It's a Good Morning Just Because You Love Me E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2016

Seitenzahl: 379

Beschreibung

Some mornings don't feel so good. The circumstances of life may have you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, discouraged, or even depressed. Isn't it encouraging to know that God's love is not dependent on your situation? Because his love for you is unchanging and his promises are true, you can choose to believe that today will be a good day.  Find the hope, joy, and strength that is abundant in God as you reflect on these devotional entries, scriptures, and prayers. No matter what comes your way today, you can get through it with God at your side. "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever." —Psalm 136:1 NLT

Leseprobe

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

Racine, Wisconsin, USA

Broadstreetpublishing.com

It’s a Good Morning Just Because You Love Me

© 2016 by BroadStreet Publishing

ISBN 978-1-4245-5197-2 (hard cover)

ISBN 978-1-4245-5224-5 (e-book)

Devotional entries composed by Diane Dahlen, Cari Dugan, Laura Krause, Shannon Lindsay, Cate Mezyk, and Stephanie Sample.

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. www.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. www.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 (TLB) are taken from The Living Bible copyright © 1971. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. 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.

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Edited and compiled by Michelle Winger | literallyprecise.com

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The LORD is merciful

and compassionate,

slow to get angry and filled

with unfailing love.

The LORD is good to everyone.

He showers compassion

on all his creation.

PSALM 145:8-9 NLT

Contents

Introduction

JANUARY

January 1: Fresh and New

January 2: Just Pray

January 3: Show Me Your Glory

January 4: The Giver of Good Gifts

January 5: Ask Anything

January 6: Cry Like a Baby

January 7: A Safe Place

January 8: Wonderful Counselor

January 9: Lifetime Guarantee

January 10: Twirling with Joy

January 11: Truly Awesome

January 12: Only for You

January 13: Come, and Be Healed

January 14: All Comfort

January 15: Beyond Your Sight

January 16: I Want to Yearn

January 17: Better than Life

January 18: Make My Day

January 19: His

January 20: Laid Low

January 21: Your Ways

January 22: In a Season of Suffering

January 23: The Gift in the Struggle

January 24: The Path to Peace

January 25: Get Wise

January 26: Rock Solid

January 27: The Me You See

January 28: So Much Love

January 29: The Best Is Yet To Come

January 30: You Are Gifted

January 31: A Greater Work

FEBRUARY

February 1: Sweep My Heart

February 2: Give Him Your Worry

February 3: Claim Your Peace

February 4: Sight Unseen

February 5: Seek to Do Good

February 6: Yes, Please!

February 7: More than Gold

February 8: The Whole Hot Mess

February 9: In His Light

February 10: Worth It

February 11: Heart Directions

February 12: He Will Be Found

February 13: Free to Rest

February 14: Speaking Truth

February 15: Keep Going

February 16: The Eternal You

February 17: Consider His Hand

February 18: As You Will

February 19: Go to the Garden

February 20: A Guarded Heart

February 21: Hesitant

February 22: A Humble Heart

February 23: Grounded

February 24: Steadfast Wisdom

February 25: Join Together

February 26: Never Alone

February 27: Lovely and Pure

February 28: Our Rock

MARCH

March 1: Mighty God

March 2: No Greater Love

March 3: Courageous

March 4: United as One

March 5: Hate Evil

March 6: Everlasting Love

March 7: Keep Calm

March 8: Delightful

March 9: Don’t Panic

March 10: Eternal Gift

March 11: Example of Love

March 12: Hope in His Word

March 13: Not a Quitter

March 14: The Thrill of the Hunt

March 15: Abundant Rain

March 16: Rest Easy

March 17: You Don’t Have to Fight

March 18: Faithful without Fail

March 19: His Love Song

March 20: Intimate Friendship

March 21: Shout His Goodness

March 22: The Best Outfit

March 23: Growing Trust

March 24: Ask Confidently

March 25: Wildest Dreams

March 26: Victory over Struggles

March 27: Effortlessly Good

March 28: Stand Your Ground

March 29: You Can Always Pray

March 30: Your Thought Life

March 31: The Time of Day

APRIL

April 1: Made Whole

April 2: Worth Worrying About

April 3: Light of Love

April 4: No Need to Fear

April 5: Stepping Out

April 6: Faithful in Prayer

April 7: Praise Him

April 8: No Grudges

April 9: Much Stronger

April 10: Working with Joy

April 11: The Rock

April 12: Prone to Wander

April 13: Great Bonus

April 14: Refreshment Source

April 15: Nothing Hidden

April 16: Intimately Fashioned

April 17: Search and Find

April 18: A Beautiful Sound

April 19: Living Abundantly

April 20: Agape Love

April 21: Feast of Love

April 22: Place Your Hope in God

April 23: Crowned with Love

April 24: Forgotten Failure

April 25: A Peaceful Place

April 26: Quiet Beauty

April 27: Joy Is a Choice

April 28: Lasting Comfort

April 29: More than Seasonal Compassion

April 30: Deepest Contentment

MAY

May 1: For Us, Not Against Us

May 2: In the Darkness

May 3: The Lifeline

May 4: White as Wool

May 5: Set Free!

May 6: Friends in the Fight

May 7: A Beautiful Day

May 8: Glorious Cycle

May 9: Full of Guidance

May 10: All Promises Kept

May 11: Passions Become Weapons

May 12: Joy Always

May 13: Love Definition

May 14: Nothing Wrong

May 15: One Step at a Time

May 16: Sacrifice of Praise

May 17: He Cannot Lie

May 18: A Perfect Path

May 19: Salvation through Humility

May 20: Thirst Satisfied

May 21: No Comparison

May 22: Rich Rewards

May 23: The Way to Victory

May 24: Consumed?

May 25: Joyfully I Wait

May 26: Inseparable

May 27: Setting My Affection

May 28: Intelligent Love

May 29: He Likes to Be Thanked

May 30: God Sings!

May 31: The One You Worship

JUNE

June 1: Wiser than You

June 2: Precious, Honored, Loved

June 3: Lift My Heavy Heart

June 4: Not Home Yet

June 5: Image Bearer

June 6: Facial Expressions

June 7: Inward Renewal

June 8: Delayed Obedience

June 9: Betrayed with a Kiss

June 10: Little Offerings

June 11: Simply Gentle

June 12: Where Do You Walk?

June 13: Hiding His Word

June 14: A Dull Heart

June 15: Meditation

June 16: Open My Eyes

June 17: My Counselors

June 18: He Remembers

June 19: It’s Okay to Be Weak

June 20: It Is Finished

June 21: Fueled by Love

June 22: Fear Not

June 23: The Story Isn’t Finished

June 24: Labels

June 25: Quick Fix

June 26: Help Me Remember

June 27: You Can’t Control the Rain

June 28: Limitations

June 29: Reward of Perseverance

June 30: Don’t Quit

JULY

July 1: Past, Present, or Future?

July 2: A Full Life

July 3: A Guarded Mind

July 4: Promise of Freedom

July 5: Lifelong Slavery

July 6: Inseparable

July 7: Steady Love

July 8: Rules, Rules, Rules

July 9: Rooted and Established

July 10: Much Better

July 11: I Sinned. Now What?

July 12: Get a Glimpse

July 13: Thoughts on Beauty

July 14: A Willing Heart

July 15: Cultivating Kindness

July 16: You’re Rich… No, Really!

July 17: No Surprises

July 18: Help Me Get Dressed

July 19: Ready to Forgive

July 20: Rejoice

July 21: Consider the Sparrows

July 22: Help Me See Past Me!

July 23: Our Creator

July 24: Praise the Lord!

July 25: Tug-of-War

July 26: Ransomed

July 27: Stop It!

July 28: The Ancient Path

July 29: The Do-Over

July 30: Two Are Better

July 31: The Greatest Commandment

AUGUST

August 1: God’s Promises

August 2: Transferred and Transformed

August 3: A Broken Heart

August 4: Faith without Sight

August 5: Blind Trust

August 6: Contented Strength

August 7: Deer Feet

August 8: Fix Your Thoughts

August 9: Forgetting

August 10: Forgiveness

August 11: Temptation

August 12: Chosen By God

August 13: He Is Enough

August 14: He Understands

August 15: Hope in God

August 16: In His Image

August 17: My Guide

August 18: Put on Your Belt

August 19: Slipping

August 20: The God of All Comfort

August 21: Wait for the Lord

August 22: Beauty Measured

August 23: Don’t Just Sit There

August 24: Heavy Baggage

August 25: In Need of Grace

August 26: Open Arms

August 27: Falling Blessings

August 28: Not Just Mr. Fix It

August 29: For the Sake of Others

August 30: No Longer Slaves

August 31: Surrounded by Gifts

SEPTEMBER

September 1: Breathe Again

September 2: Prioritizing Relationship

September 3: My Healer

September 4: Weapon against Doubt

September 5: Increased Measure of Faith

September 6: Difficult to Love

September 7: Need for Courage

September 8: Don’t Be Afraid

September 9: Broken Promises

September 10: Easing Heartache

September 11: Of Zero Value

September 12: God’s Love

September 13: Doing Good

September 14: Light in the Darkness

September 15: The Most Inspiring

September 16: Need for Friendship

September 17: No Conditions

September 18: Loved through Loss

September 19: Absolute Certainty

September 20: A Beautiful Gift

September 21: He Is Strong

September 22: Sweet Relief

September 23: A Clean Slate

September 24: List of Needs

September 25: Faithful Friend

September 26: Desperate for a Savior

September 27: Met in Grief

September 28: Temporary Struggles

September 29: Jesus Will Never Leave You

September 30: The Gateway to Life

OCTOBER

October 1: Courage Beyond Capacity

October 2: Never Hopeless

October 3: I Am Enough

October 4: Life-Giving Joy

October 5: Love Completely

October 6: Insatiable Monster

October 7: The Burden of Worry

October 8: Learned Thankfulness

October 9: Our Example of Compassion

October 10: Praise Always

October 11: The Lord’s Delight

October 12: Promises Fulfilled

October 13: Victory over Sin

October 14: Wasted Worry

October 15: What Next?

October 16: The Inspiring Word

October 17: The Last Leg

October 18: Like None Other

October 19: Created for a Purpose

October 20: Free to Live

October 21: The Yes To

October 22: Make a Change

October 23: He Cares about You, Uniquely

October 24: Weight of Worry

October 25: Compassion That Never Ceases

October 26: Good and Perfect

October 27: Truly Awesome

October 28: No Darkness

October 29: Just Say No

October 30: Real Love

October 31: Sing!

NOVEMBER

November 1: The Struggle Will End

November 2: Continue in Christ

November 3: Satisfied

November 4: Chased by Grace

November 5: Provision for the Generous

November 6: He Rejoices over You

November 7: The Many Wonders of God

November 8: Radiant Reflection

November 9: Continual Praise

November 10: The Good Father

November 11: Gracious

November 12: Understand and Accept

November 13: The Goodness in Waiting

November 14: In the Light

November 15: Best Day Ever

November 16: As I Should Be

November 17: Buried Talents

November 18: Thorns

November 19: Bloom Where You Are Planted

November 20: Starting Over

November 21: Found Delightful

November 22: Stronghold

November 23: Worthy

November 24: Father Knows Best

November 25: Stored Goodness

November 26: Water of Life

November 27: False Expectations

November 28: Leveling Up

November 29: Guided

November 30: Trustworthy

DECEMBER

December 1: Rocks Don’t Change

December 2: His Purpose for You

December 3: Just Because

December 4: An Incomprehensible Gift

December 5: Tell Your Story

December 6: Now I Am Found!

December 7: Opened, Lifted, and Loved

December 8: Debt of Love

December 9: A Patient Promise

December 10: Convinced of Love

December 11: Returned Love

December 12: His Riches

December 13: True Love

December 14: Totally Committed

December 15: Abiding Love

December 16: Steadfast Love

December 17: Your Eyes Will See

December 18: Unhindered

December 19: Found in a Desert

December 20: Collected Tears

December 21: Peace in Jesus: the Eternal Gift

December 22: The Love-Joy Life

December 23: Charity

December 24: He Teaches Me Acceptance

December 25: Seek, then Boldly Proclaim!

December 26: He Delights in You

December 27: Dressed for the Weather

December 28: Undeserved Gifts

December 29: Eternally Blessed

December 30: Origin of Strength

December 31: Load of Anxiety

Introduction

Choose to believe that today will be a good day!

Life challenges can quickly drain us of our strength. For those who have put their hope in the Lord, there is a constant source of refreshing.

Let these scriptures, devotions, and prayers encourage you to spend time with God each day. Delight in the promises found in his Word, and discover the joy of his presence. Let the knowledge of his unfailing love renew your strength and put a smile on your face.

Because God loves you, it really is a good morning!

JANUARY

Blessed is the one you choose and bring near,

to dwell in your courts!

We shall be satisfied with the goodness

of your house,

the holiness of your temple!

PSALM 65:4 ESV

January 1

FRESH AND NEW

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:

The old has gone, the new is here!

2 CORINTHIANS 5:17 NIV

When we accept Christ as our Savior, we get to start over, as if from scratch. Our old, ugly lives and selfish ways are forgotten, and we are brand new. Oh goodness, aren’t you thankful for it? We all have plenty of days we could happily erase: memories of bad choices we made and poor decisions followed through.

Every day, we get to stand before our King and hold our heads up high, knowing we are forgiven and clean. There’s no checklist of our sins and faults, no remembering the worst of our mistakes. Instead, there is the tender love of our Father’s heart, flowing down in abundance upon us, making us new.

Lord, I’m once again in awe of the depth of your love for me. Thank you for the gift of forgiveness and for making me fresh and new.

January 2

JUST PRAY

Then he prays to God, and is accepted by him,

he comes into his presence with joy,

and God repays him for his righteousness.

JOB 33:26 NRSV

It’s easy to become overwhelmed by expectations. We want to fit in, to belong, but the formula is constantly changing, and it’s hard to know whose standards we should shoot for: family, work, friends, society, social media…who decides what’s acceptable?

Look carefully at the verse. What must we do in order to be accepted by God? Must we have our acts together, our sinful habits conquered, our church attendance perfect? No. Just pray. We pray to God, and he welcomes us in. Scrubbed and shiny or worse for wear, it’s all the same to him. He sees you, he hears you, and he invites you into his joyful presence.

Father, help me to remember yours is the standard of acceptance that matters most, and that just by praying I’ve already met it. Thank you for loving me as I am.

January 3

SHOW ME YOUR GLORY

So the LORD said to Moses, “I will also do this thing that you

have spoken; for you have found grace in My sight, and I know

you by name,” And he said, “Please, show me Your glory.”

EXODUS 33:17-18 NKJV

The sky is gray. Rain is falling, and your hair is just not happening. Last night’s dishes clutter the sink, and a mountain of mail covers the counter. Everywhere you look, beauty seems to be taking a break.

Close your eyes. Say his name. Jesus. Now open them, and look again. See that little spot of blue sky, that single ray of light sneaking through the clouds? Notice the water drops resting on the hostas. Remember the tasty meal that created the mess. The mail may still be jumbled, and your hair may still be doing its own thing, but beauty is here, always, just one sweet word away. Jesus. Let his glory inform your sight.

Lord, when I focus on you, when I say your name, I can’t help but see beauty all around me. Thank you for the surprise and delight of discovering beauty in unexpected places.

January 4

THE GIVER OF GOOD GIFTS

Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above,

coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no

variation or shifting shadow.

JAMES 1:17 NASB

Count your blessings. It’s become a phrase we throw around so often, it may have lost its meaning. But seriously, have you ever done it? Where do we begin? According to this verse in the book of James, every good thing in our lives is a blessing. Every good thing. Ready? Go.

Maybe today is “one of those days,” and you’re having trouble getting started. Your home, work, and social life all seem more like burdens than blessings. It’s okay. Just begin here, with the greatest blessing of them all:

Father, you are the giver of good gifts. Even on the days I can’t see any good, I can still see you. I always have my Father in heaven, unchanging, sending down blessings like rays of light.

January 5

ASK ANYTHING

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we

ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know

that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have

what we asked of him.

1 JOHN 5:14-15 NIV

Think of a time you wanted something, maybe from a parent or your boss, but you were afraid to ask. Why were you afraid? Perhaps you feared you didn’t deserve it. Or possibly, you wanted it, but you also knew it wasn’t necessarily good for you. Whether you’re an adult asking for a day off work or a teenager asking for permission to stretch a curfew, it can be difficult to ask boldly for what you want, especially if you’re not entirely certain you should have it.

Take heart in these words from 1 John, and know that when you place your relationship with God as your top priority, you can ask him for anything. Anything! When we most desire to be in his will, he gladly grants our other requests.

God, you are my deepest desire. Knowing I can come to you with my needs, my dreams, and my unspoken longings brings comfort to my soul. Boldly, I lay my requests at your feet. I know the answer will be just what I need.

January 6

CRY LIKE A BABY

As one whom his mother comforts,

so I will comfort you;

you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.

You shall see, and your heart shall rejoice.

ISAIAH 66:13-14 ESV

Few images are more peaceful than that of a mother sweetly comforting her child. Imagine the tenderness of her embrace and the gentleness of her voice. This is the picture God gave Isaiah to explain how he comforts us when we let him. So let him. Give up the struggle, and let him.

It’s okay to cry like a baby. It’s okay to just close your eyes and snuggle into his arms. He wants you there! Listen to the sound of his voice; listen to how much he loves you. Fall in with his gentle sway, and let him fill you with his joy.

Father, I need you. I need you to hold me and love me and tell me everything’s going to be okay. Help me settle into your embrace, to stop struggling. Whisper in my ear, “I’ve got you, dear one. I’ve got you.”

January 7

A SAFE PLACE

My God is my rock.

I can run to him for safety.

He is my shield and my saving strength,

my defender and my place of safety.

The LORD saves me from those who want to harm me.

2 SAMUEL 22:3 NCV

In some seasons of life, the attacks seem to come from all sides. Just as we find shelter from the arrows in the east, the spears arrive from the north. When the Old Testament was written, these battles were literal: the arrows were actual arrows.

Today, the arrows look more like bank statements, work pressures, and ailing parents, but our source of refuge is the very same. God is your safe place. When you run to him, he is always there; he will defend, protect, and deliver you from whatever you face. His deliverance may not look like you imagine, but if you trust him, it will come.

My God, you are my rock. You are my safety, my best defense, and my only salvation. I stand on your promise, I rest in your love, and I wait for your deliverance.

January 8

WONDERFUL COUNSELOR

You make known to me the path of life;

in your presence there is fullness of joy;

at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

PSALM 16:11 ESV

In high school, we wonder what to do with our lives—what college to attend, what area of study to pursue, and even which of our friendships are building us up. The guidance counselor is just down the hall. The door is usually open and advice is wisely dispensed. We leave feeling lighter, more certain about our next move. The process is pretty simple.

Jesus gives us the Holy Spirit, a wonderful counselor. When we take our questions to him, he not only shines the light on our next steps, he does something more: he fills us with joy. When the Lord guides the way, we move confidently, joyfully, from one place of promise to the next.

Holy Spirit, be my guide. I choose to walk with you; I trust the path you have for me to travel, and I eagerly await the fullness of your joy.

January 9

LIFETIME GUARANTEE

I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see

the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living.

Wait for the LORD;

Be strong and let your heart take courage;

Yes, wait for the LORD.

PSALM 27:13-14 NASB

Would you give your heart to someone you knew would break it, or accept a job you knew you’d be fired from? Probably not. Faced with a grave illness, you wouldn’t undergo a treatment that was certain to fail. It’s hope that invites us to commit. We aren’t guaranteed an unbroken heart, a 40-year career, or a full recovery, but because it’s possible, we move forward.

There is one promise, one guarantee we can hang our very lives on. God is good. He wants good for us, and if we hope in him, we will have it. Grab onto this promise. Believe it, and wait for him to fulfill it.

Lord, I believe you. I place my hope in you, and I will wait—all my life—for you. Your promises are true, your word is my courage, and your love is my strength.

January 10

TWIRLING WITH JOY

You changed my sorrow into dancing.

You took away my clothes of sadness,

and clothed me in happiness.

I will sing to you and not be silent.

LORD, my God, I will praise you forever.

PSALM 30:11-12 NCV

Abandoned, abused single mother finds true love, purpose, and healing. That’s a movie most of us would watch. Who doesn’t love a good restoration story? When God heals broken places and redeems lost situations, our hearts swell with possibility. If he can restore her life, he can surely come in and fix mine.

It’s true. The mourners will dance, clothed in happiness. Voices silenced by sadness will sing loudest songs of praise. And you, regardless of what you face today, will be there. Twirling with joy, singing your heart out, you will be there.

Lord, like a dancer spinning with grace, you turn things around. You restore what is broken and redeem what is lost. I praise you for your goodness. Hear my voice, delight in my dance—it is all for you.

January 11

TRULY AWESOME

By the word of the LORD the heavens were made,

their starry host by the breath of his mouth.

He gathers the waters of the sea into jars;

he puts the deep into storehouses.

PSALM 33:6-7 NIV

“These cookies are awesome!”

“Wow, you look awesome today!”

The word awesome has slipped into American speech so thoroughly, we may have lost sight of its true meaning. The cookies, though delicious, probably don’t inspire overwhelming reverence. Your friend looks gorgeous, but you’re not truly taken aback, knocked to your knees.

Only God does that. Reread the Scripture above out loud, lingering over its meaning. Ponder all he has done and will do. This is God; this is your Father! He can hold an ocean in his hand, and yet he knows every hair on your head. He lovingly anticipates every move you make. He delights in you, and that is truly awesome.

Lord God, I am in awe of you. When I consider the universe, formed by your breath, and the oceans as merely jars in your storehouse, I can barely contain my amazement. And the fact that you love me—in all my imperfection—is more than I can fathom. Truly, you alone are worthy of my praise.

January 12

ONLY FOR YOU

No king is saved by the multitude of an army;

A mighty man is not delivered by great strength.

A horse is a vain hope for safety;

Neither shall it deliver any by its great strength.

Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him,

On those who hope in His mercy.

PSALM 33:16-18 NKJV

Some of the most beautiful voices will never be heard on the radio. Many truly brilliant athletes will never compete at the highest level, and countless gifted business people will launch companies that fail. Giftedness, preparation, and resources are no guarantee of our plans succeeding. And when they don’t, we can’t help but ask, “God, you made me great at this, so where is my success?”

The people behind us, our abilities, and our resources aren’t the key. Only God decides if, when, and how we succeed, and it may not look a thing like we imagined. When things that “should” work out, don’t work out, it’s time to shift our perspective—to his. Maybe your voice is meant just for him, or to be a blessing and comfort to someone close to you. Your athletic ability may be leading you to coaching. Success and its measure are decided by God alone.

God, I thank you for the gifts you have given me, and I surrender them to you. I will measure my success not in worldly terms, but by the pleasure I feel from you. I will run, sing, dance, and dream only for you.

January 13

COME, AND BE HEALED

For with you is the fountain of life;

in your light we see light.

PSALM 36:9 NRSV

When you’re thirsty, do you run to the desert or the fountain? Stumbling in the darkness, do you fumble for the light, or squeeze your eyes shut? In need of comfort, we seek out relief. In need of illumination, we seek the light.

God is both; he is all. He is the fountain for our thirst, the light for our path. The Lord satisfies our hunger, answers our questions, and heals our hurts. All we have to do, the one necessary thing, is to come to him. He can only quench us if we drink of him. In order to see light, we must enter it. Open your mouth; drink deeply. Open your eyes and see. Come into his presence and be healed.

Father, I’ve been wandering in this desert for so long, my eyes squeezed tightly against the blowing, drifting sands. Draw me into your presence! I lay my needs, my questions, and my doubts at your feet. Eyes wide open, I bathe in your light.

January 14

ALL COMFORT

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is

our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts

us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When

they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same

comfort God has given us. For the more we suffer for Christ,

the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ.

2 CORINTHIANS 1:3-5 NLT

There are many things in this world we tend to look to for comfort. Sometimes it might be food, a hot shower, an air-conditioned room, family, friends, television, a good book…the list is endless.

The Word of God says our merciful Father is the source of all comfort. His promise is to comfort us in all of our troubles. How often do we look elsewhere for comfort when our true comforter is the one who created us and knows our every need?

Oh Father, I pray that today I would look to you to be my source of all comfort. I pray you would teach me to receive my comfort from you and in turn be a comfort to others.

January 15

BEYOND YOUR SIGHT

From the end of the earth I call to you

when my heart is faint.

Lead me to the rock

that is higher than I.

PSALM 61:2 ESV

Have you ever wandered through a maze? Even though you may be good at solving mazes on paper, moving through shrubbery or stalks of corn at ground level, you are bound to run into a dead end or two. If only there were a place to climb up high, and see the way through. So what can you do? Call for help; follow the voice of someone who can see more than you.

When life feels like a maze, and you’re faint from the exhaustion of running into walls, call out to God. Follow the sound of his voice to the next turn. Allow his hand to lift you up—beyond your own sight—and show you the way through. He is there, listening, waiting to guide you through.

Lord, how wonderful it is to know that when I am lost, I can call to you. Your voice will be my beacon and your hand will lift me up. You show me what otherwise can’t be seen, and for this I thank you and praise you.

January 16

I WANT TO YEARN

O God, you are my God; I seek you,

my soul thirsts for you;

my flesh faints for you,

as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.

PSALM 63:1 NRSV

What is your deepest, truest desire? Is there something—or someone—you’d wander through the desert for? Few of us can honestly say we yearn for God with the marrow-deep longing of King David, but don’t let this verse shame you into believing you are not “spiritual enough.” More likely, we don’t share the desperation simply because we’ve never enjoyed the same intimacy the “man after God’s own heart” had with him.

Rather than feeling guilty for not equaling David’s passion, let us see this verse as an invitation, as a glimpse into the depth of relationship that’s possible with our Father. Just imagine the communion and the pure joy that inspired such a desperate cry for his presence. Ask him for a taste.

Lord, I know that the longings of my heart can never compare to the glory of knowing you intimately. I want to want you like King David, Father! Take away my earthly yearnings, and fill me with desire for only you.

January 17

BETTER THAN LIFE

Your unfailing love is better than life itself;

how I praise you!

PSALM 63:3 NLT

We’ve all heard about the dessert, or the necklace, or the dress that was “to die for.” What is meant, of course, is delicious, beautiful, a perfect fit. As brownies, baubles, and body-flattering clothes go, they are the pinnacle. Clearly, a girl’s not about to throw herself in front of a moving train to get her hands on the perfect little black dress. Only one thing is truly better than life, and that’s life with the Maker.

Do we believe this? Can we believe it this side of heaven? It’s easier on the days when life’s not so great, but even when things are going our way, even when life couldn’t be better, how great is God’s promise that what awaits us is so much better than anything we can ask or imagine here on earth! His love never fails, and nothing compares. Regardless of the season we are in or the day we are having, let’s acknowledge this beautiful truth from his Word.

Lord, nothing compares to your love. On my worst day, I find comfort in your promise. On my best, I marvel at the knowledge that so much more awaits me in heaven. You are bigger than life, you are better than life, and you are the love of my life. How I praise you. Oh, how I love you.

January 18

MAKE MY DAY

Fill us with your love every morning.

Then we will sing and rejoice all our lives.

PSALM 90:14 NCV

Seek him first. Why is this such a recurring suggestion, both in the Bible and among followers of Christ? If you regularly begin your days with the Lord, you already know what a day-maker he is. If you haven’t settled into the practice, start tomorrow. See how his loving presence affects your days.

Before the day has a chance to disappoint you, before the enemy finds a way to distract you, seek him first. Invite him into every waking moment. Sense him in your interactions and your transactions. Notice the tenderness with which he sees the people you encounter. Invite him to contribute to your decisions. Observe how he consistently places you on the path of love. Allow him to carry your burdens, and see if a joyful song doesn’t swell inside you. Allow it to overtake your heart.

Jesus, I invite you to make my day. Let my words, my thoughts, and my actions be yours. Replace my irritations and frustrations with your patience and compassion. Fill me with your love, that all I do may reflect it onto others. Fill my heart with your song, that I may sing it over all who can hear.

January 19

HIS

Know that the LORD is God.

It is he who made us, and we are his;

we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

PSALM 100:3 NIV

Slow down. Let’s go through this together, line by line. Know that the Lord is God. “I do,” we say. But do we live like it? He is God. Sovereign, perfect, Lord of All. What would our day look like if we kept this at the front of our awareness? How light would our burdens become if we knew it was he who carries them?

It is he who made us, and we are his. Again, we say we know this, but again, do we live like it is true? We are his. How often, how very often, we behave as though we belong only to ourselves! We hear him say “This way, my love,” as we continue to race down our own path. All the while, we wonder why life is so hard. How much easier would the journey be if we turned around and followed him?

Father, I acknowledge you today as Lord. I lay down the struggle and surrender my burdens to you. I turn from the path of my own choosing and run joyfully into your pasture. I am wholly yours. Thank you for lighting my path. Thank you for welcoming me home.

January 20

LAID LOW

My soul clings to the dust;

Revive me according to your word.

PSALM 119:25 NKJV

How does this Scripture sit with you? Your reaction says much about the condition of your spirit. If you felt sympathy and compassion for the psalmist, even if times are tough, you are still strong enough to recognize greater despair than your own. Things are better for you than perhaps you realize.

If these words pierced your soul and felt like a cry from your own heart, you, dear one, are laid low. As your soul clings to the dust, take care not to let the ground claim you. Reach up for the hand of God. Hang on to the many wonderful promises in his Word. He will revive you. He will sustain you. He has beautiful plans for you, even now. Believe it, and feel your spirit rise.

Dear Lord, from the dust, laid low and clinging to none but the tiniest specks of hope, I call on you and you respond. You lift me up, and heal my body. You speak your truth, and revive my soul. Thank you, Father, for your life-giving Word.

January 21

YOUR WAYS

Keep me from looking at worthless things.

Let me live by your word.

PSALM 119:37 NCV

Think of a food you enjoyed as a child that you no longer find palatable, or a childhood game so simple you can scarcely believe how many hours you once whiled away, enthralled. Where before we couldn’t even taste extra sugar, our faces now contort from the unnecessary sweetness. Tic-Tac-Toe is only fun if you go first, and even then only for a round or two. With maturity comes discernment.

Examine your current life through God’s eyes. Are there things clamoring for your attention that, when held up to the lens of eternity with the Father, lose their luster? Might some of the discontentment we feel in our daily lives be eliminated simply by losing our taste for things that don’t matter anyway?

Lord, I pray these words over my life: turn my eyes from looking at worthless things! I want to follow your gaze and see what you see. I know yours is the way of life, and it’s life—real life—that I crave.

January 22

IN A SEASON OF SUFFERING

My comfort in my suffering is this:

Your promise preserves my life.

PSALM 119:50 NIV

It isn’t easy in the valley. In a season of suffering, our feet are heavy, the path rocky and rough. To place one foot in front of the other, to take another step forward, requires all our focus. It leaves little room for anything else. Cling to these five words as you go.

Left. Your promise preserves my life. Right. Your promise preserves my life. Left. Your promise preserves my life…

Lord, I’m in the valley. It’s deep, dark, and low. My feet feel leaden, my soul dry. I can’t see you, yet I know you are there. I suffer, but your promise is my comfort. It sustains my life. And today, that is enough.

January 23

THE GIFT IN THE STRUGGLE

My suffering was good for me,

for it taught me to pay attention to your decrees.

PSALM 119:71 NLT

In the midst of a struggle, passages like this may seem unbelievable, their sentiments unattainable. How could I ever see this situation as good? That’s great for the psalmist, but I don’t see myself ever being glad for this affliction.

Another way to take in these words is as encouragement. King David suffered. While writing these psalms, he experienced mortal peril, extreme discipline for his wrong choices, and the complete humbling of his heart. If he could pen these words, perhaps our situation, though currently so heavy, will one day reveal itself as a blessing too.

Lord God, I won’t pretend to enjoy my suffering. You’d see right through my empty words, anyway. I’m not strong enough to thank you for painful lessons while in the midst of them, but I do know that you love me, and that you intend only good for me. I cling to this truth and look forward to the day I see the gift in this struggle.

January 24

THE PATH TO PEACE

Great peace have those who love Your law,

And nothing causes them to stumble.

PSALM 119:165 NKJV

If there were a simple formula for perfect peace, would you follow it? According to this Scripture, there is. Peace belongs to those who love the law of the Lord. How can that be? Isn’t rule-following nit-picky and exhausting?

Yes, rule-following is exhausting, but mercifully, it is not the same thing as loving the law. To love God’s law is to trust his will for our lives, and to desire to please him above all else. When this is the focus of our hearts, we needn’t keep a list or check up on ourselves. He will keep our hearts in line with his—therefore, we can be certain our steps are sure.

Lord, as I desire more and more to walk in step with you, I am learning to trust your will. Help me to see your law as a path to peace, and keep me from stumbling as I go.

January 25

GET WISE

The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom,

and whatever else you get, get insight.

PROVERBS 4:7 NRSV

Sign here. Circle your answer. Stop. In a world that can be hard to navigate, isn’t it great when instructions are clear? The Word of God contains its fair share of poetry and symbolism, but sometimes the message requires no interpretation whatsoever. These are the things the Father wants to be sure we all understand. As a million things clamor for our attention, the ones that matter most are the ones he makes the clearest.

Look at the passage above. If you want to be wise, the first thing to understand is this: you want to be wise! Getting wisdom is a big deal; in fact, it’s the key to everything. As you move through your day today, whatever tough choices you face, take comfort in knowing that when it really matters, you’ll know.

Father God, open my eyes to opportunities to grow in wisdom today; the world is confusing, but your way is clear. Thank you for making the things I most need to know so easy to understand.

January 26

ROCK SOLID

The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and

beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its

foundation on the rock.

MATTHEW 7:25 NIV

A storm has become a consistent metaphor for a difficult situation, and considering the passage above, it’s easy to see why. Issues pour down upon us, calamities rise up around us, and problems beat up against us—sometimes all at once. Such times are often when we learn how solid our own foundation is. If we are relying on our own strength, or even other people, for our stability, we may find ourselves flattened when the clouds recede.

A life structured on faith in God, built upon his Word, and assembled with his truth is solid, able to withstand even the strongest of storms. We may find ourselves rattled, with a few shattered windows or even a hole in the roof, but we are standing. With Christ as our foundation, strong and certain, we remain upright.

Lord Jesus, I build my house upon you. Your Word, your sacrifice, and your grace are the pillars of my life. Because this is true, I know that no matter what I face, I will not fall. I claim and believe this truth today, Jesus, in your name.

January 27

THE ME YOU SEE

Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you

have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her.

LUKE 1:38 NLT

At first reading, or even after many readings of the above passage, we are impressed by Mary’s obedience. Faced with the extraordinary command to bear God’s Son—as an unwed teenager—she agrees without hesitation. Upon closer inspection, however, something else stands out: her hope. “May everything you have said about me come true.”