Category Archives: God Loves You

Promises That Will Give You Hope When You Need It Most

Having the promises of Jesus gives us hope when life is uncertain. His Words offer encouragement for today, tomorrow, and into the unknown future. #PromisesofGod #HopeinJesus #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Terrorism, politics, illness, heartbreak, loss, and pandemics…

Sometimes this broken world feels like it’s too much … too painful. Too hard.

Then I stop and remember Solomon’s words:

History merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new.

Ecclesiastes 1:9

Nothing’s new. It’s all happened before.

No, I’m not trying to totally depress you, especially when I promised you hope.

But the truth is … our hope is not in this broken world. Our hope is in Jesus – the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

Jesus stepped into a painfully dark and broken time in history. Roman dominance. Temple dissension. Hurting broken people.

Remember … there’s nothing new under the sun.

But Jesus came to give us something new. A NEW that He alone could give.

New life. Changed life. Purposeful life. Redeemed life. Abundant life. Eternal life.

History may repeat itself. But the truths and promises of the newness you and I have in Jesus are only repeated as they become new lives in people who turned to Him in faith.

And that is what gives us hope. Real, renewing, and lasting hope. Promises of hope!

It’s a hope that reminds us we can trust every promise about Jesus that was ever made. So, let’s surround ourselves with Jesus’ hope today.

Let’s lay down our fears, anger, frustration, and hopelessness as we embrace the truth of promises that are forever true. Promises that give us eternal hope no matter what is happening in the world around us.

Having these promises we can count on in this nothing new under the sun world changes everything. Because under the Son, our everything is full of hope through His grace, mercy, and love.

Having the promises of Jesus gives us hope when life is uncertain. His Words offer encouragement for today, tomorrow, and into the unknown future. #PromisesofGod #HopeinJesus #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

20 Promises of Jesus that will Give You Hope

“God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for Him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.” Matthew 5:3

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28–30

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:6

“I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” John 8:12

Then Jesus told her, “I am the Messiah!” John 4:26

Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.” John 11:25

“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.” Matthew 6:33

“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

Jesus said to the people who believed in Him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31–32

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent His Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through Him.” John 3:16–17

Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20

“I am the good shepherd. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and He is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.” John 10:11, 27–30

“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid. Remember what I told you: I am going away, but I will come back to you again.” John 14:27–28

“I will send you the Advocate—the Spirit of truth. He will come to you from the Father and will testify all about me.” John 15:26

“I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message.” John 17:20

“There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” John 14:2–3

“I am the Alpha and the Omega—the beginning and the end,” says the Lord God. “I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come—the Almighty One.” Revelation 1:8

“Don’t be afraid! I am the First and the Last.I am the living one. I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave. Revelation 1:17–18

“Look, I am coming soon, bringing my reward with me to repay all people according to their deeds.I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” Revelations 22:12–13

For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory. 2 Corinthians 1:20

Having the promises of Jesus gives us hope when life is uncertain. His Words offer encouragement for today, tomorrow, and into the unknown future. #PromisesofGod #HopeinJesus #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Praying the Promises of Hope

Father, Thank you so much for loving us so much that the moment we sinned You had a plan to save us. You Word says You love us so much that You gave Your only Son to save us … the highest price You could possibly pay. All because of love!

Thank you for Your Word! You want us to KNOW You. You want us to live each day knowing we are safe and secure in Jesus. He is the WAY of Life, He is the TRUTH we need for Life, and He is LIFE itself. He gives us the promise of eternal life and the blessing of a full and abundant life now.

Today, I come to You for rest. I bring You the junk of my life. Please forgive me for the ways I have failed to follow Your will and change me into the person You want me to be. I believe Your way is best. I want to trust and obey You in everything I do and say. I want my thoughts to be focused on Jesus, the One who is the source of my faith and the One who strengthens me and gives me all I need each day.

So, I’m pausing to thank and praise You! By Your grace, it is well with my soul. Help me live this day for Your glory. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

Friend, I’m asking God to bless you today! I’m asking Him to hold you close and surround you with the love of Jesus as He reminds you that in Him … you have everything you need. His promises are true and His mercies are new every morning. He is faithful to keep His promises of hope.

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

Pray When You Need to be Confident of God’s Goodness

The most common question about faith is "How can I believe in God's goodness when He allows suffering?" When doubts arise it's time to turn to Him in prayer. #Prayer #GodisGood #BibleStudy #Faith #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Do you trust God’s goodness?

We say God is good, but do we really believe it?

I recently shared this on social media…

After you have suffered a little while, [God] will restore, support, and strengthen you.

1 Peter 5:10

And an individual responded by saying … “a load of nonsense.”

I don’t think you or I would say it like that but if we’re honest, we have our doubts. We wonder … God will you let me suffer like this indefinitely? Are you really good?

We want to trust those words God’s goodness completely but sometimes when we’ve prayed and prayed and asked God to help and then we have what seems like an endless wait something happens. Occasionally in the wait, worry is followed by a little doubt and before we know it we’re questioning God’s goodness.

And that’s when I need to pause and ask for His help.

Because I need His Holy Spirit to give me confidence that God’s goodness is personal. I need His help to know God sees me, forgives me, provides for me, and that He has a plan and purpose for my life. I need His Spirit’s help to remind me of His perfect love when I grow impatient in the waiting.

I need the Spirit’s help to know with everything in me that . . . God is good!

Jesus said,

When the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.

John 14:26

That’s what I need … maybe you do too! That reminder of God’s promises of His love and goodness.

So, that’s where I’m going today …. to God’s promises and I’m praying them back to Him because the more turn to Him through His Word and prayer, the more confident I become that He is who He says He is.

I’d love for you to pray with me…

Pray When You Need to be Confident of God’s Goodness

The most common question about faith is "How can I believe in God's goodness when He allows suffering?" When doubts arise it's time to turn to Him in prayer. #Prayer #GodisGood #BibleStudy #Faith #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Everything God made is good. That includes you! 

God looked over all He had made, and He saw that it was very good!

Genesis 1:31

Lord, Everything You make is good. Your Word says, in the beginning, it was very good. And through Your love, You suffered and died to forgive my sins and give freedom to the goodness You created in me. It also says that because of Your goodness and love, You will give me everything I need. maybe not everything I want … but everything I need. Help me believe that, Lord. Help me trust Your promises and give me patience and peace when worry creeps in and doubts arise.

God loves you. Always and perfectly. You are His child. 

The Father has loved us so much that we are called children of God. And we really are His children.

1 John 3:1

Father, You call me your child. I was an orphan, lost and alone and You adopted me. Through Jesus, You made me part of Your family. That defines Your goodness. There is no way to sufficiently thank you.

When I am tempted to focus on my current problems, please help me focus on Your grace, mercy, and love. Help me remember what an awesome blessing it is to be called Your child. You are my Father and You are good. Help me love You with all that I am and by Your grace, help me live each day with the confidence that Your will is always for my good.

God sees and knows everything about you. 

“You are ‘God who sees me,’” because she said to herself, “Have I really seen God who sees me?”

Genesis 16:13

Father, You are the God who sees me. Thank you! Nothing is hidden from you.

Like David, I can say, “You know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away. You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord. You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand!” (Psalm 139) And Jesus said, You even know how many hairs there are on my head. (Matthew 10:30)

I can have peace for today and hope for the future when I remember that I am constantly under Your watchful care.

God is good, kind, and merciful to you. 

The Lord is kind and shows mercy. He does not become angry quickly but is full of love. The Lord is good to everyone; He is merciful to all He has made.

Psalm 145:8–9

Father, Your Word tells me You are kind and merciful, patient, and loving.

I want to trust and follow wherever You lead … but I have to admit, I fail. I don’t love You and trust You with all I am. I don’t love my neighbors as I love myself. I get angry. I worry. I procrastinate and I find comfort in things. Please forgive me. I need your merciful goodness. By Your grace, please help me do better. Help me trust Your perfect will for me. Help me faithfully live confident of Your goodness, kindness, mercy, and love.

God is ready and willing to forgive and help you. His perfect love never fails.

O Lord, You are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for Your help.

Psalm 86:5

Father, This promise fills me with hope. You are always ready to forgive those who come to You. You don’t want me to live with the guilt that so often creeps in. You don’t want me weighed down by the past. Your plan for me is a life of freedom through Your goodness and grace.

Through Jesus, You endured my punishment. The price for my sins has been paid. Help me quickly bring my sins to You in repentance, trusting Your promise of unfailing love and forgiveness. Help me live free of doubt and worry … trusting You are faithful to do what You say You will do.

God is your provider. Don’t be afraid or worry. He will meet your every need.

“Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to Him than any birds! Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and He will give you everything you need. So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.”

Luke 12:24, 27, 31–32

Father, You don’t want me to be afraid or worry. You want me to live free of anxiety and doubt. You promise that You will meet every need.

Please forgive me for too often believing my wants are needs. By Your grace help me trust You. Make me satisfied with what You want for me. Help me help others out of the abundance You provide. Be my heart’s desire. With Your help, I will seek Your Kingdom above all else. Help me trust Your goodness without worry or fear.

The most common question about faith is "How can I believe in God's goodness when He allows suffering?" When doubts arise it's time to turn to Him in prayer. #Prayer #GodisGood #BibleStudy #Faith #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

God meets every spiritual need and gives you everything you need to live for His glory. 

Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.

2 Peter 1:2–3

Father, through Your goodness and love You meet every one of my spiritual needs. You make it possible for me to know You. You show me Your will. You hear my prayers. You comfort and strengthen me. You give me hope for the future and the peace I need today.

Thank you. Forgive me for foolishly and selfishly doing things on my own, for thinking my way is better. I’m sorry, Lord. With Your help, I surrender this day to You. I will follow where You lead and trust Your will as You reveal it to me. You are good, Father. May I live today covered by Your grace for Your glory. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

 God is good!

His love for you and me is personal. He provides for every physical and spiritual need. His unfailing forgiveness is always available. He sees, knows, and cares. He is good.

You and I can be confident of God’s goodness!

And just a quick follow-up to tell about the comment to my social media post. I responded by telling him I was sorry that he felt that way but that based on my experience, God is faithful to restore support and strengthen when we need Him.

That began a dialogue where I’ve been able to share my testimony and tell him why I believe in God’s goodness.

I’m so thankful that when I begin to doubt … His Spirit draws me back through the truth of God’s promises.

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

You Need to Consider This When You are Heartbroken

The life you planned came crashing down and you're heartbroken. Here are the 5 steps God uses to heal a broken heart. I believe they work. They worked for me! #Heartbroken #BrokenRelationship #Grief #Hope #Faith #BibleStudy #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

15 years ago today, I was curled up at the foot of our bed … I cried until my tears ran dry.

I pleaded and prayed … asking God to change hearts and change the situation. I hoped with faith that it would be days, weeks, even months, but not years. I longed for the time we would look back on things and praise God for His healing grace.

And yet, here we are 15 years later and we’re still waiting and praying and hoping in faith.

There is good news though…

What the enemy of our souls wanted to use for evil … God used for good!

Our situation may not have changed but I have! And that’s what I want to tell you about today…

I want you to know how God is able to take your broken heart and piece it back together with His grace, mercy, and love. How He can remove your life-long fears, gave you strength, and increase your faith.

I want to tell you how … by the power of His Spirit, God took a heartbroken mess and gave me a new life of purpose by making me a life-long SEEKer who’s free to enjoy His peace, trusting that I have everything I need in Christ Jesus.

The change didn’t happen in one miraculous moment; it’s been a long season of growth. But if you’ve got a couple of minutes, I’d love to tell you about the process God used to transform me … one that I believe He would love to use in You and in the people you love.

5 Steps God Uses to Heal the Heartbroken

The life you planned came crashing down and you're heartbroken. Here are the 5 steps God uses to heal a broken heart. I believe they work. They worked for me! #Hope #Faith #BibleStudy #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

1. God Pursues Those Who are Heartbroken

If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them wanders away, what will he do? Won’t he leave the ninety-nine others on the hills and go out to search for the one that is lost? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he will rejoice over it more than over the ninety-nine that didn’t wander away!

Matthew 18:12–13

I can’t remember a time in my life when I didn’t know and trust Jesus for my eternal future. I knew He was my Lord and Savior, that He died for me, and I believed He would take me to heaven when I died. But…

When it came to daily living … I was afraid.

Afraid of disappointing people and disappointing God. Afraid that if I completely surrendered to Jesus, the cross He asked me to carry would be too difficult and I’d disappoint everyone.

So, I frantically tried to juggle all the parts of my life on my own until all those balls I’d been juggling fell at my feet. And that’s when the Lord came and found me and held me. And gently carried me to His Word.

2. God Speaks to Those Who are Heartbroken

As for God, His way is perfect! The word of the Lord is tested and tried; He is a shield to all those who take refuge and put their trust in Him.

Psalm 18:30 (AMPC)

I needed HOPE!

Not the kind words and assurances of people. I needed hope that would give me the strength I needed to get out of bed each day.

God had given me hope for my eternal future through Scripture; so, I turned to His Word looking for the hope I so desperately needed to get me through each day.

I picked up my Bible and I couldn’t put it down. And by God’s grace, it became my lifeline. I devoured it, Genesis through Revelation, in just three months.

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

2 Timothy 3:16

And God used the TRUTH of His inspired Word in an interesting way.

In my brokenness, I didn’t relate to the heroes of faith so much as I saw myself in the doubters and the fearful. I saw myself in Eve and the grumbling Wilderness Wanderers, as well as the Pharisees and the fleeing disciples.

The more I read God’s Word … the more I was humbled, ashamed and repentant.

3. God Forgives the Heartbroken Who Come to Him in Repentance

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Matthew 11:28–29

I carried all my brokenness, my failures, and my weaknesses … I took my sins to Jesus and asked Him to heal and forgive me.

The Bible says that when you and I carry the heavy burden of our sin to Jesus and ask Him to forgive us and change us … well, He said, “the angels rejoice!”

I tell you, it is the same way among the angels of God. If one sinner is sorry for his sins and turns from them, the angels are very happy.”

Luke 15:10

Praise God!

That’s the blessing of God’s Word. It’s the Law that shows us our sin and then it’s the Good News Gospel that shows us God’s LOVE!

O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help.

Psalm 86:5

What other god promises unfailing love and forgiveness to everyone and anyone who repents and asks for help to change? What other god is able to give people everything they need to accomplish the change He desires? What other god promises freedom through faith and forgiveness?

If the Son sets you free, you are truly free.

John 8:36

And it’s not just freedom for an eternal future in heaven but freedom to LIVE today with peace, joy, hope, courage, strength, and everything else you and I need!

The life you planned came crashing down and you're heartbroken. Here are the 5 steps God uses to heal a broken heart. I believe they work. They worked for me! #Hope #Faith #BibleStudy #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

4. God Replaces What is Broken with What is Needed

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and He will give you everything you need.

Luke 12:31

What I began to learn was that the more I completely surrendered myself to the Lord the more intentionally He gave me everything I needed.

And one of the first things I needed was to be lifted out of the pit of despair…

I waited patiently for the Lord to help me,
    and He turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the pit of despair,
out of the mud and the mire.
He set my feet on solid ground
and steadied me as I walked along.

Psalm 40:1–2

I’m not going to tell you how many times God lifted me out of the pit that I turned around and jumped right back in. A broken heart for any reason needs to grieve … but Paul wrote:

You have no reason to have sorrow as those who have no hope.

1 Thessalonians 4:13

And that’s truth! Not only grief over death but hope for the heart that is broken for any reason. It’s not a hope that is dependent on our circumstances changing but hope that whatever our circumstances … God will give us everything we need!

5. God Strengthens the Heartbroken with His Promises

Something I didn’t even know I needed but a gift for which I will be eternally grateful … is the blessing of specific promises to encourage me.

The first promise and the one that has become my life verse is…

My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; He is mine forever.

Psalm 73:26

And He has been the strength of my heart.

Remember, I said fear was one of my greatest struggles.

God has been faithful to the promise of my life verse. He has given us what we needed to get through circumstances that before I would have considered “impossible.”

He has been my strength. His presence has given me everything I need each day.

The two verses before my life verse say…

You guide me with Your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. Whom have I in heaven but You? I desire You more than anything on earth.

Psalm 73:24–25

By God’s grace … I trust that He will guide me each day until I arrive at my “glorious destiny” in heaven. How can I not desire that more than anything else this life has to offer?

The life you planned came crashing down and you're heartbroken. Here are the 5 steps God uses to heal a broken heart. I believe they work. They worked for me! #Heartbroken #BrokenRelationship #Grief #Hope #Faith #BibleStudy #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

If you’re struggling today because of a broken heart … let me share with you one more promise that I hold close. I especially like the way The Message says it…

[God] told me, “My grace is enough; it’s all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness.” Once I heard that I was glad to let it happen. I quit focusing on the handicap and began appreciating the gift. It was a case of Christ’s strength moving in on my weakness. Now I take limitations in stride, and with good cheer, these limitations that cut me down to size—abuse, accidents, opposition, bad breaks. I just let Christ take over! And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become.

2 Corinthians 12:9–10

And that is absolute unfailing TRUTH!

In the past 15 years, I’ve learned that the more I surrender my fears and frustrations, my brokenness and battles, my weaknesses and worries, my losses and longings to Jesus … the more He fills me up with everything I need to LIVE!

To live free of the things I’ve surrendered to Him and free to enjoy the blessings He wants me to have!

Blessings David expressed beautifully in Psalm 40. He said that God lifted him out of that “pit of despair” and…

He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see what He has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the Lord.

Psalm 40:3

And that is my prayer! That’s why I write AT THE INTERSECTION OF FAITH AND LIFE!

I want you to know what God has done for me. I want you to be amazed by His love and grace and mercy. And more than anything, I want you to put your trust in the Lord!

Because if He is able to remove my life-long fears and give me everything I need to live surrendered to His loving care with freedom, peace, and joy … I believe with all my heart that He not only can but He will do that for you as well.

So, what do you say … will you consider prayerfully reading your Bible … getting to know the One who pursues you. The One who wants to speak to your heart and mind. The One who offers you complete forgiveness and everything else you need. The One who promises you freedom to LIVE sheltered in His LOVE!

I’m praying for you today and asking God to bless you and fill you with the transforming power of His perfect love!

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

A Holy Week Bible Study that will Help You Focus on Jesus

A Holy Week Bible Study for individuals and families - Walk through the Gospels and spend time with Jesus. Questions and prayers to help you experience His love #HolyWeek #Jesus #PassionofChrist #God'sLove #PalmSunday #MaundyThursday #GoodFriday #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Anne Graham Lotz wrote…

Why did Jesus have to die?

If there was any other way to offer us forgiveness of sin, to reconcile us to God, to give us eternal life, and to open Heaven for us when we die, God would have found it. He never would have sent Jesus to die on the cross. There simply is no other way.

I’m taking closer look at Holy Week because I want to make it personal. I want to see myself standing with the cheering crowds, sitting at the table in the upper room, asleep in the garden, and standing at the foot of the cross.

I’d love for you to join me and maybe even spend some time talking about the questions with your family.

I don’t want to rush through the pain to get to the promise. This year, I want to pause and see myself with His disciples … fully experiencing the Jesus’ gift of love that gave me the freedom to LIVE in LOVE!

A Holy Week Bible Study

A Holy Week Bible Study for individuals and families - Walk through the Gospels and spend time with Jesus. Questions and prayers to help you experience His love #HolyWeek #Jesus #PassionofChrist #God'sLove #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Palm Sunday

Let’s start with a prayer…

Help me stop this week and look at my heart. Show me where I’m wrong. Show me my sin. Forgive me and help me change.

Thank you for saving me through Jesus. Thank you for saving the words of those who walked with Him. Thank you for allowing me to look closely and marvel at amazing grace. Teach me. Guide me. Draw me close in Jesus name. Amen.

So they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their garments over it for Him to ride on.

As He rode along, the crowds spread out their garments on the road ahead of Him. When He reached the place where the road started down the Mount of Olives, all of His followers began to shout and sing as they walked along, praising God for all the wonderful miracles they had seen.

“Blessings on the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in highest heaven!”

Luke 19:35–38

Pause with me for a moment and let your heart and mind imagine the scene.

  • What do you see?
  • What do you hear?
  • What do you smell?
  • Who are you?
    • A follower?
    • A Pharisee?
    • A bystander?
    • A fan?

Are you being swept along by the excitement? Are you skeptical of the man they say can raise the dead? Are you angry? Are you confused?

  • Do you believe?

Read each Gospel account – Matthew 21:1–11, Mark 11:1–11, Luke 19:28–40, John 12:12–19

Later that day, Jesus said…

“Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But this is the very reason I came! Father, bring glory to Your name.”

John 12:27
  • What would you like to say to Him?

Holy Monday

Back in Jerusalem, Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the people buying and selling animals for sacrifices. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the chairs of those selling doves, and He stopped everyone from using the Temple as a marketplace. He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer for all nations,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves.”

Mark 11:15–18

Pause for moment…

  • What do you see?
  • What do you hear?
  • How does it smell?
  • Who are you?
    • A worshipper?
    • A priest?
    • An observer?
    • A disciple?
    • A buyer? A seller?
  • How do you feel?
  • Do you believe?

My prayer…

Father, forgive me. I’m ashamed. I’m afraid I would likely stand in the courtyard surprised by Jesus’ passion and conviction. It’s probably I would find normal and satisfactory the way things have “always” been done. I wonder if I would even realize that a place of prayer had become a marketplace.

I’m challenged to ask if I’ve allowed subtle changes in culture to distort my perception of holiness and worship.

I want a passion for Your holy presence. I want to cherish what You call holy. I want to give the highest value to truth and honesty. I want to know Your truth. I want my heart to break for those things that break Your heart and I want to hold sacred that which is precious to You.

Please help me, Father. Forgive me. Guide me by the power of Your Spirit. Draw me close. Hear my prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Read each Gospel account – Matthew 12:12–17, Mark 11:15–25, Luke 19:45–48,

Maundy Thursday

A Holy Week Bible Study for individuals and families - Walk through the Gospels and spend time with Jesus. Questions and prayers to help you experience His love #HolyWeek #Jesus #PassionofChrist #God'sLove #PalmSunday #MaundyThursday #GoodFriday #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

In the Upper Room…

He got up from the table, took off His robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and poured water into a basin. Then He began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel He had around Him.

After washing their feet, He put on His robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing? You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right because that’s what I am. And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.

John 13:4–5, 12–15

Let’s pause…

  • What do you see?
  • How does it smell?
  • What do you hear?
  • How do you feel?
  • Who are you?
    • Matthew?
    • Nathaniel?
    • James or John?
    • Judas?
    • Peter?
    • An observer watching from the corner?
  • Are you humbled? Are you ashamed? Are you confused or embarrassed?
  • Are you willing to serve those with stinky feet?
  • Do you believe?

Father, I picture myself with teachers I’ve respected and admired; and I can’t imagine one of them washing my feet. It seems awkward and embarrassing. It’s easy to relate to Peter’s word, “You will never wash my feet.”

But then I hear Jesus’ words and I see His humble love and I want to follow His example and love like Him.

Please forgive me. I fail repeatedly. I allow “self” to get in the way of love and service. I’m self-protective and self-righteous. Help me. Open my eyes to see those who need me to love them with humble love. Help me to follow Jesus’ example. Help me trust and obey. Amen.

Read each Gospel account – Matthew 26:17–30, Mark 14:12–26, Luke 22:7–30, John 13:1–17

In Gethsemane’s Garden

Then Jesus went with them to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and He said, “Sit here while I go over there to pray.” 

He told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.”

He went on a little farther and bowed with His face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want Your will to be done, not mine.”

Then He returned to the disciples and found them asleep. He said to Peter, “Couldn’t you watch with me even one hour? Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!”

Matthew 26:36,38–41

And again, let’s pause…

  • What do you see?
  • What do you hear?
  • What do you smell?
  • Who are you?
    • Peter?
    • James?
    • John?
    • Thomas? Philip? Matthew?
    • Judas?

Are you embarrassed? Are you trying to stay awake? Are you confused by Jesus’ emotion on this night of celebration? Are you afraid?

  • Do you watch and pray?
  • Do you believe?

Lord, I can’t imagine the anguish of that hour. The pain of knowing what was about to happen. The pain of knowing the beginning to the end. Knowing the pain, the betrayal, denials, lies, rejection…

I am so sorry. Please forgive me. My sin. My shame. My punishment.

Help me to live by the power of Your Spirit. Help me to embrace the freedom you’ve given. Help me to love You with all my heart, mind, soul, and strength. Help me to love like Jesus. In His name and for His sake I pray. Amen.

Read each Gospel account – Matthew 26:36–46, Mark 14:32–42, Luke 22:39–45,

Good Friday

Then Pilate had Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip. The soldiers wove a crown of thorns and put it on His head, and they put a purple robe on Him. “Hail! King of the Jews!” they mocked, as they slapped Him across the face.

John 19:1-3

Then Pilate turned Jesus over to them to be crucified. So they took Jesus away. Carrying the cross by Himself, He went to the place called Place of the Skull (in Hebrew, Golgotha). There they nailed Him to the cross. Two others were crucified with him, one on either side, with Jesus between them. And Pilate posted a sign on the cross that read, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.”

John 19:16–19

At noon, darkness fell across the whole land until three o’clock. Then at three o’clock, Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” which means “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”

Mark 15:33–34

Jesus knew that His mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, “I am thirsty.”

When Jesus had tasted it, He said, “It is finished!” Then He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.

John 19:28,30

And finally, let’s pause to make it personal one more time…

  • What do you see?
  • What do you hear?
  • What do you smell?
  • Who are you?
    • John?
    • Mary Magdalene?
    • A Soldier?
    • Mary, His mother?
    • A Mocker?
    • An Observer?
    • A Thief?
    • A Priest?
  • How do you feel?

Are you afraid? Are you appalled? Are you ashamed? Self-righteous? Devastated? Confused? Satisfied?

  • Who is this man? Who is Jesus to you?
  • Do you believe?

Father, Jesus said, “When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.” 

Draw me close, Father. Pull me to the foot of the cross. I don’t want to look away . . . to shrug off hard to face truths. That my sin caused Jesus suffering and death. My hand held the hammer. I stand with the mockers and Pharisees.

I want to see myself as John or one of the Marys. But that’s just my foolish pride. It allows me to judge those who history credits as causing your death. It allows me to separate myself. It makes it possible for me to think—at least I’m not as bad as…

But, I’m wrong. Forgive me. I am a sinner. As hard as I try, I will always fall short of Your perfect will for me. I’m so sorry.

Thank you for never giving up on me. Help me to keep my eyes, my heart, and my mind focused on Jesus—the One who authored and perfected my relationship with You through faith. I come to the cross that brings me to You. Thank you, Father. Thank you, Jesus. Amen.

Read each Gospel account – Matthew 32 27:32–56, Mark 15:21–41, Luke 23:26–49, John 19:16–27

A Holy Week Bible Study for individuals and families - Walk through the Gospels and spend time with Jesus. Questions and prayers to help you experience His love #HolyWeek #Jesus #PassionofChrist #God'sLove #PalmSunday #MaundyThursday #GoodFriday #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

I’m praying for you this Holy Week.

I’m asking God to bless you and remind you once again of how very much He loves you…

 God proved His love on the Cross. When Christ hung, and bled, and died, it was God saying to the world, “I love you.” ~ Billy Graham

And I’d love for you to join me on Friday when I’m going to God with prayers inspired by the things Jesus said from the cross.

May God encourage you and hold you close as you SEEK Him.

Don’t forget to bookmark this Holy Week Bible Study so you can refer back to it throughout the week and focus your heart and mind on Jesus.

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

What is Jesus’ Truth? 5 Important Things You Need to Know

Jesus' truth is still followed more than 2000 years later. So, I wanted to take a closer look at some of the things His truths continue to give His followers #Hope #Truth #Faith #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

How would you define the word “truth?”

I always hate when the dictionary defines a word by using a variation of the word.

Truth is:

  • the quality or state of being true.
  • that which is true or in accordance with fact or reality.
  • a fact or belief that is accepted as truth.

Of course, that last one may or may not be “truth” at all.

I suppose the Dictionary definition I’m most comfortable with is…

  • a verified or indisputable fact, proposition, or principle.

Have you ever stopped to ask … what is truth?
Not … what is the truth? But simply … what is truth?

Pontius Pilate did. In the middle of His trial, Pilate asked Jesus:

“What is truth?”

John 18:38

The Life Application Bible Notes add the following:

Pilate was cynical; he thought that all truth was relative. To many government officials, truth was whatever the majority of people agreed with or whatever helped advance their own personal power and political goals.

It sounds familiar, doesn’t it?

Maybe we need to ask a deeper question about “truth.”

Is truth simply what the majority believes and agrees with or is there a standard, an absolute truth?

The LAB notes continue…

When there is no standard or acknowledgement of truth, there is no basis for moral right and wrong. Justice becomes whatever works or whatever helps those in power.

And we might include … those who want to be in power.

I’ll admit, this unsettles me … because “relative truth” that can be used to manipulate and exploit people in order to gain power may not be “truth” at all.

And maybe that’s one of the reasons our world continues to struggle. Maybe too many are chasing after “truth” that isn’t really true at all.

Jesus responded to Pilate’s question with the following:

Jesus said, “I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true.”

John 18:37

And Jesus’ truth still stands more than 2000 years later. His promises have not and will not fail. So, I thought it might be helpful to take a closer look at some of the things Jesus said are true.

Things that will encourage and bless us when the relative truth of the world is leaving us unsettled and concerned.

Jesus' truth is still followed more than 2000 years later. So, I wanted to take a closer look at some of the things His truths continue to give His followers #Hope #Truth #Faith #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

5 Important Things to Know About Jesus’ Truth

1. Jesus’ Truth will Give You Life

This is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent His Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through Him.

John 3:16–17

Some people look at the Bible as a book Christians use so they hyper-critical of others but the truth is that the Bible is a book of life-giving forgiving love.

Adrian Rogers wrote…

Cut the Bible and it will bleed. The blood of Jesus is on every page.

That’s the greatness of God’s love for those of us who fail Him every day.

Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”

John 14:6

And John wrote the following about Jesus…

We know that the Son of God has come, and He has given us understanding so that we can know the true God. And now we live in fellowship with the true God because we live in fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ. He is the only true God, and He is eternal life.

1 John 5:120

2. Jesus’ Truth will Give You Freedom

Jesus’ truth frees us of our broken sinful pasts.
Jesus’ truth frees us to live fully alive today.
Jesus’ truth frees us to live without fear of the future.

Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

John 8:31–32

Whatever is holding you back today … fear, worry, anxiety, a broken past or an uncertain future … Jesus is able to set you free so you can LIVE with peace, hope, and joy.

3. Jesus’ Truth will Give You a Moral Standard

Jesus’ truth gives a consistent moral standard that is lasting … not a set of rules that move and change along with society’s views and opinions.

Views and opinions that tell us:

  • Lies are just a part of life. Everyone lies.
  • Abortion is a woman’s “choice.” It’s just a fetus … a clump of cells.
  • Sex with anyone anywhere anytime is harmless. If it’s what both people want.
  • A little gossip is okay if you follow it with … “we need to pray for them.”
  • I need to take care of ME. I don’t have time to help my neighbor.
  • Grace is not necessary. It’s all about what you do.
  • My sins aren’t nearly as bad as his/her sins.

Have you read this verse recently…

There are six things the Lord hates—
    no, seven things He detests: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that kill the innocent, a heart that plots evil, feet that race to do wrong, a false witness who pours out lies, a person who sows discord in a family.

Proverbs 6:16–19

Do we really think God hates these things any less today than when Solomon wrote them years ago?

But there is good news! God didn’t give us this moral standard to spoil our fun or make us miserable. He knew that following His truth and obeying His will would bless us and make our lives better.

He knew it was and is the wise thing to do.

4. Jesus’ Truth will Give You Wisdom.

Jesus said, “Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock.

Matthew 7:24–25

I want that, don’t you?!

I want a truth that will make me rock solid. One that will give me strength when the messiness of life starts to feel overwhelming and those who are following relative truth start to throw their hands up in despair.

For the Lord grants wisdom! From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go.

Proverbs 2:6,9

I want truthful wisdom that will guide me and give me hope.

5. Jesus’ Truth will Give You Hope for the Future.

Jesus said, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Matthew 28:19–20

And…

There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.

John 14:2–3

These two promises are ones I hold close to my heart every day.

Jesus' truth is still followed more than 2000 years later. So, I wanted to take a closer look at some of the things His truths continue to give His followers #Hope #Truth #Faith #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

That is seriously GOOD NEWS!

Whatever is going on in your life and mine … Jesus is always with us. We never have to face anything on our own.

I can tell you, with Jesus’ help, Rev and I have gotten through things I promise you we could never have endured on our own. He gave us peace, and hope, and strength to endure. I still don’t understand it but oh my, I am so very thankful for it.

And then … the ultimate fear — death.

Look again at what Jesus said. He is preparing a place for you and He will personally come to take you home.

People fear having to face death alone … but when you and I have faith in Jesus, we don’t have to face it alone because He promises to be with us.

I’d like to encourage you to learn more about Jesus’ truth. Not what people say about it … not just what I say about it. Please go and seek His truth yourself.

I have a couple of resources I believe will help:

I’m asking God to bless you today as He gives you hope and peace in and through Jesus’ truth!

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

God has What You Need to Change Your Life

So many people are living with the fear of illness or their financial future but the miracle is God has the power to remove fear and change your life today. #ChangeYourLife #ChangeYourLifeInspiration #Faith #Hope #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

Recently, someone asked me what my blog is about and after saying, “It’s about living at the intersection of faith and life,” Then I hesitated. I didn’t know what to say next.

What is my blog about and why do I write day after day?

I decided that’s a question I should be able to answer quickly and easily … for that reason I’m answering three questions so I’ll be prepared in the future. And I thought you might be interested in the answers as well.

My Backstory

Did you believe you knew the answers when something happened and you realized you didn’t even know the questions? That’s me!

I would have made a great Pharisee. You know—a rule follower and proud of it. I didn’t think of myself as being proud because fear was my rule-following motivator.

I wanted a blessed life and believed God “rewarded” obedient rule followers.

But I had it turned around.

I wasn’t responding to God’s love. I wanted God to respond to my ‘good girl” obedience.

But most Pharisees, if they’re like me, don’t know they’re well, Pharisees. They’re too busy doing it right trying to please God and earn His favor.

So, don’t be too hard on your fellow Pharisees. Believe me, they are sadly mistaken but God is working on them.

He definitely worked on me until He got my attention by allowing me to crash and burn. And all I can say is … thank you! I am so grateful! Not for the crash and burn part but for the way the Lord used it in my life.

You see, He knew that’s what it would take for me to learn that it’s impossible to “do it right.”

There is no one who does anything good, not even one.

Psalm 14:3

That’s why I needed to be free of my inner Pharisee! I needed to simply receive and trust God’s grace and mercy.

You see, I finally realized that no matter how hard I tried, I was not now nor would I ever “do it right.” My life felt like a mess and I was emotionally wrecked. So, I turned to God’s Word because I wanted to know what else I had misunderstood and mistakenly applied.

As I humbly poured over the pages of Scripture, the Holy Spirit began to heal and change my broken repentant heart. And the Bible went from being a rule book that told me the right way to live, to becoming a love letter that showed me how to LIVE fully alive under God’s grace.

That’s why I write.

Once God has transformed your heart and changed your life through His patient love and amazing grace it is just too good to keep it to yourself.

It’s a story you have to share.

So many people are living with the fear of illness or their financial future but the miracle is God has the power to remove fear and change your life today. #ChangeYourLife #ChangeYourLifeInspiration #Faith #Hope #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

God has What You Need to Change Your Life

Changing lives is what He does.

He is able to remove fear, give hope, heal broken hearts, infuse courage, provide peace and so much more. I know. Those are just some of the things He has changed in me.

Too many people spend every day stuck in discouraged fear-filled chaotic lives.

Even as I type this, many are struggling with fear and uncertainty because of the Coronavirus and falling Stock Market.

But as God’s children, you and I can have God’s peace even when everyone else is distressed. His Spirit is with us to remind us of God’s sovereignty … absolutely nothing is beyond His power and ability.

Our Heavenly Father is able and willing to give us everything we need each day.

So while people are frantically searching for answers to life’s problems, you and I can KNOW the answer we need most is found in Jesus … the One who is God’s gift of grace, mercy, and love.

May God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. Jesus gave His life for our sins, just as God our Father planned, in order to rescue us from this evil world in which we live. All glory to God forever and ever! Amen.

Galatians 1:3–5

I want to invite you to SEEK and KNOW.

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.

Luke 12:31

Jesus didn’t just mean an eternity in heaven when He said, “everything you need.” (Although, an eternal future in God’s loving presence is definitely something we all need.) Jesus was telling His followers that God would faithfully give them what they needed each day.

The One who transforms hearts and minds … changes lives by giving SEEKers His love, joy, peace, patience, hope, courage, strength, and growing faith.

I love this truth from Bishop N. T. Wright…

Jesus’ resurrection matters not only for the hope of life after death; it matters for life before life after death.

God has what you need to change your life.

He gave Jesus as His gift of love … presently and eternally.

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent His Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through Him.”

John 3:!6–17

And from the beginning to the end God’s plan for us is love.

God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.

Ecclesiastes 3:11

When you’re afraid and life feels uncertain, God wants you to know…

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6–7

And when the His appointed time comes…

My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

John 14:2–3

That powerful truth of God’s love will change your life!

And once God changes your life, you never have to do a single moment on your own again. The One who created and sustains everything in the universe will be with you. He promises to hear every prayer and meet every need.

So many people are living with the fear of illness or their financial future but the miracle is God has the power to remove fear and change your life today. #ChangeYourLife #ChangeYourLifeInspiration #Faith #Hope #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

One question people often ask is … How does God change your life?

It’s hard to explain but He is able to transform our hearts and minds with His love—giving us faith, hope, joy, and so much more.

Now, I have one more important truth to share with you.

I am, without a doubt, a work in progress … a follower who is still learning.

I don’t have all the answers but I am abundantly thankful that the One who does the answers invites us to SEEK and KNOW Him.

That’s called “living at the intersection of faith and life.”

So, the next time someone asks me what my blog is about … I’ll be prepared.

What is my blog about?

It’s about the God who loves them so much He gave His own life that they might have life … a changed life today, tomorrow, and forever.

I want everyone who visits Counting My Blessings to know that God invites them to SEEK Him and KNOW Him. He wants them to trust Him to give them everything they need.

And friend, I’m praying for you and asking God to bless you in Jesus today and every day as you live in Him at the intersection of faith and life.

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

When You Need to Remember Who You Are In Jesus

I ran into a wall of discouragement this week. I needed a reminder of God's love. Maybe you need to remember who you are in Jesus, too. Read this... #GodisLove #GodLovesYou #Faith #YouareLoved #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #Hope #Blessings

I have the January blahs! I began the year with all the normal enthusiasm that comes with a fresh start.

Three weeks ago, I had a writing plan that excited me, a healthy diet and exercise plan that seemed doable, books I couldn’t wait to read, family and friends who delighted me … I was full of optimism and happiness.

This week, I ran up against a wall of discouragement for no apparent reason other than a bunch of little things piled up one on top of another and I started to feel “less than.”

Not enough! Less than I want to be! Less than I believe I should be.

I decided I need a quick reminder of who I am in Christ. Maybe you need a reminder of who you are in Jesus, too. So … here we go!

Who You Are In Jesus

You are wonderful!

Yes, you!

When I feel like I have the last few days, I can quickly think of a dozen ways I am definitely NOT wonderful.

Most of the time I go straight to the superficial . . . to appearances. And all I see are my imperfections.

I see spots, blemishes, wrinkles, and sagging skin. I have lumps and bumps in places I don’t want them and well, you get the idea.

I’m also well aware of my flaws when it comes to my thoughts, words, and actions.

I could share a long list of things that are not wonderful but I’ll spare you.

I relate to these words from Paul…

I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. 

Romans 7:18–19

It’s reassuring to know that a pillar of faith, like Paul, did not hold himself up as the ideal of Christian perfection but let us know that we are not alone in our struggle.

And when you and I recognize our “less than” perfect qualities and characteristics we can embrace the words that follow…

What a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord!

So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to Him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.

I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 7:24–25a, 8:1–2, 8:38–39

That’s grace! That’s love!

That’s who you are in Jesus.

It’s good news!

Because of Jesus, God looks past our flaws and failures with eyes of grace and love and He sees the wonderful you and me … He created us to be!

I ran into a wall of discouragement this week. I needed a reminder of God's love. Maybe you need to remember who you are in Jesus, too. Read this... #GodisLove #GodLovesYou #Faith #YouareLoved #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #Blessings

Whether you and I feel like it or not, we need to repeat the following often…

1. GOD MADE ME WONDERFUL.

I praise you because You made me in an amazing and wonderful way. What You have done is wonderful. I know this very well.

Psalm 139:14 (NCV)

I love the way the MSG. says it…

Body and soul, I am marvelously made! 

It’s not about our feelings. Whether you and I “feel” it or not.

God says in His Word that we are made in an “amazing and wonderful way” … unique and one of a kind. Perfect for His plans and purposes. Out of all the possible DNA combinations, God chose 46 or 47 specific chromosomes just for you.

There are 8,324,608 possible combinations of chromosomes and each one contains dozens to thousands of different genes.  The total possible combination of alleles (variations) for those genes in humans is approximately 70,368,744,177,664.  This is trillions of times more combinations than the number of people who have ever lived. ~Reddit.com/AskScience

Who you are…

“You weren’t an accident. You weren’t mass-produced. You aren’t an assembly-line product. You were deliberately planned, specifically gifted, and lovingly positioned on the earth by the Master Craftsman.” ~Max Lucado

2. And It’s Okay to Celebrate Being Wonderfully Made

Obsessing about our flaws and faults simply robs us of our peace and happiness.

I believe that’s something high on the list of things satan wants for us because if he can steal our peace and joy, he can stifle our ability to fulfill God’s plans and purposes for us.

Jesus said…

The thief’s purpose is to steal, kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness. 

John 10:10

Jesus’ purpose is to give us a full and satisfying life.

When we stay focused on all we have and who we are in Jesus, we have everything we need to live the life He wants for us.

David followed the “amazing and wonderful” verse with…

I worship in adoration—what a creation!
You know me inside and out,
You know every bone in my body;
You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit,
how I was sculpted from nothing into something.
Like an open book, You watched me grow from conception to birth; all the stages of my life were spread out before You, the days of my life all prepared before I’d even lived one day.

Psalm 139:15–16

What a creation!
Known. Loved. Planned.

And in Jesus … Forgiven. Redeemed. Child of God.

That’s you! That’s me!

We are not known for our flaws and faults.
You and I are God’s marvelous creation! God’s loved and redeemed children!

So, it’s time to look at things in a new way, to know who you are in Jesus. So…

Stop and Celebrate Who You Are

  1. Make a list of your greatest strengths and abilities. You’re kind. Smart. Funny. Musical. Artistic. Athletic. Strong. Caring. Helpful. Make a list of everything you do well.
  2. Make a list of things you like about the way you look. Just do it. Beautiful eyes. Cute nose. Strong arms. Dimples. Curly hair. Curvy figure. Find a minimum of 5-10 you can celebrate.
  3. Ask your closest friends to help you make your list.  They love you. You’ll be surprised by the blessings they see in you and the things they love about you.
  4. Spend less time focused on yourself and more time loving others. Avoid lengthy sessions in front of the mirror and ask God to forgive your failures. Then focus on loving your people. You will feel better about yourself. I promise.
  5. Refuse to compare your appearance, gifts, or abilities with anyone else’s. Comparing is the thief of joy and peace. Don’t do it!
  6. Take occasional breaks from social media. Everyone puts their ideal on social media. If you find yourself discouraged while scrolling through posts . . . walk away for a while.
  7. Do your best and be at peace about the rest. Live today with enthusiasm. Then put the day behind you and start again tomorrow.
  8. Reject negative self-talk. Stop it! If it’s sin, confess it, receive forgiveness and celebrate God’s grace.
  9. Do something positive every day to become the person you want to be. Let God work in you to grow you for His purposes. Learn something new. Exercise. Eat a healthy diet.
  10. Limit your time with toxic and negative people. You can’t avoid them all but you can lessen their ability to discourage and defeat you.
  11. Be patient with yourself – think long term. Expect progress, not perfection. One of my favorite sayings is, “Baby steps are still steps.”
  12. Cherish values like honesty, integrity, kindness, etc. Follow the Golden Rule and treat others the way you want them to treat you.
  13. Speak a minimum of five positive and encouraging things to yourself every day. Remember Stuart Smiley’s quote, “I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it, people like me.”
  14. Do one nice thing for yourself every day. Take a long bath. Read a chapter of your favorite book. Light a candle. Use your good dishes. Celebrate today.
  15. Pursue a close relationship with the One who created you. Spend time in prayer and Bible study. Ask Him to help you become the best version of the person He created you to be.
  16. Ask God to help you see yourself the way He sees you. He loves you so much! The God of the universe calls you precious.
  17. Remember how very much God loves you. Memorize His promises to speak truth to your heart when you feel discouraged.
  18. Remember – God looks past the surface to the heart. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7

Verses to Memorize:
Remember How Much God Loves You

Even before He made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in His eyes. Ephesians 1:4

But God showed His great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8

But God is so rich in mercy, and He loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, He gave us life when He raised Christ from the dead. Ephesians 2:4

The Lord your God is with you; the mighty One will save you. He will rejoice over you. You will rest in His love; He will sing and be joyful about you. Zephaniah 3:17

See how very much our Father loves us, for He calls us His children, and that is what we are! 1 John 3:1

I ran into a wall of discouragement this week. I needed a reminder of God's love. Maybe you need to remember who you are in Jesus, too. Read this... #GodisLove #GodLovesYou #Faith #YouareLoved #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #Hope #Blessings

Finally, it’s important to…

HAVE AN ETERNAL PERSPECTIVE. 

All of those things that discourage and annoy you are temporary.

Your soul, the person God made you to be in Him, the person created in His image … that person will live forever. 

You are God’s beautiful creation! You are someone to celebrate!

I needed that reminder today. Maybe you needed it too.

If so, you may want to write this down…

God loves me. He made ME for His glory, for His plans and purposes, and for eternity. It’s time for me to celebrate His grace, mercy, and love by remembering who I am because of whose I am. I belong to Jesus!

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

When You Need to Know You are Precious to the Kingdom

Jesus said the Kingdom of God was like a merchant who sold everything to get a precious pearl. You are that priceless precious pearl! #KingdomofGod #YouarePrecious #GodLovesYou #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Jesus said…

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.

Matthew 6:33

He taught His followers to pray…

May Your Kingdom come!

Matthew 6:10

And I realized, I wasn’t sure I knew what to say if someone asked me to explain the Kingdom of God or the Kingdom of Heaven.

So, I decided to do a little research and thought you might be interested to know what I learned.

The term the Kingdom of God or Kingdom of Heaven are used more than 80 times in the New Testament, most often by Jesus Himself. One of Jesus’ earliest proclamations was…

“The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!”

Mark 1:15
  1. The Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of Heaven are synonyms.
  2. The Kingdom of God is the Spiritual realm over which God reigns supreme.
  3. The Kingdom of God is the fulfillment of God’s will on earth.

The basic meaning of the word kingdom in the Bible is God’s kingly rule — His reign, His action, His lordship, His sovereign governance.

Jesus specifically taught a couple of things about the Kingdom through parables … and although I’ve read these verses countless times, I learned something new this week.

In Matthew 13, Jesus is quoted as saying the following about the Kingdom…

“The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field.

Matthew 13:44

And…

“The Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!”

Matthew 13:45–46

Did you notice the difference in these verses?

In the first one, the Kingdom is the treasure but in the second, the Kingdom is the merchant.

In the first verse, Jesus is telling His followers that the Kingdom of God/Heaven is the most valuable thing they could have.

The Life Application Bible Notes say…

The man who discovered the treasure hidden in the field stumbled upon it by accident but knew its value when he found it. And although the transaction cost him everything, he paid nothing for the priceless treasure itself. It came free, with the field. Nothing is more precious than the Kingdom of Heaven, yet God gives it to us as a gift.

As you and I receive God’s gift of Jesus and surrender our all to Him in faith, God gives us everything we need. EVERYTHING!

How can we KNOW? How can we trust that promise?

Because of Jesus’ second description of the Kingdom.

There Jesus said the Kingdom is like the merchant.

The Life Application Bible Notes say here…

Jesus is displaying another aspect of the Kingdom. [Here] the Kingdom pays the ultimate price to possess the pearl, the price God was willing to pay to redeem us.

YOU ARE THE PRECIOUS PEARL OF GREAT VALUE!

I always thought the pearl of great value was faith … like the great treasure in the field I thought it was what I should seek. And this week I realized that Jesus was saying that I am the pearl of great value and so are you.

God saw you and He gave up everything to save you!

You are so precious to Him!

Jesus said the Kingdom of God was like a merchant who sold everything to get a precious pearl. You are that priceless precious pearl! #KingdomofGod #YouarePrecious #GodLovesYou #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Verses to Remind You How Precious You are to God

Need a reminder? Stop and put your name in the blanks in the verses that follow:

This is how God loved __________: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.

John 3:16

God created __________ in His own image. In the image of God He created __________.

Genesis 1:27

__________ is God’s masterpiece. He has created __________ anew in Christ Jesus, to do the good things He planned for us long ago.

God showed His great love for __________ by sending Christ to die for __________ while still a sinner.

Romans 5:8

I know the plans I have for __________,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give __________ a future and a hope.

Jeremiah 29:11

Not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; __________ you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.

Matthew 10:30–31

“My grace is all __________ needs. My power works best in weakness.” 

2 Corinthians 12:9

Since God did not spare even His own Son but gave Him up for __________, won’t He also give everything else?

Romans 8:32

See what great love the Father has lavished on __________, that __________ should be called a child of God!

1 John 3:1

If you’re not feeling precious and abundantly loved by the Father, the Lord of all, go back and read these verses one more time.

Because you are the precious pearl of great value. You are precious to the God of the Universe … Creator, Redeemer, and Comforting Holy Spirit. You are so precious to Him that He gave up the glories of heaven to become like you … a human being in every way except sin, so He could suffer your punishment and mine.

That’s how precious we are to Him.

Jesus said the Kingdom of God was like a merchant who sold everything to get a precious pearl. You are that priceless precious pearl! #KingdomofGod #YouarePrecious #GodLovesYou #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

And that’s the message of Christmas, isn’t it?

In the beginning the Word already existed.
    The Word was with God,
    and the Word was God.
He existed in the beginning with God.
God created everything through Him,
    and nothing was created except through Him.
The Word gave life to everything that was created,
    and His life brought light to everyone.
The light shines in the darkness,
    and the darkness can never extinguish it.

So the Word became human and made His home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen His glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.

John 1:1–5, 14

Celebrate Jesus! The One who calls you precious. The One who loves you so much He gave up everything so He could give you everything.

And so … He invites you, and me, to SEEK the Kingdom of God above all else.

Because it is life’s greatest treasure.

We are invited by God Himself to surrender all of the things we think we want or need and to make it our heart’s desire to KNOW and TRUST FATHER GOD through HIS SON, JESUS.

And I think that makes Christmas the perfect time of year to offer ourselves at the manger and make a commitment to SEEK the KINGDOM of GOD today and every day for the rest of our lives.

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

How to Describe God’s Glory to a Hurting World

The Bible says God is glorious but how can you and I describe God's glory in ways that people who need Him can understand? #WWGGG #DescribeGod'sGlory #Faith #Blessings

If someone asked you, “How would you describe God’s glory?”

What would you say?

You and I live in a world full of suffering and conflict … a world that desperately needs the truth about God.

And because of that, I want everyone to know about a glorious righteous God who transforms broken and hurting people into individuals who are strengthened and filled with hope … into communities of made over through God’s love.

For me, a huge part of telling people about God has been explaining all He has done for me.

But I also want to be able to tell them about Him … about who He says He is in the Bible.

And the Bible tells me He is glorious…

Moses asked to see God’s glory.

 “Please show me your glory.”

Exodus 33:18 (NCV)

And although God would not allow him to see His face, He did reveal a glimpse and a description…

“Yahweh, the Lord, is a kind and merciful God. He is slow to become angry. He is full of great love. He can be trusted. He shows his faithful love to thousands of people. He forgives people for the wrong things they do, but he does not forget to punish guilty people.

Exodus 34:6–7

David wrote this about God’s glory…

The heavens declare the glory of God, and the skies announce what his hands have made.

Psalm 19:1

And John wrote…

The Word became a human and lived among us. We saw His glory—the glory that belongs to the only Son of the Father—and he was full of grace and truth.

John 1:14

And finally, Jesus said.

“Didn’t I tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?”

John 11:40

You see, the struggle we have in describing God’s glory is that His glory is not a part of Him. It’s a trait like height, hair color, or personality.

God’s glory is who He is!

God’s glory is His character, His nature, His way of relating to His creation.

God did not give Moses a vision of His power and majesty (although He certainly could have)…

He showed Moses His love.

God glory is demonstrated in His love and He has revealed His glory to you and me through His mercy and grace … through Jesus.

Through Jesus, He is always ready to forgive us and willing to help when we ask. He is faithful and just, slow to get angry willing to give us time to repent.

And He is always generous and gracious with His goodness, truth, compassion, and love.

Paul wrote to the Ephesians…

[ The God of Glory ] How blessed is God! And what a blessing He is! He’s the Father of our Master, Jesus Christ, and takes us to the high places of blessing in Him. Long before He laid down earth’s foundations, He had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of His love, to be made whole and holy by His love. Long, long ago He decided to adopt us into His family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure He took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of His lavish gift-giving by the hand of His beloved Son.

Ephesians 1:3–6 (MSG)

How beautiful is that?!

Through His glory, God has chosen you and me. He has adopted us into His family. He has blessed us with His lavish love!

Lavish!

The dictionary defines lavish as … being given in great amounts or without limit.

Think about that for a minute.

The Bible says God is glorious but how can you and I describe God's glory in ways that people who need Him can understand? #WWGGG #DescribeGod'sGlory #Faith #Blessings

God pours out His love without limit!

Satan’s greatest temptation is the lie that we should question and doubt God’s goodness and love.

But God refutes that lie through the gift of Jesus who has shown us the lavishness of His love.

Jesus … fully God and fully man is God’s glory in a human body.

He said…

The words I speak are not my own, but my Father who lives in me does His work through me.

John 14:10

The Way, the Truth, and the Life – shows us God’s redeeming love.

I love this quote from John Piper…

Consider Jesus. Know Jesus. Learn what kind of Person it is you say you trust and love and worship. Soak in the shadow of Jesus. Saturate your soul with the ways of Jesus. Watch Him. Listen to Him. Stand in awe of Him. Let Him overwhelm you with the way He is.

I invited my friends to share some ways to describe God’s glory and share it with others…

Exercising a Heart of Obedience by Nicki Schroeder

… Trusting God’s plan even when it’s hard and using it to tell of His grace and give Him glory.

How to Set Goals that Glorify God Every Day, Every Year by Diana Abe

… 3 ways to plan and set goals to intentionally give God glory.

6 Marvelous Maxims that are True for Every Child of God by Melanie Redd.

… What is a maxim? A brief short expression of truth! These maxims are perfect truths to give God glory.

An Intimate Portrait of the God Who Pursues Me by Marva Smith

… God pursues you and me because He loves us so very much! His love reflects His glory.

Powerful Ways God Shows Up When You Least Expect It by Valerie Murray

… Beautiful ways simple acts of unexpected kindness show us God’s glory.

The Purpose Behind Christian Hospitality by Dawn Klinge

… Beautiful ways of opening our homes to others give God glory.

Friend, when you want to describe God’s glory … tell your story!

Tell people! Show people. Gentle and respectfully describe how…

God is your Provider…

This same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from His glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:!9

God is your Healer…

O Lord, if You heal me, I will be truly healed; if You save me, I will be truly saved. My praises are for You alone!

Jeremiah 17:14

God is your Savior…

Then they said to the woman, “Now we believe, not just because of what you told us, but because we have heard Him ourselves. Now we know that He is indeed the Savior of the world.”

John 4:42

God is LOVE…

We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in His love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. 1 John 4:16

John 4:16
The Bible says God is glorious but how can you and I describe God's glory in ways that people who need Him can understand? #WWGGG #DescribeGod'sGlory #Faith #Blessings

That’s it! Simply…

Tell the nations of His glory; tell all peoples the miracles He does, because the Lord is great; He should be praised at all times.

Psalm 96:3–4a

Oh, there’s one more thing…

After Moses had been with God:

… he wasn’t aware that his face had become radiant because he had spoken to the Lord. 

Exodus 34:29b

Don’t you just love that?!

Moses’ face reflected God’s glory!

Oh, how I want that!

Can you imagine the difference it could make if the faces of God’s children reflected His glory?

I want that! I want people to be able to tell that I’ve spent time with God because it shows. I want God’s glory to be reflected in everything I say and do … and even if I don’t say or do a thing. I want people to see His glory in the expression on my face.

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

What Gives You Hope When You Need It Most?

When I need hope, I turn to God's promises. I decided to ask some friends "what gives you hope when you need it most." Here are their answers... #Hope #Friends #Blessings #PromisesofGod

The dictionary defines “hope” as…

  • To cherish a desire with anticipation: to want something to happen or be true – as in hope for a promotion or hope for things to go well.
  • To trust.
  • To desire with an expectation of obtaining, accomplishing, or fulfilling.
  • To expect with confidence.

So, of course, that made me wonder…

Based on those definitions – What gives people hope?

I started with a Google search of the question “What gives you hope?” and found the following answers:

  • Not much.
  • Knowing that things could always be worse.
  • An inspiring person with strength and courage.
  • The belief that things will get better.
  • The determination and will power to improve whatever is wrong or overcome what’s going on.
  • When a child smiles.
  • Believing that dreams come true.
  • A sense of humor.
  • Optimism

Then I looked up the Biblical definition of the word “hope”…

Hope is the confident expectation, the sure certainty that what God has promised in the Word is true, has occurred, and or will occur in accordance with God’s sure Word.

Bible.org

Hope is the confident expectation of what God has promised and its strength is in His faithfulness.

Wiley Online Library

So, what’s the difference?

With the secular definition, the degree to which a person has hope is based solely on the strength of that person’s desires. But for those of us who believe that our hope is based on the Biblical definition … our hope, our strength is based on the promises of God.

In other words – you and I don’t have to be strong in order to be hopeful because weak or strong, God’s promises remain the same, God remains the same and He IS the source of our hope.

The writer of Hebrews wrote:

Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.

Hebrews 11:1

Paul wrote:

The Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.

Romans 15:4

And…

I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:13

And, one more…

Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope, comfort you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say.

2 Thessalonians 2:16–17

So, you and I don’t have to be strong to achieve that thing for which we hope; God Himself is our source of strength, confidence, peace, and hope … He has always been and He always will be true to His promises.

I don’t know about you, but I find that very encouraging.

As do many of my friends. I asked them…

What Gives You Hope When You Need It Most?

When I need hope, I turn to God's promises. I decided to ask some friends "what gives you hope when you need it most." Here are their answers... #Hope #Friends #Blessings #PromisesofGod

Here’s what they had to say in response to the question – What gives you hope?

  • Stacey wrote, “Looking back on the ‘suicidal’ me, seeing how far He’s brought me from there and knowing He’s not DONE with me yet!! Praise His Holy Name!!”
  • Jenn wrote, “Truly, the Word of God gives me hope. Many years ago, I read in Psalm 107 that God sent forth His Word and healed the people. My spirit latched onto that and hasn’t let go. His Word and being in intimate relationship w/ Him have brought me so much healing.”
  • Sandra said, “God’s Word.”
  • Samantha wrote, “The knowledge that God is in my corner which I know to be true based on the experiences. I’ve seen God’s unending faithfulness in my life over and over again.”
  • Teri said, “The presence of the Holy Spirit gives me hope. Being down and out for over a month and a half, I’ve relied so desperately on His ‘still small voice’.”
  • Shelley wrote, “Reading and learning the Word of God gives me hope and the peace that ‘passes all understanding’.”
  • Patsy said, “The promises of God and His faithfulness.”
  • Dawn wrote, “Jesus and the message of the Gospel.”
  • Sarah said, “Reading in Revelation 21–22 about the New Heaven and New Earth where there will be no more tears of suffering.”

Over the years, others have shared…

  • God’s grace and forgiveness give me hope … no matter how many times I mess up, what Christ has done has already cleaned up my mess.
  • The grace of God in Christ Jesus gives me hope.
  • Knowing God is in control of my life here on earth and for eternity and that His only motives for me are love.
  • Trusting that God is faithful and that He always keeps His promises.
  • Knowing I belong to the Lord and that someday I will live with Him forever.
  • The testimonies of people who have been changed by the saving grace, mercy, and love of God.
  • Knowing God has everything under control even when it looks to me like nothing is under control.
  • Have the peace and strength that only God can give … making it possible to take things one day at a time.
  • Remembering that God created me, sent Jesus to save me, and calls me His own.
  • The confidence that nothing happens outside of God’s control.

Would you like to know what gives me hope when I need it?

God’s patient love and transforming power!

The way He worked in my life to create a hope-filled story that changed everything.

I’m sitting here trying to find the words to explain it to you and tears fill my eyes as I think about the journey God allowed to take me from an anxious people-pleasing afraid to make a mistake “good girl” … to a completely broken hopeless mess.

But God…

(Two of my favorite words in the Bible because they are always followed by verses that tell of God’s gracious love and transforming power. They always bring words of hope!)

But God, in His mercy gently put the pieces back together. Not all of them. There are still parts of my story that aren’t completely filled in … but that’s where the hope shines through.

That’s where I can come to you and say, if Jesus can heal this broken mess and in the process transform me into someone who wants to simply live each day surrendered to honoring His command to…

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.”

Luke 10:27

It sounds so simple and yet, we make it so complicated, don’t we?

This is why I know I need the hope that comes from knowing and trusting God’s promises.

7 Promises from the Message that will Give You Hope When You Need It Most

When I need hope, I turn to God's promises. I decided to ask some friends "what gives you hope when you need it most." Here are their answers... #Hope #Friends #Blessings #PromisesofGod

God loves you.

This is how much God loved the world: He gave His Son, His one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in Him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.

John 3:16 (MSG)

God will meet every need you have.

 You can be sure that God will take care of everything you need, His generosity exceeding even yours in the glory that pours from Jesus.

Philippians 4:19 )MSG)

God’s grace and forgiveness give you freedom.

That means you must not give sin a vote in the way you conduct your lives. Don’t give it the time of day. Don’t even run little errands that are connected with that old way of life. Throw yourselves wholeheartedly and full-time—remember, you’ve been raised from the dead!—into God’s way of doing things. Sin can’t tell you how to live. After all, you’re not living under that old tyranny any longer. You’re living in the freedom of God.

Romans 6:12–14 (MSG)

God will protect you when you are tempted.

No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; He’ll never let you be pushed past your limit; He’ll always be there to help you come through it.

1 Corinthians 10:13 (MSG)

God cares for you and He is always with you.

God has said,
“I will never fail you.
    I will never abandon you.”
So we can say with confidence,
“The Lord is my helper,
    so I will have no fear.
    What can mere people do to me?”

Hebrews 13:6 (MSG)

God is always working for your good and His glory.

God’s Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn’t matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.

Romans 8:26–28

God promises you will have a home with Him
forever and always.

Jesus said, “My sheep recognize my voice. I know them, and they follow me. I give them real and eternal life. They are protected from the Destroyer for good. No one can steal them from out of my hand.” 

And…

“Trust me. There is plenty of room for you in my Father’s home. If that weren’t so, would I have told you that I’m on my way to get a room ready for you? And if I’m on my way to get your room ready, I’ll come back and get you so you can live where I live. And you already know the road I’m taking.”

John 10:27–28 & John 14:1–2 (MSG)

And finally, a verse to memorize that will give you hope when you need it…

Why am I discouraged?
    Why is my heart so sad?
I will put my hope in God!
    I will praise him again—
    my Savior and my God!

Psalm 43:5

So, let me ask you…

What gives you hope when you need it most?

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

When You Need to Know God Never Changes

I have something to confess…

When life feels fragile and the news is upsetting, I need to remember that God never changes and wisdom says there is nothing new under the sun. #Faith #BibleStudy #Wisdom #Truth #SeekFirst

I can be a pretty passionate hand-wringer.

I know, I’ve told you I’m in recovery when it comes to worry and anxiety, and I am … really! At least that’s what I tell myself. (Picture an awkward smile here.)

But the truth is … the news, a controversial post on social media, or a divisive op-ed can agitate me in a matter of seconds.

When I see the ways the enemy is at work trying to turn us against each other, I’ll admit I occasionally find myself worrying about the future for us, for our children and our grandchildren.

I’ve even been known to do a little ranting about it on occasion. Based on the emails I receive, and the posts and comments I read online … I’m not the alone in this struggle.

Which is why I’m stopping today to remind myself of one very important truth…

God Never Changes!

It’s easy to look around, focus on the negative, and get upset when it seems like culture is on a path to self-destruction. But take a look at the wisdom of Solomon…

History merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new.

Ecclesiastes 1:9

When I read through Bible as history … the evidence is clear, sin has been sin since the Garden.

People are selfish, prideful, and power hungry. They manipulate the truth for personal gain and do what it takes for popularity.

But God said about Himself through James…

Don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.

James 1:16–17

And through the writer of Hebrews, He said this…

God also bound Himself with an oath, so that those who received the promise could be perfectly sure that He would never change His mind. So God has given both His promise and His oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. 

Hebrews 6:17–18a

And the promise is Jesus…

These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to Him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God’s inner sanctuary. Jesus has already gone in there for us. He has become our eternal High Priest.

Hebrews 18b–19

Which makes me stop and ask the question…

How do I keep my hope anchored on the truth when the world shouts louder than God’s gentle whisper?

And that’s when I realize this 3-part answer…

When life feels fragile and the news is upsetting, I need to remember that God never changes and wisdom says there is nothing new under the sun. #Faith #BibleStudy #Wisdom #Truth #SeekFirst

1. Read God’s Word – Old and New Testaments.

I know, life is busy and our time is limited. So, if you and I are able to find time to read our Bibles at all, it’s tempting to stick with the parts that are interesting and easier to understand.

I get it … traveling through the wilderness with the Children of Israel can seem like it’s actually taking 40 years and it’s easy to wonder how the accounts of judges and kings apply to the 21st Century. But reading through the Old Testament reminds me how often I sound like a whiney wilderness wanderer and begin to know that it’s true … “nothing under the sun is truly new.”

This year I’m following the Bible Reading Plan at the back of the Life Application Bible. It “offers a complete view of Scripture and does so without being overwhelming” by skipping repeated material. I have a little more time for study this year, so I decided to add a Psalm or a few verses from Proverbs, and a section from my favorite books of the New Testament (John, Romans, or 1, 2, 3 John).

As I’m reading, I write the verses that stand out to me in my journal and when I’m done I write a prayer based on what I’ve read.

So, part #2 is…

2. Pray

About everything always!

Never stop praying.

1 Thessalonians 5:17

Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.

Colossians 4:2

You and I can trust the God who promises to hear us…

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.

1 John 5:14

And calm our fears…

I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me. He freed me from all my fears.

Psalm 34:4

Because He loves us…

God showed how much He loved us by sending His one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through Him.

1 John 4:9

I haven’t always kept a prayer journal but I’ve discovered this year that I love writing my prayers. Putting my words on paper slows me down and helps me really think about what I’m praying. And I love being able to go back and see the ways God has worked on my heart and mind as I’ve cried out to Him.

The next one is important. At least it is for me…

3. Take the Philippians Challenge.

Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise … then the God of peace will be with you.

Philippians 4:19, 20b

Last week, I made the decision to stop following anything or anyone that posts negative rants on social media and I stopped watching all news outlets.

I get to choose what I read, listen to, and watch. I also need to carefully choose what I think about and I’ve decided that for me, it’s self-defeating to dine on a constant diet of messages that discourage my mind and hurt my heart.

When life feels fragile and the news is upsetting, I need to remember that God never changes and wisdom says there is nothing new under the sun. #Faith #BibleStudy #Wisdom #Truth #SeekFirst

When I do these three things, I am better able to…

Trust the God Who Never Changes

The One who has faithfully kept His promises in the past and will keep His promises in the future … God never changes!

What makes me so sure?

He gave us Jesus, the fulfillment of all God’s promises … from the Word spoken in the Garden, to kings and prophets—Jesus is God’s answer.

And when I’m “still.” When I fix my focus on Jesus. When I listen to the Holy Spirit … I’m not worried!

When the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—He will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.

 “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.

John 14:26–27

Because God, who created everything, sent Jesus to suffer our punishment and give us eternal life. And for today’s struggle, He has given us His Spirit’s presence to help us remember the truth about His grace, mercy, and love.

So, I’m taking some time to turn away from the stuff that agitates me and spending more time thanking God for the gift of the peace I have in Jesus. And with the Holy Spirit as my Helper … I will reject hand-wringing and remember – God never changes!

Care to join me?!

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

5 Verses to Pray When You are in a Time of Change

It’s that time of the year…

I’ve heard friends are calling it #Maycember.

And I understand. I still remember overstuffed calendar pages filled with end of the school year events and activities, and although the days were long and exhausting, that wasn’t the hardest part…

The hardest part was dealing with impending CHANGE!

Any time of change is part of life but it's not always a welcome part. It can spike your stress level and leave you sleepless. Let's pray about it... #Prayer #Faithblogger #LinkParty #SeekGodFirst #GoodNews

The end of every school year was another reminder that my children were growing up!

Change is part of life but in all honesty, it’s not always a welcome part of life, is it?

Our children growing up makes us emotional but it’s anticipated and expected … honestly, they’re supposed to grow up.

But what about the unexpected changes that spike our stress levels and leave us staring at the ceiling each night.

Things like…

  • losing a job.
  • receiving a difficult diagnosis.
  • caring for an ailing parent.
  • having an unforeseen/overwhelming expense.
  • moving.
  • finding out you’re pregnant.

Good or not so good – change is often stressful.

So today, we’re taking our time of change to the throne of grace … asking God to meet every need and give us His hard to understand peace.

5 Verses to Pray When You are in a Time of Change

Any time of change is part of life but it's not always a welcome part. It can spike your stress level and leave you sleepless. Let's pray about it... #Prayer #Faithblogger #LinkParty #SeekGodFirst #GoodNews

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6–7

Father, You have faithfully given me everything I need in the past and I know You are with me today. Why is it so hard to simply wait trusting You will faithfully give me what I will need tomorrow.

Life is hard. When I look around it’s easy to see that plenty of bad things happen. And this change, Father, feels like it could go either way. So, please help me remember all You have done for me in the past. Help me trust You to give me all I need tomorrow. And fill me with Your Spirit that I might experience Your hard to explain or understand peace.

The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.”

Psalm 32:8

Father, I love this promise. It comforts me. I can trust You to guide me and You always guide with love and wisdom because You are Love and Wisdom! I am never alone, even during this time of change! You are watching over me. Your Spirit is with and within me guiding me according to Your will. Help me quickly and willingly follow wherever You lead.

Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”

Deuteronomy 31:8

Oh, Father, please help me remember this … You are with me. You will never leave me. And Your love never fails. Through this time of change calm my fears and help me defeat discouragement as I continually keep in mind that whatever tomorrow may bring—You are already there. Nothing comes as a surprise to You. Father, You know exactly what I need today and exactly what I will need tomorrow.

You will keep in perfect peace
    all who trust in You,
    all whose thoughts are fixed on You!  Trust in the Lord always,
    for the Lord God is the eternal Rock.

Isaiah 26:3–4

Father, I do trust You. I will not be shaken when I trust Your Word and Your promises. I can experience peace even through uncertain times when I remained focused on who You are and all You’ve done. You are my Creator, Redeemer, Comforter, Helper, Healer, Shepherd, and Provider. You are my Lord and Savior … I can face tomorrow secure in Your mighty power and unchanging love.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Hebrews 13:8

Father, thank you! Your Word, from beginning to end, points to Jesus. John called Him the Word, with You from before the beginning of time. (John 1:1) The One promised in the Garden. (Genesis 3:15) The Word made flesh … full of unfailing love and faithfulness. (John 1:14) The Alpha and Omega … the One who always was and always will be forever. (Revelation 1:8) The One who sits on the throne. (Revelation 5:13) The One who is coming soon. (Revelation 22:21)

When I keep my heart and mind focused on Jesus with an eternal perspective … this time of change simply becomes part of the adventure we are taking together.

Father, thank you for never leaving me to face day to day adventure alone and thank you for making it possible for me to know with confidence that my adventure will continue forever in Your presence. By Your grace and for Your glory. Amen.

Any time of change is part of life but it's not always a welcome part. It can spike your stress level and leave you sleepless. Let's pray about it... #Prayer #Faithblogger #LinkParty #SeekGodFirst #GoodNews

Friend, if you’re going through a time of change…

My Bible reading this week included Psalm 103…

Let all that I am praise the Lord;
    with my whole heart, I will praise His holy name.
Let all that I am praise the Lord;
    may I never forget the good things He does for me.

Psalm 103:1–2

David continued by naming things he wanted to remember. Things like…

  • forgiveness
  • healing
  • righteousness and justice
  • redemption
  • tender mercy
  • compassion and patience
  • grace and unfailing love

You and I can trust God through each and every time of change be He is unchanging. We love, trust, and pray to the same heavenly Father that David did and all of those “good things” He did for David … He continues to do in your life and mine.

When I remember all that God has done for me in the past I have strength and courage for today and hope for tomorrow.

Praise the Lord!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

Before She Was Your Mother by Pam Ecrement @ A New Lens

Before She Was Your Mother

by Pam Ecrement
@ A New Lens

20 Reason You are a Great Mom by Dr. Michelle Bengtson @ Hope Prevails

20 Reasons You are a Great Mom

by Dr. Michelle Bengtson
@ Hope Prevails


AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

Counting My Blessings
<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

[Tweet “I’m finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith ‘n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! “]

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship! 

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

Have you visited the Faith ‘n Friends Link Party Board on Pinterest? It’s a great place to catch up with past posts you may have missed here at the party and/or save them for a future read! If you’d like to become a contributor to my Pinterest Group Boards – email me at deb@debwolf.com with a link to your Pinterest home page.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Maybe a friend, family member, coworker, or through the links below…

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Thank you and God bless!

Father, It is Finished – Please Forgive Me

It is finished. How can we call it Good Friday? Because Jesus' sacrifice that day is Good News for the lost and broken ... people like you and me. #GoodFriday #Easter #Jesus #CountingMyBlessings

I have a hard time getting my brain around all that this day we call “Good Friday” embraces.

When I think about the betrayals and denials, trials and lashes, a crown of thorns and crowds shouting “crucify Him” … all pieces of the day that Jesus suffered and died.

How can we call it … Good Friday?

Because Jesus’ sacrifice that day is Good News for the lost and broken … for people like you and me.

People who need forgiveness. So, I’m praying…

Father, It is Finished – Please Forgive Me

Father, Your Word says…

This is real love—not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.

1 John 4:10

Your love overwhelms me … humbles me.

I am so undeserving of Your grace and mercy.

I imagine myself in the worst parts of that day. Oh, it’s easier to think that I would have been standing with John and the Marys … that I would have faithfully followed Your Son to the foot of the cross.

But I wonder, would I have been strong enough or would I have followed the crowd? Would I have been stood strong on Your truth or listened to church leaders, the ones with power and prestige.

That’s how I end up overwhelmed…

Because of Your amazing grace and unfailing love You suffered and died for them, for me!

It is finished. How can we call it Good Friday? Because Jesus' sacrifice that day is Good News for the lost and broken ... people like you and me. #GoodFriday #Easter #Jesus #CountingMyBlessings

You sent Your Son to suffer and die for…

  • Pharisees and Sadducees
  • High Priests and Temple Leaders
  • Caiaphas, Herod, and Pontius Pilate
  • Soldiers and Guards
  • Betrayers and Deniers
  • Tax-collectors, Adulterers, and Cheaters
  • Sinners

People like me!

So today, as I approach the foot of the cross and hear His words, “It is finished!” And my heart and mind cry out, “Father, forgive me!”

I’m so sorry!

I believe Your Word that says…

Everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.

Romans 3:23

And…

The wages of sin is death.

Romans 6:23

I believe that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, that…

There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.

Acts 4:12

I believe that by You grace…

I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.

Galatians 2:20

And that I have been made right with You, Father, by placing my faith in Jesus Christ. That this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. (Based on Romans 3:22)

I trust Your promise…

If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.

Romans 10:9–10

And Jesus promise…

I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die.

John 11:25–26

Which is why I’m overwhelmed, Father.

It is by Your grace that I am saved. Grace given to me through the undeserved suffering and death of Your Son, and my Savior, Jesus.

Thank you!

Because of Jesus’ “It is finished!” Because of Good Friday, I can say, “Please forgive me!”

And hear Him say, “Your sins are forgiven.”

Thank you, Father! That is Good News!

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

5 Verses and Prayers that will Draw You Closer to Jesus

Verses and prayers for the season of Lent that will draw you closer to Jesus through reflection, anticipation, and hope. #Jesus #Lent #BibleStudy #VersestoPray #CountingMyBlessings

Why in the world do we talk about Lent anyway?

Many churches have stopped making much of this season of preparation but I’ve always found it a blessing to slow down a little and prayerfully think about all Jesus has graciously done for me through His life, death, and resurrection.

I see comments out there from people who are giving something up as a way of fasting … not as a diet or to better the environment (I understand there’s a push to give up plastic this year) but as a way to consider what Jesus may have felt as He lived out 40 Days of fasting in the wilderness.

And actively taking on some small form of self-sacrifice as a way of remembering Jesus’ far greater sacrifice can be a beautiful way of drawing closer to Jesus.

However…

For the past few years, I’ve chosen to add rather give up. So, I make a plan each Lenten season to intentionally spend even more time in prayer and Bible study than I do throughout the rest of the year.

Why?

Because I want to use this time to reflect on being humble, repentant, and grateful for Jesus gracious sacrifice that saved me.

And … I also want to use it as a time of anticipation…

Not just the anticipation of remembering and celebrating Jesus’ “Easter” resurrection but as a time of heartfelt preparation for His glorious promised return.

So, what is Lent for me?

It’s living in awe and wonder at God’s amazing grace, underserved mercy … and unfailing love! The reasons that bring me to my knees in humble repentance, reflection, and anticipation.

So, I’m praying today and asking God to fill me with His Spirit and to draw me closer to Jesus.

Most of all, I’m praying that He will help me love Him more and more each day.

5 Verses and Prayers that will Draw You Closer to Jesus

Verses and prayers for the season of Lent that will draw you closer to Jesus through reflection, anticipation, and hope. #Jesus #Lent #BibleStudy #VersestoPray #CountingMyBlessings

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent His Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through Him.

John 3:16–17

Father, Your love is evident in everything. In the past … the present … and the future. It is most evident through Your Son, Jesus. He told us how very much You love us … then He showed us by sacrificing everything for us.

Please, by the power of Your Spirit, help me keep my heart and mind focused on all I have been given through the gift of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. And help me live each day in humble service, overwhelmed with gratitude for all You have done for me through Him. Amen.

The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God.

Psalm 51:17

And Father, all You ask in response to this amazing sacrificial gift is the offering of a humble heart, broken in repentance. I can’t earn this gift. There is nothing I can say or do. So, I come to You today to say…

I am so very sorry. I am self-righteous, prideful, and impatient. I’m not as kind and compassionate as You want me to be. Each day there are countless things I fail to do that I should and just as many things I do that I shouldn’t … all ways I fall short of Your will for me. Father, please forgive me and by Your grace, help me to change. Amen.

[Jesus] opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. And He said, “Yes, it was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day. It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of His name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’”

Luke 24:45–47

Father, You promised a Savior, a Messiah, who would suffer my punishment as soon as sin entered Your perfect world.

I love that Jesus spoke these words to His disciples after His resurrection … after Your promise had been fulfilled.

You keep all Your promises. I can trust every Word You’ve given and count on Your faithfulness to forgive my sins.

Wow! No matter how often I come to You … You remove my sins and wash me clean. I am humbled and grateful. And yet, words of gratitude don’t seem like enough. So, I give You my surrendered heart. Amen.

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33

Jesus, Some days are just hard! You said there would be trials and sorrows and You knew what You were talking about … You lived through unimaginable trials and sorrows because of Your great love for me.

So, I can be confident that when You told us to “take heart”You were telling us to be encouraged and hopeful because of who You are and what You’ve done. And because I belong to You, the One who has defeated the enemy and overcome the world.

Lord, You not only give me peace … You are my peace. You are my hope. You are my Way, Truth, and Life. Thanks and praise forever. Amen.

He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” And the one sitting on the throne said, “Look, I am making everything new!” And then He said to me, “Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true.” And He also said, “It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End.”

Revelation 21:4–6

And this is the hope I have, Father. Whatever today brings, I know that my Redeemer lives. He lives with and within me reminding me of Your promises, calming my fears, and filling me with Your love. He is making all things new! He is the Beginning and the End … my Savior, my Always!

Father, thank you! Please help me keep my heart and mind focused on Jesus and all He has done for me. And help me spend every moment of my life serving You in humble gratitude for Your grace, mercy, and undeserved love. Amen.

Verses and prayers for the season of Lent that will draw you closer to Jesus through reflection, anticipation, and hope. #Jesus #Lent #BibleStudy #VersestoPray #CountingMyBlessings

And one final closer to Jesus thought from Dietrich Bonhoeffer…

“Self-denial means knowing only Christ, and no longer oneself. It means seeing only Christ, who goes ahead of us, and no longer the path that is too difficult for us… . Self-denial is saying only: He goes ahead of us; hold fast to him.” 

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

When a Loved One Disappoints: Six Biblical Ways to Respond by and @ April Knapp


When a Loved One Disappoints: Six Biblical Ways to Respond

by and @ April Knapp

Walking in the Abundant Promises of the Good Shepherd: Psalm 23 by Diana Abe @ Diana's Diaries


Walking in the Abundant Promises of the Good Shepherd:
Psalm 23

by Diana Abe
@ Diana’s Diaries


AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

Counting My Blessings
<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

[Tweet “I’m finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith ‘n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! “]

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

 Loading InLinkz ...

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship! 

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

Have you visited the Faith ‘n Friends Link Party Board on Pinterest? It’s a great place to catch up with past posts you may have missed here at the party and/or save them for a future read! If you’d like to become a contributor to my Pinterest Group Boards – email me at deb@debwolf.com with a link to your Pinterest home page.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Maybe a friend, family member, coworker, or through the links below…

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Thank you and God bless!

5 Ways to Have the Peace You Want Every Day

It is impossible to experience God's peace when we're reliving yesterday or pre-living tomorrow. Here are 5 ways to have the peace you want every day. #InnerPeace #BibleStudy #Faith

It’s true!

It is absolutely impossible to experience God’s peace when I’m reliving yesterday or pre-living tomorrow. Peace simply cannot be applied to yesterday’s mess nor can it be pre-applied to tomorrow’s worries.

Have you ever gotten to the end of the day and regret the amount of time you wasted on guilt, worry, and anxiety?

Yeah, me too!

But I’m working on changing that. I truly believe that with God’s help I do not have to sacrifice today’s peace and joy to yesterday’s failures and tomorrows unknowns.

But I definitely need His help.

So, I’m working to apply the following disciplines every day … because I know when I do, well, I have the peace I want!

5 Ways to Have the Peace You Want Every Day

It is impossible to experience God's peace when we're reliving yesterday or pre-living tomorrow. Here are 5 ways to have the peace you want every day. #InnerPeace #BibleStudy #Faith

1. Celebrate today like it’s a bonus day.

Rev and I celebrate bonus days. In fact, today is our 4,176th bonus day.

What are bonus days?

They are the days we’ve been blessed to enjoy that were unexpected when he entered the operating room on September 20, 2007, for a pericardial stripping.

What’s that? A pericardial stripping is when a cardiac surgeon chips the thickened and hardened lining off a beating heart. It’s extremely dangerous. We were told the mortality rate, morbidity rate, and success rate were all equal. We weren’t offered a lot of hope.

And yet, God gave us His peace that day. And every day since Rev has written the Bonus Day number on the calendar as a reminder to celebrate and LIVE.

This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad today!

Psalm 118:@4

When we are busy treating today like the gift, the bonus, it is … well, it helps us to live intentionally. And intentional living focuses on now, refusing to dwell on the past or on the future.

2. Take every thought captive . . . purposefully reject guilt and worry.

I once read about a great idea that can help me seal today off from yesterday and tomorrow.

It’s called…

Living in an airlock space. 

Imagine as you walk into today that the door to yesterday is closing behind you and you can’t open the door in front of you until it’s time to move into tomorrow.

Enter the airlock space with thanksgiving and leave it with repentance. No guilt and no worry.

I’m pretty sure, that’s downright Biblical…

So don’t worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will have its own worries. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Matthew 6:34

3. Do only what you are able to do today.

When is the last time you were able to accomplish everything on your to-do list?

Our lives are loaded with expectations. Some our own … many added by others. We have spouses, children, bosses, and friends we want to please. We’re serving and volunteering and…

It’s impossible to get it all done.

So, remember to manage each day with grace.

It’s okay to say “no.” It’s okay to set priorities. In fact, it’s not only okay, it’s God’s will. You absolutely cannot do everything for everyone. So, spend time with God and your planner. Pray and ask Him to help you manage your time according to His plans and purposes for you.

You may find that it’s time for you to say “no” to some good things so you can fully say “yes” to the most important things.

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

Romans 12:2

4. Trust God to meet your needs today.

Have you read the Bible account lately of the way God provided food for the Israelites in the Wilderness?

In the morning, as the dew evaporated, manna was left on the ground. And the people were to trust God by gathering just enough to eat that day. If they saved it overnight it smelled bad and was full of worms. (Exodus 16)

One day at a time … just enough. With the exception of Fridays, when they were told to gather enough for the Saturday Sabbath so they could rest as God commanded.

I love that!

God is able to meet today’s needs. And He will even meet them in ways that make it possible for us to take a Sabbath rest if we trust Him.

I often sense Jesus whispering,

“Why are you afraid? You have so little faith!”

Matthew 8:26

And it’s impossible to have peace when my “little faith” doubts His ability to meet my needs.

But He also says…

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.

Luke 12:31

And…

Look at the birds in the air. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, but your heavenly Father feeds them. And you know that you are worth much more than the birds.

Matthew 6:26

5. Just breathe. Breathe in His peace and breathe out the peace robbers.

I have a dear one who often takes a deep breath and says, “In with the butterflies out with the bees.”

Great visual right?

When the moment is difficult and I’m tempted to make it worse by adding the past and the future, I just have to stop and breathe.

Breathe out frustration, worry, anxiety, guilt, and overwhelm … and breathe in God’s gift of peace by…

  • remembering His past faithfulness and provision.
  • clinging His promises.
  • running to Him in prayer.

When I remember all God has done for me in the past; when I lean on His promises to care for me today and in the future; and when I surrender every anxious thought to Him in prayer … I have everything I need to know He will help me experience His peace through this moment as well.

I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:3

I’ll admit it…

It’s hard to live one day at a time.

It’s hard to let go of yesterday and refuse to worry about tomorrow?

Especially for those of us who are naturally anxious.

But the truth is…

Like it or not, life is lived moment by moment. One day at a time. 

So, it’s up to you and me whether we will live one day at a time moments with peace or sacrifice them to on the altar of regret and worry.

The choice is ours.

It is impossible to experience God's peace when we're reliving yesterday or pre-living tomorrow. Here are 5 ways to have the peace you want every day. #InnerPeace #BibleStudy #Faith

Steve Maraboli said:

“Although time seems to fly, it never travels faster than one day at a time. Each day is a new opportunity to live your life to the fullest. In each waking day, you will find scores of blessings and opportunities for positive change. Do not let your TODAY be stolen by the unchangeable past or the indefinite future! Today is a new day!” 

So will you join me?

Let’s…

  • Celebrate today like it’s a bonus day.
  • Take every peace-robbing thought captive and surrender it to God.
  • Do what we are able to do today.
  • Trust God to meet this day’s needs.
  • And breathe in His peace.

We can do this! You and I can live one day at a time with God’s help.

And finally, here’s one more question that gives me perspective…

Will this matter a year from now? 

It’s surprising how often the answer is, “no!” And if that’s the case, it’s not worth what it’s costing me in peace.

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!