New thoughts in 2026

 

Word of the Year:  LET

...I am the Lord's servant.  Let it be with me as you have said."  Luke 1:38

9/21/2026  —  Psalms 103:2-3

“YAHWEH, you are my soul’s celebration. How could I ever forget the miracles of kindness you’ve done for me? You kissed my heart with forgiveness, in spite of all I’ve done. You’ve healed me inside and out from every disease.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭103‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

One purpose of sickness is the way it draws us to God in our uneasiness and pain, but it also brings us closer to God when we experience healing and relief. …If we don’t forget!!!  

Thank you again, Lord, for my complete healing off this hip replacement. What seems a common surgery now is actually Your miracle of bringing intelligence, technology, research, and people together to do Your work. With gratitude I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen” 

9/20/2026  —  Philippians 1:12, 14

“I want you to know, dear ones, what has happened to me has not hindered, but helped my ministry of preaching the gospel, causing it to expand and spread to many people. And what I’m going through has actually caused many believers to become even more courageous in the Lord and to be bold and passionate to preach the Word of God, all because of my chains.”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬, ‭14‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

God will use me anywhere. Illness, suffering. He still puts the negatives into place for the positive. I pray that to the end of my life I can point people to Christ.

9/19/2026  —  2 Corinthians 1:11

“since you are helping with your prayer for us. Then many people can thank God on our behalf for the gift that was given to us through the prayers of many people.”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭11‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Bible

An illness doesn’t just affect the person ill. Other people get involved with their prayers and draw closer to God in ways they never would. An illness can be a way that more people meet God and they may even see His power, His miracles, your own faith.

 9/18/2026  —  James 5:14

“Is anyone among you sick? Then that person should send for the elders of the church to come and pray for them and anoint them with olive oil in the name of the Lord.”
‭‭James‬ ‭5‬:‭14‬ ‭ — Radiate Bible

Sickness takes away any misunderstanding that I might be in control. When I am sick or someone I love is sick, the only thing to do is ask God for a healing and sometimes it means asking for miracles. Sickness can always be made better through as many prayers as possible! Whatever God’s answer to the prayers, God draws closer to those who call to Him. 

9/17/2026  —  Matthew 5:16

“In the same way let your light shine in front of people. Then they will see the good that you do and praise your Father in heaven.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭ — God’s Word

I don’t have to worry about shining. God has already lit the flame and I only have to put myself where it can be seen. I don’t have to pretend or be ultra cheerful. I just need to stay close to God. 

9/16/2026  —  Romans 12:2

“Do not conform yourselves to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind in order that you may prove what is well pleasing and good, and the perfect will of God.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭ —  A Faithful Version 

Self-help books are not the answer. Quick life hacks are not going to change lifelong habits. Only God can do the miraculous transforming of my mind… but more likely He will cause my mind to change in small ways as I direct my thoughts towards His ways. 

9/15/2026  —  Proverbs 11:24-25

“Those who give generously receive more, but those who are stingy with what is appropriate will grow needy. Generous persons will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭11‬:‭24‬-‭25‬ ‭
Contemporary English Bible

Comparing leads to discontent. I feel content until I see someone with more…. Practice generosity, if not monetarily then with time. 

9/14/2026  —  Jeremiah 16:9

“People make plans for what they will do, but it is the LORD who leads them in the right way.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭9‬ ‭

The plans I make in my life don’t always turn out the way I thought. Either I didn’t understand what God knew was coming or I ignored Him. In any case, accepting what God has given me is the key. 

9/13/2026  —  Psalms 1:3

“They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭ — New Living Translation 

Trees do not move around. Their roots reach down and hold fast.  

To make a pattern of reaching down to God, why not make a place to sit… to pray… to open my Bible. Step away from distractions for a few minutes… 

9/12/2026  —  Jeremiah 2:13

““My people have sinned twice. They have deserted me, even though I am the spring of water that gives life. And they have dug their own wells. But those wells are broken. They can’t hold any water.”
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬ — New International Revised Version 

These are the two reasons for unhappiness. Moving away from God and trying to fill the void with other things.

I try to stay close to God but it always seems not enough. With what do I fill the emptiness in my heart? Busyness, pleasing others? Pride? 

9/11/2026  —  Ephesians 5:1-2

“You are God’s children whom he loves. So try to be like God. Live a life of love. Love other people just as Christ loved us. Christ gave himself for us—he was a sweet-smelling offering and sacrifice to God.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

My job is not to convince my friends and family to become Christians… to use arguments or words to defend my faith. My job is only to love those around me. Keep relationships open. Pray. Don’t feel rejected. Only love as Jesus loved. 

9/10/2026  —  Ezekiel 18:20

“It is the person who sins that will die. The son will not be punished for the father’s sin. The father will not be punished for the son’s sin. The person who does right is responsible for his own goodness. The evil person is responsible for his own evil.”
‭‭Ezekiel‬ ‭18‬:‭20‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

I am not responsible for another person’s faith or lack of faith. I cannot make my friends or family see God if they don’t want to. They know my faith. I pray for them. I keep them in my heart. 

9/9/2026  —  1 Thessalonians 5:18

“Give thanks in everything, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
‭‭I Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭18‬ ‭

My role as a shepherd to my children is over. My role as an intercesor for them is upmost.

 9/8/2026  —  Psalm 34:18

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted. He saves those whose spirits have been crushed.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭18‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible 

I’m so thankful that God understands my heartache even when I can’t share it with anyone else. 

9/7/2026  —  Proverbs 1:7

“Respect and obey the LORD! This is the beginning of knowledge. Only a fool rejects wisdom and good advice.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

Everything was created by God. I know He is the source of all the workings of the world. I honor Him by trusting Him and obeying Him. 

9/6/2026  —  Galatians 5:22-23

“God's Spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled. There is no law against behaving in any of these ways.”
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

I can’t force a tree to grow fruit. I can’t force myself to be things I’m not. I can only keep myself rooted in God and have a constant, healthy relationship with Him.  

Where am I lacking of these nine fruits? Maybe in peace…. I need to soak up God’s nourishment. 

9/5/2026  —  Psalms 18:1-2

“I love you, LORD God, and you make me strong. You are my mighty rock, my fortress, my protector, the rock where I am safe, my shield, my powerful weapon, and my place of shelter.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭18‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭ — Common English Version 

In Japan, with its many gods, each one is supposed to have a different duty…. But MY God, the only true God, is all things to me! He is my rock that doesn’t move and doesn’t change. He is my fortress, the place I run to keep me safe. He is my protector even when I tremble beside Him. He is my shield standing between me and the worries I have. He is my shelter when I just need care and comfort. 

9/4/2026  —  Matthew 6:34

“So don’t ever worry about tomorrow. After all, tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭34‬ ‭ — God’s Word

Various problems have cropped up and I have been having sleepless nights. My dog MAY HAVE gotten sick. My husband has health problems that MAY limit him drastically. Those are the MIGHTS but because I don’t know yet, then I’m wasting my time and energy worrying about it. Wait until the day comes and God sets me on a task to make the situation easier. Enjoy the day that I have today. 

9/3/2026  —  2 Peter 1:3

“Jesus has the power of God. His power has given us everything we need to live and to serve God. We have these things because we know him. Jesus called us by his glory and goodness.”
‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

I already have enough. I don’t need to do more… praying, more Bible reading, more witnessing, more service. God already loves me. He already has given me enough for a purposeful life. 

9/2/2026  —  Jeremiah 15:16

“When I received your words, I ate them. They filled me with joy. My heart took delight in them. Lord God who rules over all, I belong to you.”
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭15‬:‭16‬ ‭

Reading God’s words gives me comfort and encouragement. I love to sing them and I rejoice that I am God’s and He is mine! 

9/1/2026  —  Psalm 1:2

“He loves the Lord’s teachings. He thinks about those teachings day and night.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

I recall doing Bible studies in my younger days but I seem to be satisfied with devoting myself to this sampling of the Bible, reflecting on it, and writing God’s Word in a notebook (I’m hoping the action of physical writing will keep God’s promises close to my heart).

Is this enough, Lord?… 

8/31/2026  —  2 Timothy 3:16-17

“Everything that is written in the Bible comes from God's Spirit. It helps us in many ways. The Bible teaches us what is true. It warns us when we are doing wrong things. It shows us what is right. It teaches us how to live good lives. As a result, people who want to serve God can know how to live properly. They will be people who are ready to do all kinds of good things.”
‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible 

Why am I not saturated in God’s Word. It is life giving. It has the answers to my whole life. 

8/30/2026  —  Matthew 4:4

“Jesus answered, “It is written in the Scriptures, ‘A person does not live only by eating bread. But a person lives by everything the Lord says.’””
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭4‬:‭4‬ ‭

The similes for the Bible are many. It is called “a lamp”, “a foundation”, “a sword” and another is “food for the soul”. Take in God’s food every day! Nourish your heart, strengthen your body, comfort your mind with God’s Word. 

8/29/2026  —  Psalm 119:103

“How sweet the taste of your promise is! It tastes sweeter than honey.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭103‬ ‭ — God’s Word

The Bible guides me (“a lamp to my feet”) and shows me where I am right and wrong (“ sword that cuts to my soul”). It is my stability (“build your life on solid rock”) and it is my delight (“it tastes sweeter than honey”). So many reasons to come to the Bible daily. 

8/28/2026  —  Matthew 7:24-25

““Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭24‬-‭25‬ ‭ — New Living Translation 

I have lived through a couple natural disasters in my life (the Great Tohoku Earthquake for one) and a couple personal ones (the death of our first child). I have felt shaken and hopeless and angry and depressed… but always when I turned to the Bible there was comfort and understanding. Always I’ve come back to trusting God’s plan. 

8/27/2026  —  Hebrews 4:12

“God’s word is living and active. It is sharper than any two-edged sword and cuts as deep as the place where soul and spirit meet, the place where joints and marrow meet. God’s word judges a person’s thoughts and intentions.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭12‬ ‭ — God’s Word

God’s Word exposes and removes the evil in my heart. Just as a person might not know there is a disease in the body, God’s Word shows where I am not living in a godly manner and what needs to be cut out of my life in order for me to grow. Am I living with self pity? With anger? God’s Word is the sometimes painful source of healing.

8/26/2026  —  Psalm 119:105

“Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭105‬ ‭ — God’s Word

I go to the Bible for guidance. God shows me the ways to walk and where to beware of dangers. 

8/25/2026  Proverbs 4:23

“Be very careful to keep your mind safe. The thoughts that you think make you the person that you are.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭4‬:‭23‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible

It is like a circle. I want my mind and my heart to be healthy, so I know that staying near God and reading His Word will strengthen me. But in order to understand what God is saying to me and to apply His teachings, my heart must be open and soft enough to accept His will. 

8/24/2026  —  Acts 2:42

“These new believers listened carefully to what the apostles taught them. They joined with everyone else in the group. They prayed together and they ate meals together.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭42‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible

I think attending church is important to growing in Christ. Taking my place with other believers, joining my voice with others in praise, finding friendly faces, these remind me that I’m one member of God’s great family.

The ch rch isn’t the same with u. 

8/23/2026  —  Hebrews 4:12-13

“God means what he says. What he says goes. His powerful Word is sharp as a surgeon’s scalpel, cutting through everything, whether doubt or defense, laying us open to listen and obey. Nothing and no one can resist God’s Word. We can’t get away from it—no matter what.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ — Message Bible

This verse makes me think that I should go back to studying the Bible with it hefty in my hands rather than from using the apps in my phone…. I use my old black Bible from college every Sunday and I love reading the notes and insights I’ve had over the years. The underlined verses, the penned thoughts, the ripped pages, they show my love of God’s Word. That isn’t so evident when it’s all in my phone. 

8/22/2026  —  Jeremiah 15:16

“You spoke to me, and I listened to every word. I belong to you, LORD God Almighty, and so your words filled my heart with joy and happiness.”
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭15‬:‭16‬ ‭ — Good News Bible

I am uplifted by the words of the Bible and I love singing them and memorizing them through praise songs. Speaking and singing them aloud fills me with joy. 

8/21/2026  —  Psalms 95:1-2

“Come on, everyone! Let’s sing for joy to the Lord! Let’s shout our loudest praises to our God who saved us! Everyone come meet his face with a thankful heart. Don’t hold back your praises; make him great by your shouts of joy!”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭95‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

In many ways I am a reserved person but I find myself in worship swaying with the music, tearing up, raising my hands high, dancing! I even have to tone down my displays of worship, but all in all I try not to be self conscious and worship God joyfully. 

8/20/2026  —  Isaiah 42:10

“Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise from the ends of the earth: Let the sea and what fills it resound, the coastlands, and those who dwell in them.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭42‬:‭10‬ ‭ — New Living Translation 

I feel that I am worshipping God when I am at church joining other voice in the congregation (and in heaven!) praising Him. Actually though I am worshipping Him every time I trust Him, every time I obey Him, every time I thank Him. 

8/19/2026  —  Matthew 6:11

“We acknowledge you as our Provider of all we need each day.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭11‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

I am thinking TODAY about God’s gift of TODAY. He gives us the time and the means to live each day and if we are attuned to Him, He gives us the desire to do His work however great or small our assignment.  

Lord, help me live today in a way that pleases You. 

8/18/2026  —  Matthew 6:6

“When you pray, go to your room and close the door. Pray privately to your Father who is with you. Your Father sees what you do in private. He will reward you.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭6‬ ‭ — God’s Word

I have prayed a lot of prayers but I notice that they become rote, repeated prayers before meal times, “Bless us all. Thank you for this food.” or pleas for help, “God, only You can do this!” or quick breath prayers, “Thank You Lord!

God, I know prayer is the way to align my heart and thoughts to You. Teach me again to pray. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

8/17/2026  —  Revelations 21:3-5

“I heard a loud voice from the throne. The voice said, “Now God’s home is with men. He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them and will be their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death, sadness, crying, or pain. All the old ways are gone.” The One who was sitting on the throne said, “Look! I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this, because these words are true and can be trusted.””
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭21‬:‭3‬-‭5‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

This is what I’m living for and longing for. God has a place for me and I will sing God’s praises for eternity! 

8/16/2026  —  Acts 13:2

“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.””
‭‭Acts‬ ‭13‬:‭2‬ ‭— New American Standard Version 

It is through worship that we align ourselves to God and are made ready to do His work. 

8/15/2026  —  Joshua 4:6-7

“The heap of stones will help you to remember what happened today. In future years, your children will ask you, “What do these stones mean?” …. …These stones will help the people of Israel to remember this for ever.’”
‭‭Joshua‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible 

Leave stones in your life for your loved ones to follow. Let each blessing from God be remembered and set apart as a monument to God. The songs you sing, the words you write, the deeds you do, let them all be markers pointing the way to God. 

8/14/2026  —  Luke 7:47

“She has been forgiven of all her many sins. This is why she has shown me such extravagant love. But those who assume they have very little to be forgiven will love me very little.””
‭‭Luke‬ ‭7‬:‭47‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

I am guilty of not loving enough, not being grateful enough, of putting myself first. But God loves me in spite of those sins, BECAUSE of those sins He has given me forgiveness and grace. 

8/13/2026  —  Revelation 4:10-11

“At the same time the 24 elders knelt down before the one sitting on the throne. And as they worshiped the one who lives forever, they placed their crowns in front of the throne and said, “Our Lord and God, you are worthy to receive glory, honor, and power. You created all things, and by your decision they are and were created.””
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭4‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

The angels of heaven have always been worshipping God and they will for all eternity. Someday we will join them in heaven to glorify God but now we are given the privilege and the blessing to worship God right now!!! My voice joins heaven to sing God’s praises! 

8/12/2026  —  John 3:16

“God loved the world this way: He gave his only Son so that everyone who believes in him will not die but will have eternal life.”
‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬ ‭ — God’s Word

Of all the blessings in my life, this is the greatest. 

8/11/2026  —  Ephesians 3:20

“Now to him who is able to accomplish far more than all we ask or imagine, by the power at work within us,”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬ — New American Standard Version 

My knowledge, my understanding, my experience of God is so small. He can do more if I stop being so fearful and timid. He will make everything good. He has a bright future planned. 

8/10/2026  —  Hebrews 13:8

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭8‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

Changes are inevitable but God never changes. I don’t adapt easily but I know that when things shift, God is always steady and solid. 

8/9/2026  —  Psalms 27:4

“There is one thing that I have asked the Lord to do for me. This is the one thing that I really want: I want to live in the Lord's house all the days of my life. Then I will clearly see the Lord's beauty. I will pray to him in his temple.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭4‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible

I’ve learned and my timing and God’s does not always match up. I wait for His promises. I wait for healing or peace or His coming. DO NOT WASTE THE WAIT! Use this time to grow closer to God. To learn what He wants me to do and be. Use the time to pray for others. 

8/8/2026  —  Romans 8:28

“We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭28‬ ‭ — New American Bible

I know that God is working in our lives. He has our best in mind and though my schedule may not match His, I am learning things while I wait for His reward. 

8/7/2026  —  Proverbs 3:6

“Always let him lead you, and he will clear the road for you to follow.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version

I am not the leader asking God to “help” me with my plans. GOD is the designer of those plans, He is the one who steps out in front and I follow doing His bidding. I am the one helping Him! 

8/6/2026  —  Psalm 147:3

“He heals the brokenhearted. He bandages their wounds.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭147‬:‭3‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

If I watch too closely I don’t notice my progress. But if I look back I can see where before I was sad but now I am happy. I can see where once I was angry I’ve gained acceptance. Let God work even if it seems too slow to be noticeable. 

8/5/2026  —  Lamentations 3:22-23

“The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.”
‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭ — New Living Translation 

It is easy to depend on other people to help. But shouldn’t the first person I go to be Jesus? People go in and out of our lives but God is always there! 

8/4/2026  —  Philippians 4:6

“Do not be anxious about anything; but by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God in everything;”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬ ‭ — A Faithful Version 

Throughout the day give thanks to God. Throughout the day tell God your thoughts. Throughout the day surrender your moments to God. 

8/3/26  —  Hebrews 12:2

“Let us keep looking to Jesus. He is the one who started this journey of faith. And he is the one who completes the journey of faith…
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

My faith was planted by God. It did not just start on its own. To grow into something beautiful it needs care from myself but also from God. He will make the seed grow into something strong. He will not give up on what He’s planted. 

8/2/2026  —  Ephesians 2:10

“We are God’s creation. He created us to belong to Christ Jesus. Now we can do good works. Long ago God prepared these works for us to do.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2‬:‭10‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

I love knowing that God created me. I didn’t just “become”. I love knowing that God has a purpose for me even if I’m unsure what my purpose is sometimes. I’m relieved to know that prepares me for His work. He doesn’t just toss me in and make me do the work alone. 

8/1/2026  —  Psalm 33:22

“Lord, may your faithful love be with us. We put our hope in you.”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭33‬:‭22‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

My hope will always be in God. Even if it is only a small kernel of hope it will be laid before God. I ask for mercy and peace and even more hope to carry on with my days. 

7/31/2026  —  2 Thessalonians 3:2-3

“Pray that we may be kept safe from worthless and evil people. After all, not everyone has faith. But the Lord can be trusted to make you strong and protect you from harm.”
‭‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭3‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

Sometimes this verse is pointing at me! My faith wanes and wavers, sometimes grasping, sometimes dimming. Hopefully strong enough to turn always to God because He is always faithful and reaching out to draw me close. 

7/30/2026  —  Matthew 6:27

“Can worry add even one more step to the length of your life’s journey?”
‭‭(Matthew) Gift from Creator Tells the Good Story‬ ‭6‬:‭27‬ ‭ — First Nations Version 

My life’s path has already been set. I’m not worried about the length but more about those I am walking with. Will they reach the same destination that I will? Even this, leave it to God. 

7/29/2026  —  Matthew 6:14

““If you forgive the failures of others, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭14‬ ‭ — God’s Word

I believe I have forgiven people who have wronged me, but then I think, “maybe I still hold it against them…”. When that happens I forgive them again. I ask God to clear my heart. Choose to forgive daily. 

7/28/2026  —  Psalm 63:1

“God, you are my God. I seek you with all my heart. With all my strength I thirst for you in this dry desert where there isn’t any water.”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭63‬:‭1‬ ‭— New International Revised Version 

In this extreme heat of summer my body needs water otherwise I become tired and cranky and unmotivated. It is the same with God. My soul needs Him to refresh me. To keep me ALIVE for another day of His work. 

7/27/2026  —  John 20:22

“When he had said this, he breathed on them. He said, ‘Receive God's Holy Spirit.”
‭‭John‬ ‭20‬:‭22‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible

Another of God’s gifts is His Holy Spirit who is always with me, always guiding me, always ready to comfort. I don’t think so much of His presence as I believe I am His and He is mine. 

7/26/2026  —  John 15:9

““I love each of you with the same love that the Father loves me. You must continually let my love nourish your hearts.”
‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭9‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

Relax in God’s love. You’ve given Him your concerns and hopes. Let Him work in His time and His plans. 

7/25/2026  —  Matthew 7:7

““Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭7‬ ‭ — New Living Translation 

The point is to keep on. Sometimes I wonder why…. If God hears and already has my life under His plan, why should I keep on asking and praying and knocking. Why isn’t the command, “Accept it.”? I think God wants us to keep on in a relationship with Him. 

7/24/2026  —  1 John 1:5

“This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.”
‭‭1 John‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬ ‭ — New Living Testament 

Praise the Lord! I can always find God in darkness because He is shining to light my way! 

7/23/2026  —  2 Timothy 1:7

“God didn’t give us a cowardly spirit but a spirit of power, love, and good judgment.”  2 Timothy 1:7  —  God’s Word

I pray that God will give me good judgment especially as my brain ages.  I want to have the courage to say “I love you”.  And I want to live daily with God’s power and love.

7/22/2026  —  Jeremiah 24:7

“I will cause them to want to know me. They will know that I am the Lord. They will be my people and I will be their God, because they will choose to return to me.””
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭24‬:‭7‬ — Easy English Bible 

I am so happy when someone chooses Jesus! They may be someone who is beginning their journey of faith, they may be someone who went away on their own for a while and has returned to Him. Either way, I pray that they grow stronger and stronger in their walk with Him. 

7/21/2026  —  Isaiah 40:31

“But the people who trust the Lord will become strong again. They will be able to rise up as an eagle in the sky. They will run without needing rest. They will walk without becoming tired.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭40‬:‭31‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

I know this is a very small thing but right now, with the extreme heat and humidity and sun, I feel exhausted throughout the day and even at night we twist and turn. Wait. The summer doesn’t last forever. With God’s blessings in a month or so I’ll rise up again with energy. 

7/20/2026  —  Romans 8:6

“To be controlled by human nature results in death; to be controlled by the Spirit results in life and peace.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭6‬ ‭ — Good News Bible

Somewhere along my journey of faith I learned that I can’t trust my thoughts and emotions. They change with situation to situation. Happy one day, overthinking another day, completely misunderstanding when I e carefully thought things out. Only God and God’s truths don’t change. I base my life on what He says. 

7/19/2026  —  1 John 4:4

“Dear children, you belong to God. So you have won the victory over these people, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”
‭‭1 John‬ ‭4‬:‭4‬ ‭ — God’s Word

I can overcome all fear, I can control all anger, I can be joyful in all grief because God is greater than any of the situations I find myself in. 

7/18/2026  —  Romans 13:12

“The dark night of evil is nearly over. The day of Christ’s return is almost here. So let us get rid of the works of darkness that harm us. Let us do the works of light that protect us.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭13‬:‭12‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

I look at the world and think “Jesus’ return must be near.” Of course all generations have thought so and the matter is not so much “when” but rather “what am I doing in this time before…?” Sharing Christ’s love, making my place in God’s world a doorstep for people to meet Him. I hope so. 

7/17/2026  —  John 4:14

“But those who drink the water that I will give them will never become thirsty again. In fact, the water I will give them will become in them a spring that gushes up to eternal life.””
‭‭John‬ ‭4‬:‭14‬ ‭ — God’s Word

I came to God seeking and uncertain and tired. In God’s presence I feel renewed and I am grateful that the life that I’ve filled with Him keeps me saturated with blessings for all eternity! 

7/16/2026  —  Psalms 46:10

““Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.””
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭46‬:‭10‬ ‭ — New Living Translation 

I ask God to give me patience and expectation while waiting to see His answers to my prayers. He will do what He will do, when He wants and in ways I never imagined. 

7/15/2026  —  Psalms 130:5

“With all my heart, I am waiting, Lord, for you! I trust your promises.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭130‬:‭5‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

I give my concerns and fears to the Lord. He has promised to be with me, to always hear me and to take care of me. When I don’t see any change, I rely on trusting Him to do what He sees best in His own time. 

7/14/2026  —  1 Thessalonians 5:24

“God has chosen you to be his people. We can trust him to do what he has promised to do. So he will do all this for you.”
‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭24‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible

I have been accused of having a lack of passion. I don’t get excited about things, I don’t want things, I’ve never been a “fan”, not of sports teams or music groups. On the other hand I don’t get upset about things either. I’ve never raged about injustices. I try to leave the good and the bad to God and learn to live with what He prepares for me. 

7/13/2027  —  Lamentations 3:22-23

“Yahweh’s tender mercies have no end, and the kindness of his endless love is never exhausted. New, fresh mercies greet me with every sunrise. So wonderfully great is your faithfulness!”
‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

Things may not go well today but I don’t need to live with regret. God gives me the gift of a new start everyday. It does not mean I have to try harder or pressure myself to be better. It means I can let God’s love wash away the old and relax in His care anew. 

7/12/2026  —  Psalms 16:11

“You will lead me along the path of life. Because you are with me, I am very happy. I know that I will be with you for ever, and that makes me very happy!”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭16‬:‭11‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible 

It is a comfort to think that God is here beside me, always protecting, always guiding, always loving me. I may forget Him (for a few hours, in my old age) but He will never forget me. 

7/11/2026  —  Romans 15:13

“God is the one who causes us to hope for good things.  I pray that God will bless you very much.  I pray that He will cause you to be happy and to have peace in your minds.  He will do this because you believe in Him.  As a result, God’s Holy Spirit will make you strong with His power, so that you hope even more certainly.”   Romans 15:13

Feelings of hope come from God and staying close to Him continuously gives me power to hope even more.  

7/10/2026  —  Proverbs 16:3

“Before you do anything, put your trust totally in God and not in yourself. Then every plan you make will succeed.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭3‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

First of all surrender everything to God. Committing my plans to God means I don’t have to make it all right. He will do the work if He wills it. 

7/9/2026  —  John 8:32

“For if you embrace the truth, it will release true freedom into your lives.””
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭32‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

Start each day by committing myself to God’s truth. His truth about me, His truth about love and forgiveness. The world tries to sell me “truths” all day long, but I chose God’s truth. 

7/8/2026  —  John 14:27

“I leave my peace with you. I give my peace to you. I do not give it to you as the world does. Do not let your hearts be troubled. And do not be afraid.”
‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭27‬ ‭— New International Revised Version 

The world says peace comes when everything is under control and we know what is going on now and in the future. God already knows! He already has everything under control! Claim the peace first each day and wait for His assignment. 

7/7/2026  —  1 Thessalonians 5:18

“Give thanks whatever happens. That is what God wants for you in Christ Jesus.”

1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭18‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible 

I want to start my day right, not be thinking of the things I have to do but by being thankful for what I’ve already been given. 

7/6/2026  —  Romans 8:38-39

Yes, I am sure that nothing can separate us from the love God has for us. Not death, not life, not angels, not ruling spirits, nothing now, nothing in the future, no powers , nothing above us, nothing below us, or anything else in the whole world will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭38‬-‭39‬ ‭— International Children’s Bible

Even through disappointments, I know I am moving closer and closer to Christ. My journey can be full of hope and joy even in sadness and discouragement. 

7/5/2026  —  John 6:68

“Simon Peter answered him, ‘Lord, there is nobody else that we could go to. You speak the words that give us life for ever.”
‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭68‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible 

I follow Jesus because He is worthy not because of what He gives me. 

7/4/2026  —  Leviticus 6:12-13

“The fire must always be burning on the altar. It must never go out. The priest will burn wood on it every morning. He will lay the burnt offering on the fire and burn the fat of the fellowship offering. The fire must always be burning on the altar. It must never go out.”
‭‭Leviticus‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭ — God’s Word

God starts the fire. He is the one who called me to belief and gave me faith. But I am the one to keep the fire burning. I add my prayers, my Bible reading, my church attendance, my connection with other Christians to keep God’s flame always burning strong. 

7/3/2026  —  Ephesians 4:31

“Let Creator pull the bitter roots from your heart, for they feed the rage and anger that takes you down a path of fighting, hurting, and speaking evil of your fellow human beings.”
‭‭Ephesians ‭4‬:‭31‬ — First Nations Version 

I’m not one for temper tantrums and angry words but I do hold anger in my heart.  

Lord please heal any anger I hold inside and keep me from becoming bitter or distrustful. Help me to be loving and understanding and free of judgement. In Jesus’ name, Amen 

7/2/2026  —  Psalms 23:4

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid. You are with me. Your shepherd’s rod and staff comfort me.”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭23‬:‭4‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

I am not alone and my dark valley is not my destination. It is only a place I am passing through and God is always with me. He urges me on, He removes some obstacles but leaves others for me to overcome with Him beside me. 

7/1/2026  —  2 Corinthians 4:17-18

“We view our slight, short-lived troubles in the light of eternity. We see our difficulties as the substance that produces for us an eternal, weighty glory far beyond all comparison, because we don’t focus our attention on what is seen but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but the unseen realm is eternal.”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

The very fact that I resent my troubles being called “slight” proves that I’m not yet living in the assurance that God has everything under control. My pain is not my identity.  

“Lord, help me to see myself not as a martyr but as Your loved one joyfully living with the life You have given me. In Jesus name, Amen.” 

6/30/2026  —  Genesis 16:13

“When Hagar heard what the angel said, she said to herself, ‘I have seen the God who sees me!’ So she called the Lord ‘The God who sees me.’”
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭16‬:‭13‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible 

God sees me. He is the only one who knows, who needs to know my sorrows. He sees my tears and hears my prayers. 

6/29/2026  —  Romans 12:12

“Let your hope keep you joyful, be patient in your troubles, and pray at all times.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭12  —  Good News Bible 

Continuous prayer is living in a relationship with God. It is not just sitting down asking Him for help. It is living with the knowledge that He is sharing in every one of my thoughts and every moment of my day. My life, if I’ve given it to God, is a form of prayer. 6/28/2026  —  Psalms 27:4

“I have asked the LORD for one thing; one thing only do I want: to live in the LORD's house all my life, to marvel there at his goodness, and to ask for his guidance.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭4‬ ‭ — Good News Bible

My greatest desire. To lo live with God daily while I am living, to spend eternity with Him. To have all my friends and family rejoicing and marveling at God’s goodness! 

6/27/2026  —  John 10:2-5

“But the shepherd uses the gate to enter, “The sheep will not follow the voice of a stranger. They will run away, for they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.””
‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭2‬-‭5‬ ‭ — First Nations Version 

I don’t know how good of a listener I am but I hope I’ve spent enough time with God so that I’m not led away by some other philosophy or “spirituality”, I’ve experienced a dread, a warning when I am in contact with the occult or other fortune telling. Those are not God’s voice!!! 

6/26/2026  —  Psalm 27:8

“My heart tells me to pray. I am eager to see your face,”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭8‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

My heart does take me to prayer but even I get tired of the repetitive “Bring so and so to You.” “Protect us today.” “Thank You (plus my list).”

Seek God for what He’ll say to ME! 

6/25/2026  —  Psalm 23:6

“Your kindness and love will always be with me each day of my life, and I will live forever in your house, Lord.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭6‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

Lord, thank You for carrying me through this life. Thank You for taking care of my family and being patient with us all. I know I will live with You forever but please draw my loved ones close to You also. 

6/24/2026  —  Psalms 23:4

“You treat me to a feast, while my enemies watch. You honor me as your guest, and you fill my cup until it overflows.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭5‬ ‭ —  Contemporary English Version 

Do I believe in miracles? I do when I read how God provided miraculously for missionaries past but now? For me? Or have I just lost the ability to see the miracles He does for me? 

6/23/2026  —  Psalm 23:4

“I may walk through valleys as dark as death, but I won't be afraid. You are with me, and your shepherd's rod makes me feel safe.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭4‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

I believe now in safety, that God will be with me even when I am in danger. Now is the time to commit to God for the hard times that may come. 

6/22/2026  —  Psalm 23:4

“Even though I walk through the dark valley of death, because you are with me, I fear no harm. Your rod and your staff give me courage.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭4‬ ‭ — God’s Word 

No matter what I’m going through, God is with me. 

6/21/2026  —  Psalm 23:3

“He renews my soul. He guides me along the paths of righteousness for the sake of his name.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭3‬ ‭ — God’s Word

Resting in God to me means not having to understand everything, not having to worry about everything. 

6/20/2026  —  Psalm 23:1-2

“The Lord is my shepherd. I am never in need. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside peaceful waters.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭ — God’s Word

There are times when God MAKES US lie down. It may be a temporary illness that knocks me out for a few days or something serious that causes me to be bedridden. Use the time to refresh and find ways to still be God’s ambassador. 

6/19/2026  —  Acts 2:4

“The Holy Spirit had come down upon them and began to fill them with his life and power. New languages began to flow out from their mouths, languages they had never learned, given from the Holy Spirit.”
‭‭Acts ‭2‬:‭4‬ ‭ — First Nations Version 

The believers had met Jesus, their lives had been changed, they were still unsure of what God expected but they were willing to be used. Then God sent the Holy Spirit, the One who Empowers. He has done the same for us! 

6/18/2026  —  2 Corinthians 5:20

“We are ambassadors of the Anointed One who carry the message of Christ to the world, as though God were tenderly pleading with them directly through our lips. So we tenderly plead with you on Christ’s behalf, “Turn back to God and be reconciled to him.””
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭20‬ ‭— The Passion Translation 

I want to always remember that I am God’s ambassador in this world. His voice for people not yet attuned to Him, His face for people who will not see God any other way. 

6/17/2026  —  Isaiah 6:8

“After this, I heard the Lord ask, “Is there anyone I can send? Will someone speak for us?” “I'll go,” I answered. “Send me!””
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭6‬:‭8‬ ‭— Contemporary English Version 

Have I been willing to go where God sends me? I’m here but am I God’s messenger? 

6/16/2026  —  Psalms 66:16

“Come and listen, all you people who serve God. I will tell you about the things that God has done for me.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭66‬:‭16‬ ‭— Easy English Bible

The opportunity is there. I come in contact with people everyday. The question is my boldness. Give me courage today. 

6/15/2026  —  Acts 1:8

“But the Holy Spirit will come to you, and he will give you power. The Holy Spirit will make your spirit strong. Then you will tell other people everywhere in the world about me…”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬ — Easy English Bible

God does not expect me to do things alone. He has given me the Holy Spirit to enable me to discern to make wise choices, to speak out boldly. Find the Holy Spirit within me. Ask Him for help. 

6/14/2026  —  Romans 10:14 

“But before people can trust in the Lord for help, they must believe in him. And before they can believe in the Lord, they must hear about him. And for them to hear about the Lord, someone must tell them.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭14‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

Pray for B.O.B.

Pray for the BURDENS God lays on your heart for the people who do not yet believe.

Pray for the OPPORTUNITY to tell them about Jesus.

Pray for BOLDNESS to speak clearly and with love about God in your own life.

6/13/2026  —  2 Corinthians 5:15

“Christ died for everyone so that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for the one who died for them and was raised again.”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭15‬ ‭ — Radiate Bible

What I do or do not do in my life is not for my comfort or because of fear nor because I consider what others may think. My life is controlled by Christ’s love for me and my love for Him. 

6/12/2026  —  Matthew 5:14-16

““As you walk the road with me, you are a light shining in this dark world. A village built on a hill cannot be hidden. No one hides a torch under a basket. Instead it is lifted up high on a pole, so all who are in the house can see it. In the same way, let your light shine by doing what is good and right. When others see, they will give honor to your Father—the One Above Us All.”
‭‭Matthew ‭5‬:‭14‬-‭16‬ ‭ — First Nations Version

God has put us on this world for a purpose and His light is already in us. Give me courage to shine where He has placed me. 

6/11/2026  —  John 9:26

“The healed man replied, “I have no idea what kind of man he is. All I know is that I was blind and now I can see for the first time in my life!””
‭‭John‬ ‭9‬:‭25‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

I was a young person with concerns for my future when I asked Jesus to take control of my life because I couldn’t control it and I didn’t understand everything. I was willing to trust Him and I’ve lived with Him since. 

6/10/2026  —  John 4:29

““Come and see this man who knows everything about me. Could he be the Chosen One?””
‭‭John 4‬:‭29‬ ‭ — First Nations Version 

The greatest act of evangelism is an invitation. I know how I feel about God in my life. I know how He gives me comfort and courage and hope. I can only point people to Him, invite a conversation, invite the person to meet him themselves. 

6/9/2026  —  Luke 16:15  —  New American Standard Bible 

“And one of them, realizing he had been healed, returned, glorifying God in a loud voice; and he fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him. He was a Samaritan.”

Luke‬ ‭17‬:‭15‬-‭16‬ ‭ — New American Standard Bible 

I want to be the one who returns to thank God. So do it!

“Thank You, Lord for pulling me to Your side, for giving me a heart to follow You, for guiding me daily, for having the best in mind for me always. Help me be bold in sharing Your grace.. in Jesus’ name, amen.”

6/8/2026  —  Mark 1:45

“But the man went out and started spreading the news to everyone…”
‭‭Mark‬ ‭1‬:‭45‬ ‭ — Radiate Bible

I sing my praises to God for being with me daily and for rescuing me from sin, yet do I express it? Has my salvation become so ordinary that I no longer bubble over with joy? Be grateful always! 

6/7/2026  —  John 20:21

“Again he said, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.””

John‬ ‭20‬:‭21‬ ‭ — New Living Translation 

Jesus’ resurrection is not just for my private faith. It is God’s part in the mission of obedience from those who choose to follow Him. My acceptance of Jesus in my life means I accept the mission with obedience.

6/6/2026  —  2 Corinthians 5:14

“Either way, Christ’s love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life.”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭14‬ ‭ — New Living Translation 

Because Jesus loves us, we love others. Because Jesus did not fear the future we don’t fear the plans God has for us. Because Jesus gave up His life for God’s purpose, we can give up our life to follow Jesus. 

6/5/2026  —  Luke 23:34

“Jesus said, “Father, forgive these people! They don't know what they're doing.” 
‭‭Luke‬ ‭23‬:‭34‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

Jesus prayed for and forgave his persecutors despite they’re fact that they hadn’t repented or turned their hearts to Him. God can forgive us no matter where we are in our faith (faithlessness). 

6/4/2026  —  John 13:1

“…His love for the ones who walked the road with him had always been great, and now, at the end, his love for them remained strong.”
‭‭John‬ ‭13‬:‭1‬ — First Nations Version 

Jesus didn’t love because people were good or were easy to get along with or who didn’t have a bunch of issues. He loved them no matter what they did or who they were. Love people the same way. 

6/3/2026  —  Luke 15:20

“…And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭15‬:‭20‬ ‭

God waits patiently for us. He sees us from far off and rejoices. Let me also wait patiently for my loved one to return to God. Let me never give up praying, hoping, expecting and rejoicing that God watches and guides them quietly.

6/2/2026  —  Mark 1:41

“Jesus felt sorry for the man. So he touched him and said, “I want to heal you. Be healed!””
‭‭Mark‬ ‭1‬:‭41‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible 

Why do I shrink from situations and people I don’t understand?  I’m afraid (in truth, inconvenienced) to get involved. Jesus always responded with compassion and He draws near those in trouble.

“Jesus felt sorry for the man. So he touched him and said, “I want to heal you. Be healed!””
‭‭Mark‬ ‭1‬:‭41‬ ‭ — International Children’s 

6/1/2026  —  Luke 19:41

“When Jesus got near to Jerusalem, he looked at the city. He cried because he felt very sorry for the people in it.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭19‬:‭41‬ — Easy English Bible 

Jesus feels sorrow at people choosing to live without Him. How about me? When people ignore or doubt Christianity do I feel sorry or get offended? Be compassionate. 

5/31/2026  —  Matthew 9:36

“When he saw the vast crowds of people, Jesus’ heart was deeply moved with compassion, because they seemed weary and helpless, like wandering sheep without a shepherd.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭9‬:‭36‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

Lord, help me to see people with understanding and compassion rather than with judgment or worse, indifference. 

5/30/2026  —  Hebrews 13:8

“Jesus Christ never changes! He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭8‬ ‭

Things change in life. It is a relief to actually have decided that my life rests on the only thing that doesn’t change… the truth of Jesus Christ.

5/29/2026  —  John 6:68

“Simon Peter answered, “Lord, there is no one else that we can go to! Your words give eternal life.”
‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭68‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

I remember thinking these same thoughts in the months after our daughter died. I wanted to escape from grief, I was angry at God, but where else was there to go? Jesus is the only way. 

5/28/2026  —  Luke 5:8

“When Simon Peter saw this happen, he knelt down in front of Jesus and said, “Lord, don't come near me! I am a sinner.””
‭‭Luke‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

Why would Peter want to be separated from Jesus when he was at his lowest? Maybe because He finally recognized how holy Jesus was and how small his own life was.  
But Jesus sees past the smallness and uses us to do great things.

5/27/2026  —  John 13:15

“Then he poured some water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and dry them with the towel round his waist.”
‭‭John‬ ‭13‬:‭5‬ ‭ — Good News Bible

Jesus served people and it didn’t matter what their background was, what they’d done or what they would become. He KNEW that Peter would deny Him yet Jesus washed his feet. Jesus KNEW that Judas would betray Him, and yet He served him also. Serve others with humility and purpose, not whether they deserve something. 

5/26/2026  —  John 11:35

“Jesus wept.”
‭‭John‬ ‭11‬:‭35‬ ‭ — Good News Bible

Jesus did not weep because Lazarus had died. He already knew he would raise Lazarus. Jesus wept because His friends were sad.  

We know that God has the world in His hands but our hearts can be moved by the pain of others. 

5/25/2026  —  Mark 4:41


“But they were overwhelmed with fear and awe and said to one another, “Who is this man who has such authority that even the wind and waves obey him?””
‭‭Mark‬ ‭4‬:‭41‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

Jesus did not come for my convenience or to assist me. Jesus isn’t a God that I use when I need him to comfort or protect or lead me. He is God over all! Over all living things, over all nature, over all things in eternity. He is God! Take him more seriously. He is not just a smiling grandpa. 

5/24/2026  —  Matthew 16:15

““But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?””
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭16‬:‭15‬ ‭ — New International Version 

Who do I say Jesus is? He is Lord of my life. Then stop taking back control. Stop worrying about things. Stop being negative. See good, see joy, see a bright future, see your purpose and let God lead you. 

5/23/2026  —  John 1:39

““Come,” he said, “and you will see.” So they went with him, saw where he was staying, and spent the rest of the day with him, for the day was almost over.”
‭‭ John 1‬:‭39‬ ‭ — First Nations Version 

Jesus only says “Come”. He doesn’t say we must understand first, only to come to Him and spend time with Him. Faith is not mastery of religion, it is being with the Master. 

5/22/2026  —  Matthew 9:36

“When he saw the crowds, he felt sorry for them. They were troubled and helpless like sheep without a shepherd.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭9‬:‭36‬ ‭ — God’s Word

When I see people do I see them as individuals or just part of a group that is pushy, self centered, having nothing to do with me? They probably see me, with all my fears and joys and problems and faith, the same way. Learn compassion. God loves each one of us amidst the multitudes.

5/21/2026  —  Hebrews 11:13

“All these people died having faith. They didn’t receive the things that God had promised them, but they saw these things coming in the distant future and rejoiced. They acknowledged that they were living as strangers with no permanent home on earth.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭13‬ ‭ — God’s Word

I WANT to see God’s promises fulfilled. I WANT others to see that my faith hasn’t been in vain and that prayer “worked”. I guess, in God’s wisdom, some things will have to wait till eternity. 

5/20/2026  —  Psalm 23:4

“Even if I walk through a very dark valley, I will not be afraid because you are with me. Your rod and your shepherd’s staff comfort me.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭4‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

The dark valley is not the destination. It is something we walk THROUGH and God says it is one of the paths of righteousness where He leads us. 

5/19/2026  —  Isaiah 55:8-9

“The Lord says, “Your thoughts are not like my thoughts. Your ways are not like my ways. Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways. And my thoughts are higher than your thoughts.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭ —  International Children’s Bible

“You are not asked to comprehend the heights. You are called to trust the One who inhabits them.”

Trust.  God measures success by obedience.  He sees time as generations.

5/18/2026  —  James 1:2-3

“My brothers, you will have many kinds of troubles. But when these things happen, you should be very happy. You know that these things are testing your faith. And this will give you patience.”
‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

I don’t really feel my faith is being strengthened. It actually feels like I’m just holding on. Where else is there to go except stay in God’s hands and hope for mercy. Is that what learning patience is all about? 

5/17/2026  —  Romans 8:28

“We know that in everything God works for the good of those who love him. They are the people God called, because that was his plan.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭28‬ — International Children’s Bible

The Bible doesn’t say all things are good. It says GOD IS WORKING to make all things good. There is intention. I am not just optimistic that things will work out in the end. I am confident that God, who is good, is weaving His threads of goodness. 

5/16/2026  —  Ephesians 1:10

“He planned to bring all of history to its goal in Christ. Then Christ would be the head of everything in heaven and on earth.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭1‬:‭10‬ ‭ — God’s Word

The plan does not revolve around me. The plan is for God’s creation to bring glory to Him. He is using me but my comfort, my understanding, what is fair or isn’t fair is not the priority. 

5/15/2026  —  Genesis 50:20

“You meant to hurt me. But God turned your evil into good. It was to save the lives of many people. And it is being done.”
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭50‬:‭20‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible 

The story is not finished! Even Joseph must have struggled with denial, depression, anger during the many years before he made this declaration. Be patient. Someday I will say the same thing. 

5/14/2026  —  Lamentations 3:22

“The Lord’s love never ends. His mercies never stop.”
‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

Though my faith as a Christian grows and wanes, is strong or shaky, God’s mercy never changes or ends. 

5/13/2026  —  Matthew 11:28

““Come to me, all you who are tired and are carrying heavy loads. I will give you rest.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭28‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

It is comforting to think that God accepts me as I am and I don’t need to clean up my act, be a better person, make wiser decisions etc. He loves me just the way I am. 

5/12/2026  —  Isaiah 43:19

“I am about to do something new. It is beginning to happen even now. Don’t you see it coming? I am going to make a way for you to go through the desert. I will make streams of water in the dry and empty land.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭19‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

God is changing things, forming things, remaking things. Even me! 

5/11/2026  —  James 1:2

“My brothers and sisters, be very happy when you are tested in different ways.”
‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬ ‭ — God’s Word

God will not always take away the situation even when I ask, but I have met my purpose at the end of the day when I can say, 

“I kept my eyes on You today, Lord.“ 

5/10/2026  —  John 8:36

“So if the Son sets you free from sin, then become a true son and be unquestionably free!”
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭36‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

If I’ve been given freedom, then why don’t I act like I’m free? I define myself by what has occurred in my life. I’m not good enough, I made those mistakes. God doesn’t see those! He says I am His child with all blessings. 

5/9/2026  —  Hebrews 12:1

“Since we are surrounded by so many examples ⌞of faith⌟, we must get rid of everything that slows us down, especially sin that distracts us. We must run the race that lies ahead of us and never give up.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬ ‭ — God’s Word 

I know what my burden is that weighs me down. I try to give it up to Jesus everyday but I don’t know how to do it once and for all. Maybe life is all about giving up the burden moment to moment, of forgiving moment to moment, of trusting moment to moment, of choosing love and kindness moment to moment. 

5/8/2026  —  Psalm 139:23

“Examine me, O God, and know my mind. Test me, and know my thoughts.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭23‬ ‭ — God’s Word

Are there things in me that I try to justify. “I don’t witness because I respect others beliefs.” “I don’t participate at church because I live so far away.”

Let God search my heart and show what I hide from myself. 

5/7/2026  —  John 20:22

“After he had said this, he breathed on the disciples and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
‭‭John‬ ‭20‬:‭22‬ ‭ — God’s Word

Living with Jesus is not self-improvement. It is committing every problem, every fear, every worry to God. It is allowing the Holy Spirit to do the work. 

5/6/2026  —  2 Corinthians 3:18

“So then, with uncovered faces, we are seeing the bright and shining face of our Honored Chief. This bright and shining-greatness, which shines from his face into ours, keeps changing us to be more and more like him. This is what the Spirit does for us, for he is the Spirit of our Honored Chief.”
‭‭2 Corinthians ‭3‬:‭18‬ ‭ — First Nations Version 

God is changing me. I hope that the more time I spend with Him the more that I will grow to be more like Him. I don’t see the changes but if I look back to what I was, I see what is different. So for my future. 

5/5/2025  —  John 21:12

“Jesus said to them, “Come, have breakfast.” And none of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” because they realized it was the Lord.”
‭‭John‬ ‭21‬:‭12‬ ‭ — New American Standard Bible

How do I recognize God in my life? I know by the forgiveness He gives me. I know by the “coincidences”. I know by the people He sends to encourage me. 

5/4/2026  —  John 20:27

“and said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and look at my hands! Put your hand into my side. Stop doubting and have faith!””
‭‭John‬ ‭20‬:‭27‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

I suppose I had some doubts…. Like if there was a God, why did He allow certain things, but I was more centered on just believing even that was in His plan. My faith began when I decided I couldn’t understand everything but I could relax with belief. 

5/3/2026  —  Luke 24:21

“We had hoped that he would be the one to set Israel free! But it has already been three days since all this happened.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭24‬:‭21‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

How I had hoped…. I prayed and found Scripture and believed that God would save us and yet…. 

We have lived, are living with God’s will. He makes masterpieces out of messes and now I hold on to that hope. 

5/2/2026  —  Psalms 77:11

“I will remember the deeds of the Lord. I will remember your ancient miracles.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭77‬:‭11‬ ‭ — God’s Word

I remember God speaking to me through the Bible when I was reading it in college searching for Him. 

I know God led me to the perfect people to prepare me for living with and loving the Japanese people.

I think God was directing me as I searched for rheumatism treatments.

5/1/2026  —   John 20:16

“Jesus said to her, “Mary!” Mary turned around and said to him in Hebrew, “Rabboni!” (This word means “teacher.”)”
‭‭John‬ ‭20‬:‭16‬ ‭ — God’s Word

Jesus called my name. I heard Him in my college days and responded, but He had been in my life since childhood…. Sunday schools that I don’t remember, high school church groups where I tried to understand and blend in. I truly heard Jesus on the edge of adulthood and I’ll be forever grateful. 

4/30/2026  —  Acts 

“A deep sense of holy awe swept over everyone, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭43‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

What is my one “impossible thing” that I’m asking God, expecting God, to do? He knows.  

“Lord I ask that You _____ ____ ______ to Yourself. Please make ___ _ ________ again. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen” 

4/29/2026  —  Psalm 100:4

“Come into his city with songs of thanksgiving. Come into his courtyards with songs of praise. Thank him, and praise his name.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭100‬:‭4‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

1. My husband’s health and his willingness to help around the house.

2. My nearly perfect hip after hip replacement surgery.

3. Another good and healthy day with our aging pets.

4. A digital world that I can enter through my fingertips.

5. A good sewing machine that I use to my best abilities.

6. A church that is full of praise and where I can be joyful.

7. Children who are doing their best in life with partners who support them.

8. Things to do, work, hobbies, that make me feel useful.

9. Friends who are interested in me and my life.

10. Finances that allow me freedom to do things and enjoy small luxuries.

Thank You, Lord for all Your blessings. 

4/28/2026  —  Ephesians 6:12

“Our fight is not against human beings. It is against the rulers, the authorities and the powers of this dark world. It is against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly world.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

I am not fighting against depression or anxiety or doubt or anger or fear. I am fighting against Satan who uses these weapons to dull my joy and make me forget that I am a child of God. 

4/27/2026  —  Romans1:20

“Ever since the world was created it has been possible to see the qualities of God that are not seen. I’m talking about his eternal power and about the fact that he is God. Those things can be seen in what he has made. So people have no excuse for what they do.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭1‬:‭20‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version

“What does this say about God’s power or creativity?”

Find something today, beautiful or ordinary, it doesn’t matter, and see it as God’s present to you. Paint it with wonder and gratefulness. 

4/26/2026  —  Isaiah 62:11

“That the LORD is announcing to all the earth: “Tell the people of Jerusalem That the LORD is coming to save you, Bringing with him the people he has rescued.””
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭62‬:‭11‬ ‭ — Good News Bible

What could possibly be a reward for God? His most treasured reward is the people who come to Him in love and trust Him with their lives. 

4/25/2026  —  Isaiah 12:2

“God, you are the one who saves us. We will trust in you. Then we won’t be afraid. Lord, you are the one who gives us strength. You are the one who keeps us safe. Lord, you have saved us.””
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version

Salvation isn’t just in my future it is my hope in my everyday life. God is with me and holds me up even when I don’t see Him working.  I will trust Him and not be afraid. 

4/24/2026  —  1 Peter 1:8-9

“Even though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not see him now, you believe in him. You are filled with a glorious joy that can’t be put into words.”
‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

I should hope that I reflect God’s love to others. I don’t know…. I certainly don’t feel I’m particularly joyous though. What my faith is, comfort, hope, love, the struggle of putting my belief into words is real. 

4/23/2026  —  Ephesians 2:8

“God saved you through faith as an act of kindness. You had nothing to do with it. Being saved is a gift from God.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬ ‭ — God’s Word

I chose Jesus. But He also chose me! So what am I praying? That my friend or family member chooses Jesus or that He has already chosen them but none of us realize it. 

4/22/2026  —  Ephesians 2:8

“I mean that you have been saved by grace because you believe. You did not save yourselves. It was a gift from God.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

There are gifts that God hands us. The one that stands out when we are on the brink of belief is SALVATION, which is the gift of eternal life. The assurance that my eternity is set with God gives me the freedom to rejoice in knowing I’ve become a child of God and He is responsible for my life. 

4/21/2026  —  Ephesians 6:16

“And also use the shield of faith. With that you can stop all the burning arrows of the Evil One.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭16‬ ‭ICB‬‬

These are the arrows that Satan shoots at me everyday. Doubt. Discouragement. Delay. Difficulty. Depression.  

Don’t let any of them pierce me. Wear the shield of faith.  

God said it. That settles it. Someone’s belief or disbelief doesn’t change God’s truth. 

4/20/2026  —  Ephesians 6:15

“And on your feet wear the Good News of peace to help you stand strong.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭15‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

Sometimes I don’t even know what I’m standing strong about. God says to stand with peace which means to me I should avoid conflict and strive to keep a peaceful heart. Even when I’m being used? Even when I’m being played the fool? Even when I’m a minor character in the decision making? It is just easier to walk away and not argue. Is that keeping the peace or just avoiding the problem? 

4/19/2026  —  Ephesians 6:14

“So stand strong, with the belt of truth tied around your waist. And on your chest wear the protection of right living.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭14‬ ‭— International Children’s Bible

I am protecting myself everyday by reading God’s truth in the Bible and putting my head right by committing to living the day with God. 

4/18/2026  —  Revelations 12:10

“Then I heard a loud voice shouting across the heavens, “It has come at last— salvation and power and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down to earth— the one who accuses them before our God day and night.”
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭12‬:‭10‬ — New Living Testament 

I fear I read too much into what I fear are our last days and the Antichrist. Lord, keep my eyes clear and let me only look to You as the world fights its battles. For God it has already been done. 

4/17/2026  —  Ephesians 6:12

“We’re not fighting against human beings, but against the rulers, authorities, and powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly world.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬ ‭ — Radiate Bible

There is evil in this world and there are people being used by evil. I can hate the evil but not the person though in truth I find it hard to pray for the person held by Satan. 

4/16/2026  —  1 John 4:4

“But you, dear children, are from God, and you have defeated these enemies. That’s because the one who’s in you is greater than the one who’s in the world.”
‭‭1 John‬ ‭4‬:‭4‬ ‭ — Radiate Bible 

Satan attacks me because he can’t attack God. The battle though belongs to God and I just need to keep Him in my heart. 

4/15/2026  —  Lamentations 3:40

“Let’s take a good look at the way we’re living. Let’s return to the Lord.”
‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭40‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

I can’t change the past. I can’t change what talents I have or don’t have. I can’t change other people. I can only change myself. 

4/14/2026  —  Lamentations 3:28

“Let him sit alone [in hope] and keep quiet, Because God has laid it on him [for his benefit]. [Rom 8:28]”
‭‭Lamentations 3:28 — Amplified Bible

When things get hard, don’t run to people (or worse). Instead sit silently with God. Pray if you can. Read the Bible if you feel like it. Just wait for God to put something on your heart. 

4/13/2026  —  Lamentations 3:4

“He has made my skin and flesh grow old. He has broken my bones.”
‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭4‬ ‭ — New Living Translation 

Everyday something new hurts. Everyday I look in the mirror and see how I’ve changed from the day before. Aging is the adornment for experience but it is not often appreciated. God gives us aging so that we’ll be all the more happier when we shed these earthly bodies for heavenly ones. 

4/12/2026  —  Luke 16:11

“If you have not handled the riches of this world with integrity, why should you be trusted with the eternal treasures of the spiritual world?”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭16‬:‭11‬ ‭— The Passion Translation 

God wants me to be generous because He is generous. Anyone can be generous when they have a lot, having little does not release me from God’s wish for me to be generous. He will supply the lack. 

4/11/2026  —  Galatians 6:9

“We can’t allow ourselves to get tired of living the right way. Certainly, each of us will receive ⌞everlasting life⌟ at the proper time, if we don’t give up.”
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭6‬:‭9‬ ‭ — God’s Word

Don’t give up! The times of trouble are allowed to teach us, to mold us, to turn us into what God plans for us to be. He is more interested in loving us through the process of forming us than making things easy for us. 

4/10/2026  —  1 Peter 4:10

“Each of you as a good manager must use the gift that God has given you to serve others.”
‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭10‬ ‭ — God’s Word 

God gave me certain talents and He expects me to use them to make the world a better place. But how? How do I use my sewing abilities? My artistic abilities? Even my cooking abilities? (not much there.) 

4/9/2026  —  Luke 16:10

“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with a lot. Whoever is dishonest with very little is dishonest with a lot.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭16‬:‭10‬ ‭ — God’s Word 

Amen! It is the little, bothersome things that really matter. If a person can’t be trusted with doing small things in the correct way, he can’t be trusted to do things right in big ways. The little things produce the integrity to do big things. 

4/8/2026  —  2 Chronicles 16:9

“The Lord searches all the earth for people who have given themselves completely to him. He wants to make them strong.”
‭‭2 Chronicles‬ ‭16‬:‭9‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

God looks for people to use and to bless. They are the ones who are faithful, who seek His wisdom and allow His will to manage their lives. 

4/7/2026  —  Ecclesiastes 4:1

“I looked again and saw people being mistreated everywhere on earth. They were crying, but no one was there to offer comfort, and those who mistreated them were powerful.”
‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭4‬:‭1‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Bible

We see this everyday in the wars and world conflicts. What am I to do while knowing the mistreatment is going on. Complaints aren’t enough…. Are prayers? What are we supposed to do when the world is disintegrating? 

4/6/2026  —  Ecclesiastes 1:14-15

“I have seen it all, and everything is just as senseless as chasing the wind. If something is crooked, it can't be made straight; if something isn't there, it can't be counted.”
‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭1‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭— Contemporary English Version 

The world and everything in it is in a decline. It started with sin and walking away from God and here we are. So what’s the point? My job is to make things better but know it will never be perfect. Only with God will anything be perfect. 

4/5/2026  —  1 Corinthians 15:42-43

“That's how it will be when our bodies are raised to life. These bodies will die, but the bodies that are raised will live forever. These ugly and weak bodies will become beautiful and strong.”
‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭42‬-‭43‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

The greatest hope for any of us living with a life threatening disease, or even an ever aging and hurting body is that God didn’t plan for us to live on this planet forever. He planned to bring us into His eternal home with perfect “bodies”. He only requires us to give our lives to Him! 

4/4/2026  —  Isaiah 53:6

“All of us were like sheep that had wandered off. We had each gone our own way, but the Lord gave him the punishment we deserved.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭53‬:‭6‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

It is easy to say, “I wouldn’t have done what Adam and Eve did. I wouldn’t have sinned.” Yes, I would have. Just like I do everyday. Judging others? Well, I don’t know if I would or wouldn’t, but I’d probably sin some other way. 

4//3/2026  —  Ephesians 4:25

“So discard every form of dishonesty and lying so that you will be known as one who always speaks the truth, for we all belong to one another.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭25‬ ‭— The Passion Translation 

I always get hung up by God’s Word on sharing and opening up and being truthful about my own struggles. Is it because I don’t trust others or that I’m too embarrassed? Is it because I don’t believe in the power of confession to anyone but God? He listens, He knows, He can solve problems. 

4/2/2026  —  2 Corinthians 3:18

“None of our faces are covered with a veil. All of us can see and contemplate the Lord’s glory. So we’re being changed to become more and more glorious like him. All this comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭3‬:‭18‬ ‭ — Radiate Bible

If we ask Him, God will change us. It happens slowly… glory to glory, moment by moment but He can and will transform us. It is by the Holy Spirit working within us, for us. 

4/1/2026  —  Philippians 2:5

“In your lives you must think and act like Christ Jesus.”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible 

WWJD

To change my mind to think like Jesus literally means to repent. 

3/31/2026  — Philippians 2:13

“Yes, God is working in you to help you want to do what pleases him. Then he gives you the power to do it.”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

Intention without action is useless. Just seeing the need and not acting on it changes nothing. Ask God to give you the power and the courage to do one small thing. 

3/30/2026  —  Ephesians 4:24

“You were taught to become a new person. That new person is made to be like God—made to be truly good and holy.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭24‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible 

I became a new person when I believed in Jesus but I can become a new person everyday when I bring myself to God in the morning and lay my life for Him to use that day. 

3/29/2026  —  Ephesians 4:25

“We are all members of one body—one tribe—so we must speak truth and be honest with each other, leaving the path of falsehood far behind.”
‭‭Ephesians 4‬:‭25‬ ‭ — First Nations Version 

How much truth do I speak? I don’t out and out lie but I present myself as (to others and to myself) as someone having my life in order and who seeks God closely. My lies are of omission, or of hopeful waiting. Or of just privacy. To me, it only matters being honest with God. 

3/28/2026  —  Romans 8:18

“For it is clear to me that the suffering we now share with him is a small price to pay compared to the beauty and honor that is coming to us.”
‭‭Romans 8‬:‭18‬ ‭ — First Nations Version 

Keep your eyes on the eternity in your future. Some people may say it is foolish to set your sights on something unseen but if not that, what else should we be looking at? That is the definition of faith. 

3/27/2026  —  Romans 8:14-16

“Only those people who are led by God's Spirit are his children. God's Spirit doesn't make us slaves who are afraid of him. Instead, we become his children and call him our Father. God's Spirit makes us sure that we are his children.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭14‬-‭16‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

Becoming part of God’s family means that I am protected, that I don’t have to fear anything, that God is with me, that the Spirit is within me and that I have my eternal destination guaranteed. 

3/26/2026  —  Romans 8:9

“But if God’s Spirit lives in you, you are under the control of your spiritual nature, not your corrupt nature…
Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭9‬ ‭ — God’s Word

The Bible says I no longer have to depend on will-power to control my actions and thoughts. Now I have the Holy Spirit within me giving me God’s power! It doesn’t feel that way, but how many self-made disasters have I avoided just because the Holy Spirit has been nudging me to choose a different way. 

3/25/2026  —  Lamentations 3:21-24

“But here is something else I remember. And it gives me hope. The Lord loves us very much. So we haven’t been completely destroyed. His loving concern never fails. His great love is new every morning. Lord, how faithful you are! I say to myself, “The Lord is everything I will ever need. So I will put my hope in him.””
‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭21‬-‭24‬ ‭— New International Revised Version 

Yes, there are problems. Yes, I’d like to just stay in bed forever. Yes, I have doubts about God’s plan….
But from there, I change my thoughts and focus on the truth written in God’s Word. God loves me. He is in control of my situation. Raise my eyes to Him! 

3/24/2026  —  Romans 8:1

“So now, those who are in Christ Jesus are not judged guilty.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭1‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

It is comforting to say that God will never hold us guilty, or there is nothing to fear, but that is only true if you believe in Jesus. The future is unsure otherwise and there is a lot to be worried about!!! Take Jesus as your Savior! 

3/23/2026  —  Romans 7:22-23

“Deep inside myself, I really love God's laws. So my mind tells me to obey God's laws. But my body wants to make me do something else. Every part of me fights against what my mind tells me to do. Sin has power over my body so that I am like a prisoner.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭7‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible 

Resolutions and good intentions don’t work. Instead first trust God with your life. Next give the problem to God at every moment. Ask the Holy Spirit to remove the problem or to give wisdom and courage to confront the issue. Thank God ahead of seeing results. 

3/22/2026  —  Galatians 5:16

“So I say, live by the Holy Spirit’s power. Then you will not do what your desires controlled by sin want you to do.”
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭ — New international Revised Version 

Do i understand how the Holy Spirit is working in my life? He is guiding me…where would I be now if He hadn’t directed me even though I didn’t know? He comforts me. Would I even be here if He hadn’t silently encouraged me? 

3/21/2026  —  James 5:16

“So confess your sins to one another and pray for one another so that you will be healed. The prayer of a godly person is very powerful, and great things happen because of it.”
‭‭James‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭ — Radiate Bible

I’m really not good at this. I have a church but I don’t join small groups. I have Christian friends but I don’t open up. 

3/20/2026  —  1 John 1:8

“If we say that we have no sin, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”
‭‭1 John‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

I wonder how often I fool myself…. “My prayer life is fine…”. “I don’t witness because the person hasn’t asked.” “I’m fine…. I can handle it.” I don’t see these as sin but God sees things differently. 

3/19/2026  —  Ephesians 6:12

“Our fight is not against people on earth. We are fighting against the rulers and authorities and the powers of this world’s darkness. We are fighting against the spiritual powers of evil in the heavenly world.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

The only way for me to fight in a spiritual warfare is to have Jesus as the commander in my life. He is the one giving me the orders. 

3/18/2026  —  Hebrews 12:1

“So we have many people of faith around us. Their lives tell us what faith means. So let us run the race that is before us and never give up. We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way. And we should remove the sin that so easily catches us.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

There is sin that drags me down and then there are too many activities or even thoughts that drag me down…. Not bad activities but just too many. I want to be a prayer warrior, a Bible scholar, a witness for Jesus, a good sister of God, a positive expression of faith… Focus on one thing at a time. 

3/17/2026  —  Hebrews 12:1

“Do you see what this means —all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running — and never quit!”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬‭ — Message Bible

Not only is God watching us and sees all we do, there are all of God’s children throughout history that are watching and cheering for us! “Don’t give up!” “You can do it!” 

3/16/2026  —  Revelation 7:14, 17

“…These are the people who have come out of the great suffering. They have washed their robes with the blood of the Lamb. Now they are clean and white. For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd. He will lead them to springs of water that give life. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.””
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭7‬:‭14‬, ‭17‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

God leads us through suffering. Among His reasons may be that He is teaching us. He is bringing all of His children together to spend eternity. He is allowing us to do His work.

Someday the fear and pain and worry and tears will all be gone. 

3/15/2026  —  Luke 10:41-42

“The Lord Jesus replied, ‘Martha, Martha, you have troubles in your mind about many things. But only one thing is really important. That is what Mary has chosen to do. Nobody will take it away from her.’”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭10‬:‭41‬-‭42‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible 

Tanya, Tanya, you have troubles in your mind about many things. But only one thing is really important. It is being with Me. Be with me in your daily life and forever.

Love, Jesus 

3/14/2026  —  Psalms 49:15

“But God will rescue me; he will save me from the power of death.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭49‬:‭15‬ ‭ — Good News Bible 

After all the worry and suffering, death waits for the world. Instead, I can give my worry daily to God. I can be assured that Jesus understands all my suffering, and I can be thankful knowing that there it is really eternal life that waits for me. 

3/13/2026  —  Matthew 8:2-3

“…Sir, if you want to, you can make me clean.” Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him. “I do want to,” he answered. “Be clean!” At once the man was healed of his disease.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭8‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭ — Good News Bible

Jesus can heal and He wants to heal and He does heal. Think of how many illnesses we go through in our lifetime that at one time might have ended life. We live in an age of healing! Without exception though, life ends at some point… by accident, by old age, by illness. Healing is just a step before eternity. 

3/12/2026  —  Luke 19:10

“I, the Son of Man, came to look for people who are far away from God. They are in danger and I have come to save them.’”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭19‬:‭10‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible

Jesus will not give up on those He has chosen as His own. He loves them despite their rebellion and mocking. Nothing can separate them from Him. This truth gives me hope for my loved ones.

3/11/2026  —  2 Corinthians 5:19

“What we mean is that God was in Christ, offering peace and forgiveness to the people of this world. And he has given us the work of sharing his message about peace.”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭19‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

God’s gift of Jesus was His way of forgiving us. Because we have been forgiven, now we can forgive others and we can tell them of God’s greater forgiveness. 

3/10/2026  —  Psalms 105:5

“Remember the miracles he performed, the amazing things he did, and the judgments he pronounced,”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭105‬:‭5‬ ‭ — God’s Word

The past isn’t always a good memory but remembering how God led you through the painful past is good! You can’t change the past but you can remember the love that God supplied. 

3/9/2026  —  John 11:25-26

“I am the rising from the dead and life that follows,”he told her. “The ones who trust me will live again, even after death. Death will never be the end of the ones who are alive and trust in me. Do you believe what I am saying to you?”

‭‭John ‭11‬:‭25‬-‭26‬ ‭ — First Nations Version 

I wish I could make those in illness and facing the end of their life understand that God offers them eternal joy and eternal treasure. There is nothing to lose and everything to gain. 

3/8/2026  —  John 16:20

“What I’m about to tell you is true. You will weep and mourn while the world is full of joy. You will be sad, but your sadness will turn into joy.”
‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭20‬ — International Children’s Bible 

My story is not finished yet. The end will have a joyful ending because He writes it. 

3/7/2026  —  Psalms 22:24

“He has not forgotten the one who is hurting. He has not turned away from his suffering. He has not turned his face away from him. He has listened to his cry for help.”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭22‬:‭24‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

God hears my prayers and knows what hurts me the most. He experienced the feeling of being alone and hopeless but His prayer on anguish points to His certainty of God’s love. 

3/6/2026  —  Hebrews 12:2

“Let us look only to Jesus. He is the one who began our faith, and he makes our faith perfect. Jesus suffered death on the cross. But he accepted the shame of the cross as if it were nothing. He did this because of the joy that God put before him. And now he is sitting at the right side of God’s throne.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

Jesus’ sacrifice gives us the joy of eternity with Him. He suffered so that I don’t and He teaches me how to look past today’s sadness to eternal joys. 

3/5/2026  —  Romans 3:22

“We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬ ‭ — New Living Translation 

I believe in Jesus. My faith is in Christ. My faith is also OF Christ meaning my faith has been given to me from God. If in weakness or fear my faith should weaken, I must remember that God is the author of faith. Ask for more. 

3/4/2026  —  Ephesians 2:14

“It is Christ himself who has brought peace between Jews and Gentiles. He has brought those two groups together, to be one group. He has destroyed the things that made them separate. As a result, they are no longer enemies.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible

God, You CAN bring enemies together. You CAN bring peace to the world. Your reasons for leaving us to our depravity is unfathomable but we need the perfect peace of Christ. The world believes in power and killing and self satisfaction. Lead us back to living with love and kindness and cooperation.

In Jesus’ name. Amen 

3/3/2026  —  Matthew 21:8

“Many people spread their coats on the road before Jesus. Others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭21‬:‭8‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible 

In Jesus’ day the people declared Him king by spreading their coats before Him. I won’t spread my coat but I do spread my heart and my desires out before Him. 

3/2/2026  —  Romans 8:32  

“If the Great Spirit did not hold back his own Son, but instead gave him up for us all, will he then hold back on anything else? Along with his Son, he will give us all there is to give.”
‭‭Romans 8:32 — First Nations Version 

God’s Gift to us is Jesus. The main gift is not forgiveness or eternal life, it is Jesus. The other blessings come with Jesus but it is Jesus we need to seek, we need to give thanks for. God loves to give all things to those who love Him. 

3/1/2026  —  2 Peter 3:8-9

“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: To the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years is like one day. The Lord is not slow in doing what he promised—the way some people understand slowness. But God is being patient with you. He does not want anyone to be lost. He wants everyone to change his heart and life.”
‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible 

I am impatient always thinking that God is not acting quickly enough to right wrongs, to heal sickness, to take us all to His eternal promise. But God is really being patient with us, giving us time to learn His truths, to introduce more people to Him. His time is not my time. 

2/28/2026  —  2 Corinthians 1:5

“We share in the many sufferings of Christ. In the same way, much comfort comes to us through Christ.”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬ ‭ —   International Children’s Bible 

I can hold out my hands to Jesus for comfort and understanding because He knows greater suffering. 

2/27/2026  —  1 John 4:10

“True love is God’s love for us, not our love for God. God sent his Son to die in our place to take away our sins.”
‭‭1 John‬ ‭4‬:‭10‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

It doesn’t matter how much I love God. It only matters that God loves me. I only need to be grateful for the gift of Jesus.

2/26/2026  —  John 12:27

““Even though I am torn within, and my soul is in turmoil, I will not ask the Father to rescue me from this hour of trial. For I have come to fulfill my purpose —to offer myself to God.”
‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭27‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

God always has a purpose. He prepares each of us for the moment we are in. He uses each of our experiences to prepare us for the next and all culminate in our preparation for eternity.

2/25/2026  —  John 10:28

“I give them eternal life. They will never die, and no one will snatch them from my hand.”
‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭28‬ ‭ — Common English Bible

I may lose my grasp on God but He will never lose His grip on me. I may forget Him, but He will never forget me. I may walk away from Him but He is certain that I will return to Him. He holds me forever in His hand. 

2/24/2026  —  Proverbs 3:5

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart; don’t rely on your own intelligence.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬ ‭ — Common English Bible

It is hard not to rely on the facts and situation in front of me. The problem is here. God gave me a brain to deal with it and a heart of caring about it. How do I step aside and say “I will trust God.”? I don’t want to be irresponsible…. Maybe I just trust that God will give me more of what I need to deal with problems. Don’t panic now. 

2/23/2026  —  Isaiah 26:3

“With perfect peace You will protect those whose minds cannot be changed, because they trust You.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭26‬:‭3‬ ‭ — God’s Word

This translation is interesting because it acknowledges that sometimes I CANNOT change my mind. Sometimes I’m stuck in the sad, hopeless stage. God allows me to be sad, whispering that He has me and watching over me while I pull my heart back to Him. 

2/22/2016  —  1 Peter 5:7

“God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him.”
‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭7‬ ‭ — Contemporary English Version 

I give over all my worries about my children, about my grandchildren, about my pets, about my friends. All of our futures are in God’s hands. 

2/21/2026  —  John 15:5

““Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.”
‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭5‬ ‭— New Living Translation 

I say I am living with God but I seem to drag all the attempts back to myself and then wonder where Jesus is. Lord teach me AGAIN how to put all my plans, all my trust in You. 

2/20/2026  —  Exodus 34:6

“Then he passed in front of Moses, calling out, “The Lord, the Lord, a compassionate and merciful God, patient, always faithful and ready to forgive.”
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭34‬:‭6‬ ‭ — God’s Word

God, I need compassion and care today. We have to put our sweet kitty to sleep today. I can’t do much but lean on You. 

2/19/2026 —  Philippians 4:8

“Last of all, my sacred family members, if anything can be seen as good and honorable, think deeply about these things. Things that are true and noble, upright and pure, full of beauty and worthy of respect.”
‭‭Philippians 4:8

God doesn’t say “Empty your mind (of negativity). He says REPLACE the negative thought with good ones. Find SOMETHING good in every situation. An argument with someone? They love you enough to argue. Sickness? There are people around helping and caring. 

2/18/2026  —  2 Peter 1:3

“God’s power has given us everything we need to lead a godly life. All of this has come to us because we know the God who chose us. He chose us because of his own glory and goodness.”
‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

Hallelujah! Even though I may not feel capable (and I’m not) the Bible says that God has already given me all I need to work through hard days! He supplies everything for me to do His work! 

2/17/2026  —  Romans 15:13

“I pray that the God who gives hope will fill you with much joy and peace while you trust in him. Then your hope will overflow by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭15‬:‭13‬ ‭ — International Children’s Bible

There are times when I feel like I’m running on empty. Everything seems dark. I see no hope. Then without even knowing why I feel hopeful again! It is God who gives hope. He is the source of hope. He can make it overflow in me until it fills others around me. 

2/16/2026  —  Isaiah 26:3

“Lord, you keep those people safe who continue to trust in you. You give them peace in their minds, because they believe in you.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭26‬:‭3‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible

God promises to be with me. He promises to give me peace if I focus my heart and eyes on Him. Let me always turn to Him when I start to think negatively. 

2/15/2026  —  Psalms 34:18

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭18‬ ‭ — New Living Translation 

There is hope for all of us. In sadness, in anger, in depression, in confusion. God understands all and He wants us to come with all our issues. 

2/14/2026  —  2 Corinthians 1:8

“We think you ought to know, dear brothers and sisters, about the trouble we went through in the province of Asia. We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it.”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬ ‭ — New Living Translation 

My doubting and being depressed and sometimes angry, that doesn’t mean I have no faith. My faith is that I believe God is good even when things around me aren’t. 

2/13/2026  —  Ecclesiastes 3:1-4

“Everything that happens in this world happens at the time God chooses. He sets the time for birth and the time for death, the time for planting and the time for pulling up, the time for killing and the time for healing, the time for tearing down and the time for building. He sets the time for sorrow and the time for joy, the time for mourning and the time for dancing,”
‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬-‭4‬ ‭ — Good News Bible

Tears are not weakness. God sets the timepieces of our lives but within that time we have happy and sad experiences and God gave us the emotions to experience all of them. 

2/12/2026  —  John 11:35

“Jesus wept.”
‭‭John‬ ‭11‬:‭35‬ —  New International Revised Version 

The first Bible verse I ever memorized. If Jesus can weep at the sad things in life, so can I. Joy and grief. They really can be experienced at the same time. The joy of having memories of love, the grief at the pain of loss. 

2/11/2026  —  Matthew 26:38

“And he said to them, “My heart is overwhelmed and crushed with grief. It feels as though I’m dying. Stay here and keep watch with me.””
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭26‬:‭38‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

Even Jesus experienced intense grief and he chose to face it with God and with friends. When in trouble definitely go to God in prayer… but sharing with godly friends is important too. 

2/10/2026  —  Psalm 56:8

“You’ve kept track of all my wandering and my weeping. You’ve stored my many tears in your bottle—not one will be lost. For they are all recorded in your book of remembrance.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭56‬:‭8‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

Some of my emotions I don’t feel I can share…. Usually it’s because the situation isn’t just about me. The privacy of others is involved. But God sees those tears and the anger or the despair. He cherishes my honest feelings. 

2/9/2026  —  Isaiah 53:3

“He was despised and rejected by people. He was a man of sorrows, familiar with suffering…”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭53‬:‭3‬ — God’s Word

Jesus knows pain and suffering. He knows sadness and grief. He understands my struggles with sickness and suffering and sadness and maybe even anxiety. 

2/8/2026  —  Luke 24:31

“Their eyes were opened and they recognized him, but he disappeared from their sight.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭24‬:‭31‬ ‭ — Common English Bible

There are times when I feel God has left me and my disappointment all alone. But am I really alone or just not recognizing God is with me but my eyes and heart are clouded. Wait. Pray. Look for the blessings hidden in each situation. 

2/7/2026  —  Luke 22:32

“However, I have prayed for you that your faith won’t fail. When you have returned, strengthen your brothers and sisters.””
‭‭Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭32‬ ‭ — Common English Bible

Jesus did not pray that Simon’s performance be preserved but that his faith would. Jesus knows we will fail. He prays for our faith, our devotion to God, to return even after our disappointment and that we will continue living our lives for God. 

2/6/2026  —  John 11:25-26

“Jesus said to her, “I am the one who brings people back to life, and I am life itself. Those who believe in me will live even if they die. Everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe that?””
‭‭John‬ ‭11‬:‭25‬-‭26‬ — God’s Word

The truth that I live by. It thrills me to know I will see again those who have died that are now with Christ. It comforts me to know that my eternity is already set in heaven. It pains me to know there are still people I love who have not accepted the truth of Jesus’ love. 

2/5/2026  —  Matthew 26:42

“A second time he went away and prayed, “My Father, if it’s not possible that this cup be taken away unless I drink it, then let it be what you want.””
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭26‬:‭42‬ ‭— Common English Bible

God did not answer Jesus’ prayer as He wished even though Jesus’ faith was perfect, Jesus’ motives were pure and Jesus was completely aligned to God’s will.

Jesus came away from His prayer fully committed to following God’s purpose.

Surrendering to God doesn’t change God, it changes the person who prays. 

2/4/2026  —  Luke 6:12

“During that time, Jesus went out to the mountain to pray, and he prayed to God all night long.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬ ‭ — Common English Bible

Prayer did not fail me. Prayer prepared me.

Prayer is not about controlling God to make everything work out well for me. Prayer is about letting God change me to become accepting and courageous enough to handle all He gives me to handle.

2/3/2026  —  Philippians 2:5

“Adopt the attitude that was in Christ Jesus:”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬ ‭ — Common English Bible

Some years ago the acronym WWJD became popular. I didn’t want to join the bandwagon but I often think of those letters in my daily life.

What Would Jesus Do? 

2/2/2026  —  Proverbs 29:25

“If you are afraid of people, it will trap you. But if you trust in the Lord, he will keep you safe.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭29‬:‭25‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

Tanya, don’t worry about others think. Don’t worry about being judged or ridiculed or making people angry. God knows my intentions and my heart. 

2/1/2026  —  Proverbs 27:17

“People learn from each other, as one iron tool can make another one sharp.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭27‬:‭17‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible

I learn from the people around me. They learn from me. I learn humility when others succeed and I learn how to be kind when I am in a stronger position. 

1/31/2026  —  Jeremiah 9:23-24

“The Lord says, ‘Wise people should not be proud of their wisdom. Powerful people should not be proud of their power. And rich people should not be proud that they are rich. If they want to be proud about something, they should be proud that they know me. They should boast that they understand who I am. I am the Lord. I am faithful in my love for my people. I always do what is right and fair. It makes me happy when people live in that way too.’”
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭— Easy English Bible

God gives all talents, all blessings, all relationships. If there is anything good surrounding me then they are all gifts from the Lord. The only boast I should make is that I chose Jesus early in my life and I have tried to be consistent in worshipping Him. 

1/30/2026  —  Matthew 6:1

““Be careful that you don’t practice your religion in front of people to draw their attention. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭1‬ ‭ Common English Bible

It only matters that my deeds are performed with love and that God knows my heart. 

1/29/2026  —  Matthew 6:4

“Nobody else will know about the good thing that you have done. But God sees the things that you do secretly. In return, he will give you good things.’”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭4‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible

Why does it matter to me what others think? The only opinion I need is God’s and He does not need to be reminded of my small accomplishments. Do not seek society’s approval. 

1/28/2026  —  Philippians 2:3

“Don't do anything from selfish ambition or from a cheap desire to boast, but be humble towards one another, always considering others better than yourselves.”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭3‬ ‭ — Good News Bible

I am in danger of thinking since I’m older then maybe I’m more experienced, better. Teaching, mentoring, being fawned over just because of my seniority… these are all traps to get me to forget that God is the only One we should look up to. 

1/27/2026  —  Mark 1:7

“And this is the message he kept preaching: “There is a man coming after me who is greater and a lot more powerful than I am. I’m not even worthy to bend down and untie the strap of his sandals.”
‭‭Mark‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

I may feel like the main character but my life is just one small piece in God’s creation. My purpose is to point people to Jesus. He is the only one that the spotlight should focus on. 

1/26/2026  —  Proverbs 4:18

“But the lovers of God walk on the highway of light, and their way shines brighter and brighter until the perfect day.”
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭4‬:‭18‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

I hope that I am part of God’s shining light, but I crave the quiet, muted places on the edge of life. I don’t really understand the desire to be seen and to “share” though I have been lured by social media myself. Let me shine for God, not for myself. 

1/25/2026  —  Acts 4:29

“…Empower us, as your servants, to speak the word of God freely and courageously.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭4‬:‭29‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

My prayer whenever speaking to people of my faith.

1/24/2026  —  Luke 24:31

“All at once their eyes were opened and they realized he was Jesus! Then suddenly, in a flash, Jesus vanished from before their eyes!”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭24‬:‭31‬ ‭ — The Passion Translation 

Jesus is right here! He is in front and amidst all of us! When I speak of what I know and believe about Him then others get a glimpse of Him and learn how they can reach out to Him also. 

1/23/2026  —  1 John 4:19

“Our love for others is our grateful response to the love God first demonstrated to us.”
‭‭1 John‬ ‭4‬:‭19‬ ‭TPT‬‬

Jesus says to love one another. Where did love even come from? How do we recognize it? God is the source of love. No! GOD IS LOVE! If we know or have been loved, then we already have met God! 

1/22/2026  —  Luke 11:1

“One day, Jesus was praying in a certain place. He finished praying. Then, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Master, John taught his disciples how to pray. Please teach us as he did.’”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭11‬:‭1‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible

God loves it when we pray for someone and with someone. To develop a heart of prayer keep it simple, keep it honest and keep it going. Don’t stop just because you haven’t heard God’s voice. 

1/21/2026  —  John 4:29

““Come and see a man who has told me everything I’ve done! Could this man be the Christ?””
‭‭John‬ ‭4‬:‭29‬ ‭ — Common English Bible

Jesus is the one who knows me inside and out. He knows my thoughts and deeds and He STILL loves me! I should shout the Good News from the mountains! 

1/20/2026  —  Romans 5:8

“But God has shown us how much he loves us. Even when we still did not obey God, Christ died on our behalf.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭ — Easy English Bible

No matter what I’ve done. No matter how I ignore God while wanting God’s blessings, no matter that I’ve taken for granted that God forgives me… God still loves me completely. 

1/19/2026  —  1 Corinthians 14:11

“But if I don’t understand what someone is saying, I am a stranger to the person speaking. And that person is a stranger to me.”
‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭14‬:‭11‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

I speak to my friend about Jesus, to speak to her heart, to understand her doubts and fears, and she listens closely but are my words so “Christian“ that she can’t understand the things that seem so clear to me? 

1/18/2026  —  Ephesians 2:10

“Instead, we are God’s accomplishment, created in Christ Jesus to do good things. God planned for these good things to be the way that we live our lives.”
‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2‬:‭10‬ ‭ — Common English Bible 

God is good. That is the truth. He gave me life so that He can use me in His plan. That is my purpose. God loves me and everything will be fine. That is the promise. 
1/17/2026  —  Acts 16:31

“And they answered, “Believe in the Lord Jesus [as your personal Savior and entrust yourself to Him] and you will be saved, you and your household [if they also believe].””
‭‭Acts‬ ‭16‬:‭31‬ ‭ — Amplified Bible

God saves us from ourselves, from our sin, from an uncertain future. He also promises to use us to show the people we love the way to eternal life and peace with Him. Praise to our God who is always good! 

1/16/2026  —  Philippians 1:12

“Now I want you to know, believers, that what has happened to me [this imprisonment that was meant to stop me] has actually served to advance [the spread of] the good news [regarding salvation].”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬ ‭ — Amplified Bible

God plans out situations. He also uses each situation for the good of all. I don’t understand and I may never see His perfect result but I believe He has the whole world in His hand. 

1/15/2026 —  Philippians 4:19

“My God will fully supply whatever you need, in accord with his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭19‬ ‭ — New American Standard Version 

What do I need? (Or is it “what do I want?”). I need peace of mind. I need to know God will welcome my friends and family to heaven. God has already decided my future and He will supply what HE knows I need. 

1/14/2026  —  Colossians 3:16

“The word of Christ must live in you richly. Teach and warn each other with all wisdom by singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Sing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬ ‭

Yes! Teaching and reminding myself of God’s truths and putting them in my heart with songs of praise is pleasing to God!

1/13/2026  —  Psalms 119:10-11

“With all my heart I try to serve you; keep me from disobeying your commandments. I keep your law in my heart, so that I will not sin against you.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭ — Good News Bible

How do I know what God’s commands are for me? By knowing what God is saying and that means reading the Bible and listening to others who have Biblical insight. 

1/12/2026  —  Romans 12:2
“Don’t live the way this world lives. Let your way of thinking be completely changed. Then you’ll be able to recognize what God wants for you and agree that what he wants is right. His plan is good and pleasing and perfect.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭2‬ ‭ — Radiate Bible

I want God to control my thoughts and my life. I recognize that my heart is uplifted and more positive when I repeat Bible truths within lyrics of worship songs. God is molding my thoughts with music. 

1/11/2026  —  Isaiah 61:3

“He wants me to help those in Zion who are filled with sorrow. I will put beautiful crowns on their heads in place of ashes. I will anoint them with olive oil to give them joy instead of sorrow. I will give them a spirit of praise in place of a spirit of sadness. They will be like oak trees that are strong and straight. The Lord himself will plant them in the land. That will show how glorious he is.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61‬:‭3‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

God promises peace and joy for all His believers. I plead with Him to include more of my loved ones in His plan. 

1/10/2026  —  James 5:16

“Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other. Do this so that God can heal you. When a good man prays, great things happen.”
‭‭James‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭— International Children’s Bible

At this moment in my life, sharing is the hardest guidance from God to follow. I see my weakness and know I’m closed up but it is not my place to share what affects other people. God will have to change me or change the situation. 

1/9/2026  —  Psalms 43:19

“I am going to do something new. It is already happening. Don’t you recognize it? I will clear a way in the desert. I will make rivers on dry land.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭19‬ ‭ — God’s Word

God gives us a new day to make new choices and new decisions. I don’t have to be the person I’ve fallen into the trap of being. God is working in my life. 

1/8/2026  —  2 Corinthians 5:17 

“Whoever is a believer in Christ is a new creation. The old way of living has disappeared. A new way of living has come into existence.”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭17‬ ‭ — God’s Word

I don’t have to hang on to my old cycles of regret, guilt, anger, pretending. I may not be able to change the past but I can make the effort to cling to God’s truths and live in His sufficiency.

1/7/2026 —  Psalm 147:3

“He heals those who have broken hearts. He takes care of their wounds.”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭147‬:‭3‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

Who I feel I am and who God says I am are sometimes different. By reading God’s truths about God’s children (me!) I will align my thoughts to how He sees me. 
1/6/2026  —  2 Corinthians 4:16

“That is why we are not discouraged. Though outwardly we are wearing out, inwardly we are renewed day by day.”
‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬ ‭ — God’s Word

This is so true in my life. I see and feel the 70 years I’ve lived. Not only that, around me morals seem to crumble, the world situation is tumbling. God and His eternity is the only hope to hold on to. All will be well with Him. 

1/5/2026  —  Jeremiah 17:7-8

“The Lord blesses people who trust in him. They know that the Lord will help them. They will be like trees that grow beside a river. Their roots reach into the water. When the sun is hot, they are not afraid. Their leaves continue to be green. They give fruit each year, even when there is no rain.”
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭17‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ — Easy English Bible 

Decide where to plant your seed. (Choose Jesus). Nurture it consistently. (Read the Bible, go to church, have Christian friends.) Let your roots grow deep and wide. (Learn more about God’s ways. Live according to His plans.) Let your leaves and fruit grow. (Let God fill your life with blessings and lessons.) 

1/4/2026  —  Romans 8:26

“In the same way, the Spirit too comes to the aid of our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but the Spirit itself intercedes with inexpressible groanings.”
‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭26‬ ‭ — New American Revised Version 

God gives all of us some weakness that we wish He’d take away. Illness, loss, handicap, He asks us to live with the weakness, trust Him, and stay positive. 

1/3/2026  —  Psalms 139:4

“Lord, even before I speak a word, you know all about it.”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭139‬:‭4‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

Unfortunately I take this Biblical truth for granted by NOT praying in the intensive, connecting way that God intended.  

“God knows my thoughts anyway. Why sit here and explain it all again?”

I need to develop my prayer life. 

1/2/2026  —  1 Peter 4:12

“Dear friends, don’t be surprised by the terrible things happening to you. The trouble you are having has come to test you. So don’t feel as if something strange were happening to you.”  1 Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭12‬ ‭ — New International Revised Version 

The key word is feel. Don’t feel as if…. Instead trust. Feelings change with situations, with relationships, with hormones or too little sleep. Choose the one thing to believe (Jesus) and don’t rely on feelings.

1/1/2025  —  Psalms 37:7

“Surrender yourself to the Lord, and wait patiently for him. Do not be preoccupied with ⌞an evildoer⌟ who succeeds in his way when he carries out his schemes.”
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭7‬ ‭ — God’s Word

How many times have I heard that God’s timing is His own and I cannot rush Him. If God’s timing isn’t satisfactory to me, it just means I’m not aligned to Him enough.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Sorry. I'm having more hacker problems and have had to go to comment moderation.