The Lord knows you by name and cares about you.
Remembering this throughout your day is made easy with these downloadable verses you can:
put on your refrigerator
tape to the bathroom mirror
put in your car
use as a screensaver on your phone
Put them in highly-visible places to remind you that God is near and wants to be a part of every moment of your day and your parenting.
Verses to Encourage
Verses that will give you hope and encouragement, so you can receive His promises and experience His peace by believing in His word.
"Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." I Peter 5:7 When we are anxious or fearful, turn to the Lord and call on His name in prayer! He does care about you and what you are going through. Spend some time with Him.
"Father, I thank you that you have heard me." John 11:41 This is a prayer we can pray even before we know the answer to our prayers. We can pray with confidence that the God of the universe cares and is listening.
When you are worried, afraid, or in danger, or just need comfort, call on the name of the Lord, because, "The name of the Lord is a strong fortress; the godly run into it and are safe.' Proverbs 18:10 Do not be afraid, safety, fear, anxiety
Moms are weary and heavy burdened most of the time. We need the help and guidance of the Lord. He's there, ready and waiting for us to "Come to me, all who are weary and heavy burdened," and then he gives us a promise. "And I will give you rest for your souls." Matthew 11:28 When you are tired, sad & discouraged, he is there.
When we come to him, he gives rest for our souls and that comes in the form of peace for your soul. This promise comes with an "If". We have to do something to get there. We have to trust in him and focus our thoughts on Him. That's when we receive his peace.
We can know and feel the love of the Lord in as much of the day as we want, starting the moment we open our eyes in the morning because we want him with us all day long. He's there waiting for us to come to Him.
Every morning, we can choose to have our spirit renewed starting the moment we connect with him in the morning. The baggage from yesterday is gone. He's waiting for us to look at him and get his perspective.
As we focus on him and exchange our old nature for his nature, our desires change. We are empowered and given strength beyond our own. "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13
This promise is for those who are living a life focused on him and trusting him. He will supply all our needs when we are in Christ Jesus.
If you belong to Jesus, you can have gratitude for all the circumstances he allows in your life.--even the bad ones. If you focus on Him, he'll use these for good. "Be thankful in all circumstances for this is God's will for those who belong to Christ Jesus." I Thes. 5:18
When fear and anxiety threaten to overtake you, Jesus says, "Take Courage, I am here!" What comfort that is when we take our minds from circumstances and focus them on Jesus.
We put ourselves into a blessable place when we put our trust in the Lord rather than ourselves or other people. He becomes our hope and confidence.
When anxiety, fear, and danger appear, we can call out to him and take refuge under his wings of protection. It's comforting to know our God will protect us in times of trouble.
Even when we have walked away from the Lord, when we repent and give our troubles to him, he will take care of us and hold us. He will be with you through the natural consequences of your choices and not allow you to fall.
When we take our eyes off of our circumstances and focus on the Lord, our heart won't be troubled. "Don't let your heart be troubled. Trust in the Lord." John 14:1
God often heals our hearts, something no one else can do. "Lord, if you heal me, I will be truly healed." Jeremiah 17:14
Jesus loved us so much that he was willing to die on a cross for us. He wants to be kind, tenderhearted and forgiving. We can do that!
He wants us to continue to grow in love and knowledge of Him so that we understand what really matters.
God cares about you and he desires you to walk in the plans he has created just for you. Then you will have a hope and a future.
When we confess our sins to the Lord, we no longer have to live in shame. He has forgiven you and there is no more disgrace. Sometimes there are natural consequences we still have to live with, but the inner shame is gone.
When we choose to partner with the Lord in the work he has created us to do, we become friends of God. A companionship beyond all others.
You are wanted. He chose you.
Jesus wants us to love people well. Those that are easy to love as well a those who are hard to love. He loves us in truth and justice.
When we choose the Lord, He is listening to us and we do not have to be afraid.
Waiting patiently is hard to do, but when we learn to keep our thoughts focused on Him and who he is, it is much easier. That is when he can open doors and pour out love on you.
Keeping our mind focused on the Lord instead of our circumstances is putting our hope in the Lord. He then gives us the strength to be strong and courageous.
Choosing to give all your worries and cares to the Lord is your best choice. He is the one who loves us and cares about every detail of our lives and he has the power to change things for us.
He is always faithful and each morning is a new start full of his mercy. It is a refreshing place to live.
The Lord is always good and when we focus on him and look for him, we see his goodness and experience it.
The creator of the universe cares about every detail of your life. When you are sad, he remembers, when you've been hurt, he keeps track. He cares so much about us that he chose to die on the cross so we could have the possibility of eternity in heaven with him.
We can run to the light and be safe. When we are afraid, we can go to him.
"This is the day that the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it." Psalms 118:24 Even on those days when we are down and don't even want to get out of bed, we can stop and thank him for the day and that he is there. When we do, it begins to change our perspective on life.
"The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear." Psalms 118:6 When I am afraid to take the next step, I can remember that "the Lord is for me!" With that encouragement, I can say, Thank you and take that step forward..
"In my destress I prayed to the Lord." Psalms 118:5 He is always there when we call out and pray to him. When we are willing to turn and focus on him, instead of the things causing distress.
"Thank you for answering my prayer and giving me victory." Psalms 118:21 Sometimes his answer is "wait". Sometimes it's "no". Other times it's "yes." Just like when our young child wants to cross the street. We can always say thank you knowing his answer is in our best interest.
"The Lord is my strength and my song." Psalms 118:14 He is the one who provides the strength we need as well as gives us the joy we so deeply desire.
Our God is Creator of the Earth, and he cares about me. He is my Lord! "The Lord is everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth." Isaiah 40:28
Often we feel powerless or weak because of our circumstances. When we feel this, turn to the Lord. Focus on Him, instead of your circumstances. As you do, your heart will change the Lord will give you the strength you need. "He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless." Isaiah 40:29
It means we have to take our eyes off our circumstances and focus on the Lord and his goodness, then we will find new strength. "...Those who trust in the Lord will find new strength." Isaiah 40:3a
The Creator of the universe understands us more than anyone, even more than we do ourselves. You can trust Him. "No one can measure the depth of His understanding." Isaiah 40:28b
When we have those days where we feel like we just don't have enough to make it through, we can call out to the Lord, focus on Him and he will send his Spirit to help you. "The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness." Romans 8:26
The Lord is ready and waiting to help us. We just have to stop, turn our heart to him and ask. "Yes, the Lord is for me; he will help me." Psalms 118:7
When I am anxious or afraid, he cares and we can call out to him. "Please listen to me and answer me, for I am overwhelmed by my troubles." Psalms 55:2
Sometimes we have to declare to remind ourselves when we are afraid. "I trust in God." and then do it. Stop, bow your head and give your fears to him. "I TRUST IN GOD, so why should I be afraid?" Psalms 56:11
Taking moments throughout your day to remember and praise the Lord, changes our perspective and encourages a relationship with the Lord. "How great is the Lord, how deserving of praise." Psalms 48:1
When our eyes are focused upon the Lord, rather than down on our current circumstances, he will keep our feet from slipping. "So now I can walk in Your presence, O God, in your life-giving light." "...You have kept my feet from slipping. So now I can walk in Your presence, O God, in your life-giving light." Psalms 56:13
The creator. The one who made the whole universe also made you. He knows every detail of who you are and how he uniquely created you. He understands your strengths and weaknesses even better than you do. "He made your heart, so he understands everything you do." Psalms 47:1
Fear and anxiety can overtake us unless when we recognize it, we look up, come to him and give it to him. He is the only one who has the complete picture of your life and knows how to navigate you to a place of peace and rest. Choose to put your trust in him. "When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you." Psalms 56:3
When we look to God for help, rather than our circumstances, and continue to do so, we will be encouraged. The divine steps in and will keep you from falling. "Let all who seek God's help be encouraged." Psalms 69:32
The Lord of Heaven's Armies is still in control. He reigns above the nations. He also cares about the little things that are troubling your heart. He knows what you need. "God reigns above the nations." Psalms 47:8
Show gratitude to the Lord for his goodness to you and his faithful love. "Give Thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever." Psalms 118:1
When we turn and walk away from the Lord and his ways, our hearts get wounded. Jesus says, "Come back to me and I will heal your wayward hearts." Jeremiah 3:22
We often walk the other way and wonder why God isn't leading us. He won't force us, we must willingly follow him and his ways, then he says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life." Psalms 32:8
We can cry out to him and come to him and he is there ready and waiting to lead you into peaceful green pastures. You have to choose to trust him and let him lead. "When you go through deep waters, I will be with you." Isaiah 43:2
When Jesus left this earth, he left us with the gift of the Holy Spirit who gives you peace in all circumstances when you put your trust in him. We don't have to live with anxiety and fear. "I am leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart...so don't be troubled or afraid." John 14:27
When we are troubled, afraid or just too busy, we should Stop and: "Be still and know that I am God." Let it sink into your soul and change your perspective.
It's much easier to love the Lord, when we keep our mind focused on him. When we do, that puts us in a place close to his heart. He will protect you. "Love the Lord, all you godly ones. For the Lord protects those who are loyal to Him." Psalms 31:23
We all get discouraged and sad. It is how we choose to respond to it that either keeps us down or gives us hope. Deciding "I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again!" will change our heart and mind and keep it focused on the Lord.
The godly are those who choose to follow the Lord's ways rather than our selfish natural ways. They choose to obey Him. These are the ones "he delights in every detail of their life."
He draws us closer into faith by causing us to remember. When those thoughts come, let them stay. Think about them, let them sink deep into your soul. Don't let them leave. They will build your faith and trust.
We are invited to "'Come' and see what our God has done." An invitation to see and experience to build our adoration and trust in him. In that place of focusing on him and trusting in Him, you may experience his miracles for you today.
We all experience doubt, what we do with it determines our heart's peace and trust in God. When we go to him with it we receive comfort and hope. "When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer." Psalms 94:19
Even when we don't understand and it doesn't make sense, "trust the Lord' with everything you have in you. Make sure you are doing what you know he wants you to do, then "He will show you what path to take." "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do and He will show you what path to take." Proverbs 3:5-6
When you actively trust the Lord and keep your mind focused on Him, He will do miracles for you. "Yes, says the Lord, I will do many miracles for you..." Micah 7:15
When we ask the Lord for the gift of faith, we begin to trust Him. When we do, He will come close to us. We will feel Him near. "He is close to those who trust in Him." Nahum 1:7
Take life a day at a time. It is a comfort to know that if we focus on today's worries and anxieties, and actively give them to the Lord, he will take care of them. We don't need to worry. Each day give them to the Lord.
In Jesus, there is life. Even through difficult times, He fulfills you and allows you to live with joy. "Come back to me and live." Amos 5:4
If love is patience and kindness, then the opposite isn't loving. Impatience, rude, irritable and selfishness are things we often excuse ourselves for, not realizing that we are really being unloving to those around us. "Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous, boastful, proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable...Love never gives up...is always hopeful." I Corinthians 13:4-7
I will be grateful and bless the Lord who guides and instructs me even at night. How encouraging is that! "I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me." Psalms 16:7
Even when we choose our won way and make a mess out of our lives, we can choose to come back to him. He will be there. He is always close wanting us to choose His way rather than our own. "'Don't be afraid,' he said, 'Take courage!', 'I am here!'" Mark 7:50b
Let praising the Lord become an ongoing practice. It is about changing your heart and perspective to have the Lords. It is not that the God of the universe needs our praise for his ego. "I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises." Psalms 34:1
When we praise and pray to the Lord, He comes near. In the everyday moments and the difficult ones that arise. "We put our hope in the Lord. He is our help and our shield." Psalms 33:20
Since the Lord created our hearts, he know them even better than we do. He wants us to guard our hearts because they are the well-spring of life. He gives us ways to do this in his Word. "He made their hearts, so he understands everything they do." Psalms 33:15
This is a prayer that the Lord wants to answer. We have to keep ourself listening and then do what he says, which is often uncomfortable or doesn't make sense until we act and follow him. "Make your way plain for me to follow." Psalms 5:8b
The only way we can be declared innocent is because our Savior Jesus paid the ultimate sacrifice by dying on the cross for our sins. As we keep our eyes on him and do what he says to do, he can free us from our troubles. "O God who declares me innocent. Free me from my troubles. Have mercy on me and hear my prayer." Psalms 4:1
The Lord loves to lavish gifts on us. Remembering that when good things happen, we have him to thank. "Every good and perfect gift is from above." James 1:17
As you give yourself to him and focus on worshipping him, it puts you in a place to be blessable. "May the Lord bless you and protect you." Numbers 6:24
When we come to him in our daily lives and choices, it puts us in a place where we can receive from the Lord. "May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you." Numbers 6:25
When we acknowledge the He is our God, we relinquish control of our future. It brings a relief and a peace. "You are my God! My future is in your hands." Psalms 31:14b-15a
He is always with us. The problem is, we are not always with him. We go the other way and wonder why we don't feel him. Turn back to him and you won't be shaken. "I know the Lot is always with me. I will not be shaken, for He is right beside me." Psalms 16:8
When we wonder if the Lord is really with us, we've probably turned away from him at some point and chose not to obey him. Choosing to obey is the start of a close relationship with him. "God is with those who obey Him." Psalms 14:5
It is always nice to hear the words, "I love you!" He likes to hear it too and it reminds us where our focus needs to stay. Let's not forget to tell him. "I love you, Lord; you are my strength." Psalms 18:1
What a comfort to know that the Lord is ready and willing to protect me from trouble. We just need to com to him in a posture of humility and repentance, "For you are my hiding place; you protect t me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory." Psalms 32:7
When we are faithful to the Lord, he shows up. The same thing with honesty. When we are honest with ourselves and others, he shows his perfect honesty to us. He is trustworthy. "To the faithful, you show yourself faithful; to those with integrity you show integrity." Psalms 18:25
We can sleep peacefully knowing that the Lord will keep us safe. "In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Oh Lord, will keep me safe. Psalms 4:8
God created you to accomplish things for Him in this time period in history. He uniquely created you to be fulfilled in those endeavors. "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 3:10
When we live our life to say "Yes, Lord!", all God's promises have been fulfilled for us because of what Christ did on the cross and us saying yes to Him. "...All of God's promises have been fulfilled Christ with. resounding "Yes!". And through Christ, our "Yes!" ascends to God for His glory." 2 Corinthians 1:20
Focusing our thoughts on things that please God, help us to obey Him and please Him. Our actions will follow our thoughts. "...Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable." Philippians 4:8
Verses to Grow Your Faith
Verses that will help you grow your faith and trust through obedience, so you can receive His promises and experience His peace by doing what He says.
"Thank you for answering my prayer and giving me victory." Psalms 118:21 Sometimes his answer is "wait". Sometimes it's "no". Other times it's "yes." Just like when a young child wants a cookie. Sometimes it's "no", other times it's "wait", and sometimes it's "YES!" We can always say thank you knowing his answer is always in our best interest.
"The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear." Psalms 118:6 When I am afraid to take the next step, I can remember that "the Lord is for me!" With that encouragement, I can say, Thank you and take that step forward..
"The Lord is my strength and my song." Psalms 118:14 He is the one who Provides the strength we need as well as giving us the joy we so deeply desire.
"Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." I Peter 5:7 When we are anxious or fearful, turn to the Lord and call on His name in prayer! He does care about you and what you are going through. Spend some time with Him.
"Father, I thank you that you have heard me." John 11:41 This is a prayer we can pray even before we know the answer to our prayers. We can pray with confidence that the God of the universe cares and is listening.
"This is the day that the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it." Psalms 118:24 Even on those days when we are down and don't even want to get out of bed, we can stop and thank him for the day and that he is there. When we do, it begins to change our perspective on life.
"My child, listen an be wise. Keep your heart on the right course." Proverbs 23:19 Our Father in heaven encourages us to "keep our heart on the right course." He knows that where we focus our thoughts and affections affect the direction of our lives.
"In my destress I prayed to the Lord." Psalms 118:5 He is always there when we call out and pray to him. When we are willing to turn and focus on him, instead of the things causing distress.
"Let the Holy Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes." Ephesians 4:24 When we invite the Holy Spirit in, he actively helps us have new perspective on our life and individual situations. When we are about to choose to do or say something that doesn't please the Lord, he will give us pause--a moment of caution. Hopefully we will listen to it and obey. When we do, he changes our heart and attitude.
"New every morning." That is significant. Each new day is a new start. When we start our day with him we receive his mercies. Even when we make mistakes, his love never ends.
Each new day our spirits can be renewed, as we live in his presence and in his ways. Yesterday is gone, today we can come to him confess our sins and have a fresh start.
Our natural response to circumstances and life situations is to respond from our own understanding of a situation. The Lord is telling us to "seek his will" instead, to trust in the Lord with all your heart. When we choose to trust him, he will show you the best path for you to take.
When we come to him, keeping our thoughts fixed on him rather than our concerns and circumstances, he will give you peace that passes all understanding. It guards our heart and mind in Christ Jesus. That is trusting. "You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You." Isaiah 26:3
Whatever the Lord asks of you, if you say, "Yes, Lord," he will give you the strength to accomplish it. "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." Phillippians 4:13
When we see and believe the miracles the Lord has preformed for others in the past, it changes our heart toward him and we align ourselves with him. This is the place he can preform miracles in our heart and life too.
We all have doubts at times. If we choose to go to him with them, he will comfort us and give us renewed hope. "When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer." Psalms 94:19
When we determine to trust God, he will provide all our needs. He usually waits until the very last moment to do it. This means we have to trust him to the end. We realize we couldn't have done it ourselves. We give him all the glory.
It's easy to be grateful when life is good, yet Jesus is telling us to be grateful in all circumstances he allows in our life. When we do, it begins to change our life. "Be thankful in all circumstances for this is God's will for those who belong to Christ Jesus." I Thessalonians 5:18
We don't have to be anxious or afraid, we can invite the Holy Spirit in to have control. He will give us peace that passes all understanding to guard our heart and mind.
It is easy to take our focus off the Lord and begin desiring again the approval of people rather than Him. I want to win God's approval.
Then we can express them to him in worship. I will also encourage you and build your faith. "He causes us to remember His wonderful works. How gracious and merciful is our Lord." Psalms 111:4
It is encouraging to think that God actually delights in our lives. He does. When we choose Him, the guides us and delights in us.
Life circumstances can cause us to get discouraged. It is what we choose to do with that discouragement that will move us deeper into discouragement or out of it. Choosing to put our Hope in God will move you up.
It takes intentional work to become godly, just like working out at the gym. It is a daily practice that starts from the moment you wake until you close your eye in sleep at night.
Everyone has troubles, or storms. With the Lord on our sides, we can weather them. They will not destroy us. " When the storms of life come...the godly have a lasting foundation." Proverbs 10:25
God's love provides peace and harmony. Ask the Lord to show His love. To let you feel it and experience it.
God lets us choose the focus of our life. Will it be the Lord or will it be self-focused on money, sex and power.
He really does care about you. As he says in Jeremiah 29:11 "'I know the plans I have for you,' says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a hope and a future." His plans are the best.
Jesus is the light of the world. He is the light for our path and the light that brings joy to our lives. "God is light, and there is no darkness in Him at all." 1 John 1:5
When we are walking with him, we are near enough to hear him so we can obey him. He is so good to those who follow him, rather than running the other way. "The Lord is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him." Lamentations 3:25
Thank you, Lord, for hearing my prayers. Thank you that I don't have to be afraid when I keep my focus on you. "Yes, you came when I called; you told me, 'Do not fear!'" Lamentations 3:57
When we give our lives to Jesus, he gives us his Spirit who helps us learn to obey and follow the Lord. "And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations." Ezekiel 36:27
Even as a child, we want our own way. This creates a stony, stubborn heart. The Lord promises to change it into a tender, responsive heart. One that will give us peace. "...I will take out your stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart." Ezekiel 36:26b
When we accept him as our Savior, he gives us a new heart and His Holy Spirit to guide our lives. "I will give you a new heart and I will put a new spirit in you." Ezekiel 36:26
Coming to Jesus and giving him your concerns, worry, and anxiety, is freeing. He replaces anxiety and worry with inner peace and freedom in the middle of hard life circumstances. "So if the Son sets you free, you truly are free!" John 8:36
The sorrow he wants us to experience is sadness for our sins. When it leads us to repentance, we will receive true forgiveness that provides freedom. " For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There's no regrets with that kind of sorrow." 2 Corinthians 7:10
The Holy Spirit is saddened when we choose not to align ourselves with what we say we believe in our actions, attitudes and the way we live. Listening to the Holy Spirit's prompting to live in the way of loving others. When we do we exhibit the characteristics of the Lord: Love, joy peace, patience, kindness, goodness and self-control. "Do not bring sorrow to the Holy Spirit by the way you live." Ephesians 4:30
Though our natural tendency is to resist anyone controlling our destiny, because we want to control. When we choose to align ourselves with the Lord and his ways, it is a great comfort to know he is in control and has a good plan for our lives. "So he will do to me whatever he has planned, He controls my destiny." Job 23:14
As we pray about those who curse us or mistreat us, we are putting it in the hands of Jesus to handle. Then we can be patient as he deals with it. He'll show you what to do. (Note: This is not saying to stay if you are in danger. Get out to safety.) "Bless those who curse us. We are patient with those who abuse us." 1 Corinthians 4:12
Jesus is love. We are to be like him. When we love well, their is unity and harmony in relationships. "Above all, clothe yourself in love, which binds us together in perfect harmony." Colossians 3:14
Forgiving others is important in the eyes of the Lord. He has forgiven us so much. How could we not forgive others? "That's what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart." Matthew 28:35
It is very difficult to control the thoughts and attitudes we think are so private. The Holy Spirit will help you, if you'll let him. Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to renew your thoughts and attitudes. He will prompt you and give you pause to begin new positive habits. "Let the Holy Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes." Ephesians 4:24
Be patient and kind to others. Give them grace for their faults and forgive easily. Remembering that the Lord forgave us. "Make allowances for each others' faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others." Colossians 3:13
Honesty makes life so much easier in the long-run. If you are committed to be honest it is a deterrent to doing things you would want to lie about if someone asked you. "He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity." Proverbs 2:7
Lying is very serious in God's eyes. We should take telling the truth seriously in our lives and the lives of our children. We want the Lord to delight in us and our children. "The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth." Proverbs 12:22
Make it your desire to win the approval of God rather than people. "I'm not trying to win approval of people but of God." Galatians 1:10
When negative or disturbing thoughts enter your mind, replace them with godly, positive things. Things that are honorable, right lovely and pure. This will bring you closer to the Lord and open the door for the Holy Spirit to renew your thoughts. "Fix your thoughts on what is: true and honorable, right and pure, and lovely and admirable." Philippians 4:8
The Lord knows what is in your heart. He knows the secret motives, actions and thoughts you hide from others. He knows our heart and wants them to align with his. "The Lord searches all hearts and examines secret motives." Jeremiah 17:10
An honest person is bless-able by the Lord. It is foolish to be dishonest, even if it means we are poor. "Better to be poor and honest than dishonest and a fool." Proverbs 19:1
Let's listen to the Lords's warnings and turn that shame feeling into gratefulness that we were encouraged to change our ways. Thank you Lord, for giving us this warning. "I am not writing these things to shame you, but to warn you as beloved children." I Corinthians 4:14
When we go further than just "feeling badly" about something we did wrong and confess it to the Lord, we will be forgiven. Our heart and life will be clean and pure...We are free from the shame of it. There may still be natural consequences for our actions. "If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all wickedness." 1 John 1:9
Just like parents who discipline their children, because they know that it will help them learn lessons needed for life. The Lord cares far more about forming our character. "The Lord disciplines those He loves." Hebrews 12:6
As we keep our focus on the Lord, he will lift us out of that spiritual darkness and give us new life him. Then we can have true fellowship with the Lord. "We are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness." 1 John 1:6
When we a his, choosing to live his way, in the light, the Son cleanses us from all sin through his sacrifice on the cross. "...if we are living in the l right, as God is in the light...his Son cleanses us from all sin." 1 John 1.7
As we keep our life focused on Jesus, though we will have struggles and hard times, our response can be peaceful because the Lord gives us the strength we need to endure. "...there is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. These trial will show that your faith in genuine." 1 Peter 1.6-7
With all the chaos and craziness in our world, we can only be consistently joyful when we are filled with the Holy Spirit. Living in a posture of constantly talking to the Lord, allows the Holy Spirit to give us joy. "Always be joyful. Never stop praying." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17
Just like training to run a race or climb a mountain, becoming godly takes discipline and training. When we choose to spend our time and effort choosing God's way instead of the world's way, it gives us great benefits now and in eternity. "Train yourself to be godly. Physical training is good but, training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and the life to come." 1 Timothy 4:8
Training for godliness reveals itself in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. "Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith and your purity." 1 Timothy 4:12b
Self monitor yourself being aware of how you live and what you are teaching those around you watching, both your children as well as others. "Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching." 1 Timothy 4:16
God is pleased with a generous heart. Our generous God will provide all you need when your heart is close to his. "...God loves a person who gives cheerfully. And God will generously provide all you need." 11 Corinthians 9:7-9
As you look for the Lord, you will find him and he will lead you in the understanding of his great love. "May the Lord lead your hearts into full understanding and expression of the love of God..." 11 Thessalonians 3:5
The verse "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." is true. His Holy Spirit empowers you to be able to handle situations that you couldn't on your own. "From His glorious unlimited resources He will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit." Ephesians 3:16
We tend to think of Law as harsh and uncaring. The purpose of the Lord's law is help us love others better. "For the whole law can be summed up in this one command. 'Love your neighbor as yourself,'"
We can endure the pain and learn from our mistakes or rebel and have the pain of the discipline as well as hurtful life circumstances that can cause lasting pain. "No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening--it is painful..." Hebrews 12:11
Our society makes it difficult to be satisfied with what we have. Knowing God will never fail or abandon us, makes it easier to put aside what society says and not have our focus be on money. "Don't love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, 'I will never fail you. I will never abandon you." Hebrews 13:5
When we really trust in the Lord, and keep our focus there instead of on our circumstances, the Lord will give us peace in the middle of those circumstances. "You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all those whose thoughts are fixed on you." Isaiah 26:3
Jesus loved us with a sacrificial love, one where he was willing to give his life for us. He wants us to love others in sacrificial ways like he does. "...Love each other, just as I have loved you, you should love each other." John 13:34
Whatever is most important to you, that is what your heart focuses on. As you focus on Him, your heart will follow. Soon he'll be what your heart desires. "Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be." Matthew 6:21
We see the ugliness of selfishness in children. Yet allow it secretly in ourselves. The Lord wants us to get our self-worth from him and trust him to provide what we need. "Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, think of others better than yourselves. Philippians 2:3
Be a lifelong learner. Actively listen and act on ideas and ways to live that are pleasing to the Lord. Get wisdom from the Bible and wise people to love the Lord. "Commit yourself to instruction; listen carefully to words of knowledge." Proverbs 23:12
When we keep our hear land mind on him and we call to him, he will answer us. What a comfort to know he has got us when we are wholeheartedly his. "When they call on me, I will answer. I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them. Psalms 91:15
Our words are important. how we communicate to our children and others directs the way the conversation will go. "A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flair." Proverbs 15:1
Check your heart. Is it tender toward the Lord? If not, start there. Thanking him for the beauty he has created around you. Thanking him for what he has done for you. When your heart is softened, you can love others with the love of the Lord. "Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose." Philippians 2:1-2
Gentle words encourage and help whoever we speak with. Gentle and kind words also deescalate tense situations. "Gentle words are a tree of life." Proverbs 15:2
Sometimes it seems like a never ending battle and all we want to do is ignore our children's behavior. In those times, remember, the Bible encourages us to discipline our children. It is to help them grow into the people God created them to be. When we do discipline, it needs to be with gentleness and love, just like the Lord disciplines us. Just enough to encourage us to choose the right course. "Don't fail to discipline your children." Proverbs 23:13
Our Lord knows us better than anyone. He cares about our hearts and the course of our lives more than anyone else too.
When we stop long enough to think, we often realize that doing things our way isn't working. Then we decide to follow the Lord. "I pondered the direction of my life and I turned to follow your laws." Psalms 119:59
The Lord wants us to treat our children with love, peace, patience, and kindness. In Ephesians 6:4 he warns fathers particularly, but it applies to Moms as well. "...do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them."
We are instructed to train our children to love the Lord and obey him. "...Your children...bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord." Ephesians 6:4b
As moms, it is important to learn how to control our anger with our children and with others. "People with understanding control their anger." Proverbs 14:29
Our focus in life must be on what the Lord desires rather than our own selfish desires. "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways take up your cross and follow me. " Matthew 15:24
We all want a good life and peacefulness. We can't get it by trying to do things our own way. Our natural self is sinful and leads us to places we don't want to go. "So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death, but letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace." Romans 8:6
The Lord cares for us. He knows us. We need to spend time getting to know him. "I am the Good Shepherd; I know my sheep, and they know me..." John 10:14
There is no other way to heaven than through Jesus. Make him a priority. "I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved." John 10:9
Jesus was willing to sacrifice his life in order to save us. He deserves our devotion. "I am the Good Shepherd. TheGood Shepherd sacrifices his life to for the sheep." John 10:11
We make wise choices when we follow the Lord and obey him. When our heart is wise, it makes the Lord happy. "My child,if your heart is wise, my own will rejoice." Proverbs 23:15
If your goal is to please him, we'll obey him and that puts us in the center of his will, with the Lord on our side, and his peace surrounding us. "Our goal is to please him." 2 Corinthians 5:9b
Jesus, Lord of the world is our example. When he came to earth, he came and served others, because he loves us. "For you have been called to freedom...But don't use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love." Galatians 5:13
When we argue with God and choose our own way instead of his, he will have to discipline us, just like a parent disciplines a child who disobeys them. It is for our own good, to bring us back into community with him. "What sorrow awaits those who argue with their Creator." Isaiah 45:9
Jesus calls us to come to him. He wants to give us rest and take our concerns and worries. He is the only one who knows our future and what we need to do about the concerns and worries we have. "Come to me, all who are weary and heavy burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28
Do you ever wonder why you don't feel close to the Lord? Just like other relationships, when we do something wrong or offend him, it causes a barrier in the relationship. We have to confess our sins to restore an open relationship. "Your wrongdoings have caused a separation between you and your God." Isaiah 59:2
Jesus is the Truth, as revealed in the Bible. His truth will set your heart and spirit free. We just have to follow and obey him. "Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free." John 8:32
When we feel completely done! When we are tired and at the end of our rope. When we feel weak. This is we can reach for his grace and power by going to him in our weakness. "My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9
When we acknowledge and confess our sins to the Lord, He will forgive us and take the guilt away. We don't have to live in shame anymore. "I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, 'I confessed all my rebellion to the Lord.' All my guilt is gone, and you forgave me.!" Psalms 32:5
When we give up our rebellion, and submit to the Lord, He will replace it with a peaceful loving heart instead. "Put all your rebellion behind you, and find yourselves a new heart and a new spirit." Ezekiel 18:31
We often live life responding to one crisis after another from spilled milk to pandemics, leaving us little time to examine our ways, unless we make intentional effort in all areas of our lives. Let's turn back to the Lord in the spills and the pandemics and let him have control. "...Let us test and examine our ways. Let us turn back to the Lord." Lamentations 3:40
The Lord isn't satisfied with just part of us. He wants you to love your God with everything in you. Your heart, soul and mind. This choice puts us in a place of God's favor. "...Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind." John 22:37
Jesus wants us to love others unselfishly, with patience, kindness, goodness and self-control. Thinking of others and giving them grace. "Love your neighbor as yourself." Matthew 22:39
God lets us choose the focus of our life. Will it be the Lord or will it be self-focused on money, sex, and power. All the things that will cause us to lose our soul. We want to focus on life-giving things, ones that please the Lord and put in special favor with the Lord. "And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world, but lose your soul." John 16:26
Jesus died to forgive our sins, even before we acknowledged him. How can we not forgive others? When we don't forgive, we become imprisoned.
The way to Father God is not complicated, but it is a very narrow way. Getting to God and heaven must be done His way, not ours. Jesus says a relationship with him is the only way. He is the truth, through him is life. "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one can come to the Father except through me." John 14:6
When the Holy Spirit guides your life, you not only won't do what your sinful nature desires, but you will begin to live in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. "...Let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won't be doing what your sinful natures craves." Galatians 5:16
If we love Jesus, we will accept his commandments and obey them. By doing this, we are expressing our love for him. "Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones that love me." John 14:21
For those who are His, this is encouraging and gives us hope in dark times. "For I know the plans I have for your, says the Lord,plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11
When you choose to join the Lord in his purpose, there is a peace, hope and confidence that only comes from Him. "Blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence." Jeremiah 17:7
We like to think we are in control of our life, but the reality is, we have very little control of our lives. We can choose to devote our life to the one who has a good plan for our life. Jeremiah 29:11 says, "...'I know the plans I have for you', says the Lord. 'They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.'" "Our lives are not our own. We are not able to plan our own course." Jeremiah 10:23
Our little everyday choices are mini crossroads that either lead us toward God's way or away from it. Choosing His way gives you rest for your soul. "Stop at the crossroads and look around. Ask for the...godly way and walk in it...and you will find rest for your souls." Jeremiah 6:16
Open my heart to desire your correction, as I know it is the best for me. Please be gentle on me. "...correct me, Lord, but please be gentle." Jeremiah 10:24
What a comfort to know that "nothing can ever separate us from God's love." It is bigger than my fear and anxiety about the future and my sin that destroys. "...nothing can ever separate us from God's love...neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow." Romans 8:38
The Bible warns us about harboring evil thoughts in our minds. He tells us to "Take every thought captive in obedience to Christ." II Cor. 10:5. To cleanse our hearts we have to confess these thoughts and actions to him. "...Cleanse your heart...How long will you harbor your evil thoughts?Jeremiah 4:14
As a Christian mother, we need to study his word, so we know what it says, then obey it, so we can teach our children with the integrity of our life. Study. Teach. Obey. "For the gracious hand of his God was on him. This is because Ezra had determined to study...obey...and to teach." Ezra 7:9-10
When you partner with and choose to do the will of God, you'll begin to recognize truth around you. "Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether my teaching is from God or merely man." John 7:17
As we allow the Holy Spirit in to control our lives, he gets rid of the ugly and replaces it with Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Every relationship we have will benefit from these. Galatians 5:16 says, "Let the Holy Spirit guide your lives then..." "But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives; Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-control." Galatians 5:22
Discipline comes after we refuse to listen to the Lord and say no to what He asks us to do. It is rebellion against God. Just like children we often let our selfish desires control what we do. The Lord wants you to listen to His correction, so you won't have to be disciplined. "If you reject discipline, you only harm yourself; but if you listen to correction, you grow in understanding." Proverbs 25:32
You can really live and not just exist when you do it God's way. "They will live because they thought it over and decided to turn from their sins." Ezekiel 18:28
It is hard to confess and turn and go the other direction.. It means changing habits and maybe even friends.. But if you choose to repent and turn, to the Lord, you'll be much happier in the end. "Repent, and turn from your sins. Don't let them destroy you!" Ezekiel 18:30
Gratitude escorts us into the presence of the Lord. When our hearts echo our thankfulness we can easily turn it into praise to our Lord. "Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, go into his courts with praise." Psalms 100:4
If you listen and obey, God will bless you. He will prosper your soul and give you the strength for each new day. "...if you do what it says...then God will bless you for doing it." James1:25
"Your Word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path." Psalms 119:105 Just like having a flashlight on a dark trail in the woods, regularly studying the Bible lights the path of your life. It makes clear the things that might trip us up.
"He calls his own by name, and leads them...and they follow him." John 10:3-4 It is wonderful to be known, cared about, and gently lead to the best place for us for who we are as individual people. He doesn't force us, we have a choice to turn away and follow our own path. If we are truly his, we will want to follow him and will.
"It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in people. Psalms 118:8 We want to trust in our job, government, family, and society for our protection and security. In reality, it is better to trust in the Lord for those things.
Keeping your focus on the Lord even in the difficult circumstances of life, puts you in a place close to Him and he will provide everything that you need. "Seek theKingdom of God above all else and live righteously and he will give you everything you need." Matthew 6:33
When we have done something we feel like we need to keep hidden from others, we lie to ourselves that hiddenness is the best way to handle life. Telling lies to ourselves only hurts us and others around us in the long-run. The Lord tells us to tell the truth. "Keep me from lying to myself, give me the privilege of knowing your instructions," Psalms 119:29
It seems odd to "delight in your decrees", yet when we choose to obey them, our hearts change and we do delight in obeying him and being in his presence. "I will delight in your decrees and not forget your Word." Psalms 119:16
When we wander away, we must repent and ask the Lord to renew a loyal spirit in us. He is faithful to do this and to create in us a clean heart. "Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit in me." Psalms 51:10
We have to get to the place where we know we can't do it on our own. We are broken and ready to repent of our sins. He will not reject us, he will embrace and heal us instead. "The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart." Psalms 51:17
There is a battle going on in us. Is our natural self or God's spiritual nature going to win. We have to make a decision of the will that we are going to choose him and his ways over our own. "I want to do what is good, but I don't. I don't want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway." Romans 7:19
Choose God's nature and his ways over our own. Then our everyday actions can be done for the glory of God. "Whatever you do, do all for the glory of God." 1 Cor. 10:31
When we determine to follow the Lord and his ways over our own, we are in agreement with him and not pushing against him. He will not drag us against our will to the best pathway for our life. We have to submit to him and let him lead and go along willingly. "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life." Psalms 32:8
We quench the Spirit when we do or think that keeps us from following the Lord and his ways. This includes lying, ignoring God, arguing with him and any other sin. It also quenches him leading us onto the best pathway to our life. "Do not quench the Spirit." 1 Thessalonians 5:19
When the Lord has allowed us to go through a difficult circumstance, he is there ready and willing to walk with us through it, if we focus on him and let him he'll bring us out the other side... "When you go through Deep Waters, I will be with you." Isaiah 43:2
As we let Christ reign in our life, by learning to trust him, we give up our old self-oriented ways and allow his ways become the way we live our lives. He is trustworthy. "It is no longer I who live but Christ in me. So I live in this body by trusting in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me." Galatians 2:20
We often live like we are in control. When in actuality we have little control. It is better to give our lives to the Lord where it belongs and allow him to lead us. Because the reality is "we are not able to plan our own course," like we try to do. "I know, Lord, that our lives are not our own. We are not able to plan our own course." Jeremiah 10:23
As we focus on the Lord and turn to Him in all our circumstances, He will begin to transform the way we think, making us think in ways that please Him. "Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think." Romans 12:2
Look for God's truth. Live it. Cherish it. Never allow it to leave your mind. "Get truth and never sell it." Proverbs 23:2
As you delight in the Lord, your heart will begin desiring the things that please the Lord. Therefore, when you ask, he will readily give them to you. "Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalms 37:4
The things you allow into your heart and mind affect the way you think and the life choices you make. "Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life." Proverbs 4:23
If you are a believer who has confessed your sins to the Lord, you are holy and blameless. Because Jesus died for those sins you can boldly stand before our Father. "You are holy and blameless as you stand before Him, without a single fault." Colossians 1:22
Deciding in advance (DIA) you are going to choose God's way helps to do it. I'd suggest having verses ready or a worship song to listen to helps keep your mind on Him during the 3 minutes or so until the urge subsides. "Don't let sin control the way you live; do not give into sinful desires...instead, give yourself completely to God." Romans 6:12
When we are in connection with the Lord, we don't have to be anxious or afraid, the Holy Spirit is what you need as you focus on the Lord. "For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline." 11 Timothy 1:7
When we live in our selfish, fleshly nature, our selfishness tears down the relationships we want to cherish. You are wise if you choose your new spiritual nature. "A wise woman builds her home, but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands." Proverbs 14:1
We must confess our sins and turn from them in order to be in the correct relationship with the Lord. "If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened." Psalms 66:18
The Lord gives us the most precious gifts. He gives to us in abundance and freely. It pleases Him when we do the same. "God loves a person who gives cheerfully." 2 Cor. 9:7b
As His child, He supports us by giving us strength and power to help us when we are weak. "He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless." Isaiah 40:29
The Lord is so much bigger than we can fathom. His power is so much larger than we can imagine. It is worth trusting Him. "No one can measure the depth of His understanding." Isa iah 40:28b
It is what Jesus did on the cross, He paid the penalty for our sins. This made us right before God. We access this gift through our faith. "Since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because fo what Jesus Christ our Lord has done." Romans 5:1
Faith--believing what you cannot see , but know to be true, is so important! Just like wind, we can't see it, but we know its there and can feel it and see the results of it. "...He declares sinners to be right in his sight when they believe in Jesus." Romans 3:26b
Often we think of Christianity as a list of rules. In actuality, it is focused faith that we are made right with God. When we keep our eyes on him in our daily lives we receive his peace and pleasure. " It is based on faith. So we are made right with God through faith and not by obeying the law." Romans 3:27b-28
When we are anxious or feel insecure, we can cry out to the Lord. He is there waiting. "I cried out to the Lord and he answered me from his holy mountain." Psalms 3:4
Often our circumstances cause us to take our eyes off the Lord. The moment we do, we are not walking by faith. We are allowing those circumstances to govern how we respond. "Walk by faith, not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7
When we walk by faith, we have the Lord's peace. We can sleep without worry. He is our protector. "In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord will keep me safe." Psalms 4:8
We can't be joyful in our terrible circumstances. When all our thoughts and emotions are focused on them. We can however, refocus those thoughts and emotions on the Lord and allow him to give us joy in those circumstances. "Always be full of joy in the Lord," Philippians 4:4
We are all worriers. What if we took those worries and gave them to the Lord in prayer and left them there. He wants to carry those burdens for us, if we'll let him. "I tell you not to worry about everyday life, whether you have enough food and drink..." Matthew 6:25
It takes trust to wait patiently and confidently for the Lord to help. "I look to the Lord for help. I wait confidently for God to save me." Micah 7:7
Do I have the perspective that I deserve the consequences for my sin? Why should anyone else bear the consequences but me. Just like we discipline our children to teach them, the Lord disciplines us. Let's determine to patiently bear the punishment we deserve and learn from it. "I will be patient as the Lord punishes me, for I have sinned against him." Micah 7:9
God wants our whole heart. He doesn't want it divided by a focus on money. When we focus on money, it draws our attention away from him. "No one can serve two masters. For you will...be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money." Matthew 6:24
Worry and anxiety remove our focus from God to our troubles, yet they only take away our peace and health. They don't add a single moment to our life. "Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not! Matthew 6:27
If he knows your needs, there is a reason he doesn't seem to be providing them. Maybe he is waiting for you to "come to him." "Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs." Matthew 6:32b
Your Heavenly Father cares for you and about you. He will care for your needs when you put your trust in him and don't let the circumstances around you take your focus off of him. "Look at the bride. They don't need to plant or harvest...because your heavenly Father feeds them. And you are more valuable to him than they are." Matthew 6:26
When we are in tune with the Lord, we don't have to be afraid, because the Lord Promo\ises to be with us. "Don't be afraid for I am with you." Isaiah 41:10
Gratitude to the Lord brings us closer to Him because we are giving him his rightful place and the proper perspective. He is good and his faithful love does endure forever. Give thanks to the Lord for He is good! His faithful love endures forever." Psalms 118:1
When we allow the Holy Spirit to have control, we begin to live in freedom. "I will put my Spirit in you, and you will live again..." Ezekiel 37:14
"I will hurry." A decision of the will has been made, making you in agreement with the Lord about obedience. Obeying immediately and actually doing what you are told to do are the three elements of obedience.
As we love the Lord with everything in us, , our heart soul and mind, the Lord is there. He protects, comforts and leads us. It's only when we take our focus off of him the discouragement and anxiety comes. "Love the Lord your God, with all your heart, all your soul and all your mind. Matthew 22:37
In those moments when anxiety and worry creep in, I need to remember, the Lord is always with me. There is a peace and joy in that knowledge. "I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me." Psalms 16:8
As Christians, we say with our mouth that we "trust" him, but then we worry. We say we want to please him and then do things we know displease him. If we would keep our minds focused on him and obey him, our hearts would be close to him and we'd honor him with our words and our actions. "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me." Mark7:6b
The choices we make are a reflection of what we have put into our heart. What we have accepted in our minds and thoughts. This is where sin grows in our lives. "...Out of a person's heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality,...slander, pride, and foolishness. They are what defile you." Mark 7:22-23
Our way is the opposite direction than his way. Yet, we often try to fo both, follow him and do what we want or think is best in the moment. "If any of you wants to be my follower, you mist give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me." Mark 8:34
Our choice is to follow our own way or follow his narrow path. If we choose our way we'll lose in the end. If we choose his, we will live for eternity. "If you try to hang onto your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it! Mark 8:35
"Losing your soul" is a confusing concept. Our soul is the deepest part of ourselves and the foundation of who we are. We either give it to Jesus or try to keep control ourselves. Jesus asks this question of us. "And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your youl? Is anything worth more than your soul? Mark 8:36-37
When people walk away from the Lord, many times they still want his protection. The Lord protects those who stick close to him and who know him, and trust him. "The Lord says,...I will protect those who trust my name." Psalms 91:14
The Lord gives a peace that passes all comprehension when we submit and obey Him. Our society reisists both of these and It keeps us from experiencing peace. ""Submit to God and you will have peace; then things will go well for you." Job 22:21
Learning to love the Lord with more than your mind, also with your heart, soul and strength will keep you close to him and you'll be put in a place where he wants to bless you. "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind and all your strength." Mark 12:30
We serve an incredibly powerful God. When we trust and obey him, everything is possible. "Everything is possible with God." Mark 10:27b
We know we love him when our focus and heart is on him rather than other things in life. Just like the people we love, our focus is on them and our heart is with them. "The Lord says, I will rescue those who love me." Psalms 91:14a
What our mind focuses on shows us where our heart is. If we think about sinful things we aren't being controlled by the Holy Spirit. "Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit thing about things that please the Spirit." Romans 8:5
The Lord loves us enough to never leave us. Even in those times we wish he'd not see where we are going or what we are doing, "You go before me and follow me...I can never escape from your Spirit. I can never escape from your presence." Psalms 139:5-7
If we want to be considered God's child, we have to believe He exists and he loves and cares about us, causing us to seek Him. "Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that He rewards those who sincerely seek Him." Hebrews 11:6b
If we truly believe in the Lord and want to please him, we have to find out what pleases him. His ways are higher than ours and what pleases him is different than what pleases people. By reading the Bible, we can discover what pleases him. "Carefully determine what pleases the Lord." Ephesians 5:10
What a comfort to know that we don't have to be controlled by our addictions and sins that can lead to death. The life-giving Spirit has freed us from the power of sin. We don't have to be controlled by sin anymore. "Because you belong to him, the power of the Life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death." Romans 8:2
If we want to experience the Lord and his miracles, we have to have faith. The miracles in the New Testament, were proceeded by the faith of someone. Then he healed the blind, crippled and sick. "It is impossible to please God without Faith." Hebrews 11:6a
When we are afraid we might loose our job, we might get sick or die, we can either spiral into anxiety and worry or choose to pray to God. "'Don't be afraid,' he said, 'Take courage! I am here!'" Mark 7:50b What a comfort to know that He is always there.
When we want to lie to do something we know is wrong, remember the Lord is near. "Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to who we are accountable." Hebrews 4:13
He promises to come near, when you draw near to Him. "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." James 4:8
People who say one thing and do the opposite are hard to respect. They are living a lie. We as Christians often say we want to please the Lord and continue to live sinful lives. "Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God." Luke 3:8
Loving your enemies is just about impossible without the Holy Spirit's help. With his help, you express Christ's love to someone who needs it. "Love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you." Luke 6:27
When you are nice to someone who curses you, you de-escalate the situation rather than escalate it. You are also obeying the Lord. "Bless those who curse you." Luke 6:28a
When someone hurts me, praying for them is about the last thing on my mind. Yet the Lord tells us to do it. We can with the Holy Spirit's help. "Pray for those who hurt you." Luke 6:28b
We all need to be forgiven. The Lord died on the cross so we could be forgiven. He takes forgiveness seriously. When we stubbornly refuse to forgive someone, there are consequences. "Forgive others and you will be forgiven." Luke 6:37b
It is easy to let our emotions vomit out in frustration on our children or others. We don't feel good about it afterwards. the Bible tells us to be compassionate, mirroring your Father in heaven who is compassionate to us. "You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate." Luke 6:36
What a comfort that the Lord knows the future and his plans will succeed. When we stay close to him, we can be a part of those plans. "The Lord's plans stand firm forever; his intentions can never be shaken." Psalms 33:11
Sometimes we don't pray because we are afraid he won't answer. This irrational thought process keeps us from being freed from all our fears. "I prayed to the Lord and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears. Psalms 34:4
He's not saying, the Lord watches over those who are perfect. None of us are. He's saying, He watches over those who are walking with him and are choosing to follow him and his ways. "The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right; his ears are open to their cries for help."
When we find ourselves worrying, take that worry and give it to the Lord in prayers. Then remember what he has done in the past and thank him. "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done." Philippians 4:6
The result of giving your anxiety and worry to the Lord is God's peace that is far beyond our understanding and will guard our hearts and minds., "then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hear and mind as you live in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7
The Lord Loves to lavish his children with goodness. "How great is the goodness you have stored up for those who fear you. You lavish it on those who come to you for protection." Psalms 31:19
We think our sinful thoughts and actions can stay secret, but God sees and hears everything we think and do. "...the day is coming when God, through Christ Jesus will judge everyone's secret life." Romans 2:16b
We can have peace. We can choose to have the peace that passes all understanding to guard our heart and mind in Christ Jesus. The thing is, we have to choose the Lord's way in and focus on him rather than the problem. "...in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." John 16:33
The Lord does delight in each one of his own. When we choose him the Divine is on our side. "He led me to a place of safety; he rescued me because he delights in me." Psalms 18:19
The Lord desires to show his favor to his children, just like we do. He wants to give us peace and contentment. "May the Lord show his favor and give you peace,: Numbers 6:26
When we sin, we often choose to lie and continue to lie in order to cover up that sin. When we do, we are working against the Lord and not allowing him to lead us on the best pathway for our life. "They pile lie upon lie and utterly refuse to acknowledge me, says the Lord." Jeremiah 9:6
When we give up control of our life to the Lord, he takes he mess we've made of it and exchanges it for peace. "If you try to hang on to your life you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it." Luke 9:24
The Lord wants us to be sorry for our sin. He wants that sorrow to lead us to repentance. Just like in human relationships, repentance can heal broken relationships. It is also a deterrent for doing it again. "Your sorrow leads you to repentance. For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There is no regret with that kind of sorrow." 2 Corinthians 7:9-10
Arguing is againstness toward another person. This is the opposite of unity or peacefulness. "Anyone who loves to quarrel loves to sin." Proverbs 17:19
Our Lord is supreme! He is above all others. Whose power and greatness is beyond anything we can imagine. "No human wisdom or understanding or plan can stand against the Lord." Proverbs 21:30
The kingdom of God reaches the Heart of people and changes them through and through. It affects all those watching too. "What is the kingdom of God like? It is like yeast ...in making bread...a little yeast...permeated every part of the dough. Luke 23:20-21
When there is conflict and we choose to forgive, the barrier in the relationship is removed and love can prosper. "Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends." Proverbs 17:9
When we obey the Lord, we will experience his amazing peace that is beyond our understanding. It puts us in step with our Divine Savior. "Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your heart and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7
The imagery of shining like the stars forever is beautiful. When we grow in their faith, trust, and obedience and then pass it along to others, we are given wisdom from above. We become a light in the darkness of our world. "Those who are wise...and those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever." Daniel 12:3
We either fear God or people. When we have a healthy fear of God, we fear nothing else and we have peace. "Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety." Proverbs 29:25
The Lord forgave us so much by dying on the cross for our sins. How can we not forgive others? This issue is very important to God. He gave his son to forgive us, if we don't forgive there are consequences. "The kind called the man he had forgiven and said, 'I forgave you that tremendous debt...shouldn't you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?' The angry king sent the man to prison to be tortured." Matt 11:32-34
The Lord wants us to live in honesty and authenticity., When we keep negative things secret, we will pay the consequences, both while it is secret and afterward when it comes to light. Our private secrets will also reveal our wrong motives. "For He will bring our darkest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives." 1 Corinthisans 4:5b
Our agreement with the Lord and His ways glorify God. Saying, "Yes, Lord." and following through with obedience is pleasing to the Lord and He gives His peace and comfort when we do. "...All of God's promises have been fulfilled in Christ, our "Yes!" ascends to God for His glory." 2 Corinthians 1:20
Be nice. The opposite of what we want to do to our enemies. When the Holy Spirit is leading us, we will be able to do this. "If your enemies are hungry, give them food to eat. If they are thirsty, give them water to drink. You will heap burning coals of shame on their heads, and the Lord will reward you." Proverbs 25:21-22
So often we want to argue with the Lord when he tells us to do something. We are acting like a child in that moment. Do what he says, immediately and without arguing. "Do whatever He tells you." John 2:5
Do we know and believe our God is able to do more than we could ask or imagine? Get to know Him better so you can experience his divine power in relationship with Him. "Now to Him. who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us." Ephesians 3:2
When our hearts and minds are focused on the Lord. It provides a connection where he gives you the desire and power to do what pleases him. "God is working in you, giving you the desire and power to do what pleases Him." Philippians 2:13
If your life reflects darkness rather than light, you are kidding yourself if you think you have fellowship with God. You are either living in the light or the darkness. "God is light and there is no darkness in Him at all. So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God, but go on living in spiritual darkness..." 1 John 2:5
Looking at your heart through the Lord's lens, it gives us the true perspective of what is in our heart. From that vantage point, we can see and make the changes that the Lord wants us to. "God wants you to understand what is in our heart." Daniel 2:30
The Lord has divine guidance he want to give us. That is an amazing thought. In order to hear it and receive it, we have to be walking with him, listening and be willing to obey what he says. When we obey, and receive his guidance, there is joy, peace, and contentment. "When people do not accept diving guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is joyful." Proverbs 29:18
The last line of the verse tells us what the Lord thinks about how to treat our enemies. When we do the opposite of what comes naturally and love on our enemies, it pleases him and allows the Lord to work in our hearts and theirs. He will reward you for obeying him even when it is hard. "If your enemies are hungry, give them something to eat. If they are thirsty, give them water to drink. You will heap burning coals of shame on their heads, and the Lord will reward you." Proverbs 25:21-22
Though the two statements in this verse seem unrelated, they are very relatable. When you have a proper fear of the Lord, it puts you in a posture of keeping you eyes and heart on him. We become in awe of our Heavenly Father and have a respect that causes us to change our outlook and behavior. When this happens, we will truly treasure fearing the Lord. "The fear of the Lord will be your treasure." Isaiah 33:6b
We feel justified when we complain or argue. God wants us to be know for different things. If we give in and live a life of complaining and arguing, we will not only become a miserable person, but we will be known as someone who argues and complains. Think about what God wants us to be known for and focus on becoming that kind of person. "Do everything without complaining and arguing...Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world of crooked and perverse people." Philippians 2:14-15
Obeying the Lord means, doing what it says, immediately, and with a good attitude. To please him and have close relationship with him we must not let his words go in one ear and out the other. We need to obey him, otherwise we are just fooling ourselves that He is our Lord. "Don't just listen to God's Word. Do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves." James 1:22
It says positive things about your character when you keep your promises, even when it hurts or costs you more than you thought it would. "...Keep their promises even when it hurts." Psalms 15:4b
