Every once in a while, I come across a picture that speaks louder than any words. This is one of those...... Look closely at this picture. When the picture becomes clear, the answer to many of life's ups and downs, struggles, delays, hurts, trials, and so much more becomes clear as well. Just like the picture, sometimes the Lord is trying to get us to look closer to see Him clearly.....

When I saw this picture, it grabbed my attention instantly. So often in this world, we encounter so many different kinds of problems, struggles, and attempts by the adversary that can cause us to forget that the Lord provides and protects us. When I focused in on the picture above, I was reminded that He also protects us from so much more that we never see. It’s a great reminder that even when we feel alone, beat down, worn out, and yes, at our wits’ end, the Lord is standing in front of us doing what He does best, NEVER LEAVING US……..

Greetings on this beautiful day. Sometimes in this life, we can become overwhelmed with life’s challenges, struggles, delays, dilemmas, schedules, and so many more things. We can become so distracted that we find ourselves forgetting that, with everything we face, we have a Savior who yearns to be closer than a relative or brother. Take a few moments to look at a breakdown of that special person. Here’s a hint: His name starts with a (J) 🤓

Greetings on this beautiful Friday. We have all heard the phrase, “Do you have your receipt?” and many times we will say, “Hmmm, no 🤷🏻‍♂️” — or for some, the answer is yes. As I was looking for a receipt, I came across this one that really reveals how much the Lord values us, and at the same time, it got me thinking: do I/we truly appreciate the price that the Lord paid — better yet, PAID IN FULL?

Greetings on this beautiful Friday. Have you ever wondered why there are so many different things people claim to believe, but when it comes down to those moments of truth, their beliefs often change? 🤔 As Christians, we have this confidence: our God doesn’t change. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Knowing this not only gives us comfort but also restores our hope… something to think about.

Greetings on this beautiful day. As you look at the picture above, take a few moments to let this sink in. Think about this in the present tense—not the past or the future. When we fully trust the Lord and His guidance, it is quite amazing to see His hand all around us. Hmmm… something to think about.

Greetings on this beautiful Friday. As we often find ourselves on the go, doing this and that, and often losing track of time, here is a great reminder to help us remember the importance of worship in our daily lives, with a couple of unique avenues offered to help us. 🙌🏻🙏🏼

Greetings on this beautiful day. As I was reading the verse, I was drawn to this part: (He Cares For You). I can imagine most, if not all, of us are familiar with this verse, but often have forgotten or overlooked this truth. I can imagine that it’s because of what we may be experiencing at the time. What the Lord reminded me of is that just like His love for us is unfailing, how much He cares for us is closely behind. (Think about that for a few moments.)

The saying that a picture can be worth a thousand words is definitely true. As we are in the middle of what was perhaps the biggest event that has ever happened in life as we know it, let us not forget that, no matter how many times we hear it or see it, Jesus paid the ultimate price, sacrificed Himself so that we could be saved and be with Him in Heaven for eternity……. 

Greetings on this beautiful day. Today, we have been given the opportunity to do something that is EXTREMELY POWERFUL. What is it, you may be thinking 🤔? To PRAISE the Lord!!!! Why is this considered to be POWERFUL? Let’s begin with the fact that this is actually what we were created to do. I, for one, will say that it’s not always the easiest thing to do, though. There are many times that what life throws at us can and does hinder us. That being said, let’s look at today as a challenge: to PRAISE the Lord for the little things He has done, as well as the Big Things…….. (Shall we begin?)

“Thank you,” a phrase we all use multiple times a day, and sometimes say just out of habit. As I was reflecting on this, I was quickly reminded that when we say "Thank you" to the Lord, do we really mean it, or are we just saying it because...? After a few moments of reflection, I wanted to present a challenge: Let’s spend a few minutes throughout today, not just saying it out of habit, but rather proclaiming today as “Thank You, Lord” day. 🙏 

Somewhere within the pages of this One of a kind Book, the answers to life are found. As a personal challenge, try to find the scriptures that reveal the answers for the above statements. Prepare yourself for a little bit of a challenge. 🤓

Sometimes it takes a simple reminder that the Lord invites us to fellowship with Him. Often our mornings can be chaotic, hurried, and overwhelming. I think we can all say Amen to that. What if we were to take a phrase from an old commercial, “ The best part of waking up," wasn’t coffee in our cup, rather a simple Good Morning to the Lord, in our hearts…..🤔

Sometimes we can have our vision clouded by the waves crashing, by the outside noise, and so many other things. Here will see a GREAT reminder that the Lord not only can walk on water, but invites us to join Him. It doesn’t matter how big the waves are, He extends His arms out towards us…… (something to think about)

Today, with as much ups and downs, this and thats, hurts, pains, being wore out, and soooo much more, it is a GREAT comfort knowing that the Lord offers us His help. Sometimes we can find ourselves exhausted, overwhelmed, just about the point of walking away, BUT our God is Sooooo FAITHFUL, and knows how and what we are going through, and can’t you hear Him saying, (Come to ME, not only will I comfort you, but I will give you REST.) 

Definitely something to think about 🤔

If we are honest, there are many times we find ourselves in need of HIS Strength. For the most part, we know this and desire it, (BUT) for whatever the reason we so often will find ourselves trying to handle stuff on our own first, (then) reaching out to the Lord. Hmmmmm, I find myself having to asking a humbling question, to which I am compelled to answer, (WHY?)  I wonder if any of us have a good reason🤔…..

Sometimes we may find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, beaten down, exhausted, and unable to move on. The Bible tells us that God is a very present help in times of trouble. As you read this poem, allow the words to sink in, then take some time asking the Lord to reveal Himself in your situation.

As I read this, I was quickly reminded of the importance of praise. It’s not in how we do it, nor is it a matter of waiting for the right time. When we focus our hearts on praising the Lord, things change. It may be our situation, our surroundings, or even the outcome. One thing is for sure—perhaps the greatest thing that happens when we begin to praise the Lord is the impact it has within us. 🤔

Here is a great reminder that we must stay connected to the power source. Imagine, if you will, those moments when you look down at your phone and realize the battery is just about to die—and how quickly we search for a charger to recharge it.

Hmm… what would happen if we began to do the same in our daily lives? When we start to feel our spiritual battery draining, what if we quickly went to the POWER SOURCE to be recharged? 🤔

There are so many benefits of being a Christian that it’s possible to occasionally overlook some really important ones. The scripture above reveals an amazing truth: if we are IN CHRIST, we are NEW.

Hmmm… so being new means we are no longer the person we used to be—no longer doing and acting like we used to. Interesting. If the Lord has made us a NEW CREATION, then we should strive to become more like HIM in all areas of our lives.

Definitely something to think about. 🤔

Greetings on this beautiful day the Lord has made. Looking at this picture serves as a great reminder that we have an amazing God that is able to do all things, who helps us through all things, and reminds us that NOTHING is bigger nor greater than our GOD!!!!! Something to think about……

I came across this as I was reading today. Here's a challenge for you. After reading this, what are other things we can thank God for being?

Sometimes in our busy schedules, it’s beneficial to slow down and take a deep breath, and soak in the simple things that remind us of God…..

Sometimes it can seem that we are either going in circles or completely going the wrong direction. If we are honest, when this happens, it’s very easy to get distracted, discouraged, and frustrated with the many detours it appears we are experiencing. 😬 But there’s good news: the Lord is aware of this and reminds us through today’s scripture that He is out in front of us, preparing the way… 🤔

Sometimes while looking at scripture, the Lord can cause the words to JUMP off the page. As some do in the verse above, patience is one that no one has truly mastered, but with the Lords help, definitely can improve upon. The second, well it’s a word that SOOOO many people need, (HOPE). The thing about reading and learning scripture is that it is ALIVE and changes our current situation. Here’s a challenge, how many times has scripture given you HOPE? Something to think about…..

Greetings on this beautiful day. So often we can get caught up overcomplicating the way to handle this, that, trials, tests, up’s and the down’s, and whatever else comes our way. If we stop and seek the Lord, wait for His direction, and let Him lead us, it becomes clear that sometimes "Keeping it SIMPLE," was the best choice. Hmmmm, kind of like good ole Charlie was reminding us to do. 🤔

Have you ever found yourself in need of some help with life’s many challenges? Sure, we all have, but unlike those who look for it in all the wrong places, we have the ability to go to the Author of wisdom. Our Heavenly Father offers to help us in many ways, but the most important is to look to His Holy Word, that is FULL of instructions, guidance, help, strength, and wisdom. Something to think about…..

Sometimes it’s a great reminder to take a few minutes and recall just how AWESOME our God is. With all that we face in our everyday lives, the ups and downs, the challenges, difficulties, the obstacles and challenges, the list could go on and on. As you look again, be encouraged that there’s NOTHING too hard, too big or small, or impossible for our God….

No matter what you’re facing, remember the woman who touched the hem of Jesus’ garment. Her faith alone brought healing and hope. In the same way, your faith can carry you through, because God sees you, loves you, and is able to meet every need. Hold on, your breakthrough may be closer than you think. When you're hanging on by a thread, make sure it's the hem of His garment. Don't let go of that last thread of hope.

In the picture here, there are actually 2 points that from time to time we need to remember. First, before we come to Christ quite often our lives are exactly what is shown, a huge mess. Sometimes we are consumed with so much stuff that we can feel like there’s no hope. The second, well it’s one of my favorites, you see when we come to  Jesus, we don’t have to try to do all the cleaning up anyway. He will do it, and if we will continue to follow Him faithfully, He will turn our mess, into a ____. The answer is found in the picture. 🤓

Something to think about when we read Bible... It’s not intended to go in one ear and out the other 😬, rather when read, it is to go into our inner most part of our being and to become ALIVE. Know that the Word of God has been tried and tested throughout time and has never failed nor changed. Many have tried to water it down, sugar coat it, ignore it, and dangerously tried to modify it to fit one’s own desires, and yet to no avail. When we read through the pages of the Bible, it is full of wisdom, direction, help, hope, compassion, correction, love, forgiveness, SALVATION, and SO much more. As we read today, allow the Word of God, to shed light unto your path, wisdom to your decisions, and sooooo much more……

Have you ever been in that place where you can relate to this picture? I think we all have from time to time and if we aren’t careful, we can find ourselves going the wrong direction, making the wrong decision, or something worse. Thankfully the Bible gives us some guidance on what we can do. Think about it, if the Lord’s Presence isn’t with us in the decisions we are making, then we can know for sure that we are going the wrong way. Just like Moses said to the Lord, if your presence isn’t with me, do not allow me to move……. Definitely something to think about. 🤔

What if I told you that somewhere in the picture was a hidden message? 🤔 And after looking at the picture throughly, one still couldn’t see, and just about when one was exhausted and growing weary of looking, the hidden message JUMPED out of the picture……. Most would just pass it off as just another text from the pastor, but the hidden message is there , except it’s in the Verse….. our adversary does this everyday, but instead of hiding something that’s good for us, he strives on things that will kill, steal, & destroy our Christian walks….. Definitely something to think about……

Just what we needed, a great reminder before we start getting ready to turn in for the night. The Lord has so many promises throughout the Bible that are just waiting for us to discover them. All we need to do is to open the Instruction Manual, He has prepared for us, and dive in…….

Have you ever found yourself wondering, why do so many things both good and not so good tend to happen? Especially to those who are serving the Lord? I for one, find great comfort not only knowing that the Lord faced every challenge we do, but also overcame them, giving us the possibility to do the same. A couple things to remember, don’t lose heart, don’t reside in being weary, and perhaps most importantly that in "due season," it will get better...

Too HARD….. There’s a phrase that has been passed down from generation to generation, yes even in the Christian world. Ever wondered WHY? Well its actually not what you may think 🤔 The truth is, we often will "Say," nothing is too hard for God, or that I can do ALL things through Christ, but…… instead of truly believing and trusting That HE WILL, we often are stuck in the belief of that He can, He might, or even worse, it’s too hard...

When life feels overwhelming and your plans aren’t working out, it’s time to stop striving in your own strength and start trusting in God's. He never meant for you to carry the weight alone. Let go of the fear, the worry, and the need to control every outcome. Jesus invites you to lay down your burdens at His feet. His mercies are new every morning, and His grace is enough for today. Take a deep breath, release it all to Him, and rest in the peace only He can provide.

Greetings on this beautiful day. As I was reading, a phrase came to mind, "Word Search." As I thought on that, it became very clear that what the Lord desires from us is to search His Word more and more as we grow in our Christian walks. Can you imagine what would happen if we began to SEARCH the SCRIPTURES the way we often search for other things 🤔 for Life’s decisions both Big and Small. Take a few moments to reflect on what the Lord might be wanting to reveal to you through His Holy Word……

Greetings on this beautiful Tuesday morning. As I was spending some time in the Bible, this verse seemed to JUMP off the pages. I began to think about the many times I’ve heard the phrase, “when one door closes, another one will be opened.“ I found myself thinking, (hmmmmm) how many times has the Lord opened a door for us, that unless He did, would NEVER have happened? And then it happened, perhaps the BIGGEST door HE has ever opened was _______? Something to think about throughout today. 🤔🤓

Here we read a great reminder about FREEDOM. So often we can find ourselves in captivity to things that overwhelm us especially those things that we have no control over. As we turn to the Bible, there are many scriptures that reveal to us the truth about this, that, here, there, fear, anxieties, and so much more. Today, as we celebrate our Country’s Independence, let us also remember and celebrate the Freedom that can ONLY be found in and through Jesus Christ……

So often we find ourselves looking at things through our own perspectives, making it harder to see God's. The Bible reveals to us some amazing truths about this, (Isa.55:8-9) to be more exact. 🤓 Our thoughts are not His, nor are our ways His ways, for as the Heavens are higher than the earth, so are His ways and thoughts higher than ours. Look again at the picture, and take a few moments to first seek the Lord's view of your situation, and second be encouraged that the Lord can help us see things more clearly….

Greetings on this Saturday afternoon. In this picture, we read a very well known verse, perhaps one of the top 10 in the Bible. Before you move on, take a closer look and see if you can discover the hidden message…… Notice that the ant isn’t just saying it, rather putting it into action. We too are challenged to go beyond just knowing a verse or two. We are given every tool throughout the Bible to overcome, conquer, and perhaps see our giants FALL.

Greetings on this beautiful Friday. As we embark on the upcoming weekend, let’s pause and take in the truth of this verse. We are given the opportunity to learn so many things about the Lord and can be found literally at our fingertips, rather on our phones, computers, or the Bible. With all this, be reminded today that it takes patience sometimes when learning something new, and when we do, we can be comforted and confident that the Lord offers us something the world can’t give us (Eternal Hope)….

Greetings on this Thursday, as I read these verses, I was drawn to the "Present Help." If we were completely honest, it’s easy for us to forget that the Lord being PRESENT means He is near or relative in whatever situation we are facing. Think about this for a few moments. It’s easy to forget this and often have this truth clouded by what we are experiencing, BUT as this really sits in, be encouraged that whatever we are currently experiencing, the Lord is a PRESENT HELP!!!!!!

Greetings on this beautiful afternoon. Sometimes as we find ourselves in those moments of silence, in need of protection, need of guidance, or in need of strength. We can look within the pages of the Bible to find just what is needed. Take a few moments to reflect on the many times the Lord has revealed just what you were in need of, at the moment you needed it the most.

Sometimes all we need is a little extra help when life throws something at us. Today, that help comes in the form of perhaps the most time tested of just about anything written. I call it my Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth, others call it this or that, but it is well l own as The Living Word of God, or (B I B L E).

WOW! Something we all need to be reminded of….. In every trial we face, we often forget that they aren’t meant for harm, rather to strengthen us. In every test we face, they not meant to make us fail, rather to help us seek the Lord for the right answers. And for every battle we face, they aren’t meant to cause us to be defeated, rather to remind us of how to fight our battles, and that in the bigger picture, the Lord will guide us in the way to VICTORY!!!!!

Looking at the picture here, I was quickly reminded of how secure the Lord is when the storms of life come. Just like the tree branches, the winds can cause us to sometimes go side to side, up and down, and feel like we are just about to break. It is at that point, we are often reminded of just how powerful and how deep our roots can be , when grounded in _______……..

Greetings on this beautiful Saturday afternoon. Here’s something to think about, what if all we had was our Faith in God and could only survive by trusting In Him…… Hmmmmm, when I came across this question, it quickly spoke to my heart. It’s easy to say we trust God, but it’s another to completely Trust In Him…. Definitely something to think about. 🤔

If we were given the opportunity to describe our thoughts about the Lord in just a few words, what would you say? Thankful, grateful, underserving, just a few of mine, what about you? 🤔 As you ponder this, here's a reminder about this Sunday's service, we are Celebrating our 17 year Anniversary, (WOW) the Lord has been Soooooooo good to us. We will be having a covered dish fellowship following the service, so invite a friend or 2, bring your favorite side item, and come expecting to not only experience the Lords presence, but to also CELEBRATE what He has done for us!!!!

Greetings on what is known as the Holy Week. A walk back in time reveals that it was just a few days ago many were yelling out, “HOSANNA, “ and covering the streets with palm leaves, and now perhaps the most memorable event known to mankind is on the horizon. Think about this, in the life of a believer, we have been given the opportunity to celebrate the life, death, and resurrection of our Lord this week. Why is it that we sooooo often wait until EASTER, to celebrate these events and not celebrate them throughout the year? ( hmmmmmmm🤔)

From time to time, we all have a tendency to be too busy doing many things, going here and there, and in great need of some slowing down. As you read the scriptures here, we are quickly reminded that through all of the stuff we get caught up with, choosing to slow down and sit at the feet of the Lord is not only possible, but what is in His Words, the BEST………..

Here we see perhaps one of the greatest reminders needed in our technology driven worlds. We often can get so wrapped up in the goings, doing this and that, and never slowing down, that our connection or our prayer lives often gets interrupted, the connection is bad, or in some cases, completely lost. Today, let’s take a few moments to make some personal calls to the Lord, knowing that His reception is always clear of distractions…..

From time to time, we go through many things that can shake us up, that affect us deeply, and just might cause us to wonder. Let us also not forget that there is a real enemy who daily tries to destroy our lives, kill our relationship with Christ, and steal our confidence and trust in the Lord. As you read the image and passages, take a few moments to allow the scriptures to not only sink in, but also bring us the confidence to keep trusting in Him, the LORD….

Every once in a while, we will find ourselves in search of some kind of confirmation that we are doing the right thing or going the right way. In the Bible, we can not only find the answers to these and many more questions, but also find a destination with Heavenly directions……

When you just can't seem to catch a break:

God's Word gives us simple instructions on how to handle the bad days. "This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." (Psalm 118:24). Isn't it interesting that God's Word doesn't say "This is the day the Lord accidentally let slip through the heavens; let us tolerate it and be done with it?" Rather, God's Word specifically states that this day that He has made, therefore, it's one worth rejoicing in.

Here we are, a great comparison that can relate to just about every age group. A question for the ages, a few moments to truly ponder the answer to this question. What if we _____?

This morning, as I was seeking the Lord on what to share, I was drawn to the statement above. Who am I IN CHRIST….. It didn’t take too long to start finding scriptures that reveal the answers. As you look at each of these statements and scripture, take a few moments to allow them to truly sink in…….. Afterwards, take some time to express your gratitude to the Lord, giving Him your very PRAISE!!!!!!!

Peace, it’s something that we all at times are in need of. So what is it really? Well, according to the Bible, it’s something that isn’t just a feeling, nor is it something that can be bought. Peace is something that God grants us in some of the most difficult times and situations in our lives, and when given by Him, passes all our understanding. I for one am extremely Thankful for not only peace, but especially the Peace of God……

Have you ever found yourself in need of that special verse? Many times we are faced with so many different opinions, ideas, and suggestions about God, which can leave us feeling well overwhelmed. It is an absolute that the Bible is the best place to find info about God, and who He is. As you look at the verses here, ask the Lord to reveal to you something new about Himself that you just might be in need of……

Here we see the other side of our FAITH. Yes, it's true that we need to focus on our faith in many areas of our lives, but FAITH also requires us to often take many steps that can seem overwhelming and uncertain. Let’s take a few moments to reflect on the times that God has lead us to challenging situations, and has Faithfully given us the strength to walk through them…..

Amen…… If you have ever needed a reminder that God is in control, this image makes it EXTREMELY CLEAR. No matter what the adversary throws at us, or what the world puts in the way, know that With God, All things ARE possible!!!!!!

Have you ever found yourself at a loss for words on the who, what, when, and why to one’s prayer life? Of course, we all have. Sometimes help can come in the form of just a few couple sentences. As you look at this image, take a few moments to modify it to help in your prayer life today…..

So often we hear that a picture can be worth a 1000 words. I’d say that this one could possibly be worth more than 1000. How many times have we been faced with the decision to either walk alone or to follow the crowd? If we really think about it, more times than we could count. Aren’t you thankful that even when we feel like we’re walking alone, the Lord is walking right beside us…..

As I was looking at the picture, I began to first think WOW! Afterwards, I realized that these are just a few examples of what He is to (me/us). Here’s today’s challenge... What else can you add to this list that’s not already on it? What else is the Lord to you? As you begin to reflect, take a few moments to apply the list above to your life…. Throughout the day, continue to add to this list as He reveals more to you….

Here we read a great and very personal promise from the Lord. He is the source of our help….. Most if not all of us have either read this or heard this verse, BUT, taking a few moments to realize that HE is talking to you, well that’s when the Bible becomes alive. Think about this, the Creator, the Author and finisher of our Faith, the Alpha & Omega, the beginning and the end, offers to be our help…… Now that is something to think about…….

As we embark on a new year, there are a few things that are certain. There will be ups and downs, there will be good days and some not so good days, and there will be many many lessons to be learned. That being said, scripture reveals to us that the Lord is preparing something NEW for us, and that (IT) will spring forth. Oh, and let’s not forget that He will even make way in our wilderness!!!!!

As we draw closer to Christmas Day, we have the opportunity to reflect on what Christmas really means to us. As Christians, we often respond with the normal answers without taking a second thought. Which is the very reason I present this question once again. What does CHRISTmas really mean to us? One’s answer will be revealed through one’s life, not just with a simple answer……

Here we see one of the most amazing truths about our Lord. We so often find ourselves feeling like we are all alone, or drowning in situations that are too big for us. Sometimes we even begin to feel like there’s no hope…… Then as we look to scripture, we find a PROMISE, not from this one, that one, or something, BUT from the LORD HIMSELF…… Take a few moments to apply this verse to your current situation, and remember the Lord is ALWAYS with us…..

Here we see an open field, a clear sky, and very few distractions. What we also have is the opportunity to pause and reflect on one of 100's of scriptures that are life changing. When we seek the Lord, and shut out the MANY distractions of our everyday lives, often the Lord will reveal Himself in some very clear ways. Maybe even through an open field or a very clear sky…….

As we gather around our tables throughout the day, let us take just a few moments to truly reflect on the MANY blessings the Lord has bestowed upon us and express our gratitude towards Him……

Just imagine the atmosphere when the Lord asked those who followed Him, "WHO do you say that I am?" The first response would be, "you are this or that, you did this and that" and so on . The impact of Peter’s answer still resounds even to today, but also needs to be answered by those who follow Him today. If He was to ask us, "WHO do YOU say that I am," what would be our answer? Remember this, who we say He is will be lived out through our daily walks...

There’s a saying most of have heard, "things are not always as they appear." The picture here is great example of just that. What looks like crooked lines, are actually all straight, but our eyes don’t see it that way. What’s the point? From time to time, we too are often fooled by the way something may appear, only to have the Lord reveal to us that we need to refocus our spiritual eyes, and see what He is trying to reveal…….

Have you ever wondered, ”Why are there so many valleys?" Me too, but as we begin the process of finding out the reasons, the Lord quickly reminded me of this. If it wasn’t for the valleys, there wouldn’t be any mountain tops. Also, there are SOOOOO many life lessons that are learned while we travel through the many valleys, it almost makes you wonder if God knows something that we don’t……

As you take a closer look at the waves, what seems to come into focus?  It’s amazing how often and how easily we are distracted from WHO can calm the waves of our lives. Throughout today, let’s take a few moments to take a deep breath, and take a closer look around us, and see how the Lord is trying to reveal Himself to us, even through the many different types of waves we may encounter.

At first glance, what we see is a big pile of stones and probably saying, “ What is the point?” Upon a closer inspection, you will find a phrase that the Lord said in the scriptures that is a profound statement to all believers, especially in regards to remaining quiet.

Sometimes we can find ourselves wondering why is this happening, or how much longer will what I’m going through last. Many would agree that it’s very hard, often seemingly feeling next to impossible. In Romans 5:3-5, we are given the Lord's insight, and can see His answer to some of the questions we may have. There’s one more thing that we can read that many of us are in need of, a four letter word that God grants us access to: (HOPE)……

Have you ever found yourself saying, "what can I do for the Lord?" Often, we will find ourselves looking at those who have the ability to do many huge and notable things and compare ourselves to them. This isn’t what the Lord desires, rather, He gives us all the ability to do both small and huge things that are equally important. Such as being an example to not just believers, but to unbelievers too. Reread the scripture, this time ask the Lord to reveal to you which of the examples listed, just might be your “Something Huge”…….

Wisdom is what we all could use more of, and what many rarely attempt to obtain. Think about this. How many times have we seen a situation that could have been avoided, but because of someone’s lack of wisdom, it quickly went the wrong direction? Wisdom is something to be prayed for, and after receiving it, to be applied to our daily lives. Take a few minutes to reflect on where in our life we could use a little or a lot more wisdom………

Take a closer look at the picture. What tends to stick out the most? It’s not by chance or just because the trees are so big. It’s because of their ROOT system. We too, are a clear picture of our roots. The deeper we grow in the Lord, and the more we depend on Him to sustain us, the more we will become established in our faith. Take a few minutes to evaluate just how deeply rooted you are in the Lord……

As we read the verse, we are reminded that our connection to the Lord is crucial. With so many things that often try to take His place, and the many imitations that our world offers us, it’s important to remember that He is THE ONLY SOURCE of Life, and without HIM, we truly can do nothing. But that’s not the end of the story. You see with HIM as our VINE, we can bear much fruit, and as scripture reveals, (nothing is impossible). Definitely something to think about…..

Work, work, work, all the live long day….. Sound familiar?  As much as we often grow weary of all the ”fun” of working, we can find some rewards of doing so. There’s the fulfillment of finishing a task, there’s the satisfaction of hard days work, and there’s those opportunities to show others that God lives in us ……(hmmmmm) When others see how God works through us, the joy that He gives us and that at the end of the day, they see Christ in us. That’s truly one of life’s greatest rewards ….. (Definitely something to think about.)

As you read this verse, we quickly see that prayer is more than saying a rehearsed word or two. In this prayer we see a child of God holding nothing back, being completely honest, and seeking God for guidance and protection. We too can seek the Lord with this approach, and in the end, watching the Lord Enlarge our Territory….. (Something to think about.)

Within the pages of this book are the answers to not just some of life’s questions, but answers to all of the what-ifs, the whys, and to all of the ones that arise throughout our daily lives. The secret to finding them is actually pretty simple, we have to open This Book, read it for ourselves, and apply what is written. Something to definitely think about……

Sooooo as you read the verse, what situation in your life jumps out to you..... What a great opportunity to pause and reflect on this.... Also, before you're done, try squinting your eyes just a little as you look at the picture, you just might see the answer to life's troubles.....

Here we read that our Heavenly Father is always with us, that He is protecting and caring for us even when we are confused or afraid. With all the uncertainty we have around us, and the craziness of todays world, it is a HUGE comfort to know that God offers to be our SAFE PLACE, our SHELTER, and the ROCK we can cling on to…..

Here we see what many of us would say is an easy one. If we were asked, we too would say, “You are the Christ.” We would be correct, (BUT) who we really say He is, and who He really is to us will be lived out through our daily lives, (NOT) just with our words. Today, let’s take a few moments to examine our lives thoroughly, and ask the Lord to reveal any areas in our lives where we are in need of some adjustments so that He may be clearly seen….

Looking closely, we can see a great Biblical truth. Even though we will go through many valleys, the view from there doesn’t have to always be bad. Let me explain, have you ever looked back and wondered, WOW, how in the world did I make it through that?  It’s often in that moment, God reveals something that grabs our attention. Sometimes, the most beautiful things we can see and experience, come from going through the valleys……..

Greetings on this beautiful day, as you read Matthew 6:6, the main focus isn’t just about prayer, rather it’s revealing to us that going to our secret place to pray, shutting the door on all the outside static, and knowing the creator of all, not only sees us, but is listening. And if that wasn’t enough, HE reminds us that HE will reward us openly….. Let’s take a few moments to fully reflect and embrace this promise from the Lord…..

Let's take a closer look at one of the most used and probably overused words, ”love.” The goal for each of us while on this journey called life is not just to be loved, but to love others as Christ loves us. Throughout the Bible we can find example after example of what love is and what it isn’t. Shall we begin……..

It often amazes me how many ways God reveals Himself to us. So many times we can get soooo caught up in going and doing that we forget to seek the Lord and to realize just how near He desires to be. Sometime through today, take a few moments to acknowledge the Lord, and stand in His presence…..

Being prepared…… This is something we learn at a young age to do. When a test is on the horizon in school, we prepare. When we have an interview, we prepare ourselves, when we take a vacation, even then, we prepare….. Soooooo, why not apply this to our everyday Christian lives? (But) here we see a HUGE plus, our God will help prepare us for what we have on the horizon. Take a few moments to reflect on the many times God has prepared you, and make sure to spend some time expressing your appreciation…

There are often times in our lives that we just (Need To Know). In Deuteronomy 4:29, we can see that the Lord offers to give us that assurance, but we have to seek Him to find it. There’s a (p.s.) here, in order to do so, we have to seek Him with (NOT) some, (NOT) most, (NOT) even 99.9999999%. We have to seek Him with (ALL) of our hearts , if and when we do, the Bible clearly reveals, WE WILL FIND HIM……

How can we declare His glory today? As we pause and reflect on this, several things come to mind. We can sing of His mercy, forgiveness, love, and His Amazing Grace. We can share with others the many things that HE has not only done, but also the things HE didn’t allow to happen. We can proclaim to a hurting world that HE cares and wants them to the trust in HIM, and how there is NO OTHER like HIM. (Something to think about.)

As we begin another day, here is a great scripture to help us as we face whatever comes our way. Not only can we find clarity in the Bible, but we can also find peace of mind as we (Think on THESE things).

Canadian Pastor Mark Buchanan in his book "Your Church is Too Safe" points out the radical difference between a traveler and a tourist. "A traveler literally means 'one who travails.' He labors, he suffers, endures. A traveler -- travailer - ...immerses himself in a culture, learns the language and customs, lives with the locals, imitates the dress, eats what's set before him. ... He is gone a long time. If ever he returns, he returns ever altered."

"Tourist means literally, 'one who goes in circles.' He's just taking an exotic detour home. He's only passing through, sampling wares, acquiring souvenirs. He tastes more than eats what's put before him. He retreats each night to what's safe and familiar. He picks up a word here, a phrase there, but the language, and the world it's embedded in, remain opaque and cryptic, and vaguely menacing. ...He returns to where he comes from with an album of photos, a few mementos, a cheap hat. He's happy to be back. He declares there's no place like home."

Jesus calls us to follow him not as tourists but as travelers.

As you read Jeremiah 29:11, take a few moments to consider this: In those times of confusion God, has a plan for clarity. During those times of chaos, He has a plan peace. In those times of hurt, He offers His plan for relief. For the many times that we feel alone and without hope, He offers to never leave us and provides an amazing plan to restore our HOPE….

As we glance at Jeremiah 33:3, its easy to overlook what’s really being stated. Upon a closer look one should see something “”Epic””!!!! Today we will be discovering just that!!!!!!!!!

Have you ever had (one of those days)? We all have, actually we all have had several of them. We can find ourselves thinking, when will this day ever end, or why in the world is this happening? In Genesis 50:20, God reveals an amazing reality that every once in awhile, we all could use a little reminder….. Take a few minutes to reflect on where the Lord might be doing just this.

WOW!!!! The background paints such a beautiful picture. It it also a great reminder, that the only way to get to the destination is by following the narrow road provided. Hmmmmmmm.