When Your Feet Stick To The Floor

 




by Shelia Gaines

Verse for Thought:
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. I Peter 3:15 (NIV)

a.      Everyday
b.      Once a week
c.      When your feet stick to the floor

These were the three choices to answer the question.  The question was “how often do you mop the kitchen floor?”  It was on a survey designed to reveal your housekeeping style.  I won’t tell you what my answer was or why I was interested in this survey.  However, I thought it a good example to use in considering how we maintain our walk with the Lord.

If we only read the bible when our spiritual feet symbolically stick to the floor (i.e. when things are not going well and we can no longer ignore the problem) then we end up with a very messy Christian walk.  In order to maintain our walk, we must keep our heart set apart, making sure we are always prepared as 1 Peter 3:15 admonishes us to be.  This means getting and keeping our house (our spiritual temple) in order.  We have all heard people say, “Cleanliness is next to godliness.”  This statement is not in the bible as some believe, although the command in I Corinthians 14:40 to let everything be done decent and in order may be close.

Let’s Pray:
Dear God, thank you for the opportunity to come to you for daily.  Show me how to be continually open to receive your word, always willing to allow you to create in me a clean heart.

Take the Next Step:
If you are not sure where you are today in maintaining a “clean” walk, it’s not too late to begin.  Why not let today be the first day of your daily walks with God?

Finding Gods Guidance

 





by Belinda Blevins

Verse for Thought:
And make straight paths for your feet.  Hebrew 12: 13 NKJV


Vacation time is here and lots of us are making plans.  Remember, something as simple as this needs clear direction. We want to know what Gods will for our family is. No matter what we seek God for, he will not lead us wrong. God wants to give us clear directions and we need to listen to his voice.  How can you know that you are making the right decision when you are seeking Gods will?

There are road blocks and obstacles that hinder our way about situations. To receive the Lords clear path we must know that our desires are secondary to what he wants for us. We must exercise patience and be still. Sometimes when we rush, we miss Gods will.  Psalm 23:3 tells us that he leads us in the path of righteousness for his name’s sake. The wrong path leads to destruction. I confess I have at times felt probably like some of you. There is an urgency to hurry because time is running out.  So, I just head out.

Then I think, did I pray? As I pray, God will gradually weed all confusion out of my thoughts until I come to his conclusion. The word of God has all the answers for every need and the Holy Spirit will guide us in the right direction keeping us on a clear path, guiding us as we go.

So the next time I am faced with a choice, all I need to do is wait, don’t let the urgency keep me from enjoying where I am going. Full satisfaction is the path with God. There is protection on this path. Knowing that I am following his will, I can have peace guarding me as I go.

Let’s Pray:
Thank you, Lord for leading us this day. As we seek your will before we make choices on our journey, thank you for patience to wait on you. Help us to search your word for clear and concise direction.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.

Take the next step:
When you are faced with a critical choice, Seek God first, you will not go wrong!

Directionally Challenged

by Shelia Gaines

Verses for Thought:
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.  Psalms 32:8.
You shall walk after the Lord your God and fear him, and keep his commandments and obey his voice; and you shall serve him and hold fast to him.  Deut. 13:4

Go .2 miles and turn right.  Recalculating.  Make a legal u-turn when possible.  Go .1 mile and turn right.  Destination is on your right.

All these phrases are easily recognizable as phrases from a GPS system.  GPS is supposed to work in any weather condition, anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day.  However, there are times when you will occasionally hear the words “GPS signal unavailable”.  When I hear available anywhere, anytime without fail, I immediately think of is the omnipresence of God.   Unlike the GPS, He is always available because He will never leave us or forsake us.   God has assured us of that in his word.

As a directionally challenged person, I can appreciate the value of a GPS system.  Directionally challenged is a “kind” phrase for someone who does not have a good sense of direction or gets lost easily and often.  The hard thing to explain about being directionally challenged is the fact that you don’t have to be in an unfamiliar place to get lost and you often go in the same wrong direction each time.  It’s easy for someone who has a good sense of direction to become irritated with someone who is directionally challenged.

Because I have the vivid imagination of a writer, I imagine what we must look like to God as we travel this road often referred to as our spiritual journey.  I think what a sad state we would be in if he just became irritated and gave up on us when we get lost along the way.  On the other hand, I confess to being guilty of looking at someone who seems to make the same mistake repeatedly and wondering why it’s so hard for them to see they are on the wrong path.   Yet, in my own spiritual walk, there are still times when I take a path of my choosing, wandering aimlessly instead of turning to God and asking him which way to go.

Today’s verses for thought remind us that God has left us the ultimate GPS for Spiritual direction (his word).   We don’t need a subscription, it’s free.  We will never hear service unavailable and our destination has already been programmed in.   We don’t have to worry about life’s little traffic jams, side roads and u-turns.   All we have to do is read and study his directions and stay on the right path.  While he has not promised us an easy journey, he does assure us that if we do that we will arrive safely at our destination.

Let's Pray:
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the ultimate GPS System of you word.  Help us to remember that we need only to follow your direction and guidance in this journey of life.  Let me not be afraid to make a u turn when necessary or take a different path altogether, if necessary.  I know that as long as you are leading me, I will not be lost.  I know the path you choose may not always be the easiest one, but it is the best one for me because you know what’s down the road.

Take The Next Step:
Try beginning each day with a virtual GPS agenda.  Spend a few minutes in prayer and meditation and try to discern which direction God is leading you that day.  Ask God to show you a scripture that you can take with you throughout the day.  Paraphrase that verse or scripture in your own GPS language and write it down for future reference.

Proverbs 4:26-27  (NIV)

26 Give careful thought to the paths for your feet
and be steadfast in all your ways. 

27 Do not turn to the right or the left; 

keep your foot from evil.

My GPS for today.
Pray first and seek God’s direction.
Stay focused.  Do not exit.
Go as many miles as God directs staying behind him all the way.

The Stars are Still There

by Stephanie Gaines

Verse for Thought:
So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.  2 Corinthians 4:16-18.

I’ve always been one to enjoy a simple night under the stars. The beauty of a vast universe created by an awesome God never ceases to amaze me. Whenever I have a stressful day, there’s nothing more calming than looking up at the stars. I remember a particularly long day when I went outside to de-stress, but the sky was cloudy and I couldn’t see any of the stars. In my mind, my horrible day ended on a depressing note! I was telling a close friend about this and he said to me “Even though you can’t see the stars they’re still there.” This statement rings true in our walk with God. There have been plenty of times that I’ve failed to see God, but he was still there.

There are days and even weeks when I feel God is nowhere in sight. Recently I’ve been trying to transition into the “real world.” It’s really not that much fun at all. Especially since trying to maintain a relationship with God at the same time can be stressful and confusing. I may not have to deal with “grown up” issues like mortgage, light bills, full time careers, or kids driving me crazy; but the stress of trying to figure out the next step in life while barely, and I do mean barely, managing to pay the rent every month has made me lose sight of where God is in all of the mix. Time and time again I want to just give up because I don’t see the point of it all.

My stress level seems to cloud my vision. I don’t tend to see how God will bring me out of all this mess, and when he does I feel that the only lesson I’ll learn is financial struggles aren’t fun. Still, in the back of my mind I have to keep reminding myself that there will be better days and more blessings to come.  And no matter how cloudy my starry night is, the stars and God are still there.

Let's Pray:
Dear God, I pray that you continue to give me strength through all the hard times in life. I know I may doubt you and continually question where you are and what your plan is for my life.   However, in the end I know you’re still there watching over my life. Help me to continue to trust in you even when my life doesn’t make sense. Wrap your loving arms around me and continue to show me your grace and mercy. Amen.

Take the Next Step:
Take some time to truly take in the glory of God. We get so wrapped up in the business and drama of life that we tend to forget that God is there. Find a quiet place where it’s just you and God without any distractions. Tell him your fears, stress, hopes, and dreams. Then let him speak to you. Sometimes we think God’s not there because we won’t take the time to listen.

Practicing Without a License

by Shelia Gaines


Verse for Thought:    Study to show yourself approved to God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.  2 Timothy 2:15 (AKJV)

Not many people take a driver’s test without reading or at least consulting the manual put out by the state in which they plan to drive.  Most people read the instructions before putting together a piece of furniture or trying a new recipe.  Recipes are basically written directions to prepare certain foods a certain way.  Even if they are handed down from generation to generation instead of written down, they are still specific instructions.  If you follow the instructions, the recipe should turn out right.  If it doesn’t, you can usually go back to the recipe and figure out where you went wrong.   Instructions not only help you complete a task correctly, but can also show you how to go back and correct a mistake.  However, the main purpose of instructions and directions is to prevent a mistake from happening in the first place.

Some people joke “when all else fails, read the instructions.”  This is a subtle way of saying that we often make things harder than they have to be by ignoring instructions.  The Bible has often been referred to as Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.   In all thy ways acknowledge him suggest that in our Christian walk, we need to consult the instructions that God has left us.    

Ask yourself these questions.  Are you attempting to live Christ-like without Christ?  Are you trying to introduce a lost world to someone you don’t really know?  Is your Christian walk ordered by the word of God or orchestrated by your own agenda?  If you are not reading and studying God’s word on a regular basis, are you practicing Christianity without a license?

Let’s Pray:
Father, teach me to consult your instructions (your word) everyday and not just when I feel like I’m in the middle of a difficult situation or a test.  Help me to turn to you first instead of when everything or everyone else fails.  Thank you for always being there.  Amen

Take the next step:
Make a habit of starting each day with a word from the Lord.  If you are not in the habit of reading the bible, start with a few verses at a time. Spend time in prayer asking for deeper understanding of what you have read and reflect on how you can apply it to your daily walk.

Choosing the Right Words on Our Walk

by Belinda Blevins

Verse for thought:
We speak of these things in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit. 1 Corinthians 2: 13 (NRSV)

Sometimes we face trials in our lives or the lives of others we know, and find ourselves wondering what to say or do. At times like these the Bible is the only source that will guide us.
When we are familiar with the Bible, we can quickly find words that will help and inspire us. It will lead us to the right path and a course of action.

"Sticks and stone may break your bones, but words will never harm you.”  This is a saying that I have heard many times in my life.  I believe that is so unfair because words are harmful and once you say them, the damage is already done.  I know from experience that words spoken in anger can affect you in many ways. As you go about your walk, you remember what was said to you.  Especially if it leaves you hurting and thinking that maybe what was said is true. That is why we must realize words are powerful and can tear down or build up.

Choosing the right words are important. We want to speak those things that would be pleasing to God. Sometimes it is ok not speak unless you are speaking words of affirmation and love.  Words that convey encouragement to those we speak and not hindrance.

Today, there are so many living up to what someone said they would be.  Even though it was negative, they believed every word spoken.  Therefore they have no hope, joy are peace in their life. What if someone had instead told them that the main thing that matters is what God says about them and shared Bible Scriptures that bring healing and guidance daily?

Let’s Pray:
Father God, please help us to replace negative words with positive ones that you have been spoken. Father it is your words that bring joy, health and healing.  Help us to apply it to our lives daily and share it with your people. In Jesus’ name, amen.


Take the Next Step:
Don’t let the enemy steal you joy when others say untrue things about you. Apply God’s word and walk in it.

Real or Counterfeits

 





by Shelia Gaines


Verse for Thought:
But he knows the way that I take, when he has tested me, I will come forth as pure gold.  Job 23:10


Cubic zirconium is not a real diamond, but a cheaper imitation.  It looks like a diamond if you don’t look too close.  You might say it is a counterfeit diamond.  It can still be a beautiful piece of jewelry with the look and feel of a diamond without the price.  “The whole reason there is a counterfeit is because there is something valuable that is real.” This is quote from A Call to Business, a DVD on Christianity in the work place.

When you don’t live your life for Christ with integrity, you counterfeit the gospel.  You look the part and when you are around certain people, you play the part, but you are faking it.  When it’s time for you to be “tried in the fire” as every diamond must be, you cannot stand the heat.

Gold plated is not the same as real gold.  It is covered in gold, but it will fade.  I have “gold” colored ear rings that have lost their color and the silver underneath them now show, but my gold has lasted on my wedding rings for almost 30 years because it is real gold.

Where are you today?  Are you in a real relationship with God or a counterfeit one?  If someone rubs you the wrong way, will your religious façade rub off and the real you shine through or will they still see Jesus underneath the pain or disappointment?    Will they see the light of Jesus shining like pure gold?

Let’s Pray:
Dear Lord, help me to be real, not to please anyone else, but so that I might truly please you.  If there are areas in my life that need to be refined help me to see what they are and to walk through them by faith.

Take the next step:
If God should come to you today as a jeweler, would he find a real diamond or cubic zirconium? Why not take a moment right now and ask him what you need to do to allow him to take your “diamond in the rough”, whatever that might be and make it into something beautiful.

Darkness and Storms at Night

by Belinda Blevins

Verse for thought:
Nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus Our Lord  Romans 8:39 (NRSV)

Sometimes when it is storming and lighting and thunder is rumbling, it reminds me of my childhood.  I was really afraid during storms and my dad would always say,  “It is not going to hurt you.  It’s ok.  It’s just a storm.”   He would try to comfort me as the storm would continue.  Now, I think I know how the disciples felt when they were out on the  sea of Galilee and their boat was being tossed to and from by the waves. God is there to help us in our storms just like he was there to help them.   Only Jesus Christ can give us peace in the mist of all storms.
Calling on him and remembering the assurance in his is what gives us courage in the storms.  One thing to remember about storms is they always PASS.  Sometimes the leave destruction in their wake.  But, they do pass.  Are you going through a storm today?  Do you feel like it is so dark it will never pass, and you can’t see a way out?  Remember, This too shall Pass…The storm is almost over.

Let’s Pray:
Thank you for being a loving heavenly father who honors our commitment to walk according to your will even in the storm.  Let us remember that you are there for us as go through each day. Thank you for each step we take in the storm.  Thank you for holding our hand, for being our peace, and for giving us joy as we go. Father help us to carry everything to you in prayer believing you are the only peace in the storm.  When we are afraid, help us to trust you in the mist of the storm and not be distracted by in.  In Jesus name.  AMEN

Take the next step:
Why not stretch your faith today by offering a prayer for someone who is in a storm and needs to be encouraged.  Maybe it is someone who  just needs a sounding board, someone who has lost a loved one, or someone in the hospital.   Let the Holy Spirit use you today to help someone.  GOD BLESS YOU!!

Mountaintop Experience

by Shelia Gaines

Verse for Thought:
He replied, Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. Matthew 17:20 (NIV)

Last fall, my husband and I went to Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains and the third highest peak east of the Mississippi.   There is an observation tower at the top that provides a spectacular 360 degree panoramic view of  the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Simply breathtaking! It made the trip up there worth it, but as the old saying goes; the trip up there is not for the faint of heart.  Although it is a beautiful drive up the mountain, you can only get to the trail that leads to the tower by car.  The rest of the trip is a half mile hike.  Straight up the mountain!  There are benches available for resting along the way and signs advising you to take advantage of them should you become tired or faint. We met a lady who had had knee surgeries and made it as far as the bottom of the observation tower but did not go the rest of the way up the ramp to the top of the tower.   While I sympathize with her condition, it saddens me that she came that far and missed out on the whole point of the trip.  As someone pointed out, the long walk up the winding ramp was nothing compared to the half mile hike to that point.

How many times have you gotten so close to a goal only to fall short at the very end?  What are you doing about that?  Are you trying to have a mountaintop experience without climbing the mountain?   As we walked back down to our car from the tower, we overheard someone tell his friend that it was a good thing he wasn’t told of the half mile hike it would take to get up to the top.  He would have said no and missed out on an opportunity to “see God.”   The reward was definitely worth every bit of the effort.

Let’s pray:
Lord, when there are mountains in my life, please give me strength to climb them, but keep me mindful of my own times I spent in the valley.  Let me consider others who struggle in the climb.  Let me lift them up in prayer and not judge them.  Amen

Take the next step:
Instead of asking God to remove every difficult situation from your life, why not ask him to show you where he is in the situation, what you need to learn from it, and how he wants you to overcome it.  Why not make a list of your ‘mountains” and cross them off the list as you allow God to help you overcome each one?

The Eleventh Hour Is Not Too Late

by Guest devotion writer, Dorothy Ware


Verses for Thought:
Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.  Psalm 37:5

For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.  Ps 30:5


                   He might not come when you want Him but He is always on time.
                                                   

As I reflect on the early years of my marriage, I think about the fact that neither my husband nor I were saved.  In fact, my husband, who later became an avid Muslim, was really responsible for me excepting the Lord into my life. Once I accepted the Lord in my life, “old things passed away and behold all things became new” (2 Cor. 5:17).  I was never the same, salvation made a difference in my life.
Even though my husband was not doing the same things he did before becoming a Muslim, he was still not saved and I knew he needed to meet Jesus. So my mission began. I prayed as the bible tells us to do, praying without ceasing.

In March of 2000 my husband was stricken with kidney cancer but he still maintained his Muslim faith.  Every day I would pray with my husband and have him quote the scripture with me “I shall not die but live to declare the works of the Lord.  It seemed as if my efforts were futile, my husband was still closing his prayer with in the name of Ali.  I felt helpless and by the time October rolled around was ready to throw in the towel and not witness to him any more.

On October 16th, early in that morning I got up, determined not to witness to my husband anymore, but God had his own personal plan for my husband.  He wanted me to ask my husband once again, “Honey do you believe in Jesus”, my husband answered “YES I DO”, and from there, needless to say, and thank God, that on October 16th, 2000, about 5:00 am that morning, the Lord had me to lead my husband in accepting Jesus as his very own personal Lord and Savior. Hallelujah, praise the Lord.  God will give you a way to get to the heart of your love ones if you do not faint.

What am I trying to say to you?  The 11th hour is not too late. My husband passed away on October 20, 2000. Because of the prayers of the righteous, God will do what we ask of Him.   The bible declares that the effectual, fervent prayer of the righteous availeth much. James 5:17.  Thank God for His patience.

Let's Pray:
Dear God, we love you and adore you.  We thank you Father for you are true to your word.  Your word declares in Psalms 8:4 “What is man, that thou art mindful of him and the son of man that thou visitest him? Thank you for your love for us and your longsuffering, waiting patiently for us to line up with your word. I pray for my brothers and sisters who still have loved ones who are not save but they are constantly in prayer for their salvation.  Bless those loved ones heart to be turned to you and put a yes to your will in their heart.   Thank you Father for allowing us to have an open door to communicate with you, we count it a privilege and an honor.

Take the Next Step:
The next step is always the first step.  Never stop trusting God.  After 28 years of praying and staying before the Lord I almost gave up.  Giving up is never an option, we must always trust the Lord and the power of His might.  The 11th hour is never too late for God to save our loved ones. God’s word is a sure foundation and it tells us to “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not to thine own understanding”.  Proverbs 3:5 and   Psalms 34:5, Delight thyself also in the Lord: and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

Where's Your Resting Place?

by Stephanie Gaines

Verse for Thought:   Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matt. 11:28 (NIV)

We all have those days where we’re counting down the hours until we can sit down and relax.  For me, I think, I’m going to go home, turn on some music, turn off the lights and my phone, and curl up in my bed.  Others may curl up with a good book while others draw themselves a nice, hot bath to rest.  About a month ago, I was dealing with a lot of stress spiritually and emotionally and this scripture came to my mind. I was thinking to myself, I’ve been trying to rest but I still don’t feel quite rested.  Right after I said that I heard a distinct voice respond with, “Because you won’t come to me to rest.”  Ouch.

Sometimes, we get that way.  Life is getting hectic and stressful so we decide to have time to ourselves.  We shut out the world to finally get some peace, but sometimes we shut out God in the process.  So I ask you. Where is your spiritual resting place?

Let’s Pray:
Dear God, please help me to stay mindful of your presence during the weary times in my life. Help me to look to you to find rest and peace.  Comfort me with your embrace and give me the strength to continue on.

Take the Next Step:
Whenever you feel like you just need a break, try to intentionally find rest in God’s arms. Go to that secret place where you can tell God how weary you are.  Let him know that you want to be comforted and reassured.  If this is a normal instinct for you in weary times; be sure to encourage fellow Christians.  It’s comforting to know that there are others out there finding comfort, peace, and rest.

The Stuff That Drives Me Crazy

by Shelia Gaines

Verse For Thought:
Also regard not your stuff; for the good of all the land of Egypt is yours. Genesis 45:20 (KJV)

I lost my key in the great unknown and call me please ‘cuz I can’t find my phone. This is the stuff that drives me crazy. This is the stuff that’s getting to me lately. In the middle of my little mess, I forget how big I’m blessed.

These words are from the song, This is the Stuff, by Francesca Battistelli. The message of the song conveys some of the feelings that we have when we allow ourselves to become overwhelmed by the “stuff” of life.

While reading the bible many years ago, I was so surprised to come across the word "stuff". I don’t know why it seemed to so odd to me to see it there, but it was. However, the more I thought about it, the more I understood how often we become obsessed with our stuff. The bible clearly tells in in Matthew 6:33 that our focus should be on the kingdom of God and not our stuff, but more and more our focus seems to be shifting from the kingdom of God to the stuff of the world

Granted, everybody has stuff. Anyone who has a cluttered home or office knows how easy it is to accumulate a bunch of it. I believe that Ms. Battistelli’s message is not so much that there is anything wrong with having “stuff” to deal with in our lives as it is admonishing us to not allow that stuff to take our focus off of God.

Battistelli’s song continues with these lyrics

           This is the stuff that gets under my skin, but I’ve gotta trust you know exactly what you’re doing. It might not be what I would choose, but this is the stuff you use.

Let’s Pray:
Dear Lord, help me to get rid of unnecessary stuff and organize the rest of my stuff. Show me how to trust that you know exactly what you are doing even when the stuff you use to get my attention is not always pleasant for me. If I have allowed any stuff in my life to take priority over you, please reveal it to me, forgive me, and continue to lead me. Amen.

Take the Next Step:
Take a few minutes to take inventory of your stuff. Is there anything driving you crazy that could actually draw you closer to God? Instead of always complaining about stuff, find out where God is in the middle of your little mess and remember the words to this song. Why not listen to it now and don’t forget how big you are blessed.

In His Presence

by Guest Devotion Writer, Dorothy Ware


Verse for Thought:  Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. Psalms 16:11 (KJV)


Several years ago I was going through a very trying and devastating time in my life and felt as if I had no one to turn to or anyone that I could talk to who would understand my plight. I would go to bed at night and not sleep because life was just throwing me all kinds of terrible blows, I had so much on me; health issues, children with their own issues, lost relationships and money woes.  I had been fired from my job and was still dealing with the loss of my husband.  No wonder my hair was turning white. 

When I couldn’t sleep at night, I didn’t count sheep, I counted bills.  They were all due and there was no money in the pot. I struggled with what to do. I was in a mess, I was in trouble. I felt like I was sinking and would surely drown. God is always in the storm with us but sometimes He will not answer us even though He hears us.

God spoke to my spirit one night and said "If you do not release it, whatever it is, it is going to kill you.” That night I came into the presence of the Lord and released every burden and every care. I will never forget it. I was freed from that heavy burden.  I gave it to my Him acknowledging He can do anything but fail. God's presence came into my life so strong, I grabbed hold of faith like I never had before and I let God do what He does best. Take care of me!

I still had all of my bills, my children were still having their problems and my husband was not coming back. But, as I released and walked by faith God supplied above and beyond my needs in so many miraculous ways. In the mist of all I was dealing with and going through I learned how to trust in Jesus. I felt like Job, thinking "Though He slay me YET will I trust Him.” (Job 13:15). Today, I have a YET praise. Yes, He brought me out, but not until I learned to release and trust Him. There is no place greater than to be in His presence. In His presence is the fullness of joy and at His right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

Let’s Pray:
Dear God, I thank you for every opportunity to give you praise and to remember that you are the God of everything. When I am in need you are only a prayer away. Please forgive me when I limit you to be the last resource, when Father you are my only source. Remind me of your God promise in Matthew 6:33. But seek Him first and His righteousness; all of these thing shall be added unto us.

Take The Next Step:
I would encourage you to have a closer walk with the Lord.  Realize that difficult situations do not come to destroy you but to bring you closer to God. Spend more time in His word and acknowledge Him at all times.  Be careful that you do not slip back into your old pattern of trying to take matters in your own hands. Begin to do as the scripture tells you to. God will give you the strength to endure. Your ultimate next step is to "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He will direct thy path.” (Proverbs 3: 5-6 KJV)

Finding Strength in Weakness

by Belinda Blevins

Verse for Thought:
Then Samson prayed to the Lord, “Oh Sovereign Lord, remember me. Oh God, please strengthen me just once more, Judges 16:28a (NIV).

I wonder what would have happened if Samson had turned to the Lord before he found himself entangled with Delilah. I think the outcome would have been different. We are often confronted with sin daily. How do we resist temptation? Sometimes I turn to family, friends, co-workers, or spouse. Other times, I follow what I think is best for me, forgetting that my only defense is to turn to a Holy God. When I turn to him, the Holy Spirit teaches me and guides me so I will not lose hope. Personal situations distract us, causing our mind to be our own personal battlefield. We must put on the Helmet of Salvation daily for protection (Ephesians 6:17). When we go to God first, it is less painful. I know this week he was with me and I thank him.

If only Samson had called on the Lord before his flesh took over. Just remember our flesh is weak and carnal, wanting its own desires. Do you remember how your life was before you were saved? I know I felt like I was “looking for love in all the wrong places.” Remember King Solomon tried everything under the sun. He built beautiful building, bought slaves, and spent money on the finest wines and other fleshly desires. None of those things satisfied him. In the end, he realized he only needed to reach out to Jesus. Remember others are watching you. It is so important that even in weakness, we share what God is doing and has done for us on our journey. There is no compromise with God, only obedience to our ABBA. The Best is yet to come! Praise God!!

Let’s Pray:
Father God, thank you for being strength in our weakness. Thank you for allowing us to come to you for strength, help us to continue to trust you as we call on you. I pray that we find peace as we wait. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Take the Next Step:
Find someone to pray with today. If they are weak, encourage them that there is hope and strength. Share what God has done and is still doing for you. God Bless.