365 Days of Gratitude E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2022

Seitenzahl: 366

Beschreibung

We can walk in gratitude every day when we rely on God to be our source. When we focus on things we are grateful for, our satisfaction in life increases. Comparisons cease. Unnecessary pursuits pause. And we begin to notice the little things. The things that matter. Life. Breath. Generosity. Beauty. Grace. This is where we find deep connection with God.   As you read these devotions and Scriptures, be inspired to live with gratitude in your heart and praise on your lips. Meditate on things that produce life and peace. Evaluate each day in the light of God's truth and stand in awe of a heavenly Father who gives abundantly more than you can ask or imagine. As you quiet yourself before him, experience the goodness of his presence and be refreshed with his life-giving joy.   Choose to be thankful today and watch everything around you brighten with hope.   Features: • High-grade faux leather provides durability and exquisite tactile appeal. • Heat debossing on faux leather darkens its color, giving the cover a two-tone appearance and creating indentation which shows off the intricate design and varied texture. • Metallic and matte foil finishing touches are elegantly placed to enhance certain features, capturing attention and adding class for an aesthetic appeal. • This high-quality sturdy Smythe-sewn binding stitches book signatures together creating durability and allowing pages to lay flat when open. Decorative head and foot bands are also added to further complement the overall design. • This matte art high quality paper with a smooth satin touch provides long-lasting vivid coloration and durability. • A beautiful satin ribbon marker conveniently keeps your place so you can quickly pick up where you left off.  

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365 Days of Gratitude

© 2021 by BroadStreet Publishing®

978-1-4245-6382-1

978-1-4245-6383-8 (eBook)

Devotional entries composed by Sara Perry.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Scripture quotations marked (NCV) are taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NASB) are taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. Lockman.org. Scripture quotations marked (NRSV) are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NKJV) are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (TPT) are taken from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017, 2018 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission of BroadStreet Publishing. All rights reserved.

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Contents

Introduction

January

January 1: Reason to Celebrate

January 2: Compassionate Comfort

January 3: Divine Help

January 4: Commemorate Growth

January 5: Thankful for Others

January 6: Held Together

January 7: Reliable Friends

January 8: Great Expectation

January 9: Precious Promises

January 10: Gracious Generosity

January 11: Only Light

January 12: Given a Family

January 13: Simply Ask

January 14: Deeply Understood

January 15: Confident in Christ

January 16: Pure Light of Unity

January 17: Lighthearted Joy

January 18: Tools for Living

January 19: Abundantly Kind

January 20: Help in All Things

January 21: Inexpressible Glory

January 22: Firm Foundation

January 23: Faithful to Forgive

January 24: Holy Hope

January 25: Welcomed In

January 26: Overflowing with Love

January 27: Patience

January 28: Remember Them

January 29: Good News

January 30: Glorious Inheritance

January 31: Yes and Amen

February

February 1: Firm Faith

February 2: Remain in Love

February 3: Faultless

February 4: God Is Better

February 5: Forgiveness Abounds

February 6: No One Like Him

February 7: Living for God

February 8: Covered by Love

February 9: Trust and Obey

February 10: Holy Habitation

February 11: Endless Wisdom

February 12: Established in Mercy

February 13: Lifted from the Dust

February 14: Gift of Grace

February 15: Glorious Possibilities

February 16: Called into the Light

February 17: God’s People

February 18: Spirit Strength

February 19: Signs of Spring

February 20: Faithful and True

February 21: Ever So Near

February 22: God’s Desire

February 23: Fragrant Grace

February 24: Perfect Peace

February 25: Our Inheritance

February 26: Sweet Message

February 27: He Knows

February 28: More Than Enough

March

March 1: Revealer of Mysteries

March 2: Refreshing Rains

March 3: Hope for Tomorrow

March 4: Trustworthy Truth

March 5: Greater Things

March 6: Children of God

March 7: Even When

March 8: Empowered

March 9: Led by Mercy

March 10: Washed and Renewed

March 11: In All Things

March 12: Joy in Fellowship

March 13: Grounded in Goodness

March 14: Just a Glimpse

March 15: Living Love

March 16: Clothed in Compassion

March 17: Confident and Free

March 18: Leave Room

March 19: Confident Expectation

March 20: Always

March 21: As Long as I Live

March 22: Higher Wisdom

March 23: Lavish Liberty

March 24: Purpose

March 25: Not on You

March 26: Never Alone

March 27: Transformed

March 28: Even Greater Than

March 29: Small but Sure

March 30: Weak Ones

March 31: True Home

April

April 1: Called Out

April 2: So Much More

April 3: Heart and Soul

April 4: Plentiful Hope

April 5: No Reason to Fear

April 6: Confident Trust

April 7: Healing Is Coming

April 8: Love that Overcomes

April 9: Accept with Thanksgiving

April 10: Share in Joy

April 11: Inherent Worth

April 12: Love with Intention

April 13: Even More Able

April 14: Image Bearer

April 15: Even So

April 16: Excellent Thoughts

April 17: Great Leaps

April 18: Everything Matters

April 19: Creation’s Story

April 20: God Is Love

April 21: Respectable

April 22: Unmatched Wisdom

April 23: Nothing Is Wasted

April 24: Seen and Known

April 25: Springs of Refreshment

April 26: Abundantly More

April 27: He Gets It

April 28: Living Love

April 29: A Fresh Start

April 30: No Comparison

May

May 1: Indescribable Goodness

May 2: Better Things Ahead

May 3: Our Reason

May 4: All You Need

May 5: More Than Words

May 6: Renewed Perspective

May 7: It’s Time

May 8: Healer

May 9: Listen

May 10: Love in Action

May 11: Unashamed

May 12: Satisfied

May 13: Let Go of Worry

May 14: Settled by Grace

May 15: Even Greater

May 16: Built Up

May 17: Confident Communion

May 18: Beyond Description

May 19: Fresh Start

May 20: Fresh Air

May 21: In Everything

May 22: Reunions of Mercy

May 23: Powerful Name

May 24: Today Is the Day

May 25: Spring Rains

May 26: Satisfaction in Simplicity

May 27: Faithful Father

May 28: Humble Justice

May 29: And Yet

May 30: Freedom over Fear

May 31: Sons and Daughters

June

June 1: Nothing Hidden

June 2: In Due Time

June 3: Highly Valued

June 4: Come and Rest

June 5: Show Them

June 6: No Matter What

June 7: No More Judging

June 8: Filled to Overflow

June 9: Generations of Mercy

June 10: Christ’s Compassion

June 11: Continue

June 12: Making Things Right

June 13: Approved in Christ

June 14: Nothing Impossible

June 15: Gracious Giving

June 16: Extravagant Love

June 17: Light of Life

June 18: It Will Be Clear

June 19: Help for Today

June 20: Uncontainable

June 21: Woven into Purpose

June 22: Unmatched

June 23: Good Father

June 24: Liberated

June 25: Declare His Goodness

June 26: Wonderful Leader

June 27: Joy in His Presence

June 28: Cheerful Giving

June 29: Increase

June 30: Restoration Is Coming

July

July 1: Mercy over Sacrifice

July 2: Faithful Mercy

July 3: Help Me

July 4: Training Ground

July 5: Gracious God

July 6: His Choice

July 7: Fearless Confidence

July 8: Holy Endurance

July 9: Whatever You Do

July 10: Easy to Find

July 11: Healed Hearts

July 12: It Is Yours

July 13: Blessed Obedience

July 14: Refreshed by Love

July 15: Fearless Trust

July 16: Transformed Thoughts

July 17: Drink Deeply

July 18: Sing a New Song

July 19: Same God

July 20: Not One Forgotten

July 21: Common Good

July 22: Just Grace

July 23: Part of a Whole

July 24: Stay the Course

July 25: People of God

July 26: All Your Heart

July 27: Rediscover Wonder

July 28: Trust Him

July 29: Cared For

July 30: Godly Longings

July 31: Humble Love

August

August 1: Follow Him

August 2: No Record

August 3: Contentment in Christ

August 4: Hold On

August 5: Reliable Love

August 6: Never Changes

August 7: Keep Growing

August 8: Above All Else

August 9: Beautiful Fruit

August 10: Confidence in Christ

August 11: Abundant Life

August 12: Rebirth

August 13: Peace and Joy

August 14: Helper

August 15: Overwhelming Peace

August 16: Clarity

August 17: My Defense

August 18: Simply Remain

August 19: Lost and Found

August 20: Encouraged to Hope

August 21: Sacrificial Love

August 22: Fountain of Hope

August 23: Royal Appointee

August 24: Not Too Far

August 25: Ultimate Victory

August 26: Through Christ

August 27: Stand Strong

August 28: He Sees

August 29: Make Him Known

August 30: Directed by God

August 31: Strength in Courage

September

September 1: Spirit of Truth

September 2: All in Love

September 3: Complete Joy

September 4: Loosen Your Grip

September 5: Wholly Loved

September 6: Overcomers

September 7: He Is Good

September 8: Childlike Faith

September 9: There He Is

September 10: Sought After

September 11: Endless Possibilities

September 12: Run to Him

September 13: Rest on Every Side

September 14: Upside-down Kingdom

September 15: Perfect Ways

September 16: Vows of Faithfulness

September 17: Opened Understanding

September 18: Wonderful Things

September 19: Reliable Defense

September 20: Peace of Mind

September 21: The Everlasting Way

September 22: Do the Work

September 23: Constant Companionship

September 24: Only a Moment

September 25: All Is His

September 26: Dawning Compassion

September 27: Walk Here

September 28: No Wrong

September 29: Never Lost

September 30: Safe and Secure

October

October 1: Unchanging Purposes

October 2: Everlasting Support

October 3: Always Praise

October 4: Abounding in Mercy

October 5: On the Way

October 6: Good Shepherd

October 7: Called by Name

October 8: He Doesn’t Tire

October 9: More Power

October 10: Wait on His Strength

October 11: Held Up

October 12: Unstoppable

October 13: Redeemed by Love

October 14: Irreversible Mercy

October 15: In the Wilderness

October 16: Come Home

October 17: Hidden Treasures

October 18: Relief in Him

October 19: Not Ashamed

October 20: Heart of Surrender

October 21: Finished

October 22: Unfailing Love

October 23: So Much Joy

October 24: Gardens of Glory

October 25: Better Word

October 26: None Like Him

October 27: Eternal Portion

October 28: Made in Love’s Image

October 29: Good and Ready

October 30: Gathered In

October 31: Story to Tell

November

November 1: Wholehearted Thanks

November 2: Unforgettable Miracles

November 3: Trustworthy Truth

November 4: Drenched with Thanksgiving

November 5: Day of Rejoicing

November 6: Revived in Hope

November 7: Loving Wisdom

November 8: Call and Answer

November 9: Nothing Too Broken

November 10: Infinite Understanding

November 11: Time to Sing

November 12: Even There

November 13: As He Was

November 14: Our Liberator

November 15: Light of Breakthrough

November 16: Molded with Purpose

November 17: Don’t Forget

November 18: Compassionate Father

November 19: So Close

November 20: Revelation Light

November 21: Tides of Goodness

November 22: Instruction in Suffering

November 23: All Parts Matter

November 24: Confident Help

November 25: Keeper of the Watch

November 26: Guarded by God

November 27: Wonderfully Made

November 28: He Sees It All

November 29: Constant Meditation

November 30: The Lord Reigns

December

December 1: Eyes Fixed

December 2: Rich Soil

December 3: Shielded by God

December 4: Great Joy

December 5: Many Nations

December 6: Spiritual Seasons

December 7: Gracious Living

December 8: Rescued

December 9: Pray for All People

December 10: God’s Dwelling

December 11: Oasis of Peace

December 12: Heaven and Earth

December 13: How Wonderful

December 14: Wholehearted Devotion

December 15: Sojourners

December 16: In Your Midst

December 17: Yet I Will

December 18: Never-ending Mercy

December 19: Depend on Him

December 20: Sustained

December 21: Living Prayer

December 22: Lifegiving Fruit

December 23: Dance of Joy

December 24: Sacred Rest

December 25: All We Need

December 26: Whatever We Do

December 27: True Justice

December 28: Mindful One

December 29: Defender

December 30: Good for You

December 31: King above All

Let love and kindness be the motivation behind all that you do.

1 CORINTHIANS 16:14 TPT

Introduction

We can walk in gratitude every day when we rely on God to be our source. When we focus on what we are grateful for, our satisfaction in life increases. Comparisons cease. Unnecessary pursuits pause. And we begin to notice the little things. The things that matter. Life. Breath. Generosity. Beauty. Grace. This is where we find deep connection with God.

As you read these devotions and Scriptures, be inspired to live with gratitude in your heart and praise on your lips. Meditate on things that produce life and peace. Evaluate each day in the light of God’s truth and stand in awe of a heavenly Father who gives abundantly more than you can ask or imagine. As you quiet yourself before him, experience the goodness of his presence and be refreshed with his lifegiving joy.

Have an attitude of gratitude every day and watch how your perspective on life changes for the better.

January

Always give thanks to Father God for every person he brings into your life in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

EPHESIANS 5:20 TPT

 

JANUARY 1

Reason to Celebrate

Celebrate with praises the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has shown us his extravagant mercy. For his fountain of mercy has given us a new life—we are reborn to experience a living, energetic hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

1 PETER 1:3 TPT

The greatest reason we will ever have to celebrate is the beautiful and generous gift of God’s mercy. He is full of more love than we can imagine, renewing and refreshing us daily in waves of his great grace. He sets us free from the cycles of sin and shame that keep us from living in the liberty of his lavish love.

Today is a new day, full of reasons to celebrate! The hope that has called you from the ashes of your despair is living and active; it is no stale idea. Just as Jesus rose from the grave and ascended to his Father, so has he raised you up in new spirit life. His power has broken every chain of sin and death, and he is your victory and living hope!

Praise the Lord for how he has met you with his tangible mercy.

 

JANUARY 2

Compassionate Comfort

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort.

2 CORINTHIANS 1:3 NIV

God is not offended by our bad days. He can handle our low moments and our doubts. He is not surprised by our weakness. He is the God who stoops down in the dirt and gets close to us. He picks us up when we have no strength to lift ourselves. He is our constant help and forever friend. He is close in compassion, and he is near in comfort.

When we struggle to name our feelings, when we don’t know how to make a hard day better, God is tender toward us. He does not require us to fake it. There is no need to pretend that we are surer than we are. We don’t need to spin our realities for his sake. In his nearness, there is comfort. He sees us, and he knows our hearts. Let that be enough to turn toward him in gratitude.

Recognize that you are not alone in anything you face.

 

JANUARY 3

Divine Help

His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence.

2 PETER 1:3 ESV

According to this verse, we have all we need in the Holy Spirit within us to empower us to live for Jesus. What he has called us to, he has provided. Everything we need is found in him! When we are running out of patience, he has it in spades. When we don’t know what to do or where to turn, he has wisdom to guide us along the path of his love. Where we see only problems, he has solutions.

Instead of trying to get by on our own strength, we have the extraordinary presence of God with us to help us in all things. Let us not lean on our own understanding; let’s press into the knowledge of him who has called us. We need look no further than Jesus. He is our greatest example, and he is our present help.

When you are faced with your own limitations, turn to Jesus for help.

 

JANUARY 4

Commemorate Growth

We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love all of you have for one another is increasing.

2 THESSALONIANS 1:3 NIV

While we are growing up, we achieve many milestones. When a baby takes its first steps, the parents rejoice in their child’s growth. When a child learns how to ride their bike without training wheels, they practically burst with pride from the accomplishment! As they grow and become more independent, they breeze past many more landmarks.

In faith, we are like growing children. May we recognize and celebrate the indicators of our development. When we choose to offer loving presence instead of harsh opinion, we are showing maturity. When we believe that God will faithfully follow through on his promises to us, we are increasing in the strength of our trust. Every breakthrough is worth celebrating! May we look for ways to encourage one another in faith and in love.

When you recognize growth in someone, point it out and celebrate with them!

 

JANUARY 5

Thankful for Others

You know that I’ve been called to serve the God of my fathers with a clean conscience. Night and day I pray for you, thanking God for your life!

2 TIMOTHY 1:3 TPT

In life, there are people we meet that stick with us. Though we may not see them as often as we hope, there is a bond that cannot be broken by time and distance. They are the ones we call on late nights, the ones we depend on in moments of stress and devastation. They are the ones who listen to us, support us, and who show up when it matters. And we do the same for them.

Have you ever gone through a season of life where you do not know what you would have done without the support of a trusted friend or family member? Does your heart not grow in gratitude thinking of how their presence made a difference for you? These people are gifts to us, grace wrapped up in relationship. What a beautiful picture of God’s love they are!

Reach out to someone you love today and let them know how thankful you are for them!

 

JANUARY 6

Held Together

The Son is the dazzling radiance of God’s splendor, the exact expression of God’s true nature—his mirror image! He holds the universe together and expands it by the mighty power of his spoken word. He accomplished for us the complete cleansing of sins, and then took his seat on the highest throne at the right hand of the majestic One.

HEBREWS 1:3 TPT

God is a mystery to us. We have not seen him face to face, and he is far greater than our understanding can grasp. However, we can clearly see his nature through Jesus. The character of Jesus, the Son of God, is the exact likeness of the character of God the Father. What is more, the Spirit reveals to us in even more depth the reality of the nature of God’s love.

Jesus revealed God as our loving Father. He is not looking for perfection from us but humble surrender. He is patient with us in our weakness, he is generous with his mercy, and he does not want to lose any of us to cycles of sin and shame. He has provided all that we need to live in the freedom of his love. He is the source, and he is our great Savior and reward. It all stems from him!

Surrender your heart to the Father of love and thank him for his mercy.

 

JANUARY 7

Reliable Friends

Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.

PHILIPPIANS 1:3 NLT

What does it look like to be a reliable friend? Are we people who others can count on in times of need and times of celebration? In the experience of loyal relationships, we are able to catch glimpses of God’s faithful love toward us. When we live with love as our banner, extending mercy to others whenever we have the opportunity, we reflect the heart of our good Father.

Are there people in your life that you can count on, no matter what? They are treasured gifts from God. Friends who fight for us when we have no strength of our own, who support us in our endeavors, who show up when we need them, and whom we can be completely ourselves with, are a blessing. May we be people who are reliable in love, and may we reach out with intention.

Thank God for your trusted friends!

 

JANUARY 8

Great Expectation

It is by his great mercy that we have been born again…. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay.

1 PETER 1:3-4 NLT

By the great mercy of Jesus, we have been ushered into the freedom of his kingdom. We have been born again into a family—the family of God. Our great expectation, our wonderful hope, is not in what we can achieve or acquire on this earth. It is the overwhelmingly costly inheritance of eternal life.

When we look ahead to the coming of Christ’s kingdom in its fullness, we set our eyes on things above. It does not mean that we must escape the realities of our lives, for God is with us through his Spirit to help, transform, and encourage us in the midst of every crisis. As we turn our attention to God’s unfailing love and his faithful nature, may our hearts find hope in the promise of his coming unsurpassable goodness.

When you are overwhelmed today, remember that troubles are fleeting. Turn your attention to God’s faithful promises.

 

JANUARY 9

Precious Promises

He has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.

2 PETER 1:4 ESV

With faithfulness, God remains the same in unchanging love. He who is loyal to his word continues to follow through on his promises. He will not forget a single one! God is not a man that he would lie; there is no room for deceit or manipulation in his gracious mercy. He is full of truth, integrity, and follow-through. He is perfect in all of his ways, and we can trust him completely.

He will do what he has said he will. Perhaps you find yourself in a waiting season between promise and fulfillment. The in-between is where endurance keeps you tethered to his love. God will not fail. He is with you in your longing, and he is with you in the satisfaction of realized hopes.

Take time to remember God’s faithfulness to you and others.

 

JANUARY 10

Gracious Generosity

I thank God because in Christ you have been made rich in every way, in all your speaking and in all your knowledge.

1 CORINTHIANS 1:5 N C V

When our words drip with kindness and our knowledge promotes the wisdom of Christ, we reflect the generosity of God’s love within us. He does not withhold his wisdom from those who ask for it. Jesus does not turn us away in our pursuit of his powerful presence. His leadership keeps us on the path of his humble mercy. We reveal the fruit of his Spirit, working in us to transform our lives into his image, as we continually submit to his ways.

A kind word spoken at the right time can diffuse the defensive nature of an argument. The wisdom of Jesus is full of the promotion of peace, unity, and love. When we listen with compassion and respond with thoughtfulness, the wealth of Christ’s wisdom is made evident. May we be people who reflect the loving nature of our Savior in every conversation.

Give another the benefit of compassion and kindness, remembering this is how God relates to you.

 

JANUARY 11

Only Light

This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.

1 JOHN 1:5 NIV

When we walk through long, dark nights of the soul, it can be hard to remember what the ease of sunny days felt like. We cannot escape suffering in this life, and we can’t outrun loss. We will find ourselves in the pit of grief at some point, no matter how graciously we live. Loss is not a punishment to us. Jesus experienced it himself. There is solace in his presence, for he knows what we go through. He knows the ache of sorrow, and he is with us in it.

Though mourning may last for a season of night, there is the promise of a new day of rejoicing ahead. In the light of his radiance, we will see what we could not in the darkness of our grief. We will see the seeds that were sown in sorrow springing up into gardens of beautiful new life. He does not waste a thing. He is light, and in him there is no darkness. He sees everything clearly, and he does not miss a single detail.

Trust that God sees what you cannot and ask him for his perspective today.

 

JANUARY 12

Given a Family

God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.

EPHESIANS 1:5 NLT

No matter how loving your family is, there are bound to be areas of frustration, as well as needs that have gone unmet. On the other hand, no matter how dysfunctional your family system may have been, there is a place where you belong. Through Jesus, you have been brought into God’s family. You are his beloved child, and he loves you perfectly and completely, just as you are.

There’s no need to prove your worth to your good Father. He sees you as you are, and he completely accepts you. He sees you through the lens of Jesus, full of love and mercy. You don’t have to dress yourself up, and you don’t have to earn your place. He knows you, and he draws you to his heart with gentle kindness. He is fierce in love, breaking down the lies and walls of shame that you keep you at a distance. Come, find your place at his table today. You are a part of his family!

Come to the Father with an open heart to receive from his abundant love.

 

JANUARY 13

Simply Ask

If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given you.

JAMES 1:5 NRSV

There is no need to hesitate in God’s presence. He always gives freely and generously from his heart of mercy to all who come to him. Instead of reasoning your way out of your requests, present them all to him without censorship. He wants you as you are, not how you think you should come. Nothing you say can surprise him, and he is absolutely unoffendable.

What a reason to be thankful today, that God wants you, all of you, without exception. You need not fear his response. Don’t self-protect by withholding your heart from him. He is faithful to meet you with the overflow of his affection. He loves you more than you realize and more than you could hope. Throw off your inhibitions and enter into his presence with praise and thanksgiving.

Give God access to all your thoughts and feelings. He cares for you!

 

JANUARY 14

Deeply Understood

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.”

JEREMIAH 1:5 NIV

When you feel misunderstood by others, rest in the assurance that you are completely known by God. He does not mistake your intentions, and he knows every move of your heart. He created you with purpose, and he knit you together with love. He knows all of your quirks and your talents. He delights in your joy, and he never misinterprets your words.

When you try your best but fail to meet the expectations of others, there is no reason to hide in shame. Let it be an opportunity for humble love to lead you. You are not perfect, and you cannot please everyone. You can extend kindness and mercy toward others while filling up on the source of life itself. Let your identity be rooted in who God says you are, not in the opinion of others.

Practice self-acceptance where you are prone to shaming yourself, and let God speak his truth over your identity.

 

JANUARY 15

Confident in Christ

I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.

PHILIPPIANS 1:6 NASB

When disappointment meets you, what is your response? Are you prone to wallowing in self-pity or catastrophizing the future? If this is your go-to, know that there is grace for you in every single moment. Grace to empower you in the power of God’s Spirit. Grace that is abundant and able to transform you and give you strength in your weakness.

Instead of relying on your own ability to grow, you get to lean on the confidence of Christ, who is in you, to perfect you in every single way. There is no need to strive for his love and acceptance. You already have it! Stand strong on the Word of the Lord that set you free from the chains of sin and shame. Perfectionism is not the goal; dependence on the Perfect One is!

Lean on the confidence of Christ over your own abilities today.

 

JANUARY 16

Pure Light of Unity

If we keep living in the pure light that surrounds him, we share unbroken fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, continually cleanses us from all sin.

1 JOHN 1:7 TPT

When we live in the freedom of Christ’s love, gratitude is sown like seeds into the soil of our lives. If we have been forgiven much, how much more will we forgive others? When we look through the perspective of Jesus, who makes all things new, our faith is strengthened in the endless possibilities of his restorative power.

Instead of going mindlessly through our day, may we be aware of the tangible grace of God with us. He shines on us with his glorious presence. In the light of his nearness, we can see others more clearly, too. May we reach out in love to those who bear his image. Let us not get caught up on the divisive issues that drive us further from each other. Instead, let’s be united in purpose and heart through his love.

When you feel criticism rising within you, ask God for his perspective.

 

JANUARY 17

Lighthearted Joy

Your hearts can soar with joyful gratitude when you think of how God made you worthy to receive the glorious inheritance freely given to us by living in the light.

COLOSSIANS 1:12 TPT

When was the last time you considered the amazing gift of God’s favor through Christ Jesus? Have you forgotten the deep joy of knowing that you are completely covered by the love of Jesus? He has set you free, calling you into the abundance of life in the glorious light of his mercy.

Take a few moments now to think through the impact of his love on your life. You have been chosen by the King of kings to know him! You have been adopted into his family, and he calls you his own. He has given you his Spirit to dwell within you and teach, strengthen, guide, and empower you. There is so much more to discover in his vast affection than you have yet tasted. Let your heart rejoice in this reality!

Thank God for the freedom you have in Jesus.

 

JANUARY 18

Tools for Living

God will never give you the spirit of fear, but the Holy Spirit who gives you mighty power, love, and self-control.

2 TIMOTHY 1:7 TPT

God does not deal with us in shame or fear. He guides us gently, his firm hand holding ours. He does not drive us with threats. We need no further look than his Spirit for help with how to live. We do not need to go to the ends of the earth, or even the end of our street, to find him. He is here with us now, in power and in presence.

The Holy Spirit gives us strength in our weakness, strategies for our problems, wisdom for our questions, loving acceptance, and kind correction. He moves with compassion and mercy, and he delivers us from our fears. He is peace personified, comforter in our sorrows, and he is pure love. He moves in the same resurrection power that raised Christ from the grave. He is our constant help and our forever advocate. May we never lose sight of the incredible power that is God with us.

Look for where love rings loudly over the cries of fear around you.

 

JANUARY 19

Abundantly Kind

He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins.

EPHESIANS 1:7 NLT

The nature of God is unmistakably good. He is better than we are in all ways. He is more patient with us than we are with others or even ourselves. He is full of compassion when we run out of it. He is able to deal with the realities of our circumstances without being worried or anxious. He meets us with mercy, draws us in with kindness, and loves us to life over and over again.

When we need a reminder of God’s loving character, let us look to the life of Jesus and remember that he is the living expression of the Father. He did not exclude the vulnerable from his message of peace with God. He spent time with those the religious elite shunned. He healed the sick, made blind eyes see, and raised the dead to life again. He set the tormented free. Everything he did was driven by the merciful kindness of God. He remains the same today.

Be intentional in kindness to others today.

 

JANUARY 20

Help in All Things

The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.

NAHUM 1:7 NIV

What a beautiful God is the Lord! He is the Good Shepherd, taking care of his flock at all times. He keeps a watchful eye over them, and he leaves the ninety-nine to rescue the one who wanders off. He sees us in our trouble, and he offers us his help. He tenderly cares for those who trust in him. He will not ever abandon us in our distress.

The Lord is a strong and mighty shelter. His peace goes beyond our logic to fill our souls with his very near presence. When we are worried, let us turn to him. When fear has us responding in fight or flight, may our warrior God rise up on our behalf! He will keep us secure in his love; nothing can ever separate us from his mercy. He is our skillful and ready relief.

When you are worried or overwhelmed, find refuge in the presence of God and give thanks.

 

JANUARY 21

Inexpressible Glory

Though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory.

1 PETER 1:8 NASB

We do not have to wait for everything to be made clear in order to experience the deep joy of God’s promises. Though we have not yet seen him, we love him. He has revealed his glorious nature all around us! His mercy no one can fault. His wisdom is unmatched. He is the way, the truth, and the life, and he is the source of all good gifts.

May today be the day we rejoice in our great God and King. Let us remember his faithfulness through the ages and be encouraged at his unchanging character. He is still the same God who delivered the Israelites from their captivity. He is the one who heals, restores, and revives. He is the source of life, and he is inexpressibly good.

Thank God for the glimpses you have seen of his glory. Pour out your love to him.

 

JANUARY 22

Firm Foundation

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the LORD God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”

REVELATION 1:8 NIV

God is so much greater than any circumstance we face in this life. He is bigger than our small lives can contain. His reach is larger than the farthest universe, yet he knows us intimately. He is beyond our understanding, yet he is so very near. The earth is a footstool to him. No mind can comprehend how vast he is, and his power no one can fathom.

This is the God who calls us each by name. This is our firm foundation and our hope. We are not pawns in a game that he is playing. We are objects of his affection, and he is faithful to fulfill every promise that he has made. He does not shift or change from loyal love. We only see in very small part, but he doesn’t miss a detail in the vast expanse of creation. Let us look to him and throw our hope into the ocean of his love.

Put your problems into perspective by reflecting on God’s greatness.

 

JANUARY 23

Faithful to Forgive

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

1 JOHN 1:9 ESV

Though none of us is perfect in love, God is. He forgives us when we confess our secret shames to him. He throws our sins into the sea of forgetfulness and does not hold them against us. Though we cannot escape the repercussions of how our choices affect others, and the consequences that come as a result, we can know that we are not defined by our mistakes.

In the pure love of Jesus, we are made clean. What he does not hold against us, let us not hold against each other. This does not mean that there is no accountability. Where others have offended us, let us forgive them so that the root of bitterness will not have a hold in our hearts. God’s love is strong enough for truth, justice, and mercy to reign together.

Confess your sin, let go of your shame, and walk in the freedom of God’s forgiveness.

 

JANUARY 24

Holy Hope

He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again.

2 CORINTHIANS 1:10 ESV

Jesus is our great deliverer. What he has done already, he will do again. Let us look with hope to the future, knowing that the one who was revealed as rescuer and Savior will be our advocate and help. He does not grow tired of helping us when we need him. He does not turn us away when we come to him for assistance.

In our hour of great need, let us come to Jesus, our deliverer. In times of stress, let’s look to him for aid. Whatever it is that upsets us, he cares about it. In everything, we can confidently come before him, knowing he welcomes us with open arms. He will not turn away from us, for he is faithful in love, and he does not abandon his people.

Give Jesus your worries. Let his faithful love be your confidence.

 

JANUARY 25

Welcomed In

He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love.

COLOSSIANS 1:13 NKJV

Have you ever felt out of place? Perhaps you joined a gym that felt intimidating, or you walked into a church where everyone seemed to know each other. Maybe you don’t feel this at all. Maybe you feel this practically everywhere. No matter the case, you have a place where you belong. It is in the family of God, where he draws you in with open arms and welcomes you to a reserved place at his table.

No one else can take your place in his kingdom. You are unique, and you are irreplaceable to God, your Father. May you comprehend how deeply known you are and how fully accepted you are in him. There is nowhere else where you can be as freely yourself and loved so completely. May you know this deep, liberating love more and more with each new day.

Encourage someone today with something you appreciate about them.

 

JANUARY 26

Overflowing with Love

The Living Expression became a man and lived among us! And we gazed upon the splendor of his glory, the glory of the One and Only who came from the Father overflowing with tender mercy and truth!

JOHN 1:14 TPT

Jesus is the living expression of God the Father. His life dripped with kindness, his words with tender mercy and truth. Everything he did in his ministry was a reflection of the Father’s heart. We see clearly through Jesus that mercy triumphs judgment. His love paved the way for us to know the Father and to worship him in spirit and in truth.

When we submit our lives to Christ, we let his mercy guide us. We cannot hold onto our pride and still walk the path of his love humbly. Let us throw off the things that entangle us and keep us from moving freely in his mercy. If love is the highest law, then let’s live to its standard.

Look to Jesus for how to live in the example of his love.

 

JANUARY 27

Patience

Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life.

1 TIMOTHY 1:16 ESV

In an age of instant answers, we have lost the beauty of the tension of the in-between. With patience comes endurance. Though we can look for, and find, quick answers to trivial questions, some problems aren’t so readily solved. Along the journey of this life, we will either learn to wrestle with God in the tension or give up. May we be people of tenacity that choose to stay engaged with the Lord, even in our questioning.

In his perfect patience, Jesus leaves room for transformation and growth. In this space, there is the freedom to try and fail. There is opportunity to grow and learn. Let us not become discouraged as we discover new skills and find that it takes time to become proficient in them. Let us display patience and implement the values of Christ’s kingdom as we transform more into his likeness.