores. I’m not teaching. I cook one a week if that. I had all of summer vacation away from my job and even now it is only an hour a day.
But everyone, including God, says, “rest”. And I don’t want to!
9/24/2022 — Psalms 139:23
“God, I invite your searching gaze into my heart. Examine me through and through; find out everything that may be hidden within me. Put me to the test and sift through all my anxious cares.”
Psalms 139:23 — The Passion Translation
This isn’t probably what the psalmist meant but with my recent health problems I need God to look deep inside my body and find out what’s going wrong with me. And I need him to take this anxiety away from me too. God knows it all. Nothing will surprise Him.
9/23/2022 — Psalms 32:7
“You are my hiding place. You will keep me safe from trouble. You will surround me with songs sung by those who praise you because you save your people.”
Psalm 32:7 — New international revised Version
How do I hide in God? By praying? By meditating on His Word? Being protected doesn’t mean I’m free from illness of pain…. Can I really believe I’ll come through this trial whole again or is this the beginning of my journey to Him? (Though obviously my journey to Him began when I gave my life to Jesus.) This phase is just another step God wants me to learn from…. The caring of friends. The love of my family. The goodness of daily life overlooked.
9/22/2022 — Psalms 65:4
“You bless your chosen ones, and you invite them to live near you in your temple. We will enjoy your house, the sacred temple.”
Psalms 65:4 — Common English Version
It is a dilemma that God has invited me to His physical church and yet I haven’t been able to go for quite awhile because of Covid numbers. I can and do worship God anywhere but there is a special joy when being with a good number of other believers and letting my voice join theirs in praise.
9/21/2022 — 1 Kings 8:27-29
““Does God really live on earth? If heaven itself, the highest heaven, cannot hold you, then how can this temple that I have built? Nevertheless, my Lord God, please pay attention to my prayer for mercy. Listen to my cry for help as I pray to you today. Night and day may your eyes be on this temple, the place about which you said, ‘My name will be there.’ Listen to me as I pray toward this place.”
1 Kings 8:27-29 — God’s Word
God is too great to be contained yet I say He lives in my heart and I meet Him in my room and in my church. How can this be? I see Him in the vast glories of nature but I see him in my limited daily life also.
How Great Thou Art!
9/20/2022 — Luke 18:27
“Jesus replied, ‘God can do things that are impossible for people to do.’”
Luke 18:27 — Easy English Bible
“The word does not mean that which is beyond our comprehension but rather that which is beyond our ability.”
So, a magic show or ICloud is not a miracle, though I don’t understand it, but a beautiful sunrise or a coincidental comforting phone call could be biblically called so.
Human understanding (which is different for each person) doesn’t make a miracle, but God’s stirrings of our hearts does…
9/19/2022 — Ruth 1:13
“…My bitterness is much worse than yours because the Lord has sent me so much trouble.””
Ruth 1:13 — God’s Word
Sometimes I feel like I slip into this mode of self-pity and envy. I want to list up my complaints and unfairness, but instead I praise the Lord for the blessings He DOES give and hide (not from Him) my dissatisfaction.
God wants an honest conversation, not platitudes. Be honest.
9/18/2022 — Judges 6:13
“But Gideon said to him, “Please my Lord, if the Lord is with us, then why has all this happened to us? And where are all His wondrous works which our fathers told us about when they said, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?’ But now the Lord has abandoned us and put us into the hand of Midian.””
Judges 6:13 — Amplified Bible
How many times have I said this? Or feared that someone would ask me this? And the answer…?
“Just obey and don’t question.”
Which isn’t very comforting but is true. God is not required to explain Himself. If He says, “Bear with the suffering.” Then do it. If He says “Keep on in love.” Then love through pain and anger and confusion.
9/17/2022 — 1 Samuel 2:9
““He protects the lives of his faithful people, but the wicked disappear in darkness; a man does not triumph by his own strength.”
1 Samuel 2:9 — Good News Bible
While I’ve been having trouble walking I’ve realized how I held on to my pride of being healthy and able-bodied. These days I’m slow and obviously hobbling and my pride hurts too.
God doesn’t see me as someone who walks gracefully and who goes wherever she wants on her own. He sees my worth as His daughter living the life He gives me daily with a joyful attitude and a loving heart.
9/16/2022 — Deuteronomy 4:29-30
“In all of your troubles, you may finally decide that you want to worship only the Lord. And if you turn back to him and obey him completely, he will again be your God.”
Deuteronomy 4:29-30 — Contemporary English Version
God is behind us, no, before us, in all our battles. Praise Him always and let Him fight for me.
“And when I fight I’ll fight on my knees
With my hands lifted high. Oh God!
The battle belongs to You!
And every fear I’ll lay at Your feet.
I’ll sing through the night.
The battle belongs to You!” — Phil Wickham
9/15/2022 — Deuteronomy 1:6
“The Lord our God said to us at Sinai, ‘You have stayed for a long time near this mountain.”
Deuteronomy 1:6 — Easy English Bible
Moses spent 40 years herding sheep (routine and tedious?). Then he spent 40 years leading his people (irritating and taxing?). It was because there was tedium and irritation, God changed Moses into a man of wisdom and faith.
He is doing the same for me in my life.
9/14/2022 — Ephesians 1:18
“I pray that God will bring light into your minds. Then you will understand about the many good things that he has prepared for you. You know that you will receive those things because he has chosen you to be his people. God has prepared very valuable things for you in heaven.”
Ephesians 1:18 — Easy English Bible
Open the eyes of my heart Lord…. I want to see You. And I want to see the blessings You bestow and the protection You provide. I want to see people and circumstances with Your eyes. Shine Your light into the corners of my life where there is darkness.
9/13/2022 — Psalms 135:1-3
“Praise the LORD! Praise his name, you servants of the LORD, who stand in the LORD's house, in the Temple of our God. Praise the LORD, because he is good; sing praises to his name, because he is kind.”
Psalms 135:1-3 — Good News Bible
I love praising in person at church! I love when my voice, normally so out of tune and screeching joins others to make beautiful noise! I can imagine all of us in the congregation joining the multitudes in heaven glorifying our God. It is a tiny glimpse of what is waiting for me in eternity.
9/12/2022 — Ecclesiastes 3:12
“I know that there’s nothing better for them but to enjoy themselves and do what’s good while they live.”
Ecclesiastes 3:12 — Common English Bible
What a lovely message to enjoy life! We don’t have to make rules to deny pleasures. There may be a time when the pleasures aren’t there so enjoy the blessings now!
9/11/2022 — Psalm 41:3
“The Lord takes care of him when he is ill in bed. Whenever he is ill, you will make him completely well again.”
Psalms 41:3 — Easy English Bible
Well! This an appropriate verse for me. I’ve been in bed three days and not sure why so all sorts of terrible scenarios spring to my head.
Praying that I’ll be up and around and back to normal soon.
9/10/2022 — Song of Songs 2:4
“He has taken me to the room for feasts. Everyone can see that he loves me.”
Song of Songs 2:4 — Easy English Bible
I’ve got it good with my husband. Then how can I get so angry with him and he with me? How can the “D” word even come up?
I feel Tetsu’s love the way he coddles and cares for me when I’m sick. (I’ve been sick a lot this summer.) He is never demanding and he spoils me continually.
Enjoy, count my blessings, pray for his happiness.
9/9/2022 — Psalms 63:5
“My soul will feast and be satisfied, and I will sing glad songs of praise to you.”
Psalms 63:5 — Good News Bible
Good news for us dieters! God gives us things to enjoy with all our senses. Don’t get so wrapped up in limiting enjoyments.
9/8/2022 — James 3:17-18
“But the wisdom from above is pure first of all; it is also peaceful, gentle, and friendly; it is full of compassion and produces a harvest of good deeds; it is free from prejudice and hypocrisy. And goodness is the harvest that is produced from the seeds the peacemakers plant in peace.”
James 3:17-18 — Good News Bible
I know that God wants me to be kind, honest, gentle. He also wants me to listen to others instead of just expressing my opinion. He wants me to show His love by smiling and being available.
9/7/2022 — Psalms 96:12
“Let the fields and everything in them be glad. Let all the trees in the forest sing for joy.”
Psalm 96:12 — New International Revised Version
I haven’t connected with nature in quite awhile… unless my back country life could be called natural. Nature, teeming with life, reaching always for God, content in the seasons it goes through. These are the lessons to learn through God’s creation.
9/6/2022 — Proverbs 13:12
“Unrelenting disappointment leaves you heartsick, but a sudden good break can turn life around.”
Proverbs 13:12 — Message Bible
Things sometimes look grim and it seems like there is nothing good in the future, but a meeting with one person, a paragraph in a book, a new innovation can change my outlook and my world. Wait for it! Don’t give up!
9/5/2022 — Matthew 14:30
“But when he saw [the effects of] the wind, he was frightened, and he began to sink, and he cried out, “Lord, save me!””
Matthew 14:30 — Amplified Bible
I’m not sure if Peter was acting with faith or not…. Surely he only became afraid when he took his eyes off of Jesus and began to sink, but he DID know enough to cry out to Jesus.
It is hard to ignore the effects of the wind, Satan’s influence in the world. But I know enough to cry out to Jesus when I feel fear creeping in.
9/4/2022 — Matthew 16:23
“Jesus turned round and said to Peter, ‘Satan, go away from me! I must obey God. But you are trying to stop me. Your thoughts do not come from God. Instead, you are thinking like men think.’”
Matthew 16:23 — Easy English Bible
I constantly think like men (humans). Well, it’s because I’m human! Wars, personal and international, seem impossible to end. Disasters and pandemics seem to mark our future.
Put God’s glasses on and see what He sees. The possibilities, the plan, the whole of past and present and future. If my mind can’t fathom it, then trust it all to Him.
9/3/2022 — John 10:10
“The thief enters only to steal, kill, and destroy. I came so that they could have life—indeed, so that they could live life to the fullest.”
John 10:10 — Common English Bible
The pandemic has made us pessimistic and struggling with death, insecurity and scarcity.
In the midst of it, remember I have eternal life, God’s protection and God’s provision. Jesus is mine for an abundant life!!! Focus of the abundant blessings not on what I’m lacking!
9/2/2022 — Daniel 6:27
“He rescues people and sets them free by working great miracles. Daniel's God has rescued him from the power of the lions.””
Daniel 6:27 — Common English Version
Since I know that God has rescued me from sin already, then I can be sure that He will rescue me when I fall into despair and hardship. Keep on keeping on! God, the rescuer is near.
9/1/2022 — Psalms 139:7
“Is there anywhere that I can go to run away from your Spirit? Anywhere that I go, you are already there!”
Psalms 139:7 — Easy English Bible
I think this was what my husband was trying to explain to me yesterday. Why do we go around trying to please our God. He is not a human who has moods. His “pleasure” comes from our being who He’s made us to be.
‘We cannot attain the presence of God because we’re already totally in the presence of God. What’s absent is awareness.’ – Richard Rohr.
8/31/2022 — Lamentations 3:22, 24-25
“The Lord's faithful love never comes to an end. He never stops being kind to us. ‘He is my Lord,’ I say to myself. ‘He is the reason why I can hope for good things.’ The Lord does good things for people who wait for him. He is kind to everyone who looks for him.”
Lamentations 3:22, 24-25 — Easy English Bible
It is easy to become discouraged in this time of wars and pandemic and environmental crisis. I have to remind myself that God is good, there is hope for the future.
Draw near to Him and wait for His blessings!
8/30/2022 — Jeremiah 29:13
“When you look for me, you will find me. When you wholeheartedly seek me,”
Jeremiah 29:13 — God’s Word
My energy level is low today…. I’m not doing much seeking but God isn’t hiding either. Today is a good day to just sit and share time together.
8/29/2022 — Psalms 49:10
“Indeed, one can see that wise people die, that foolish and stupid people meet the same end. They leave their riches to others.”
Psalms 49:10 — God’s Word
We all end up the same way someday. There isn’t much, if anything, that anyone is going to want or need from me after I’m gone. I hope someone will enjoy my quilts and my journals but really, it may be all for my own satisfaction.
8/28/2022 — Luke 24:30-32
“He sat down to eat with them. He took the bread and he thanked God for it. He broke it into pieces and he gave some to them. Their eyes became clear and they recognized him. But then he disappeared, and they could no longer see him. They said to each other, ‘When he talked to us, it was like a fire that was burning inside us. We felt it while we were walking along the road. We also felt it when he was explaining God's message in the Bible.’”
Luke 24:30-32 — Easy English Bible
We don’t always see Jesus next to us, and we don’t always recognize His blessings. But we look back and say “Yes, God controlled that. He was there!” That will happen to our now. NOW we don’t see Him but we will look back in this life or the next, and say “Yes! He was there!”
8/27/2022 — 2 Chronicles 7:14
“and My people who are called by My name humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
2 Chronicles 7:14 — New American Standard Bible
P.R.A.Y.E.R
R means renew.
Today’s verse reminds me to pray for the environment. The earth is collapsing and instead of complaining and being shocked I need to commit to praying for it.
Lord, give me peace in Your presence, restore my prayer life, hear my pleas, help me to obey You, give me boldness to do Your will and renew my life with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
8/26/2022 — 1 Timothy 6:11-12
“But you, Timothy, man of God: Run for your life from all this. Pursue a righteous life—a life of wonder, faith, love, steadiness, courtesy. Run hard and fast in the faith. Seize the eternal life, the life you were called to, the life you so fervently embraced in the presence of so many witnesses.”
1 Timothy 6:11-12 — Message Bible
P.R.A.Y.E.R
E means exercise.
Exercise my faith. The act of believing strengthens my belief. The act of witnessing strengthens my boldness. The act of praying strengthens my relationship with God.
8/25/2022 — John 2:5
“Mary then went to the servers and told them, “Whatever Jesus tells you, make sure that you do it!””
John 2:5 — The Passion Translation
P.R.A.Y.E.R
Y means “Yes”.
God expects me to obey and He is trying to teach me that I learn and my walk with Him is easier when I obey. Go to God in prayer and tell Him, “Yes! I will accept the mission You have for me today!”
8/24/2022 — Matthew 6:8
“…God your Father already knows what you need. He knows this even before you ask him.”
Matthew 6:8 — Easy English Bible
P.R.A.Y.E.R
A means ask.
Someone said it so succinctly. “You might as well ask God for it. He already knows what you want.”
So, don’t be reserved. And heaven forbid don’t think since God knows you can omit praying. The act of praying is sacrificing yourself before God.
8/23/2022 — 1 Peter 5:10
“After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, the one who called you into his eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will himself restore, empower, strengthen, and establish you.”
1 Peter 5:10 — Common English Bible
P.R.A.Y.E.R
R means restore. There are so many things I ask God to restore. My health (when am I ever going to be able to walk normally again?) but maybe more, my hope. The world, the environment, the future seems hopeless yet I know this isn’t the attitude God wants His loved ones to take. I will seek a restoration of hope in my prayers.
8/22/2022 — Isaiah 26:3
People with their minds set on you, you keep completely whole, Steady on their feet, because they keep at it and don’t quit.
Isaiah 26:3 — Message Bible
P.R.A.Y.E.R
Prayer means peace. Get my mind off the problem and focused on God and already anxious thoughts have to move over. God can make my mind steady only if I open it to Him. Don’t quit! Don’t let Satan talk you out of prayer!
8/21/2022 — Matthew 24:35
“One day, the earth and the sky will have an end. But my words will be there for ever.’”
Matthew 24:35 — Easy English Bible
I read in the Bible about the end of days and I really think it’s not too far off. Jesus will call His loved ones and we will be with God, while the world as we know it will be destroyed. What will remain except for God and His Son? (In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. — John 1:1)
8/20/2022 — John 14:23
“Jesus replied, “Loving me empowers you to obey my word. And my Father will love you so deeply that we will come to you and make you our dwelling place.”
John 14:23 — The Passion Translation
There are things that I haven’t obeyed Christ about and I repent and I ask forgiveness, but I’m still not able. I will continue praying and loving and absorbing God’s love, abiding in Him, and He will empower me to do His will.
8/19/2022 — Romans 12:12
“Let your hope make you glad. Be patient in time of trouble and never stop praying.”
Romans 12:12 — Contemporary English Version
Here are the specific commandments from God. Stay hopeful even when things look bad. Give God and myself and situation time. The “instant gratification” thinking is not faith building. Don’t give up praying. God’s children need to commune with God daily.
8/18/2022 — Psalms 118:8
“It is better to trust in the LORD than to depend on human beings.”
Psalms 118:8 — Good News Bible
This is a lesson I often forget, running to friends for advice or even just a listening ear. God is right here! What am I looking for when I go to someone else?
It is a delicate balance of pride in asking others for help and trusting God to come through for me.
Go to God in prayer first. He will send His children to help.
8/17/2022 — Psalms 56:9
“The very moment I call to you for a father’s help the tide of battle turns and my enemies flee. This one thing I know: God is on my side!”
Psalms 56:9 — The Passion Translation
FEAR is a four letter word! Even being a Christian I’m not going to escape fear…. But I can turn to God when I fear for my health, when I fear for the world, when I fear for my family. One thing I know. God is always on my side. Fight the battle on my knees.
8/16/2022 — Psalms 40:1-2
“I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along.”
Psalms 40:1-2 — New Living Translation
My One Word for the year is WAIT. I might have better made it two words, WAIT PATIENTLY.
God will set me on my feet again and I will walk steadily. I won’t worry about gracefully or quickly yet. God will steady me and what could be better?
8/15/2022 — Psalms 32:3-4
“When I kept silent ⌞about my sins⌟, my bones began to weaken because of my groaning all day long. Day and night your hand laid heavily on me. My strength shriveled in the summer heat. Selah”
Psalms 32:3-4 — God’s Word
My sin to confess is my complaining mouth and my negative heart. And of course the root is that I’m not trusting God with my life and future.
This verse reminds me that God DOES know how I feel. From the weakening bones to the weakness in the summer heat. In all this, it is a chance again to Pause in His Presence.
8/14/2022 — Psalms 22:1
“My God, my God, why have you deserted me? Why do you seem so far away when I need you to save me? Why do you seem so far away that you can’t hear my groans?”
Psalm 22:1 — New International Revised Version
Lord, my problem is small in this world of many problems, but it is affecting me. I am in pain when I walk, when I sleep. I can’t move to get things, I can’t hold things while I hang on to the walls. I am depressed about ending up immobile, fat, moody and pitied. Help me to be positive, hopeful and patient as You teach me things through this season.
8/13/2022 — John 15:5
““I am the sprouting vine and you’re my branches. As you live in union with me as your source, fruitfulness will stream from within you—but when you live separated from me you are powerless.”
John 15:5 — The Passion Translation
I keep falling back into trying to do things without God’s power behind me…. I am nothing without the Scriptures and the Holy Spirit to teach and guide me…. Before complaining about my circumstances, read the Bible and then ask the Spirit to show me the next step.
8/12/2022 — Psalms 107:1
“Shout praises to the Lord! He is good to us, and his love never fails.”
Psalms 107:1 — Common English Version
Don’t make a list of your blessings (though counting your blessings is always good), instead thank God for how all the blessings are orchestrated to make this wonderful life.
8/11/2022 — 1 Corinthians 10:13
“You are tempted in the same way that everyone else is tempted. But God can be trusted not to let you be tempted too much, and he will show you how to escape from your temptations.”
1 Corinthians 10:13 — Common English Bible
When getting angry, I think I do know that God is reminding me to hold my tongue, to see the bigger picture. He is showing me the escape route from a full-blown argument. I trust that He will reward my choice to obey His commandments and to be whom He wants me to be.
8/10/2022 — Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Do not depend on your own understanding. In all your ways obey him. Then he will make your paths smooth and straight.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 — New International Revised Version
God, I choose and commit to trust You instead of trusting what my eyes see, my ears hear, my heart desires. Keep me in Your wisdom so that I’m not deceived into thinking that what I want is what You’ve planned.
In Jesus’ name. Amen
8/9/2022 — Romans 12:11
“Stay excited about your faith as you serve the Lord.”
Romans 12:11 — New International Revised Version
Keep reading your Bible. Keep meeting with God. Keep meeting with other believers.
Stay positive. Have a “clean slate” policy… start afresh. Progress over perfection.
8/8/2022 — Romans 15:5-6
“God is the one who makes us patient and cheerful. I pray that he will help you live at peace with each other, as you follow Christ. Then all of you together will praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Romans 15:5-6 — Common English Version
Expect to meet God in your daily life! Exercise your core to listen to His voice, to feel His nudging. Expect the people around you will be praising God alongside you, and treat them as your family! (Even those who don’t know Jesus YET!)
8/7/2022 — Hebrews 10:25
“We should not stop gathering together with other believers, as some of you are doing. Instead, we must continue to encourage each other even more as we see the day of the Lord coming.”
Hebrews 10:25 — God’s Word
This is a huge question in my mind right now!!! Am I supposed to go to church and worship with others while the pandemic here in Japan worsens around me?
For awhile there was limitations, then people gathered for worship again, I went back, the pandemic swelled, I’m worshiping online now. The church is still open, the government says to curtail meeting together, my husband says the church is being irresponsible, I “feel” the worship when I am there but it is convenient to worship at home. In general though, I am laying low during this pandemic…
How much is faith, trust, responsibility and convenience playing in my weekly decision to go or not go to church?
8/6/2022 — 1 Peter 5:7
“Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:7 — Good News Bible
Worrying about things, not praying about them, is a form of pride that says, “I know how to handle things better than God does.”
Give God the concerns and when they creep in again, just give them to Him again, and again!
8/5/2022 — Matthew 7:7
“Jesus said, ‘Go on asking God for what you need. Then God will give it to you. Go on looking for what you need. Then you will find it. Go on knocking at the door, and God will open it for you.”
Matthew 7:7 — Easy English Bible
Just do it! This is not just Nike’s motto, it should be mine. For the very reason that I find it hard to pray, there I should start! By telling God, by starting my thoughts with, “God, this is my problem… my desire… my anger…”
“The hardest thing about prayer is the small gap between thinking about praying and actually praying,” — Tim Kerr
8/4/2022 — 2 Timothy 3:16
“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, correcting faults, and giving instruction for right living,”
2 Timothy 3:16 — Good News Bible
Read the Bible as if you are the only one to whom it was given. God wrote it for ME. When he talks of the sins in the world He’s talking about MY sins. When He says be doers of the Word, He’s telling me to get going!
8/3/2022 — Psalms 1:2
“His pleasure and passion is remaining true to the Word of “I Am,” meditating day and night in the true revelation of light.”
Psalms 1:2 — The Passion Translation
My Bible intake is so much like my water intake. I partake in sips because I know it is changing me for the better but I don’t dive in and stay there.
Read a book of the Bible over and over this month? In different versions? Put my intentions into actions! How about James?
8/2/2022 — Philippians 2:12
“My beloved ones, just like you’ve always listened to everything I’ve taught you in the past, I’m asking you now to keep following my instructions as though I were right there with you. Now you must continue to make this new life fully manifested as you live in the holy awe of God—which brings you trembling into his presence.”
Philippians 2:12 — The Passion Translation
Don’t get so hung up on what I haven’t mastered yet. This can be true of how I relate to God (prayer habits? No~~!) or artwork (why do I keep trying? I’m no good…). The point is progress, not perfection! God sees my heart.
8/1/2022 — Mark 6:31
“And He said to them, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.”
Mark 6:31 — New King James Version
REST
R Reserve a time each morning
E Enjoy His presence with worship music and the Word
S Surrender your will to His will
T Trust the Lord with your life
7/31/2022 — Ephesians 5:25
“Now it is God's Spirit that gives us life. So we must let God's Spirit lead us in how we live.”
Galatians 5:25 — Easy English Bible
“The best way to pursue holiness is to focus on following God, not on defeating sin.”
Fighting against evil is a losing battle…. But living with God is a purpose that affects me and the people around me, and ripples out to affect the world.
7/30/2022 — Proverbs 4:21
“Fill your thoughts with my words until they penetrate deep into your spirit.”
Proverbs 4:21 — The Passion Translation
I am filling my daily journal with God’s Word and my intention is that if I take them through my eyes and pass them to my hand and onto paper, that they will remain in my heart and spirit.
7/29/2022 — Psalms 37:23
“The steps of the God-pursuing ones follow firmly in the footsteps of the Lord, and God delights in every step they take to follow him.”
Psalms 37:23 — The Passion Translation
I want to follow God firmly and that means I’ve got to keep my eyes on Him and my ears in tune with His will. God is watching me and smiling at my attempts to keep up and He will pick me up when I am tired. He won’t leave me behind!
7/28/2022 — Psalms 37:5
“Let the Lord lead you and trust him to help.”
Psalms 37:5 — Common English Bible
The key word is “LET”. Maybe I should think about that being my ONE WORD next year. It is always about letting God form me, transform me, conform me. It is not my work. It is surrendering to God.
Holiness, holiness is what I long for
Holiness is what I need
Holiness, holiness is what You want from me.
Take my heart and form it
Take my mind and transform it
Take my will and conform it
To Yours, to Yours, oh Lord
7/27/2022 — Romans 12:2
“Don't be like the people of this world, but let God change the way you think. Then you will know how to do everything that is good and pleasing to him.”
Romans 12:2 — Common English Version
“LET GOD CHANGE YOU…” Not… change yourself, read some self-help books, discipline yourself…. God will do the changing, trust the Holy Spirit. Just read the Bible and think about it. Let God bring it to mind during the day. God will do the rest.
7/26/2022 — Ephesians 5:19
“Speak to one another with the words of psalms, hymns, and sacred songs; sing hymns and psalms to the Lord with praise in your hearts.”
Ephesians 5:19 — Good News Bible
Worship God with music! I have praise songs in my smartphone, just tap one and get down to praising God and letting the Spirit speak to my heart!
7/25/2022 — Psalms 37:5
“Give God the right to direct your life, and as you trust him along the way you’ll find he pulled it off perfectly!”
Psalms 37:5 — The Passion Translation
The word (and action!) of surrender isn’t very popular. I often think when surrendering my all to God that “Yes, this is the only way to live.” But even in the little things of daily life, it is hard to give up my will and what I perceive as my rights.
Lord, remind me gently to trust You with everything.
7/24/2022 — Psalms 90:14
“Let the sunrise of your love end our dark night. Break through our clouded dawn again! Only you can satisfy our hearts, filling us with songs of joy to the end of our days.”
Psalms 90:14 - The Passion Translation
Isn’t this a beautiful translation? Still, the traditional translation of meeting with God in the morning whispers in my heard.
I meet with God…. Usually in the morning… I read a devotional, I write out the verse that speaks to me, I record my thoughts… meaningful prayer time still eludes me, as does meditation. And most of my time is in the midst of the daily news and clanging of the day…. Does this still please God?
7/23/2022 — James 1:19-20
“My dear brothers and sisters, pay attention to what I say. Everyone should be quick to listen. But they should be slow to speak. They should be slow to get angry. Human anger doesn’t produce the holy life God wants.”
James 1:19-20 — New International Revised Version
It is very strange but the times I feel anger are with the people I’m closest to. Maybe because their life choices and words affect me more and most but anyway, the only time I’ve felt anger recently is with my own family!
I don’t like myself when I am angry and I feel as if I’ve not handled situations the way god would want me to. Thankfully I’m slow to anger but I’d still like it gone completely.
7/22/2022 — Psalms 43:5
“Then I will say to my soul, “Don’t be discouraged; don’t be disturbed, for I fully expect my Savior-God to break through for me. Then I’ll have plenty of reasons to praise him all over again.” Yes, living before his face is my saving grace!”
Psalms 43:5 — The Passion Translation
Yes, life can be hard and being sad and depression can lead to even more feelings of worthlessness.
All I can say is that “this too shall pass.” It is the basis of any faith in anything. It is God’s promise to us. Hang on and hang in and wait in prayer. As much as possible read the Bible. As often as possible listen to praise music.
7/21/2022 — Psalm 41:4
“So in my sickness I say to you, “Lord, be my kind healer. Heal my body and soul; heal me, God! For I have confessed my sins to you.””
Psalms 41:4 — The Passion Translation
Lord, I bring forth to You people in pain with broken hearts… the people stricken with panic attacks and worry and depression. I bring before You people who don’t know their hearts are sick…. The ones who chose not to follow You, the ones who go their own ways in self centeredness. You know whom I think of. You know where I am in the midst of these others.
In Jesus’ name, Amen
7/20/2022 — Matthew 5:45
“Then you will be children of your Father who is in heaven. He causes his sun to shine on evil people and good people. He sends rain on those who do right and those who don’t.”
Matthew 5:45 — New International Revised Version
This is the question that trips up so many people. Why would a good and loving God let bad things happen to those He loves? I don’t know the answer. I only know that letting the bad trap me into depression and worry is letting Satan steal my peace and my relationship with God.
I have no right to judge what God allows or doesn’t allow in my life.
7/19/2022 — Matthew 11:28
“Come to me all of you who are tired. You are like people who have worked for a long time. You are like people who have carried heavy things. Come to me. If you do that, you will find a place to rest.”
Matthew 11:28 — Easy English Bible
I have noticed in myself and in others, that when I’m really down or desperate and someone asks if they can help, I’ll say “I’m just so tired.” This phrase strikes warning bells in me!
Tired, is a very inaccurate word and it might mean I need a nap or a good night’s sleep… but it sometimes it is there to remind me I need to retreat into God’s peace and comfort.
7/18/2022 — Psalms 6:2
“I do not feel strong, Lord, so please be kind to me. Lord, please make me well again. Even my bones are shaking.”
Psalms 6:2 — Easy English Bible
So honest. Instead of saying “I’m fine” admit that I’m really weak and moody and anxious. Ask Jesus to teach me gently and then rest.
(Louise Penny writes in her Gamache series, that FINE stands for:“f***ed up, insecure, neurotic, and egotistical”. Maybe so!)
7/17/2022 — Ephesians 4:23
“Instead, let God's Spirit make you think in a new way.”
Ephesians 4:23 — Easy English Bible
The Bible doesn’t say, “force yourself to think a new way.” Or “get your act together and just think differently.” The Bible says to “let God…”
Let God help me. Let God speak to me. Let God have the hours in my day. Let God in every portion of my life. Even the angry parts, the selfish parts, the very ungodly parts. If He is allowed in, He will do His work.
7/16/2022 — Isaiah 58:11
“The Lord will always be your guide. He will give you plenty to eat, even when the ground is dry. He will make your bodies strong. You will be like a garden that has plenty of water. You will be like a spring of water that never becomes dry.”
Isaiah 58:11 — Easy English Bible
Today’s decisions affect tomorrow’s destination.
Today’s faithfulness affects tomorrow’s fruitfulness.
Today’s investment affects tomorrow’s blooms.
— Becoming a Well Watered Woman in a parched world
7/15/2022 — 2 Corinthians 3:18
“So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.”
2 Corinthians 3:18 — New Living Translation
There are so many things that I want changed in an instant. I don’t like my weight, I struggle with making art, my impatience with people and situations is definitely not Christ-like!
But practice, slow steps, habits, and relying on God’s encouragement, those are how I will progress and become what God wants me to be.
7/14/2022 — Luke 10:41
“The Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha! You worry and fuss about a lot of things.”
Luke 10:41 — God’s Word
The point is not to become more like Mary and less like Martha. The point is to become more like Jesus!
7/13/2022 — Psalm 16:11
“You always show me the path of life. You will fill me with joy when I am with you. You will make me happy forever at your right hand.”
Psalm 16:11 — New International Revised Version
Jesus doesn’t just speak to me in quiet. God isn’t only near in solitude. My spirit can be refreshed in noise and busyness and full schedules.
7/12/2022 — Jeremiah 2:11
“Has a nation ever changed its gods? Actually, they are not even gods at all. But my people have traded away their glorious God. They have traded me for worthless statues of gods.”
Jeremiah 2:11 — New International Revised Version
Where do I place Jesus in my life? I sing that He is my all and all, my rock and salvation yet I put so many other things in his place. My own comfort, other’s approval, my own health.
There is nothing as valuable as keeping Jesus as the center of my life.
7/11/2022 — 2 Corinthians 5:17
“Now, if anyone is enfolded into Christ, he has become an entirely new person. All that is related to the old order has vanished. Behold, everything is fresh and new.”
2 Corinthians 5:17 — The Passion Translation
Of course I know that I have become new in Christ and that the old is gone and replaced by God’s view of me…. With this Bible version I think that the job isn’t done just once…. It is a daily “enfolding” into Christ, surrendering the mistakes and regrets of yesterday, and embracing my new identity for the day.
7/10/2022 — Ephesians 3:17
“Then, by constantly using your faith, the life of Christ will be released deep inside you, and the resting place of his love will become the very source and root of your life.”
Ephesians 3:17 — The Passion Translation
“How are you?” “Fine.”
At worst I might say, “tired”, but am I really fine?
Things can seem so gloomy but I know that by being watered daily in God’s Word and by having the roots of my life deep in God, He will keep me healthy and safe.
7/9/2022 — Isaiah 41:10
“I am with you, so do not be afraid. I am your God, so do not be upset. I will make you strong and I will help you. My powerful right hand will keep you safe.””
Isaiah 41:10 — Easy English Bible
I wonder what “safe” means. It doesn’t mean that I am kept from pain or hardships. It doesn’t mean I won’t be sad or not be in fear.
Safe means being forever with God…. And that has already been concluded with my acceptance of Jesus and God’s promise of eternity to me.
Remembering this will keep those times of fear and anxiety at bay.
7/8/2022 — Matthew 6:1
“Jesus went on to say to them, ‘You should do good things to help people. But be careful! Do not do this so that other people see you. If you want other people to praise you, your Father in heaven will not praise you.”
Matthew 6:1 — Easy English Bible
How much of what I do is for God? How much for myself? How much for the admiration of others?
Honestly speaking, a lot of my blogging or Instagram posting, even quilts up in my wall are there for people to admire and of course I like compliments and comments and even “hearts” and “likes”.
The only one who I should consider in the works of my life is God.
7/7/2022 — Matthew 25:40
““The king will answer them, ‘I can guarantee this truth: Whatever you did for one of my brothers or sisters, no matter how unimportant ⌞they seemed⌟, you did for me.’”
Matthew 25:40 — God’s Word
Even when I don’t feel like I’m doing God’s work, my daily actions of patience, service, kindness are an offering before God that He always sees.
7/6/2022 — Psalms 119:97
“Oh, how I love your teachings! They are in my thoughts all day long.”
Psalms 119:97 — God’s Word
If I start my day with Scripture and make a point of remembering it, (dare I suggest memorizing it) then I can reflect on it all day long. And as I try to record the morning’s Scripture each night in my bullet journal, I feel as if my day has been held in God’s presence all day long.
7/5/2022 — Matthew 6:31-33
“What I’m trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God’s giving. People who don’t know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.”
Matthew 6:31-33 — Message Bible
Thankfully I don’t worry about what I’m going to eat or drink or wear…. My basics are supplied…. I worry about if what I ordered is going to be convenient enough, if our health is going to hold, if I have enough time to get something done. They are such unimportant things!!! And yet I get frazzled and irritated.
I truly am becoming more preoccupied with what I may or may not get rather than appreciating what I have.
Get my priorities straight!
7/4/2022 — 1 Corinthians 10:31
“So then, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of [our great] God.”
1 Corinthians 10:31 — Amplified Bible
Worshipping God isn’t done just at church. My worship starts with the mindset to be thankful and content. To be cheerful and worry free. To look at the positive.
Show God that you trust Him by how you daily live your life.
7/3/2022 — Philippians 3:15
“All of us who are mature [pursuing spiritual perfection] should have this attitude. And if in any respect you have a different attitude, that too God will make clear to you.”
Philippians 3:15 — Amplified Bible
When I wonder if I’m doing what God wants or if I’m following my own will or His, I will recall this verse confirming that God will lead and make clear to me His plans. It is not a puzzle or a brain teaser. God promises to show me His way.
7/2/2022 — Psalm 27:4
“Here’s the one thing I crave from God, the one thing I seek above all else: I want the privilege of living with him every moment in his house, finding the sweet loveliness of his face, filled with awe, delighting in his glory and grace. I want to live my life so close to him that he takes pleasure in my every prayer.”
Psalms 27:4 — The Passion Translation
I sort of understand Paul’s dilemma of wanting to be in eternity with Christ and wanting to remain in this life…. I don’t have the passion for working to bring in more believers and my desire to remain is just because I love this life…
But knowing I’ve finished the race and stepping before God, reuniting with those I love, those are powerful attractions!
7/1/2022 — Psalms 139:10
“Wherever I go, your hand will guide me; your strength will empower me.”
Psalms 139:10 — The Passion Translation
Wherever I go, God is there. Before me, surrounding me, watching me, strengthening me. God omnipresence is my comfort.
6/30/2022 — Micah 6:8
“He has told you, mortal one, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you But to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God?”
Micah 6:8 — New American Standard Bible
God has not given me a checklist of things to do to be called His own. Instead, He asks me to treat others well, to be fair and to walk with Him daily. And He promises to guide me and protect me and make my life good! It doesn’t sound so difficult but even if it is, I choose to trust Him and stay close!
6/29/2022 Isaiah 61:3
“To grant those who mourn in Zion, Giving them a garland instead of ashes, The oil of gladness instead of mourning, The cloak of praise instead of a disheartened spirit. So they will be called oaks of righteousness, The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.”
Isaiah 61:3 — New American Standard Version
The remedy for disappointment, sadness, depression, anxiety is praise! Take off the grieving and put on praise! And worship! Worship is the warship against Satan! Even if I don’t feel like it, turn up some praise music and thank God!
6/28/2022 — Ephesians 2:2
“You used to live as sinners when you followed the ways of this world. You served the one who rules over the spiritual forces of evil. He is the spirit who is now at work in those who don’t obey God.”
Ephesians 2:2 — New international Revised Version
Well, I guess it’s pretty clear why the world is in such sad shape. Satan is the root of the problems. Thank goodness I belong to God and am in His plans and under His protection. Trust Him.
6/27/2022 — Psalms 1:1
“God blesses those people who refuse evil advice and won't follow sinners or join in sneering at God.”
Psalms 1:1 — Common English Version
Though not all my close friends are Christian, the ones I open up to completely, with complaints and negative thinking, with doubts and embarrassment, those godly friends know the real me. I trust them to not judge and often even pray for me. I trust their advice as being guided by God.
6/26/2022 — Revelation 4:1
“After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven, and the first voice which I had heard, like the sound of a trumpet speaking with me, said, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after these things.””
Revelation 4:1
This invitation to come close to God is not just for the end of days but for every day. God invites me to put aside some time to spend with Him, to learn how His world will work and my role in it that day.
The door is always open to spend time with God.
6/25/2022 — 1 Peter 4:8
“Most important of all, you must sincerely love each other, because love wipes away many sins.”
1 Peter 4:8 — Common English Bible
There ARE differences between us all because God made us unique! Maybe that’s why God says over and over to love one another, to love your neighbor, to make love the goal and bring people to GOD IS LOVE. Because we are different we need to practice love… by being interested, by not judging, by putting the other person’s preferences first.
6/24/2022 — 1 Corinthians 6:19
“You surely know that your body is a temple where the Holy Spirit lives. The Spirit is in you and is a gift from God. You are no longer your own.”
1 Corinthians 6:19
— Common English Version
I know my body was made and given to me by God. So why am I always trying to change it by losing weight, by hoping to reshape it by exercise, by cosmetics and hair tamer? I am what I am and I’m grateful that this aging body works as well as it does….
There is a fine line between keeping this temple healthy and in good shape and wanting to control it completely.
6/23/2022 — Philippians 4:6
“Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks.”
Philippians 4:6 — God’s Word
Am I letting situations control me or am I controlling my responses?
Not everything is going to be rosy…. Some days things just don’t go right…. So what do I do? Be angry and moody with everybody? Put my head under the covers and cry? Complain to whoever will listen?
How about responding in prayer? Put on some praise music. Find something in the situation that I can thank God for…
6/22/2022 — Psalms 145:5
“Your magnificent splendor and the miracles of your majesty are my constant meditation.”
Psalms 145:5 — The Passion Translation
I am still “practicing” God-centered meditation but it is not natural yet. My mind wanders, I find myself planning and complaining instead of focusing on God. But I know it is Biblical and I know the great Christians of many generations depend on this precious time with God, so I will continue to draw near to Him with intention.
6/21/2022 — Psalms 80:19
“Lord God of armies, restore us; Make Your face shine upon us, and we will be saved.”
Psalms 80:19 — New American Standard Bible
Restore, renew, revive, redeem. God doesn’t give up on us. He always gives us another chance, a new page, a fresh beginning. Don’t get so jaded that I can’t believe there are always possibilities ahead of me.
6/20/2022 — Mark 8:25
“Then again Jesus laid His hands on his eyes; and the man stared intently and [his sight] was [completely] restored, and he began to see everything clearly.”
Mark 8:25 — Amplified Bible
Jesus has given me the ability to see things through His eyes, with his focus and yet I often choose to see things my own way. Stop and try to see a situation as God sees it. Look with the intent (intently) of seeing things from God’s point of view.
6/19/2022 — Luke 10:41
““Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered. “You are worried and upset about many things.”
Luke 10:41 — New International Reader’s Version
The important thing is staying close to God is service, in prayers, in reading the Bible. All else is controlled by Him so dabbling here and there is not as effective or rewarding as going to the source.
6/18/2022 — Philippians 2:9
“Therefore, God highly honored him and gave him a name above all names,”
Philippians 2:9 — Common English Bible
There are so many names for God, there are so many names for Jesus.
El Shadai, El Roi, the Good Shepherd, the Lamb of God.
The list alone could give me days of study and meditation. Which name resounds the most in my heart?
Today, Light of the World comes to mind. There is much darkness of war and uncertainty these days. God shines for me there. I will reflect on that name.
6/17/2022 — Hebrews 4:14
“We have a great high priest. He has gone up into heaven. He is Jesus the Son of God. So let us hold firmly to what we say we believe.”
Hebrews 4:14 — New International Revised Version
I wonder how many times it says in the Bible “don’t give up”, “don’t lose faith”, “stay steadfast “, “press onward”.
Obviously God is cheering us on, rooting for us to finish the race by falling into His arms! He is always with us and always for us!
6/16/2022 — Colossians 1:16
“He created all things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible. Whether they are kings or Lords, rulers or powers— everything has been created through him and for him.”
Colossians 1:16 — God’s Word
The world has forgotten, I’ve forgotten, that everything was made for God. All this fighting, all this war. None of our leaders remember, or have even learned, that they are in the position because God has put them there!
Tanya, stop worrying about them. I have been put here in this life FOR God! Not for the people around me, not even for myself.
6/15/2022 — Exodus 15:21
“This is the song that she sang: ‘Sing to the Lord, because he has shown his great power.”
Exodus 15:21 — Easy English Bible
I sometimes wonder how faithful I will be to the Lord when hard times come upon me. Will I still be able to sing with joy? But then I realize that God is the one who promises to be faithful always. He doesn’t expect me to be perfect, he understands my weakness. His faithfulness is enough for both of us.
6/14/2022 — John 4:14
“But I can give people a different kind of water. Everyone who drinks that kind of water will never get thirsty again. The water that I give them will become like a well inside them. That well will continue to give fresh water that will give him life for ever with God.’”
John 4:14 — Easy English Bible
God has given me the gift of His spirit who lives inside me, who teaches me, who cheers me and leads me and refreshes me. Don’t forget to turn the tap! The source is right here!
6/13/2022 — 1 Peter1:8-9
“You never saw him, yet you love him. You still don’t see him, yet you trust him—with laughter and singing. Because you kept on believing, you’ll get what you’re looking forward to: total salvation.”
1 Peter 1:8-9 — Message Bible
I want to remember to keep on praising, keep on singing, keep on trusting God, no matter what my eyes see and my ears hear. I want to stay close to Him and hold fast to Him, giving myself joy, being a witness to others and delighting my Lord!
6/12/2022 — Matthew 6:10
“Come and set up your kingdom, so that everyone on earth will obey you, as you are obeyed in heaven.”
Matthew 6:10 — Contemporary English Version
I look forward to spending eternity in heaven, joining my voice with generations and with angels who praise God continually.
But my life on earth is blessed with God’s Holy Spirit and with the mission God has put before me. I pray that we on earth now will be obedient and ready when Jesus comes.
6/11/2022 — 2 Chronicles 20:17
“You won't even have to fight. Just take your positions and watch the Lord rescue you from your enemy. Don't be afraid. Just do as you're told. And as you march out tomorrow, the Lord will be there with you.”
2 Chronicles 20:17 — Contemporary English Version
The battle is not mine. The problems of today are still controlled by God. My job is to stand firm and wait for God to act. He has done so before, for me, for the generations of my parents and grandparents. He will continue. My job is to praise Him, even while waiting for His help.
6/10/2021 — Psalms 8:3
“I often think of the heavens your hands have made, and of the moon and stars you put in place.”
Psalms 8:3 — Contemporary English Version
How magical a star strung sky seems, or a glowing moon. How powerful the wind, how calming the trees. Each thing praises God in the manner it was made. I can praise God just as I am also.
6/9/2022 — Romans 8:26
“In certain ways we are weak, but the Spirit is here to help us. For example, when we don't know what to pray for, the Spirit prays for us in ways that cannot be put into words.”
Romans 8:26 — Contemporary English Version
Worshiping God isn’t just for when I am joyful and happy. I can and should worship God when I don’t feel like it, when I’m exhausted. And if I can’t then letting praise music lift me in its tune and meaning as the Holy Spirit prays in my stead.
6/8/2022 — Psalms 30:12
“So I will sing to you with all that I am. I cannot stay quiet! Lord, my God, I will continue to thank you for ever.”
Psalms 30:12 — Easy English Bible
How can I express my thankfulness and my joy. My small offerings don’t show my love. God CAN and WILL turn sorrow into joy. I live in the goodness of God.
6/7/2022 — Psalms 33:1
“It’s time to sing and shout for joy! Go ahead, all you redeemed ones, do it! Praise him with all you have, for praise looks lovely on the lips of God’s lovers.”
Psalms 33:1 — The Passion Translation
The way to worship God is to use the gifts He has given me for His glory.
Gifts from God? Language ability. Nimble hands. Health. Beauty seeking eye. Love of people. Love of animals. Love of writing. Work. Money. Family.
Thank You Lord. Now how to use those gifts today?
6/6/2022 — Psalms 100:2
“As you serve him, be glad and worship him. Sing your way into his presence with joy!”
Psalms 100:2 — The Passion Translation
I love praise music. I love praise! I love getting caught up in the joy and exultation. But it is not what I feel, it is all about worshiping God. I know He loves to see and hear my praise too.
6/5/2022 — Revelations 1:8
“The Lord God says, ‘I caused all things to begin and I will cause all things to end. I have all power and authority. I am alive. I have always been alive. I will continue to be alive for ever.’”
Revelation 1:8 — Easy English Bible
I like this translation of a simple truth. God is everything. He causes and He is. There is no better reason for giving myself to Him.
Lord, let me be flexible and open to interruption because what takes away from my self-centered life is a call from You. In Jesus’ name, Amen
6/4/2022 — Romans 12:1
“…I really want you to serve God with your whole life. Offer your bodies to him like a sacrifice that continues to live. Serve him with everything that you have and that will please him. That is the true way to worship God.”
Romans 12:1 — Easy English Bible
What do I sacrifice to God? He doesn’t want offerings of animals anymore. He doesn’t even want money given each Sunday. God wants me. As I am, living and breathing, meeting people going through human life. God uses each of us right where we are….
Here I am Lord, send me. My body, my time, my emotions, my love, for Him.
6/3/2022 — Psalms 51:17
“The fountain of your pleasure is found in the sacrifice of my shattered heart before you. You will not despise my tenderness as I humbly bow down at your feet.”
Psalms 51:17 — The Passion Translation
I have heard that asking God to break me is my gift to Him. To give up my will, to allow my plans and dreams to be broken will result in far greater blessings. It is a scary idea, to be willing to give up comfort and safety and willingly become God’s instrument. My willingness is being tested…
6/2/2022 — Psalm 34:4
“I asked the Lord to help me, and he answered me. He saved me from everything that made me afraid.”
Psalms 34:4 — Easy English Bible
What I am most afraid of is where I am not trusting God. My fear shows me where my faith is weak.
Do I fear for my children’s safety? Maybe I’m not trusting and believing that God will provide and protect.
Am I fearing poor health and being lonely? I need to pray that I understand God’s omnipotence and omnipresence. (He is here now!)
Check my fears.
6/1/2022 — Psalms 139:23-24
“God, see what is in my heart. Know what is there. Test me. Know what I’m thinking. See if there’s anything in my life you don’t like. Help me live in the way that is always right.”
Psalm 139:23-24
When I pray that I want God to know me and my heart, I already know that nothing will surprise Him. What I’m really saying is that I want God to show ME what is in my heart…. What needs to change. And I’m asking Him to give me the strength to follow His directions whether I like it or not.
5/31/2022 — Matthew 6:6
“But this is how you should pray. Go to a place in your house where you can be alone. You can shut the door and you can pray to God your Father. He is in that secret place. He sees what you do there. He will give you good things in return.”
Matthew 6:6 — Easy English Bible
Here I am Lord. In my room. In the quiet. My day was long and already it is evening. I’m sorry to be late, but I know you will reward my effort to spend this time with You.
My prayer is weak tonight… not fervent, but it is set before You. I’m tired but I thank You for a good day of friends and being useful. Make me a blessing tomorrow for somebody.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
5/30/2022 — Psalm 34:17
“Yet when holy lovers of God cry out to him with all their hearts, the Lord will hear them and come to rescue them from all their troubles.”
Psalms 34:17 — The Passion Translation
I am a holy lover of God. The question is, do I cry out to God whole heartedly or are my prayers hesitant and safe and boring. When I pray does God think, “same old, same verse”, or are my prayers passionate and attention grabbing! (not that I need to grab for God’s attention, but I do need to wake myself up!) Pray with passion!
5/29/2022 — Matthew 22:37
“Jesus answered him, “ ‘Love the Lord your God with every passion of your heart, with all the energy of your being, and with every thought that is within you.’”
Matthew 22:37 — The Passion Translation
How? How do I love God completely when my heart also loves others…. Other people, other things.
How do I love God completely with all my energy when I get tired and frustrated and unmotivated?
How do I love God completely when my thoughts wander and I can’t concentrate on godly meditation?
5/28/2022 — 2 Peter 1:3
“We have everything we need to live a life that pleases God. It was all given to us by God's own power, when we learned he had invited us to share in his wonderful goodness.”
2 Peter 1:3 — Contemporary English Version
There is a difference between strength and power. Strength takes time and is the result of resistance overcome. Power is measured by how quickly we overcome the resistance.
I am gaining strength through God’s power. He is behind it all. His power is seen in sometimes miraculous instances but it is also seen in the strength that He matures in His loved ones.
5/27/2022 — Ephesians 1:23
“The church is Christ’s body and completes him as he fills everything in every way.”
Ephesians 1:23 — God’s Word
Let go of myself. Let go of my pride. I boast about my accomplishments when nothing I do is apart from Christ. In my view of myself, put the presence of God. Walk with Him, meditate on His being with me no matter where I go.
5/26/2022 — 1 Timothy 2:1
“First of all, I ask you to pray for everyone. Ask God to help and bless them all, and tell God how thankful you are for each of them.”
1 Timothy 2:1 — Common English Bible
So yesterday I was thinking how arrogant it is for me to think others need prayer when I so obviously am flawed and need God’s help. I thought God was saying that He will work in others’ lives, that I need to focus on my relationship with Him. And then today I see that praying for others is a Biblical command! As I bless others, I am blessed also! So… I will continue to put others’ needs into my prayers.
5/25/2022 — Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be determined and confident. Do not be afraid of them. Your God, the LORD himself, will be with you. He will not fail you or abandon you.””
Deuteronomy 31:6 — Good News Bible
The Bible says I can be bold! I can remind God of His promises to me.
I claim Romans 8…. that all things in my life will work out because I love God and seek Him daily.
5/24/2022 — John 14:13
“Ask me to help you. If you ask anything in my name, I will do it for you. In that way, the Son will show everyone how great the Father is.”
John 14:13 — Easy English Bible
I read this and think, “I’ll pray for _____ . I ask God to work in _____ life.”
And then I realize I need to ask God for myself. I need to ask Him to work in MY life.
Lord. Lead me today. Show me how to put peace and joy into my everyday routines. Then make that joy in You overflow into every part and minute and relationship in my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen
5/23/2022 — 1 John 1:9
“Instead, we should agree that we have done wrong things and tell that to God. Then God will forgive us for our sins. He always does what he has promised to do. He always does what is right. He will forgive us and he will make us clean again, whatever bad things we may have done.”
1 John 1:9 — Easy English Bible
It is comforting that God cleanses me of my filth though I go back to the mud again and again. I can’t even say I’ll stay out of the pit, I don’t want to try to rectify my sins and that alone stains me. I know it is a disappointment but still God bathes me in forgiveness.
5/22/2022 — 2 Corinthians 1:9
“In fact, we felt sure we were going to die. But this made us stop trusting in ourselves and start trusting God, who raises the dead to life.”
2 Corinthians 1:9 — Common English Bible
I so often temper my prayers, making them not so outlandish that I won’t have to see God not answer them. (Not answer them the way I want). Be bold! God has saved me! He has raised the dead! He can restore! Pray wildly today!
Lord, I pray you bring ____ and _____ back to You. Thank You for letting me know the positions on faith so that I can pray all the more! Work a miracle in their lives! In Jesus’ name. Amen
5/21/2022 — Colossians 1:17
“He existed before all things, and all things are held together in him.”
Colossians 1:17 — Common English Bible
Of course God is here on my good days. The sun is shining, I have new ideas in my head, I’ve heard from my kids, I’m looking forward to a walk and eating something sweet.
On my bad days, an argument with my husband, a headache that came out of nowhere, foot pain, sluggishness, heavy and dark and moody. GOD iS STILL HERE!
Respond to Him the same way. With thanksgiving and praise.
5/20/2022 — Proverbs 16:9
“We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.”
Proverbs 16:9 — New Living Translation
I can and should plan to use every day God gives me, wisely. And though I think I know how the schedule is going to go, things always find a way in… God allows them or sends them, anyway, learning to live in God’s flow is important. And remembering that He is in each schedule change.
5/19/2022 — Psalms 150:6
“Let everyone everywhere join in the crescendo of ecstatic praise to Yahweh! Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!”
Psalms 150:6 — The Passion Translation
I love Chris Rice’s song Hallelujahs. It shows so many ways God’s creation praises Him. …. With great booming and quiet pulsing….
My praise can be offered to God in a sanctuary, in a field, with song, with silence.
Come before God and pray and praise.
5/18/2022 — Psalms 119:2
“Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts.”
Psalms 119:2 — New Living Translation
I use the search function on my phone quite a bit. Questions pop into my head, ideas spring up, I have an interest I want to check out…
The phone is handy that way, but is it helping me find the peace I want? Or is it just contributing to distraction?
Put aside the phone when in prayer, meditation, worship, fellowship. Focus my whole heart on God.
5/17/2022 — Psalms 130:2
“Lord, hear my voice! Let Your ears be attentive To the voice of my supplications.”
Psalms 130:2 — Amplified Bible
To try to pray is to pray. Intention is everything. To offer myself in meditation is meditation. Just arrive and sit.
I’m gaining insights from the devotional Even Silence Is Praise.
Lord. I’m here. Speak to me.
5/16/2022 — Psalms 119:33
“Give me revelation about the meaning of your ways so I can enjoy the reward of following them fully.”
Psalms 119:33 — The Passion Translation
In asking for revelation I am responsible for opening my heart and my ears. I am responsible for closing the door and giving up my time to listen to what God is saying.
5/15/2022 — Psalms 65:1
“To You belongs silence [the submissive wonder of reverence], and [it bursts into] praise in Zion, O God; And to You the vow shall be performed.”
Psalms 65:1 Amplified Bible
God is found in silence. Not ONLY in silence, but my heart keeps moving in that direction.
Why is it so hard to pray and meditate? I will put aside five minutes every day this week with the door closed and my heart open. God, please lead me.
5/14/2022 — John 14:5
“Thomas said, “Lord, we don't even know where you are going! How can we know the way?””
John 14:5 — Contemporary English Version
I often get hung up on the WHY. Why is this happening? Or the HOW. How can I fix the problem? And the WHEN. When is God going to come through for me?
But the only answer I have to know is WHO. I know Who is in charge. I know Who loves me.
5/13/2022 — Psalm 139:3
“You see me, whether I am working or resting; you know all my actions.”
Psalms 139:3 — Good News Bible
If I am hearing God at all, recently my heart has been moved to thinking about solitude and meditating on God’s presence. “Thinking about” is the key. Actually finding the solitude and meditating hasn’t happened yet.
I’ve tried prayer time and a prayer room experiment but those didn’t last long…. This devotional and writing Scripture in my journal are the only thing that have stuck…
5/12/2022 — 2 Peter 3:8
“But do not forget one thing, my dear friends! There is no difference in the Lord's sight between one day and a thousand years; to him the two are the same.”
2 Peter 3:8 — Good News Bible
I just spent a long~~ (over an hour) session on an overseas phone call with the bank, frustration levels rising as I was put on hold, as I worked through red tape.
But to God, one day, one hour is a blink and my frustrations are few in the sight of greater things.
5/11/2022 — Colossians 3:2
“Yes, feast on all the treasures of the heavenly realm and fill your thoughts with heavenly realities, and not with the distractions of the natural realm.”
Colossians 3:2 — The Passion Translation
Lift up my eyes! Even if I can’t see the next step, i can look to God who always knows. Focusing on God will keep my spirits up but looking to Him in faith pleases Him. And He is the One who controls it all so He is the One who will act on my behalf.
5/10/2022 — Philippians 4:8
“Now my friends, I want to say this to you. Fill your minds with thoughts about good things. Think about things that are true, clean, right and lovely. Always think about things which people know are very good.”
Philippians 4:8 Easy English Bible
So prayer keeps the mind from worrisome thoughts. Another way to keep a heart peaceful is to focus on the good! Count my blessings!
I have health. I have a happy family. I have things to do that give me enjoyment! Those are three things that make me smile and that I can focus on!
5/9/2022 — Philippians 4:6
“Do not worry about anything. Instead, pray to God about everything. Ask him to help you with the things that you need. And thank him for his help.”
Philippians 4:6
If I have time to worry I have time to pray. If something is stressing me out, then it means I’m worried and should shift into prayer. And prayer isn’t complaint. It’s asking God for help, and thanking Him for His attention and work.
5/8/2022 — Joshua 1:9
“I've commanded you to be strong and brave. Don't ever be afraid or discouraged! I am the Lord your God, and I will be there to help you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9
Sitting in my comfortable chair I have no problem trusting God with my life. But then I think back to my panic when someone was sick or my fury when I get angry or depression when I’m thrown a loop. Where was all that trust and peace at those times? Well, I’m here aren’t I? God has been with me and brought me through.
5/7/2022 — Lamentations 3:24
“I say to myself, “The Lord is everything I will ever need. So I will put my hope in him.””
Lamentations 3:24
Respond to every stress and anxiety in my life by repeating this verse and saying “I will trust God. He knows everything. He loves me. His power is unlimited.
5/6/2022 — Psalm 139:24
“See if there is any path of pain I’m walking on, and lead me back to your glorious, everlasting ways— the path that brings me back to you.”
Psalms 139:24 — The Passion Translation
I think I get too caught up in wondering if I am doing enough for God…. If I’m following Him closely enough, if I will hear the “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
There is nothing I can do more, deeper prayers, more witnessing, that can make God love me more. And He obviously has the ability to direct me when something needs to be adjusted.
5/5/2022 — Matthew 14:31
“Jesus immediately stretched out his hand and lifted him up and said, “What little faith you have! Why would you let doubt win?””
Matthew 14:31 — The Passion Translation
My battle is with what God has promised me and yet I cannot see, and what I see but refuse to believe because I know my God. Believing just because I don’t want the truth to be different is leaving God out. Doubting when I know God’s promise is sin.
5/4/2022 — Psalms 62:8
“Join me, everyone! Trust only in God every moment! Tell him all your troubles and pour out your heart-longings to him. Believe me when I tell you—he will help you! Pause in his presence”
Psalms 62:8 — The Passion Translation
When I pour out my troubles to God, He pours in His peace and courage. Sharing my heart is not necessary for God to know me but it is necessary for me to make room for Him.
5/3/2022 — John 17:3
“Eternal life means to know and experience you as the only true God, and to know and experience Jesus Christ, as the Son whom you have sent.”
John 17:3 — The Passion Translation
A lot of people know of Jesus and some have even met Jesus. I have invited Jesus to my heart and live with Him daily. While living with Him, do we talk and share and take care of each other? (How do I take care of Jesus?!?! By loving Him, pleasing Him and helping others whom He loves!) Do more than just exist side by side!
5/2/2022 — Genesis 3:8
“That evening they heard the LORD God walking in the garden, and they hid from him among the trees.”
Genesis 3:8 — Good News Bible
Not only does God want us to accept a relationship with Him, He also wants us to walk with Him, talk with Him, share ourselves with Him, gain insight from Him, enjoy Him. And He, us.
5/1/2022 — Philippians 4:8
“Finally, my friends, keep your minds on whatever is true, pure, right, holy, friendly, and proper. Don't ever stop thinking about what is truly worthwhile and worthy of praise.”
Philippians 4:8 — Contemporary English Version
It boils down to, “what am I going to focus on, meditate on, concentrate on?” What thought am I going to choose today and what thought am I going to banish?
As a worker in a control tower, which thoughts are allowed to land and which are sent on to other destinations?
4/30/2022 — Philippians 4:7
“Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel.”
Philippians 4:7 — Contemporary English Version
I yearn for peace and I have it!! Jesus is the Prince of Peace and I belong to Him and He belongs to me!
With Jesus as my Peace, my mind, my heart, my feelings, my thoughts are His and they are protected!
4/29/2022 — Philippians 4:6
“Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart.”
Philippians 4:6 — Good News Bible
Prayer is actually for your benefit. It allows you to act in faith on what you know about his character. When you pray in specific ways—for the particulars of your problems—and you see God respond in specific ways, your faith grows. You come to trust that God will always be there for you, even in the midst of the most anxiety-producing moments. - Max Lucado
My prayers are for me, not for God. I am learning more about God, about myself, about my faith when I pray.
4/28/2022 — Philippians 4:5
“Show a gentle attitude towards everyone. The Lord is coming soon.”
Philippians 4:5 — Good News Bible
I have a short tempered husband. (Shh..)
My reactions to his temper are mostly to extinguish and redirect but my emotions underneath are quite discontent and frustrated. On the outside I may seem gentle but I wish God would truly change my heart to perfect peace…
Remember, God is with me.
4/27/2022 — Psalms 105:3
“Be glad that we belong to him; let all who worship him rejoice.”
Psalms 105:3
Let me remember today (again!) that it is not up to me to control the world or my life. God is the One in control and all stress that I feel is generated because I want to (and can’t) control a situation. God is omnipotent and omniscient. I choose to rejoice in belonging to Him!
4/26/2022 — Psalm 34:7
“The angel of the Lord stooped down to listen as I prayed, encircling me, empowering me, and showing me how to escape. He will do this for everyone who fears God.”
Psalms 34:7 — The Passion Translation
As I pray, as I meditate, God sits with me. He walks beside me. He covers me. He places His angels to guard me as I lose myself in God and they listen to my heart and hear my desires. They give me strength, cheering me on. they help me to leave sad thoughts behind.
4/25/2022 — Psalm 20:4
“May God give you every desire of your heart and carry out your every plan as you go to battle.”
Psalms 20:4 — The Passion Translation
My battle is with myself. I want to grow closer to God and to feel His presence in prayer, but my prayers are rushed and tepid. I want to develop the habit of Biblical meditation and hear God’s voice. I’m asking God to lead me because He knows my desires and my weakness.
Lord, guide me, teach me, keep me on the right path.
4/24/2022 — 2 Corinthians 4:18
“For we fix our attention, not on things that are seen, but on things that are unseen. What can be seen lasts only for a time, but what cannot be seen lasts for ever.”
2 Corinthians 4:18
“What is essential is invisible to the eye.”
I get so wound up about the things that bother me…. And then I forget that God, who I can’t see, is with me.
Put aside human logic and “reality” and life by faith and trusting God’s omnipotence and love.
4/12/2022 — Mark 12:31
“The second most important commandment is this: ‘Love your neighbour as you love yourself.’ There is no other commandment more important than these two.””
Mark 12:31 — Good News Bible
Sometimes the only testimony we can make that others will understand, is loving them. It was the message of the Christian association I first worked for, the Good Neighbors. It is how God speaks through us in our world.
4/10/2022 — Romans 8:18-21
“That’s why I don’t think there’s any comparison between the present hard times and the coming good times. The created world itself can hardly wait for what’s coming next. Everything in creation is being more or less held back. God reins it in until both creation and all the creatures are ready and can be released at the same moment into the glorious times ahead. Meanwhile, the joyful anticipation deepens.”
Romans 8:18-21 — Message Bible
God calls us to be “repairers of creation”, in Mr. Rogers’ words. Our job is not to separate to sacred from the world but to bring them together as a whole to place before God as an offering. Repair creation, whether it be the ecology, or people, or relationships. It is God’s work through us.
4/9/2022 — Romans 12:2
“So then, my brothers and sisters, because of God's great mercy to us I appeal to you: offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to his service and pleasing to him. This is the true worship that you should offer.”
Romans 12:1 —Good News Bible
Talking with my daughter about how she wants her baby to grow up. Famous? Successful? Creative? Adventurous?
I think I’ve felt being helpful to others has been a theme of my life. That and feeling content.
4/5/2022 — Isaiah 55:9
“As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways and thoughts above yours.”
Isaiah 55:9 — Good News Bible
Isn’t it amazing the life God plans for each of us. He has molded all these random people and places and times into such a wonderful life for me.
4/4/2022 — Jeremiah 10:23
“I know, Lord, that our lives are not our own. We are not able to plan our own course.”
Jeremiah 10:23 — New Living Translation
My life is controlled by God. I can plan and work out the details but it is all for my own satisfaction. God plans, knows, leads, I follow.
4/3/2022 — 1 Corinthians 2:11
“No one can know a person’s thoughts except that person’s own spirit, and no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit.”
1 Corinthians 2:11 — Living Bible
God knows me because He made me. God knows I am worried about our trip. He knows my attitude is bad. He knows how I want be bright and adventurous but find it hard to change.
God understands me even when I don’t understand myself. Not understanding but believing is my faith.
4/2/2022 — Isaiah 30:15
“The holy Lord God of Israel had told all of you, “I will keep you safe if you turn back to me and calm down. I will make you strong if you quietly trust me.”
Isaiah 30:15 — Contemporary English Version
I really need to make the effort to take a deep breath and not get upset about things. The words: calm, quiet, peace, trust. Instead I run around trying to make things perfect, my blood pressure rises when things go wrong.
I find it hard to discern whether I should believe that the problems we have are God’s way of closing the door or a test of my willingness to step out in faith.
4/1/2022 — John 13:35
“If you have love for one another, then everyone will know that you are my disciples.””
John 13:35 — Good News Bible
I get hung up on whether I’m being a good witness, whether I’ve said the right words, given the correct advice, gotten the timing right.
But GOD does the saving, not me. My mission is only to love others.
That alone is a challenge but it is a place on which to focus.
3/31/2022 — Psalms 103:11
“As high as the sky is above the earth, so great is his love for those who honour him.”
Psalms 103:11 — Good News Bible
It doesn’t really matter if we are baptized in a pool or with a few drops. It doesn’t matter if I cross myself after I pray or if I raise my hands to heaven. Those are all man made rites. The only thing that matters is that I love God and honor Him in all I think and do.
3/30/2022 — Acts 5:15
“So people brought those who were sick into the streets. They placed them on beds and mats. They hoped that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them as he walked by.”
Acts 5:15 — New International Reader’s Version
I too hope that the shadow of Christ falls on the people I come into contact with and that they will sense the protection and peace of God’s presence.
3/29/2022 — John 15:16
“You did not choose me. Instead, I chose you. I appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit that will last. I also appointed you so that the Father will give you what you ask for. He will give you whatever you ask for in my name.”
John 15:16 — New International Reader’s Version
Sometimes I forget that God chose ME, not the other way around, that God directed my life, I didn’t make it, that my job is to stay closely tuned to Him for my future to be fulfilled.
3/28/2022 — John 16:33
““I have told you these things, so that you can have peace because of me. In this world you will have trouble. But be encouraged! I have won the battle over the world.””
John 16:33 — New International Reader’s Version
The world is in a mess and getting all this war information real time is weighing me down. But this is not a surprise! The Bible prophesied all this! God has me under His wing and He is not surprised or worried about anything!
3/27/2022 — John 14:12
“What I’m about to tell you is true. Anyone who believes in me will do the works I have been doing. In fact, they will do even greater things. That’s because I am going to the Father.”
John 14:12 — New International Readers’ Version
Glorifying God does not have to begin when the happy ending is written, it is in the struggle and in the honesty of pursuing God’s truth in faith.
The witness to God’s presence can be proclaimed even when I don’t see Him yet.
3/26/2022 — Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit within you is divine love in all its varied expressions: joy that overflows, peace that subdues, patience that endures, kindness in action, a life full of virtue, faith that prevails, gentleness of heart, and strength of spirit. Never set the law above these qualities, for they are meant to be limitless.”
Galatians 5:22-23 — The Passion Translation
What a beautiful translation of these verses. The different ways God expresses His love for us in our lives.
3/25/2022 — Proverbs 3:5
“Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions. With all your heart rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make.”
Proverbs 3:5 — The Passion Translation
On our plans to go to America we are still trusting in our memory (“I already made that reservation for….” “ No, we made it for…”) and paper files (“I don’t understand how the digital file works, make me a paper copy”). We’ve got to do our best and then TRUST GOD. Wait! The correct order is TRUST GOD and then do our best.
3/24/2022 — Hebrews 11:8
“Faith motivated Abraham to obey God’s call and leave the familiar to discover the territory he was destined to inherit from God. So he left with only a promise and without even knowing ahead of time where he was going, Abraham stepped out in faith.”
Hebrews 11:8 — The Passion Translation
I’m pulling a lot of personal meaning out of this verse but anyway…. My biggest “fear”, “anxious heart”, “peace stealer” right now is our scheduled trip to the States in two weeks. There are so many “roads” I’ve never traveled. Dealing through everything digitally, choosing places to stay, renting cars, getting from one place to another. My stress levels are high!
God directed and protected Abraham. Why am I worrying about a “planned” trip? My kids will keep tabs on us, God is with us!!! Stop over thinking it!!!
3/23/2022 — Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! — Isaiah 23:6 — New Living Translation
Faith is relying on God when I can’t see the step ahead. Everyday the steps are blurry and I waver behind what might be the right choice of direction or what might lead me to disappointment. Trust God to lead.
3/22/2022 — Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”
Philippians 4:8 — New American Standard Bible
Replace negative thought with positive ones.
My thoughts have been very negative lately. Even recalling them to do the replacing makes me sad.
God, You know how my brain is working. Put joyful images in my mind and help me spread the joy around. In Jesus’ name, amen.
3/21/2022 — Proverbs 4:23
“So above all, guard the affections of your heart, for they affect all that you are. Pay attention to the welfare of your innermost being, for from there flows the wellspring of life.”
Proverbs 4:23 — The Passion Translation
Yesterday I weighed in the risks of going to church and worshipping with my church family, against the possibility of contracting Corona in the largish group.
I’m planning to go to the States in two weeks and CANNOT get Corona now but I’ve been so down and my mind so negative about EVERYTHING that I felt I had to go and saturate myself in praise and worship.
3/20/2022 — Proverbs 23:7
“For as he thinks within himself, so he is. He says to you, “Eat and drink!” But his heart is not with you.”
Proverbs 23:7 — New
American Standard Bible
Today’s verse really hit my heart today. I am what I think. I even notice when I’m reading books about angry wives I am in an angry mood, and watching YouTube videos about dementia makes me depressed about the future. I’m sure the tv about the Ukraine war and Corona is doing the same.
Hiding my head in the sand is not great but trying to keep my mood and heart happy is not a sin.
3/19/2022 — Isaiah 41:10
“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10 — New Living Translation
So I have problems. It is hard to know what to do or say. Words can’t be taken back.
But actually my problems are small in the big picture. People are dying in Ukraine. They lost their homes and their livelihoods. People are fighting Covid. Earthquakes can’t be stopped no matter how I worry about them.
Stop looking at my small problem and be grateful instead.
3/18/2022 — Luke 11:28
“Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.””
Luke 11:28 — New Living Translation
Having the Bible on my desk and open is not going to get it in my heart. (But it’s a good start.) Writing scripture in my journal every day is a good step but the Word still needs to be pondered and prayed over.
I’m doing some things right, God will direct me to do the next steps.
3/17/2022 — Jeremiah 29:12
“Then you will call to me. You will come and pray to me, and I will answer you.”
Jeremiah 29:12 — Good News Bible
Dear Lord,
Open my heart to Your Word and open Your Word to my heart.
In Jesus’ name, amen
3/16/2022 — 2 Timothy 3:17
“Then you will be God’s servant, fully mature and perfectly prepared to fulfill any assignment God gives you.”
2 Timothy 3:17 — The Passion Translation
God prepares us. He prepares us with His Word but also prepares us to understand His Word with various Bible translations, with software, with teachers near us and online. It is my job to seek out and use all that God has provided to know Him better.
3/15/2022 — Luke 5:16
“But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.”
Luke 5:16 — New Living Translation
If anyone could afford to skip a time of prayer and communication with God, it was Jesus. He had God’s mission directly. He WAS God! Busy? Of course. Under stress? Of course!
I have no excuse not to spend time with God!
3/14/2022 — Matthew 7:24
“These words I speak to you are not incidental additions to your life, homeowner improvements to your standard of living. They are foundational words, words to build a life on. If you work these words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who built his house on solid rock.”
Matthew 7:24 — Message Bible
God’s Words are not from a self-help book. They are the foundation on which I must build my routines, my relationships, my attitude and my future. If my foundation shakes with every problem, I will fall flat. Base my days and my life on what God says.
3/13/2022 — Matthew 9:22
“Jesus turned and saw her. “Dear woman, don’t give up hope,” he said. “Your faith has healed you.” The woman was healed at that moment.”
Matthew 9:22 — New International Reader’s Version
My faith and my healing from health problems, from anxiety, from doubt) include pursuing God. I know who Jesus is. Do I seek Him out for miracles or do I give up? Pursue Jesus in all my needs.
3/12/2022 — Psalms 51:16-17
“Going through the motions doesn’t please you, a flawless performance is nothing to you. I learned God-worship when my pride was shattered. Heart-shattered lives ready for love don’t for a moment escape God’s notice.”
Psalm 51:16-17 — Message Bible
God doesn’t expect or want perfection. He knows that the times I’m most likely to seek Him out and rely on Him are when I can’t make things right myself and when I come to the end of my rope. My mess is God’s message.
3/11/2022 — 1 Samuel 1:10-11
“…Crushed in soul, Hannah prayed to God and cried and cried—inconsolably. Then she made a vow: Oh, God-of-the-Angel-Armies, If you’ll take a good, hard look at my pain, If you’ll quit neglecting me and go into action for me By giving me a son, I’ll give him completely, unreservedly to you. I’ll set him apart for a life of holy discipline.”
1 Samuel 1:10-11 — Message Bible
Hannah prayed such an honest prayer. She cried and doubted and she bargained. I too have doubted that God was working for me, that He sees how much pain I feel, and bargaining seems to go along with prayer though I know I shouldn’t.
But God looked on Hannah with love and gave her her greatest desire. And Hannah remembered to be grateful and fulfill her promise.
God appreciates honesty.
3/10/2022 — Exodus 32:31
“So Moses went back to the Lord. He said, “These people have committed a terrible sin. They have made a god out of gold for themselves.”
Exodus 32:31 — New International Reader’s Version
I look at my life and see the things I’ve put in Jesus’ place. I’m not sure gold and money are forefront, yet I sense that security is… which may be the same thing. Would I give up Jesus for security against war? Would I give up Jesus for security for my old-age comfort?
If feels as if other things are sneakily crawling into first place in my life.
3/9/2022 — Genesis 17:18
“So Abraham said to God, “May Ishmael live under your special blessing!””
Genesis 17:18 — New Living Translation
It is a great act of faith to ask God to bless someone. I ask blessings for others because I am aware of the blessings to me.
My greatest desire is that God will bless my family to recognize His face and His way, but I also ask God’s blessings on those friends who have no idea of where to turn.
Asking for God’s blessings on others is my gift to them.
3/8/2022 — Isaiah 61:1
“The Sovereign LORD has filled me with his Spirit. He has chosen me and sent me To bring good news to the poor, To heal the broken-hearted, To announce release to captives And freedom to those in prison.”
Isaiah 61:1 — Good News Bible
Goodness, the first two verses in this chapter scare me. “Lord! Please DON’T send me!” It sounds like so much to do, so impossible! I’m tired and lazy!
I think the important phrase is that God FILLS me with His Holy Spirit. I’m not expected to go out and decide and work and make a difference on my own. I’m only required to open my heart to the Holy Spirit‘s urging.
3/7/2022 — Acts 9:13
““But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers in Jerusalem!”
Acts of the Apostles 9:13 — New Living Translation
I so relate to Ananias. I feel like every time I talk with God I’m saying, “but Lord…”
I struggle with obeying God, with being the person He wants me to be. I’ve got my reasons and my weaknesses and I believe God isn’t shaking His head at me but instead understanding me and letting me grow into it.
3/6/2022 — John 21:19
“Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.””
John 21:19 — New Living Translation
I’m in a rather low mood…. This verse caught my eye.
“…By what kind of death he would glorify God…”
We can glorify God in our deaths not just our lives. In fact glorifying God in my death may be my purpose. Holding on to God to the end…. Relying on God in my despair seems like it would be a pretty good testimony.
3/5/2022 — 1 Peter 2:21
“You were chosen to do good even if you suffer. That’s because Christ suffered for you. He left you an example that he expects you to follow.”
1 Peter 2:21 — New International Version
Even though problems abound in our lives, all though history there have been problems and one reason Jesus came to this world was to show us how to live in the midst of life’s sufferings. He is the example for our lives.
We are to live close to God, speaking with Him at all times, we are to help others, hate evil and replace fear with love. Look at Jesus.
3/4/2022 — Matthew 28:16
“Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them.”
Matthew 28:16 — New King James Version
I like that the word “appointed” has the word “point” in it. Jesus points the way. He has gone ahead and breaks the trail but he also comes back for us and points us to God.
We have an appointment to be in God’s presence and Jesus always points the way.
3/3/2022 — Isaiah 12:2
“Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; For the Lord God is my strength and song, And He has become my salvation.””
Isaiah 12:2 — New American Standard Bible
This verse can also be found in Exodus and we chose it to have carved into our family gravestone.
I hope to never forget that the source of my strength is God. The source of my joy is God. Because I have committed myself to these truths, God became and still is my salvation.
3/2/2022 — John 8:31
“So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine;”
John 8:31 — New American Standard Bible
In my life that is “busy” (not really theses days), I can continue being close to God by starting the morning in His Word and ending it the same way. On my iPhone I choose a verse and add my thoughts to it in the morning.
In the evening I write out the same verse and the same thoughts again in my daily bullet journal. My morning is connected to my evening in God’s Word.
3/1/2022 — John 20:31
“But all that is recorded here is so that you will fully believe that Jesus is the Anointed One, the Son of God, and that through your faith in him you will experience eternal life by the power of his name!”
John 20:31 — The Passion Translation
The Bible is not just for instruction and history and for experiencing people’s reactions and thoughts, fears and joy through life.
God gave us His Word so we don’t forget what we believe and rest our hope upon. In fear and sadness and panic, it is easy for thoughts to run wild. Settle back with the Bible. God will direct us to the words, His Words, that we need to hear and settle our hearts and faith again.
2/28/2022 — Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
Philippians 4:6 — New American Standard Version
“Plead with thanksgiving”. Those two things are supposed to go together. In my prayers for peace, for world wisdom, for comfort from grief, for safety, I need to remember to THANK God! He knows what is going on. He has a plan. Through the struggles He is bringing His world to perfection. He loves each of us.
Thank You, Lord for being our Lord. Thank You for supplying us with faith and patience. Thank You for hearing the prayers of Your faithful.
In Jesus’ name. Amen
2/27/2022 — Proverbs 3:5
“Always trust the Lord completely. Do not think that your own wisdom is enough.”
Proverbs 3:5 — Easy English Bible
God can be trusted. Why do I think so? Why do I know?
There have been a lot of prayers and feelings of despair in my life. I’ve felt abandoned, desperate, grief-stricken, scared…
And yet, here I am. Safe, healthy, happy. Life is good even though things have not always been good.
In God’s hand even my sadness has disappeared and I’m left with gratitude. This is my testimony to trusting God with whatever else that may happen.
2/26/2022 — 1 Corinthians 15:4
“He was buried. He was raised from the dead on the third day, just as Scripture said he would be.”
1 Corinthians 15:4 — New Living Translation
The message is so simple. Jesus died on the cross. He was resurrected. We now have a place in heaven if we ask for it.
The Bible says it’s so, so it’s so.
2/25/2022 — Romans 6:8-9
“What we believe is this: If we get included in Christ’s sin-conquering death, we also get included in his life-saving resurrection. We know that when Jesus was raised from the dead it was a signal of
the end of death-as-the-end. Never again will death have the last word. When Jesus died, he took sin down with him, but alive he brings God down to us.”
Romans 6:8-9 Message Bible
Though death seems so final, actually death will never have the last word. God always will. My eternal life with Him goes beyond death. Jesus resurrected enables me to reach out to God with hope for a future.
2/24/2022 — Matthew 28:5-6
“The angel spoke to the women: “There is nothing to fear here. I know you’re looking for Jesus, the One they nailed to the cross. He is not here. He was raised, just as he said. Come and look at the place where he was placed.”
Matthew 28:5-6 — Message Bible
Jesus is alive, there is nothing to fear. When a loved one dies, he is with Jesus. There is nothing to fear. When I am waiting to be received into heaven, there is nothing to fear.
Looking for Jesus? He has been raised to heaven and waiting to welcome us.
2/23/2022 — Romans 7:21-23
“It happens so regularly that it’s predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God’s commands, but it’s pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge.”
Romans 7:21-23 — Message Bible
So, so, SO true!!! I want to do good. I want to do as I believe and live as I preach and be a great example and make God happy, and be proud of myself and inspire others and spread God’s kingdom…
… and then I fall back into my miserable, petty, lazy ways, ruining my testimony, disappointing myself and others.
I can only ask for forgiveness and strength, thank God for His mercy and step forward again.
2/22/2022 — 1 Corinthians 15:26
“And the last enemy to be subdued and eliminated is death itself.”
1 Corinthians 15:26 — The Passion Translation
Death is the mystery, something we fear and wish to avoid. Even believing my beloved child, my parents and grandparents, my devout friend are all with God in heaven, I wonder what the step will be like. Will I fight it? Will I be joyful? Expectant?
And when I do step over, there will never be anything to wonder about, to worry about again. Death will be eliminated.
2/21/2022 — John 3:16
““This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.”
John 3:16
Though my hope and eyes are on my eternal life with Jesus in heaven, I also consider that my eternal life doesn’t START with my physical death…. It has already begun! I’m not just waiting around for the rewards and bearing through this life, I’m already living an amazing life with God now.
2/20/2022 — John 15:12
“My commandment is this – to love one another just as I have loved you.”
John 15:12 — New International Version
What is the love I have that is closest to Jesus’ love? My love for my family and animals…. I can easily imagine sacrificing myself for them and I think this is the type of love Jesus personifies.
How do we actually love others the way Jesus does?
2/19/2022 — Luke 23:42
“Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.””
Luke 23:42 — New International Version
My deepest prayer and belief. That when I die Jesus will be there to greet me and welcome me to His kingdom. I pray (and know) that no matter what I’ve been or done, that God will smile and say “well done, my good and faithful servant. Enter in with gladness.”
2/18/2022 — Ephesians 2:7-8
“Now God has us where he wants us, with all the time in this world and the next to shower grace and kindness upon us in Christ Jesus. Saving is all his idea, and all his work. All we do is trust him enough to let him do it. It’s God’s gift from start to finish! We don’t play the major role. If we did, we’d probably go around bragging that we’d done the whole thing!”
Ephesians 2:7-8 — Message Bible
“We don’t play a major role…” God is the lead actor. We have minor roles. God’s plans include all of the present and all of the past and all of the future. Think of all the humans (and creations) that make up the universe and how they play with each other. I am very small but I am still loved and included in His plans.
2/17/2022 — Philippians 2:6
“Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;”
Philippians 2:6 — New International Version
I am a child of God and the Holy Spirit lives within me. I have the characteristics of loving others, forgiving others, pouring myself out for others. Instead I worry about being taken advantage of, about what is fair, about what I deserve or don’t deserve.
Take on the attribute of allowing God to decide my role and rewards in life.
2/16/2022 — Hebrews 4:15
“Jesus, our great priest understands us. He knows how weak we are. He knows that we sometimes want to do wrong things...”
Hebrews 4:15 — Easy English Bible
I am encouraged to know that Jesus understands me. Sometimes I think I’m just wandering around in my own mind and my friends would just think I’m nuts if I tried explaining myself. I don’t need to explain to God though He is always willing to listen.
2/15/2022 — Luke 22:67-68
““If You are the Christ, tell us.” But He said to them, “If I tell you, you will by no means believe. And if I also ask you, you will by no means answer Me or let Me go.”
Luke 22:67-68 — New King James Version
I sort of understand this feeling. If I tell someone about Jesus they aren’t going to believe me. If they want to get into a discussion about why I believe what the Bible says and why they don’t, they won’t go beyond “I just can’t.”
Does Jesus understand my hesitancy to witness?
2/14/2022 — Matthew 27:43
“He says he puts all his trust in God, so let’s see if it’s true, and see if God really wants to rescue his ‘favorite son’!””
Matthew 27:43 — The Passion Translation
I say I put my trust in God when all the sky is bright and sunny. How about when my life is shattered? Is God only my God when everything is good? Or do I claim God as my God when in despair also. He is either God in all or God in none.
2/13/2022 — Romans 6:6
“For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin—”
Romans 6:6 — New International Version
The Bible says I’m no longer a slave to sin but I still go back and look at it. Is it just that easy to say, “I’m a child of God. I’m not going to do this.” I’ve made it a habit to say “Get behind me Satan. Jesus is stronger than you.” It feels like a powerful weapon in my arsenal! Keep those strong Bible verses on the tip of my tongue for fighting sin!
2/12/2022 — Philippians 3:13
“I don’t depend on my own strength to accomplish this; however I do have one compelling focus: I forget all of the past as I fasten my heart to the future instead.”
Philippians 3:13 — The Passion Translation
There have been a lot of tears and swearing that I keep behind closed doors. I sure hope my doubting, angry side doesn’t come out when I’m in some stage of dementia. I hope along with everything else, I’ll forget the trials and troubles and be reaching for Jesus’ hand instead.
2/11/2022 — Romans 5:8
“But Christ proved God’s passionate love for us by dying in our place while we were still lost and ungodly!”
Romans 5:8 — The Passion Translation
I will never feel good enough or do good even. I will always fall down, disappointment, give up, make excuses. But Jesus never did and God never will. There was love there before I even knew God. It doesn’t matter what the ending is for me, there is love there.
2/10/2022 — 2 Corinthians 4:1
“Therefore, since we have this ministry, just as we received mercy [from God, granting us salvation, opportunities, and blessings], we do not get discouraged nor lose our motivation.”
2 Corinthians 4:1 — Amplified Bible
What do I want to give up on? What is the ministry God has given me? It looks so minuscule I don’t recognize it as a ministry, but maybe it is just the day to day task of keeping my body in tip-too shape. God gave me this body, this temple, and it IS wearing out, but I’m the only one who can take care of it…. By eating well. By giving it exercise.
Sigh. Not the message I wanted. I’ve been thinking of stopping my pool membership. I really dislike the exercise and the time “wasted” when I could be sewing or drawing or something.
Is God saying not to get discouraged or lose my motivation?
2/9/2022 — Matthew 28:20
“Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.””
Matthew 28:20 — New Living Translation
God is with me. He is not off busily helping someone else with their more dire problems, He has His eye on me, His hand in my life.
He is here.
2/8/2022 — Psalms 32:8
“So all your loyal people should pray to you in times of need; when a great flood of trouble comes rushing in, it will not reach them.”
Psalms 32:6 — Good News Bible
I am learning to pray in quiet times so that when times of hardship are upon me, it will be a natural outlet and source of comfort. It is better to establish a close relationship with God when the days are joyful than when things are in a frenzy.
2/7/2022 — John 21:17
“A third time Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was sad because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” so he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you!” Jesus said to him, “Take care of my sheep.”
John 21:17 — Good News Bible
Jesus knows EVERYTHING about me! My lukewarm prayers, my wavering faith, my fear of witnessing, my failure to obey His commands. And yet He still loves me and desires my love. He still is using me in His mission to the world.
2/6/2022 — Isaiah 46:4
“I will be your God throughout your lifetime— until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you.”
Isaiah 46:4 — New Living Translation
Thank You Lord, for these words to carry with me always. Your assurance that You know who I am, that You will not just be near to me but CARRY me is so comforting. As I get older and weaker, You are taking me through this life til I am with You in eternity. Hallelujah!
2/5/2022 — Isaiah 41:10
“Do not be afraid — I am with you! I am your God — let nothing terrify you! I will make you strong and help you; I will protect you and save you.”
Isaiah 41:10 — Good News Bible
So things are not great. We daily wonder with a headache or a cough, if Corona has hit. I’m hiding out in the bedroom just in case a headache turns into more but probably the aspirin I just took will set everything right in an hour or so. It is the questioning and then the disappointment that minor things can affect my rhythm and routine that gets me down…
God is here. God is making me strong. My life isn’t so busy that I can’t sit back and relax. Enjoy the quiet time and be thankful for aspirin.
2/4/2022 — Psalm 92:12-14
“The righteous will flourish like the date palm [long-lived, upright and useful]; They will grow like a cedar in Lebanon [majestic and stable]. Planted in the house of the Lord, They will flourish in the courts of our God. [Growing in grace] they will still thrive and bear fruit and prosper in old age; They will flourish and be vital and fresh [rich in trust and love and contentment];”
Psalms 92:12-14 — Amplified Bible
So many lessons to learn from God’s garden. Be upright and useful as a palm tree. Be strong and stable as a cedar. Grow in grace, bear fruit, be rich in love trust and contentment. And all this comes from being transplanted into God’s garden and under His care.
2/3/2022 — 3 John 1:2
“Dear friend, I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit.”
3 John 1:2 — New Living Translation
The older I get, the more time I spend thinking about my physical health and trying to maintain it. But the focus should be on my spiritual health and then to get my physical health up to the same level.
What are some practical ways to maintain spiritual health?
“Spiritual health is achieved when you feel peace with life. It is when you are able to find hope and comfort even at the hardest times.” — the Basics Wespath
2/2/2022 — Matthew 6:34
“Refuse to worry about tomorrow, but deal with each challenge that comes your way, one day at a time. Tomorrow will take care of itself.””
Matthew 6:34 — The Passion Translation
I got bogged down with “what if’s” yesterday. What if retirement funds run out. What if one of us dies and our children are too far away to help. What if a war starts tomorrow? What if we humans destroy our environment?
Such a waste of time. Trust that God will give wisdom and strength when I need it. Today I will make a peaceful home, get done the chores that need doing, enjoy my hobbies, my animals, my life.
2/1/2022 — John 14:27
““I leave the gift of peace with you—my peace. Not the kind of fragile peace given by the world, but my perfect peace. Don’t yield to fear or be troubled in your hearts—instead, be courageous!”
John 14:27 — The Passion Translation
I am grasping for this peace and telling myself I need to keep this verse in the forefront of my mind. Life is pleasant and quiet now but if my husband or I come down with Covid? (And it is storming into our town now) will I be able to claim God’s peace when negative thoughts crowd in?
Lord, prepare me, keep me not safe but close to You when things are uncertain. In Jesus’ name, Amen
1/31/2022 — Psalm 23:3
“He gives me new strength. He guides me in the right paths, as he has promised.”
Psalms 23:3 — Good News Bible
Humans are going to get tired and worn out and become sick. That’s part of having a physical body. But God promises to renew, refresh and revive.
Refresh the body with lots of liquids and sleep. Refresh the heart and mind with prayer and reading more of God’s promises.
1/30/2022 — Joshua 1:9
“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.””
Joshua 1:9 — Good News Translation
Such strength I feel when I read this!
“Cowabunga! I can do anything!”
But then something goes amiss and I whimper,
“God, I can’t do this. Where are You? Don’t make me go through this.”
I need this in bright red letters ON MY WALL!
1/29/2022 — Isaiah 43:19
“Watch for the new thing I am going to do. It is happening already—you can see it now! I will make a road through the wilderness and give you streams of water there.”
Isaiah 43:19 — Good News Translation
What are the streams in the desert? The glimpses of hope in the dryness of hopelessness. The freshness of life within a barren situation. God’s Word when surrounded by despair and negativity. Keep walking. The stream is right around the corner.
1/28/2022 — Romans 12:1
“So then, my friends, because of God's great mercy to us I appeal to you: Offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to his service and pleasing to him. This is the true worship that you should offer.”
Romans 12:1 — Good News Translation
The doctors and nurses of this world, the caregivers and aides, they are God’s angels putting their lives at risk for the welfare of others. I wonder at their sacrifice as I hunker down being safe.. even the clerks in the supermarket, the service workers, the teachers, they make a choice to continue allowing our society to move. What can I do to play my part? I can only think of not adding to the burden of my community.
1/27/2022 — Psalms 131:1
“Lord, my heart is meek before you. I don’t consider myself better than others. I’m content to not pursue matters that are over my head— such as your complex mysteries and wonders— that I’m not yet ready to understand.”
Psalms 131:1 — The Passion Translation
Just saying “I’m not proud” sounds prideful. But I do want to be content with “not knowing”. Humans always want answers, always want to know the why of things, always feel that God owes them an explanation.
Lord help me be content and trusting. Help me live simply and let my mind rest in acceptance.
1/26/2022 — Isaiah 12:2
“Behold, God, my salvation! I will trust and not be afraid, for the Lord God is my strength and song; yes, He has become my salvation.”
Isaiah 12:2 — Amplified Bible
I chose (or He chose me to choose) Jesus as my salvation. That means I can always return to Him when I stray or feel weak or alone. He is the magnet that pulls me to Him even though I struggle away from His safe care.
1/25/2022 — Colossians 3:1-2
“So if you’re serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides. Don’t shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that’s where the action is. See things from his perspective.”
Colossians 3:1-2 MSG
This verse jumped out at me amidst all my recent drawing exercises. I am trying to see scenery and objects from different perspectives…. I’m trying to train my eyes to see depth and form and light. It takes practice.
In my life too, I am trying to see things from God’s perspective. To see problems as the necessary steps to God’s completion. To see the God’s form, the depth of His love, and the joyful light He pours on me.
1/24/2022 — Song of Solomon 8:7
Flood waters can’t drown love, torrents of rain can’t put it out. Love can’t be bought, love can’t be sold— it’s not to be found in the marketplace.
Song of Solomon 8:7 — Message Bible
Sometimes I wonder about love. In our human lives it does seem to change…. People fall out of love. Was it ever love in the first place? Friends whom I thought I loved disappear from my life…. What was that?
Loving my children and grandchild seems to be the perfect love, but I wonder if I’m placing conditions even on those.
God’s love is the only perfect love. Steep myself in that and learn to pass it along.
1/23/2022 — Psalm 126:5-6
“So those who planted their crops in despair will shout “Yes!” at the harvest, So those who went off with heavy hearts will come home laughing, with armloads of blessing.”
Psalm 126:5-6 — Message Bible
Things won’t always be in the heights of happiness. Beyond dips and plunges if I look closely, there is always something to be grateful for. Did I fall and am I bruised? Yes, but I didn’t break a bone or lose a tooth. I would rather it be me than my husband.
Comparison isn’t a great way to measure blessings but honestly, in the world of disasters and accidents, our family has been so blessed!
1/22/2022 — Psalms 100:2
“Worship the LORD with joy; come before him with happy songs!”
Psalms 100:2
There are always problems in our lives and Job and Jesus warned us to expect them. But there are also joyful things…. If we look for them… if we make them…. Ice cream on a rainy day. The wagging tail of a dog even after he’s been scolded. A simple song of praise hummed while washing dishes.
Sparkles of joy can help to brighten a dark time.
1/21/2022 — Isaiah 58:11
“And I will always guide you and satisfy you with good things. I will keep you strong and well. You will be like a garden that has plenty of water, like a spring of water that never runs dry.”
Isaiah 58:11 — Good News Bible
When we decide to follow Jesus, we can’t expect to avoid pain and problems in our lives but we can be assured that Jesus will be with us all the way!
1/20/2022 — Habakkuk 2:3
“The message I give you waits for the time I have appointed. It speaks about what is going to happen. And all of it will come true. It might take a while. But wait for it. You can be sure it will come. It will happen when I want it to.”
Habakkuk 2:3 — New International Reader’s Version
“He is the Way Maker, Miracle Worker, Promise Keeper, Light in the darkness.”
God does not make promises lightly and He is not flippant about them, nor does His decisions change with circumstances. He knows, He plans, He enables, He guides. And I wait! (Patiently and joyfully?!?)
1/19/2022 — Hosea 12:6
“Therefore, return to your God, Observe kindness and justice, And wait for your God continually.”
Hosea 12:6 — New American Standard Bible
When I am waiting for God to do what I’ve asked, I get impatient and the start feeling sorry for myself.
“Why is this happening? It’s not fair. Why doesn’t God act?”
Actually, God is acting, and He does care, and He is never unfair. Look around me. There are so many blessings given to me, “fair or unfair”. It is not for me to judge. It is for me to trust.
1/18/2022 — Micah 7:7
“Therefore I will look to the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation; My God will hear me.”
Micah 7:7 — New King James Version
If there was no waiting, would there be any reason to trust? Or would there be faith? Waiting means we are expecting and trusting God to come through for us. Faith means we can’t see our answer right now but we are certain that the answer will come.
Waiting is a time of developing my faith.
1/17/2022 — Lamentations 3:25
“The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him.”
Lamentations 3:25 — New King James Version
The best way to spend time waiting for God is to use the time to worship Him. It can be singing praise songs, praying, serving Him! Whenever I move away from worry to trusting God, it is my gift to Him. It is my choice to worship.
1/16/2022 — 1 Corinthians 15:58
“With all this going for us, my dear, dear friends, stand your ground. And don’t hold back. Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for him is a waste of time or effort.”
1 Corinthians 15:58 — Message Bible
I know that God is faithful, that He keeps His promises and that He has a purpose.
My job is to wait in prayer, choose to enjoy the life I am in, and be confident that God is directing me and changing me.
1/15/2022 — Psalms 66:16
“Come and listen, all who honour God, and I will tell you what he has done for me.”
Psalms 66:16 — Good News Bible
When all the waiting is done, whether God’s answer was yes or no, I hope I will lift my hands in praise and be able to say,
“I’m better because of my wait! It was worth the waiting!”
1/14/2022 — James 1:12
“Some people continue to trust God even when troubles happen. God will bless those people, if they show that they really trust him. He will give them the gift which is life with him. He has promised to give this gift to all people who love him.”
James 1:12 — Easy English Bible
“Today I choose joy”
I have this quilt up on my wall to remind me that when things look dark, I can choose how I will live through it. I choose joy while I continue to hope. I choose to pray for blessings while being grateful for the blessings that I already have.
1/13/2022 — 1 Samuel 1:15
“…I am desperate, and I have been praying, pouring out my troubles to the LORD.”
1 Samuel 1:15 — Good News Bible
In my time of waiting I need a plan.
Pray. Even rote prayers said over and over.
Immerse myself in the Word. Read through verses underlined in my Bible. Go through verse pages in my journals.
Enjoy life. The waiting life that God has given me is still a gift to be enjoyed. Do the things that make me happy.
1/12/2022 — Psalms 31:14
“Desperate, I throw myself on you: you are my God! Hour by hour I place my days in your hand, safe from the hands out to get me. Warm me, your servant, with a smile; save me because you love me.”
Psalm 31:14-15 — Message Bible
Waiting feels like I’ve been deserted. God isn’t doing anything, maybe He doesn’t care. I’m sure my prayer is in line with His will, (praying for someone to turn to Jesus!) but if there is no answer, what does this mean? Maybe the only thing is to return to God and sit, not feeling His presence but knowing He is there.
1/11/2022 — Luke 6:38
“Give to other people and God will give to you. He will give to you even more than you gave. He will fill your pocket until no more will go in. It will be so full that it will come out over the top. Think about how you give to other people. God will give in the same way to you.’”
Luke 6:38 — Easy English Bible
It has been said that when you are sad then that is the time to help someone else. Focusing on helping someone in need takes your mind off your own problems and helps pass the time. It also often makes you count the blessings that you DO have.
“Give what you have as you wait for what you want. Don’t waste the wait.”
Elizabeth Laing Thompson
1/10/2022 — James 1:4
“So you should continue to trust God all the way to the end. Then you will grow as a believer. You will become completely how you should be. You will not need anything more.”
James 1:4 — Easy English Bible
The big questions are “How will I wait?” And “Who will I become in the process?”
God is changing us, molding us to become the very best we can be.
He sees who we are supposed to be and day by day we are being formed in His likeness.
1/9/2022 — Exodus 3:7
“And the Lord said, I have surely seen the affliction of My people who are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters and oppressors; for I know their sorrows and sufferings and trials.”
Exodus 3:7 — Amplified Bible
While I might think that God has forgotten my prayer request, or that He doesn’t approve it, He DOESN’T forget and He always has something better in mind for me. He knows my struggles, and sees my sadness and worry. And yet He chooses to have me wait. Something better is being set in motion.
1/8/2022 — Romans 8:38-39
“I am absolutely sure that not even death or life can separate us from God’s love. Not even angels or demons, the present or the future, or any powers can separate us. Not even the highest places or the lowest, or anything else in all creation can separate us. Nothing at all can ever separate us from God’s love. That’s because of what Christ Jesus our Lord has done.”
Romans 8:38-39
“God is with me this I know
For the Bible tells me so
Though His presence I can’t see
He will never abandon me
Yes, God is with me
Yes, God is with me
Yes, God is with me
The Bible tells me so
1/7/2022 — Hebrews 13:5
“Let your character [your moral essence, your inner nature] be free from the love of money [shun greed—be financially ethical], being content with what you have; for He has said, “I will never [under any circumstances] desert you [nor give you up nor leave you without support, nor will I in any degree leave you helpless], nor will I forsake or let you down or relax My hold on you [assuredly not]!””
Hebrews 13:5 — Amplified Bible
“Being content with what you have.”
Not just things…. Being content with my health situation. Being content with winter weather conditions. Being content with the dislike of exercise or dieting, (it is a blessing to have a choice.). Being content with the world situation. Does it sound like giving up? Pray about the things that threaten discontent.
1/6/2022 — Joshua 1:9
“Here is what I am commanding you to do. Be strong and brave. Do not be afraid. Do not lose hope. I am the Lord your God. I will be with you everywhere you go.””
Joshua 1:9 — New International Reader’s Version
I’m planning a battle against negativity and discouragement. Of course get into the Bible and check verses, but for me also listening to praise music and getting the phrases of praise (and often direct Bible verses) running through my head.
1/5/2022 — Jeremiah 29:11
I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.”
Jeremiah 29:11 Message Bible
My goal may be the thing that I am waiting for but God’s goal is for me to grow closer to Him. In my plan it may seem I’m waiting forever (for family members to come to Christ, for this pandemic to end) but God is using this time to teach me about Himself, to teach me to trust His timing, to teach me the preciousness of prayer.
1/4/2022 — James 1:4
…So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way.”
James 1:4 — Message Bible
It is a challenge to wait, and human minds snap into motion trying to get out of an unpleasant situation. But the escape route might just be the running away from what God wants to use in our lives. He uses all situations to mature us!
1/3/2022 — Isaiah 40:31
“But those who trust in the Lord for help will find their strength renewed. They will rise on wings like eagles; they will run and not get weary; they will walk and not grow weak.”
Isaiah 40:31 — Good News Translation
Waiting on God can be a useful time for development. During my wait, I can learn to pray. While trusting God my wait teaches patience and how to hope. My wait does not mean I’ve wrongly heard God nor that my faith isn’t strong enough. God is using this time to make everything perfect.
1/2/2022 — Psalm 27:13
“I know that I will live to see the LORD's goodness in this present life.”
Psalms 27:13 — Good News Bible
God said it is so, so it is.
But that’s not to say that what I want God to do is going to happen, or even what I think He’s saying to me is really just my interpretation. Or maybe my will is aligned with His but His timing is different from mine. And this present eternal life might only see God’s answers in eternity.
That’s a lot of variables but I’m not making excuses for as yet unanswered prayer. I’m trying to be able to say “Your will not mine.”
1/1/2022 -- Luke 2:25
“At that time there was a man named Simeon living in Jerusalem. He was a good, God-fearing man and was waiting for Israel to be saved. The Holy Spirit was with him”
Luke 2:25 — Good News Bible
I love this verse! I love it for the image of Simeon waiting for God to act. And the Holy Spirit was with him!
I had decided earlier this week that my ONE WORD for the year would be WAIT. I wondered if I should have chosen this for LAST year as we actually have been waiting for the last twelve months too. Waiting for a wedding. Waiting to meet Luka. Waiting for the pandemic to be over.
I will try to be a good and God-fearing servant of God and wait for all of God’s promises!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Sorry. I'm having more hacker problems and have had to go to comment moderation.