Category Archives: Prayer

5 Verses to Pray When You Doubt Your Value

If you doubt your value today because someone has failed to love you well or you are lacking something you need to be lovable ... I'd love to pray with you. #DoubtSelf #Unlovable #GodLovesYou #VersesandPrayers #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

I believe we all want to be emotionally healthy … and there are several things required to make that desire a reality.

Those things are a need for love, security, and significance.

The need to be valued!

And I believe we are hardwired by God with this need for two very important reasons…

  1. He is love and He loves us.
  2. He wants us to know and experience His love because we are precious to Him.

The Lord has placed a craving within us that He alone is able to satisfy.

We can chase after people, possessions, power, professions, and popularity and never feel the love, security, and significance we so desperately want.

And maybe, we’re not supposed to.

It’s especially difficult in our relationships with people, isn’t it?

We want to be loved. We need to be loved.

It’s how we’re made.

So, we seek love from people … longing for perfect relationships with spouses, children, parents, siblings, and friends. Oh sure, we try harder with some than with others. But we all have someone or several someones whose love we will do almost anything to get and keep.

But there’s a problem…

People will never love us perfectly no matter how hard we try or what we do. People will let us down. And truthfully, there will be times when we will let them down as well.

So, if you and I seek our value from the approving love of other people … you will always doubt your worth and so will I. If we’re trying to find self-worth in any temporary thing this world has to offer … we will always be left wanting and disappointed.

So, I’m going to the Lord today and asking Him to help us KNOW how much He loves and values us. I’m asking Him to remind us that we are precious to Him. And I’m asking Him to assure us that when it comes to the perfect love we need in order to be emotionally healthy … His love is more than enough!

If you doubt your value today because someone has failed to love you well or because you believe you’re lacking something you need to be more lovable … I’d love for you to pray with me.

5 Verses to Pray When You Doubt Your Value

If you doubt your value today because someone has failed to love you well or you are lacking something you need to be lovable ... I'd love to pray with you. #DoubtSelf #Unlovable #GodLovesYou #VersesandPrayers #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Even before He made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in His eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into His own family by bringing us to Himself through Jesus Christ. This is what He wanted to do, and it gave Him great pleasure.

Ephesians 1:4–5

Father, it’s hard for me to get my brain around this promise.

You say I was on your mind before You spoke creation into being … before You made a grain of sand or a star in the sky. You say You chose me in Christ Jesus to be Your child and that You wanted me so much it gave You great pleasure.

It gave you pleasure to sacrifice everything to make me Your own. Pleasure. Father, that is unimaginable impossible to explain love.

Implant this on my heart that I might never doubt my value again. I am Yours and that makes me precious and treasured … and loved.

Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.

Ephesians 2:9–10

Father, I’ve heard it said that no accomplishment could make You love me more and no failure could make You love me less.

Who loves like that?! People can be so quick to reject and slow to forgive.

But You made me and call me a masterpiece. And You not only didn’t reject me but You forgave me completely and made me a new creation through Jesus. Not through what I have done but through what He has done for me.

How can I ever begin to thank you? I can’t thank you enough but I can live to bring You glory and love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.

 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.

Romans 8:38

Father, it’s clear to see the enemy is alive and at work in our world. We experience attacks on our health, our homes, our careers, and our relationships.

But Your Word says “NOTHING” can ever separate me from Your love. Nothing the enemy does. Nothing I’m afraid he’ll do. Not even if he turns the powers of hell against me. YOU LOVE ME ALWAYS AND FOREVER! And You take care of me. Even when today is painful and difficult … I trust that You are at work in and around me. I am Yours. I am safe. I am valued and loved.

Cast all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully]. 

1 Peter 5:7

Father, I love this promise. You have the deepest affection for me and watch over me carefully and nothing can change that.

You invite me to bring all my worry and anxiety to You. I wonder how often I unnecessarily carry a burden that You want to carry for me. I’m sorry Father, please forgive me and help me remember You are worthy of my complete trust. You are faithful to keep Your promises. You are my loving Father, who calls me Your precious pearl. I am overwhelmed by Your love.

The faithful love of the Lord never ends!
His mercies never cease.

Lamentations 3:22

Father, I am the beneficiary of Your faithful love every day. I am covered by Your grace and mercy. I am safe in Jesus … not just today but forever and always. You call me Your child. Your friend. Your masterpiece. Your beloved. You call me precious. You call me valued. You call me LOVED!

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Amen.

If you doubt your value today because someone has failed to love you well or you are lacking something you need to be lovable ... I'd love to pray with you. #DoubtSelf #Unlovable #GodLovesYou #VersesandPrayers #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Friend, I’m emotional. I look at life through a lens of emotions and sometimes the way I think about myself is determined by the way someone has treated me or something they’ve said to me. I can sometimes base my value, on any given day, on the way I feel physically, the number on the scale, or the imperfections I see in the mirror. And yes, I can even occasionally allow my circumstances to distort my thoughts about my value and worth.

But all of those things are lies of the enemy.

Anything that tempts you to doubt your value … anything that makes you question God’s love is A LIE!

Look at the above verses inserting your name in the blanks.

Even before He made the world, God loved __________ and chose __________ in Christ to be holy and without fault in His eyes. 

For __________ is God’s masterpiece. He has created __________ anew in Christ Jesus.

Nothing can ever separate __________ from God’s love.

He cares about __________ [with deepest affection, and watches over __________ very carefully]. 

The faithful love of the Lord [for __________] never ends! His mercies never cease.

Nothing can change His love for you. No words, thoughts, or circumstances. No flaw, failure, or frustration. NOTHING!

When the enemy tempts and taunts you, when circumstances are hard, and when you doubt your value…

Remember.

GOD IS LOVE! And HE LOVES YOU!

You are perfectly precious to Him.
You always have been and you always will be!

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!

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5 Psalms to Pray When You are Feeling Sad

Psalms and prayers to help you take your burdens to God when you are feeling sad. It's a blessing that He wants us to honestly take everything to Him in prayer ... trusting that He will help and strengthen us. #EmotionalHealth #Sadness #Prayer #Psalms #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #PrayerforStrength #PrayerforPeace #FeelingDown

I want to be totally honest with you today. Okay, let me rephrase that because I’m honest with you every day…

I guess what I’m going to do today is make myself a little more vulnerable because I want you to know that like you, I struggle.

I have battled fear, worry, anxiety, and general sadness off and on for much of my life. I have BIG emotions. BIG HAPPINESS and sometimes BIG SADNESS!

Maybe you’re a BIG emotions person, too.

Even if you’re not a person who wears your emotions out there for everyone to see – you still feel life and at times those feelings are going to be sad. It’s inevitable. Everyone has times when their current difficult circumstances or past painful memories are enough to bury their joy and happiness under a pile of junk!

But this is the thing…

By God’s grace, we aren’t alone. God welcomes you and me into His throne room through prayer—not only when we’re praising Him with gratitude and joy but when we’re approaching Him with heavy hearts full of sadness.

I love that David and the other writers of the Psalms consistently tell us how about the blessing of taking everything to God in prayer – even our sadness.

  • Morning, noon, and night I cry out in my distress, and the Lord hears my voice. (Psalm 55:17)
  • Give your burdens to the Lord. (Psalm 55:22)
  • I cry to you for help when my heart is overwhelmed. (Psalm 61:2)
  • The Lord is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. (Psalm 9:9)
  • He has not ignored or belittled the suffering of the needy. He has not turned His back on them but has listened to their cries for help. (Psalm 22:24)

If your heart is heavy today, weighted with a burden of sadness … if you’re feeling sad, please join me as I go to God asking for His covering of comfort, strength, peace, and love…

5 Psalms to Pray When You are Feeling Sad

Psalms and prayers to help you take your burdens to God when you are feeling sad. It's a blessing that He wants us to honestly take everything to Him in prayer. #EmotionalHealth #Sadness #Prayer #Psalms #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed.

Psalm 34:18

Father, My heart hurts today. I’m not even sure why exactly. Past problems and pain gnaw at my heart. My worries about the future agitate and unsettle me. And today, well today has had plenty of its own problems. So, I’m run to You … clinging to the promise that You are close to the brokenhearted.

I know all sin breaks Your heart. My sin, other people’s sin, and the sin and decay that affects Your beautiful creation. Yet You promise to rescue those who come to You in repentance. Through Jesus, You rescue and heal me when I am crushed by the sadness of sin.

Thank you for Jesus. Thank you for saving me. Thank you for holding me close when I’m feeling sad.

He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds. He counts the stars and calls them all by name.

How great is our Lord! His power is absolute! His understanding is beyond comprehension!

Psalm 147:3–5

Father, Creator of all, You know the exact number of stars in the universe and call each one by name. Your Word says You know me, everything about me … even the number of hairs on my head. (Matthew 10:30)

You care about the condition of my heart … You know my thoughts when I’m happy and even when I’m sad. Thank you for understanding me even better than I understand myself. Thank you for caring … for loving me, holding me, and healing me by You mercy and grace.

How precious are your thoughts about me, O God.
    They cannot be numbered!
I can’t even count them;
    they outnumber the grains of sand!
And when I wake up,
    You are still with me!

Psalm 139:17–18

What an awesome and amazing thought, Lord. You have limitless loving thoughts about me. You call me Your precious child. And You promise to be with me. Thank you!

Please hold me close, Lord. My sadness feels like a heavy weight. You said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28) I need that rest today! I need Your help to carry this sadness.

Thank you, for all the times You have helped me and given me Your peace and strength in the past. I am clinging to Your promises and bringing You my burden of sadness today.

I love you, Lord; You are my strength.
The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior;
    my God is my rock, in whom I find protection.
He is my shield, the power that saves me,
    and my place of safety.

Psalm 18:1–2

Father, I love You! Thank you for helping me by the power of Your Holy Spirit. Thank you for reminding me to pause and remember the ways You have faithfully been my strength, my savior, and my protector.

Thank you for reminding me that I can run to You, my place of safety, even when my emotions fall far short of happiness and joy. You know my thoughts and feelings and invite me to honestly and openly talk about them with You. Thank you for loving me the way I am and thank you for loving me so much You want Your very best for me.

I believe Your best for me today, is that I lay my sadness at Your throne of grace trusting You to give me everything I need that I might rise up with the strength and power only You can give.

You changed my sorrow into dancing.
    You took away my clothes of sadness,
    and clothed me in happiness.
I will sing to You and not be silent.
    Lord, my God, I will praise You forever.

Psalm 30:11–12

And I believe, Father, that You are changing my sadness into joy and that You are clothing me with future happiness. Because I am secure in You. Although, my happiness and even my sadness come and go … You remain the same yesterday, today, and forever.

I trust that You have collected my tears in a bottle and recorded each one in Your book. (Psalm 56:8) You know my past and You see into my glorious future. A future I am promised because of Your gift of love—because of Jesus.

So, I will thank and praise You today. I will focus on my past and current blessings. By Your grace and with Your help, I will praise You forever and always. In Jesus, name. Amen.

Psalms and prayers to help you take your burdens to God when you are feeling sad. It's a blessing that He wants us to honestly take everything to Him in prayer ... trusting that He will help and strengthen us. #EmotionalHealth #Sadness #Prayer #Psalms #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #PrayerforStrength #PrayerforPeace #FeelingDown

I can’t tell you how often I’ve had to walk through the process of surrendering my sadness at the throne of grace … how often the Lord has held me close and given me His strength when I cried out to Him in prayer.

But there is something important you need to know…

I have also had times when my sadness was deep and lasting … times when I began to question if I was going to carry its weight for the rest of my life.

That’s when…

I got help!

I didn’t try to fight the battle alone. Besides praying, I was honest with the people who love me. I talked to my doctor and I went to a Christian counselor.

God often uses other people to help us carry our burdens.

So, if you’re starting to feel a sense of hopelessness in your sadness … please seek help.

One of the things I love about our Heavenly Father is that He doesn’t waste our pain.

Your feelings. This experience. And those God uses to help you may all be the very things He will use to help you help someone else.

I’m asking God to hold you close and comfort you with His blessings of comfort, strength, peace, and joy!

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…

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A Prayer Full of Hope for the New Year

Verses to pray ... asking God to give you all you need to be full of hope today and throughout the new year. One resolution. One grace. One Savior. #NewYearPrayer #LivewithHope #Faith #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #NewYear

I love the beginning of a new year.

A clean calendar. A fresh start in Genesis.

It always feels like a do-over for…

Resolutions. Goals. Hopes. Promises.

That’s typically how I feel on December 30th and 31st. Sometimes the feeling lingers a little and I can carry in through January 1st, 2nd, and maybe even the 3rd. But inevitably, I always come to that moment of realization that no matter how hard I’m trying to maintain that “clean fresh” start … I fail. I mess up. As I bring the junk of the past year into the new one.

And maybe that’s the problem.

Did you catch that one phrase … “no matter how hard I’m trying?”

Maybe it’s not so much about “trying” as it is about surrendering.

John wrote the following words in Revelation 21:

“Behold, I am making all things new.”

verse 5

Our ascended Lord and Savior gives us the hope we need … not only for our eternal future but for our today and tomorrow as well—for the new year ahead.

David wrote:

Praise the Lord!
    For He has heard my cry for mercy.
The Lord is my strength and shield.
    I trust Him with all my heart.
He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy.

Psalm 28:6–7

That’s exceptional news on December 30th and on January 3rd.

The Lord hears our repentant cries for mercy, forgives us of our flaws and failures, and gives us the strength we need. You and I can trust Him to help us when we surrender each day to Him.

So, today I’m praying and asking the Lord to give me all I need to faithfully follow trust and follow Him in the new year. I’m asking Him to be my hope for the New Year. I’d love for you to join me.

A Prayer Full of Hope for the New Year

Verses to pray ... asking God to give you all you need to be full of hope today and throughout the new year. One resolution. One grace. One Savior. #NewYearPrayer #LivewithHope #Faith #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #NewYear

Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
    do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek His will in all you do,
    and He will show you which path to take.

Proverbs 3:5–6

Father, Please help me. I want to trust You with all my heart and I believe that with Your Spirit at work within me I will have all I need to surrender my heart, mind, and soul completely to You.

I believe You will help me SEEK Your will and give me everything I need to follow the path You set before me. My faith is in You, Lord. I lay my life before You as an offering to be used by Your grace for Your glory.

The faithful love of the Lord never ends!
    His mercies never cease.
Great is His faithfulness;
    His mercies begin afresh each morning.
I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance;
    therefore, I will hope in Him!”

Lamentations 3:22–24

Father, Thank you! Because of Jesus, I can begin the new year trusting that Your mercy covers my sin. I can leave the struggles and failures of the past in the past and I can go into the future knowing I have been made new. I can go into the year ahead with hope trusting that You will give me whatever I need to face whatever You allow. I can get up every morning confident that I am secure in Your faithful never-ending love. By Your grace, I am healed and whole. By Your grace, I am full of hope.

Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

2 Corinthians 5:17

Father, Please imprint these words on my heart and mind. I have been made new in Christ Jesus. My old sinful selfish life is gone as I surrender myself to Your Spirit’s transforming work in my life.

Because of Jesus, I can run to You with my concerns, problems, failures, and emotions. I trust Your grace, mercy, and love. I believe in and with You, my new life can be full of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. I believe I can live each day full of hope and joy. Thanks and praise now and forever.

[Jabez] was the one who prayed to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and expand my territory! Please be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain!” And God granted him his request.

1 Chronicles 4:10

Father, thank you for wanting me to know this simple humble prayer. And thank you for allowing me to know that it is a request You granted.

So, I join with Jabez and pray…

Father God, please bless me and increase my opportunities to serve You. Some days it can be hard to live in this broken and fallen world. Please be with me in all that I say and do; protect me from evil and keep me safe as I face life’s challenges. Please guard my heart and mind and bless me this day, in Jesus’ name.

The Lord is my shepherd;
    I have all that I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows;
    he leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
    bringing honor to his name.
Even when I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
    for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
    protect and comfort me.
You prepare a feast for me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
    My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing love
will pursue me all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord
    forever.

Psalm 23:1–6

Father, Thank you that I can come to You completely dependent on Your direction, protection, and provision. May I be a faith-filled obedient follower of Your will … confident that You will always lead me to the best place in the right ways.

I believe whatever You allow in the year ahead, I will not have to face it alone … You will go with me giving me everything I need. I have nothing to fear for Your grace is sufficient for anything I am permitted to endure.

Father, I trust Your grace, mercy, and love are with me every day of my life and I believe Your promise that I will spend an endless beautiful forever in Your presence. Thanks and praise now and forever. I am gifted this day by Your grace, may I live it full of hope and for Your glory. Amen.

Happy New Year!

Verses to pray ... asking God to give you all you need to be full of hope today and throughout the new year. One resolution. One grace. One Savior. #NewYearPrayer #LivewithHope #Faith #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #NewYear

I love this quote…

“Let’s make one resolution this year: to anchor ourselves to God’s grace.”

Churck Swindoll

Of all the resolutions you and I make for a new year, there is really only one we need.

To be attached securely to God’s grace found in Jesus.

One resolution. One grace. One Savior.

May your year be filled with the love of Christ Jesus … the One in whom we have everything we need to live full 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!

Praying for God to Bless You this Christmas

Wishing you a Merry Christmas ... praying and asking God to bless you today and in the days, weeks, and months ahead. #ChristmasPrayer #BlessYou #Prayer #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Merry Christmas, my friends!

I am so thankful for you! You all bless me in countless ways.

So, I’m stopping today to pray for you, I’m asking God to bless you. I’m asking Him to give you a beautiful Christmas celebration and be with you throughout the year ahead.

And I’m asking Him to fill your heart today and always with the faith, hope, and His love.

The Christmas message is that there is hope for a ruined humanity–hope of pardon, hope of peace with God, hope of glory–because at the Father’s will Jesus became poor, and was born in a stable so that thirty years later He might hang on a cross.

J. L. Packer

Praying for God to Bless You this Christmas

Wishing you a Merry Christmas ... praying and asking God to bless you today and in the days, weeks, and months ahead. #ChristmasPrayer #BlessYou #Prayer #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

With Faith

We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, in His grace, freely makes us right in His sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when He freed us from the penalty for our sins.

Romans 3:22–24

Father, Thank you for the gift of Jesus. Thank you for the gift of faith. I pray that you will help us grow … that You will give us each child-like trust to fully submit and rely on Your love.

We all fall short of Your perfect will every day but You sent Jesus to be our example, to suffer our punishment, and to free us to live in Your love. Help us, by the power of Your Spirit.

Hold my friend close on difficult days. Remind them that You will never leave or forsake them. (Hebrews 13:5) Assure them that nothing can snatch them out of Your hand. (John 10:29) Make them secure in Your eternal promise that they have through faith in Jesus.

With Hope

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

Father, thank you for the gift of Jesus, the Word made flesh … the One who showed us Your huge love and wonderful grace.

I pray that You will fill my friend with the comfort and strength they need today and every day in the year ahead. By the power of Your Spirit, give them all they need to glorify You in all they do and say … not to earn Your favor but in response to Your love that has the power to change lives.

With Love

The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease.

Lamentations 3:22

Father, You have demonstrated Your love and mercy throughout history. But You never demonstrated it more clearly than that night in Bethlehem when You entered time and space. The angels rejoiced and creation celebrated as Your plan was put into action – from the manger to the cross, from the cross to the grave, and from the grave to resurrection and ascension because Your love never ends and Your mercies never cease.

I pray my friend is able to pause this Christmas and simply rest in the assurance of Your mercy that forgives ever sin and Your love that is able to meet every need.

With Courage and Strength

May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father encourage you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say. God loved us, and through His grace He gave us a good hope and encouragement that continues forever.

2 Thessalonians 2:16–17

Father, I ask You to bless my friend with the courage and strength they need today. Your promises are absolute. Your plans are guaranteed. Your forgiveness is complete. Your salvation is everlasting. And Your love is enough for every need.

Thank you for giving us what we need to be strong and courageous in Jesus, through the power of Your Spirit. Thank you for giving us hope and encouragement that lasts forever.

With His Grace, Mercy, Truth, and Love

Grace, mercy, and peace which come from God the Father, and from Jesus Christ—the Son of the Father—will continue to be with us who live in truth and love.

2 John 1:3

Father, please bless my friend’s family with your grace, mercy, and peace. Fill their home with the light of Your love. Bless their celebration of Jesus’ birth and meet every need today and throughout the year ahead. Give them a love for Your Word and bless them with Your presence. Amen.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas ... praying and asking God to bless you today and in the days, weeks, and months ahead. #ChristmasPrayer #BlessYou #Prayer #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

May God bless you!

My friends, I am so very thankful for you. I love your comments and emails. I love having the opportunity to pray with you and for you. I love living in community with you.

You have no idea how much you encourage me to lean into Jesus and remind me that when we have Him we have everything we need.

I thank God for you and count you among my most precious blessings. Thank you for pouring yourselves into this space through your comments and your prayers.

May your days overflow with blessings … especially the blessings faith, hope, and love. May your life be blessed by the Savior, Jesus – the One who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life!

Blessings and Hugs! Deb

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!

Praying for Hope in the One Who Really is Christmas

Scripture verses and prayers to help in praying for hope especially when you are facing life's concerns over finances and relationships. #PrayerforHope #ChristmasHope #Faith #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Christmas is just days away and as I read through and lift up the prayer requests left on the Blessing Counters Prayer Page, I can’t help but notice how families seem to have two areas of pain and concern that rise to the top … especially at this time of the year.

Finances and relationships.

It’s funny how we get it into our heads that this year we need to do everything we can to make our memories perfect. And for many of us, that means all of our loved ones blissfully gathered together around an amply piled Christmas tree.

Now, I’ll be one of the first to admit – that loving relationships are important and part of God’s desire for us. And I’ll also admit that this time of year makes our broken relationships even more painful. And I know that giving gifts at Christmas is one of the ways we express that love.

I’m also aware that many of the problems people are praying about are greater than gifts and gatherings. It’s just that the Christmas season tends to make us even more aware of what’s lacking in those areas of our lives.

And I wonder if we aren’t all tempted to put a bit of our Christmas focus on what’s less important. I wonder if we expect people and things to fill a hole in us that only God Himself is able to satisfy?

What if we’re hoping God will fix our circumstances … forgetting that He has already given us everything we need in and through Jesus to fix everything in our lives forever.

So, I’m pausing from all the planning and preparations and praying for HOPE. I’m praying to let go of the less important to focus on the One who is the hope of Christmas … Jesus!

Praying for Hope in the One Who Really is Christmas

Scripture verses and prayers to help in praying for hope especially when you are facing life's concerns over finances and relationships. #PrayerforHope #ChristmasHope #Faith #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Let your unfailing love surround us, Lord, for our hope is in You alone.

Psalm 33:22

Father, my prayer is that You alone might be my source of hope. The hope You give is the confidence that I can trust Your promises. Jesus is the fulfillment of every promise You have ever made. He is the Living realization of Your love and through Your Spirit … Your unfailing love surrounds me.

You show me through Your Word and the details of my life that I am secure when I place my trust in Jesus, the promise and source of my salvation.

“Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.  The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!

Luke 2:10–11

Father, I try to imagine what that night must have been like. The night the Word in flesh took His first breath of earthly air. The night Your Garden promise was fulfilled.

As I celebrate Jesus’ birth in a few days, please settle my heart and mind on Your grace, mercy, and love. Help me focus on the Savior, the Messiah, the Lord … the One who gave up everything to give me hope I can count on. Hope that is the assurance of Your grace, mercy, and love.

Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.

Matthew 11:28

Oh Father, how I love these words of Jesus. It’s so tempting to worry about our finances and relationships. This world is broken and too often it robs me of my peace and contentment … things You want for me. Things You invite me to bring to You. Things You want me to bring to You. Things You offer to help me carry.

Thank you! I bring You every concern and burden and ask You to replace it with hope … by Your grace and for Your glory.

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. Therefore, we who have fled to Him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us.

Hebrews 6:17–18

Father, Your promises are sure and unchanging. I can count on You and trust Your Word. I can rest secure in Jesus … the Way, Truth, and Life. So, I run to the safety of Your embrace confident that I can place my hope in You … not just for today, but for the New Year, and for the rest of forever.

Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this:

The faithful love of the Lord never ends!
    His mercies never cease.
Great is His faithfulness;
    His mercies begin afresh each morning.

Lamentations 3:21–23

Father, I will hold this promise close to my heart whenever I am tempted by doubt and fear. I will remember with hope…

Your unfailing love is perfect and lasting. Your mercy covers every part and every moment of my life. Your grace makes it possible for me to know with certainty that my problems are temporary … that Your grace is sufficient to give me hope when life overwhelms me.

I will hold on to the hope I have in Jesus, the promised One who is the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End … the One who came to earth to live the perfect life I am unable to live and suffered the death I deserve that He might rise again to give me life forever with You.

That is grace and mercy. That is Jesus. That is HOPE in the One who is Christmas! My thanks and worship and praise are Yours forever and always. Amen.

Scripture verses and prayers to help in praying for hope especially when you are facing life's concerns over finances and relationships. #PrayerforHope #ChristmasHope #Faith #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

I’m Praying for Hope for You

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and stressed by expectations you are putting on yourself or disappointed by your circumstances or the choices of others, know that this is my prayer for you today…

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

May your celebration be blessed by the One who is Christmas.

You see the meaning of the word Christmas is Christ’s Mass. He is the reason we celebrate. He is the gift that will last forever. He is the source of our 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!

5 Verses to Pray that will Help You Stop and Behold

It's such a busy time of year that we don't take the time to stop and behold much of anything but maybe it's time to pray and ask God to help us slow down and behold all He has given us in Jesus. #Christmas #Faith #Prayer #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #Hope

There’s a word we don’t use very often anymore.

Behold!

Even in the more recent translations of the Bible, the word behold has been replaced with words like … look, see, and watch.

But I think beholding something is so much more than simply looking or seeing. We hurry past things we see every day and I can watch an entire show while texting, online shopping, or perusing social media.

Because like everyone else, I’m typically multi-tasking in a rush to get things done.

So, this simple word grabbed my attention. Because to really “behold” something means to stop and gaze … to fix my eyes and my attention on something.

Beholding is so much more than just glancing as I hurry by, it’s actually pausing long enough to allow the object or idea to touch me.

You and I are so accustomed to life happening fast – especially at Christmastime … that I’ve decided I need a pause. So, I’m challenging myself to take some time to Stop and BEHOLD GOD’S BLESSINGS!

I’m praying and asking God to help me fix my attention on the things He wants me to behold … beautiful blessings of His grace, mercy, and love that change everything at Christmas and every other day of the year. Oh, and on and on into forever, too!

5 Verses to Pray that will Help You Stop and Behold

It's such a busy time of year that we don't take the time to stop and behold much of anything but maybe it's time to pray and ask God to help us slow down and behold all He has given us in Jesus. #Christmas #Faith #Prayer #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #Hope

Behold, the eye of the Lord 
is on those who fear Him,
On those who hope in His mercy.

Let Your mercy, O Lord, be upon us,
Just as we hope in You.

Psalm 33:18,22 (NKJV)

Father, thank you!

In this crazy busy time of the year, it’s so easy for me to get distracted by the activities and my long list of self-imposed things I tell myself I need to do. Please forgive me and help me behold Your blessings. Help me focus on the things that matter to You. Help me SEEK YOU FIRST in spite of life’s demands and distractions.

Because no matter what is going on in my life … I can count on the blessing that You are watching over me. I love you, Lord! I trust Your love and I put my life and my hope in Your grace and mercy.

“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.”

Matthew 1:23 (NKJV)

Father, these simple words always grab my heart. The miracle – a Son, Your Son … He could have been born anywhere to anyone. Jesus could have left the glories of heaven and entered into the luxuries of earth. He could have joined the rich and powerful. But your plan of love from the beginning chose a humble virgin from a modest family.

And by the power of Your Spirit through Mary, the Word became flesh. God became Man, taking on human limitations to do what we were unable to do for ourselves. You sacrificed yourself to give us life! The best news in the world is … “God with us.” Lived among us. Died our death. And rose to give us life forever. Thank you! Thank you!

“Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

Luke 2:10–11, 13–14 (NKJV)

Oh, Father, I want to pause and behold this sight. I want to picture what it must have been like to be one of the shepherds standing in that field on a typically quiet night when suddenly the angel proclamation became a massive heavenly choir praising You for Your holy gift.

May I live each day in anticipation of the day when I will personally behold Your glory filling the skies. Fill me with humble faith that I might live surrendered to You today and trust Your forever promises for the future.

[Jesus] said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts? Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.”

Luke 24:38–39 (NKJV)

And Father, when life is hard and doubts arise please help me pause and behold my risen Savior, Jesus. Help me remember all He has done for me. Help me remember His promises and follow His teachings and examples. Help me behold His sacrificial love that changes everything.

Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection … I am forgiven and free. I am redeemed. I am Your child. I am treasured. I am loved. And I have an eternal future filled with hope.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV)

Father, Because of Jesus, You are making me a new creation. I have Your Spirit with and within me. Because of Jesus, I am blessed with “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22–23)

Because of Jesus … my past is behind me, my guilt is gone, and my future is secure. I am able to live each day confident that through Your all-sufficient grace I have everything I need to live with hope today, tomorrow, and forever. In Jesus’ name, I am Yours. Thank you! Amen.

It's such a busy time of year that we don't take the time to stop and behold much of anything but maybe it's time to pray and ask God to help us slow down and behold all He has given us in Jesus. #Christmas #Faith #Prayer #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #Hope

Our hope, my hope rests on God’s promise of a perfect eternal future in His presence. So, I want to stop one last time today to BEHOLD His Revelation Promise!

“Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.”

And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End.

Revelation 21:3–6

I’m stopping to pray that the thought of beholding what we have received through God’s gift of Jesus, the Alpha and Omega, blesses you today and every day for the rest of your life.

God bless you as you stop and behold!

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!

10 Things to Thank God for Every Day

Thank God for who He is and for all He does. Thanksgiving may be over but for those who follow Jesus ... every day is a day to thank and praise God. #Thanksgiving #PraiseGod #BibleQuotes #ThankGod #WWGGG #Blessings

I’m keeping it simple today…

There has been a lot of talk over the past days about being thankful.

We’ve counted our blessings and listed the good things we enjoy. We’ve feasted with family and friends and now, the day after it seems like it’s time to move on to all-things Christmas.

But before we do, I want to take a few more minutes to stop and simply thank God for who He is and all He does for us heart, mind, soul, and strength…

10 Things to Thank God for Every Day

Thank God for who He is and for all He does. Thanksgiving may be over but for those who follow Jesus ... every day is a day to thank and praise God. #Thanksgiving #PraiseGod #BibleQuotes #ThankGod #WWGGG #Blessings

Thank God for being our Burden Bearer – He is faithful to help us carry every burden and will strengthen us to endure every challenge when we surrender our lives to Him.

Give your burdens to the Lord, and He will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.

Psalm 55:22

Thank God for being the Great “I AM” – His goodness is beyond measure. His power is beyond understanding. His grace is sufficient for every circumstance.

How kind the Lord is! How good He is! So merciful, this God of ours!

Psalm 116:5

Thank God for being Mighty and Powerful – Throughout time God has demonstrated His power and might and He is mighty and powerful enough to help you and me with whatever difficulty we face.

Sing a new song to the Lord, for He has done wonderful deeds. His right hand has won a mighty victory; His holy arm has shown His saving power!

Psalm 98:1

Thank God for being Righteous – He is the “One who is right!” Everything He does is perfect and holy.

Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the highest heavens. You have done such wonderful things. Who can compare with You, O God?

Psalm 71:19

Thank God for being Merciful and Kind – Everything He has done from creation through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection and all He will continue to do from today and into eternity … comes from a heart of loving mercy.

The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.

Psalm 103:8

Thank God for being Sovereign King – Rulers and leaders will come and go but God reigns supreme over all creation … that was true yesterday, it is true today, and it will be true forever and always.

The Lord is king! He is robed in majesty. Indeed, the Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength. The world stands firm and cannot be shaken.

Psalm 93:1

Thank God for being Present – He is always with you and me. He knows every need and hears every prayer.

Lord, even before I say a word, You already know it. You are all around me—in front and in back—and have put Your hand on me.

Psalm 139:4–5

Thank God for being your Provider – What an amazing blessing it is to know that He provides everything we need. Not everything we want but everything we need!

The Lord is my Shepherd; I have all that I need.

Psalm 23:1

Thank God for being your Forgiver – What an amazing blessing to know that no sin is too great … through God’s grace given through Jesus, we can be confident that when we go to Him in humble repentance, we are forgiven!

Though we are overwhelmed by our sins, You forgive them all.

Psalm 65:3

Thank God for being the perfect Promise Keeper – Every word of God has proven true. They always have and they always will. God faithfully keeps His promises — ALWAYS! What a blessing to know we can trust Him completely.

For your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. You rule throughout all generations. The Lord always keeps His promises; He is gracious in all He does.

Psalm 145:13
Thank God for who He is and for all He does. Thanksgiving may be over but for those who follow Jesus ... every day is a day to thank and praise God. #Thanksgiving #PraiseGod #BibleQuotes #ThankGod #WWGGG #Blessings

A Thank You Prayer

Thank you, Lord!
  You have heard my cry for mercy.
O, Lord, my strength and shield.
    I trust You with all my heart.
Thank you for helping me,
and for filling my heart with joy and thanksgiving.
(Psalm 28:6–7)

Lord, thank you, You are so good and ready to forgive,
  thank you for Your unfailing love that covers me
when I come to You for help.
(Psalm 86:5)

Teach me Your ways, O Lord,
    that I may live according to Your truth!
Please help me and grant me purity of heart,
    that I may honor You.
And I will praise You with all my heart, O Lord my God.
    I will give glory to Your name forever!
(Psalm 86:11–12)

Amen.

Welcome to Our Last Faith ‘n Friends Link Party
here at Counting My Blessings
If you are a Christian blogger I’d love to have you join the
Blessing Bloggers Facebook Group
where we have a weekly thread for sharing blog posts
and social media help and encouragement.

Our goal in the Blessing Bloggers Group is to…
Share, Encourage, Connect, and Pray

We can’t wait to see you there!
Of course, I hope you’ll continue to visit me here.
By God’s grace, I will still be posting here every Monday and Friday!

And now…

This Week’s Friday Favorites
Highlight Posts of the Week!

How to Fight Holiday Overwhelm with Christian Meditation by Sarah Geringer @ Finding Peace in God's Word

How to Fight Holiday Overwhelm
with Christian Meditation

by Sarah Geringer
@ Finding Peace in God’s Word

Self-Care for the Holidays by April @ Healing in Heart

Self-Care for the Holidays

by April
@ Healing in Heart

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

Counting My Blessings

I’m so glad you’re here!

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

I'm finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith 'n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! Click to Tweet

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.”

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

Thank you so much for partying with us!

I’d love it if you would invite your friends to join us.
I visit every linked post and share many of them on social media.

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.

And join our new Facebook Group –
#WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory.
Click on the link to learn more!

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…

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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 Prayers that will Bless Your Thanksgiving

5 verses to pray and bless your Thanksgiving celebration with your family and friends. Gratitude is good for you & is an important part of giving God glory! #Thanksgiving #Prayer #Holidays #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

I’m jumping into the holidays this weekend … prepping the kitchen for Thanksgiving and decorating for Christmas.

I know I may be breaking some kind of unwritten code by putting up my Christmas tree before Thanksgiving but the gratitude holiday is so late this year, I just can’t wait any longer.

Even with all planning, preparing, and doing … all the anticipation of the food and festivities, I don’t want to lose track of the reason we celebrate Thanksgiving.

It’s so easy for us to get so focused on the food and the fellowship, we forget the why of the celebration.

The Story Behind Thanksgiving

In November 1621, after the Pilgrims’ first corn harvest proved successful, Governor William Bradford organized a celebratory feast and invited a group of the fledgling colony’s Native American allies, including the Wampanoag chief Massasoit. Now remembered as American’s “first Thanksgiving”—although the Pilgrims themselves may not have used the term at the time—the festival lasted for three days.

In 1789 George Washington issued the first Thanksgiving proclamation by the national government of the United States; in it, he called upon Americans to express their gratitude for the happy conclusion to the country’s war of independence and the successful ratification of the U.S. Constitution.

In 1863, at the height of the Civil War, in a proclamation entreating all Americans to ask God to “commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife” and to “heal the wounds of the nation.” He scheduled Thanksgiving for the final Thursday in November

History.com

But why?

Why is giving thanks important?

And maybe the more important question is…

Who is it we are supposed to be thanking?

Because generalized gratitude that simply goes out into the atmosphere seems rather pointless.

The Psalmist wrote…

Acknowledge that the Lord is God!
    He made us, and we are His.

Psalm 100:3

You and I are created by God. We belong to Him … made for His glory. And gratitude is an important part of giving God glory!

Today, I’m sharing verses to pray with your family this Thanksgiving. I pray they bless you…

5 Prayers that will Bless Your Thanksgiving

5 verses to pray and bless your Thanksgiving celebration with your family and friends. Gratitude is good for you & is an important part of giving God glory! #Thanksgiving #Prayer #Holidays #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever.

Psalm 107:1

Father, simply saying thank you seems like it falls short of the gratitude I want to offer You. You have graciously poured countless blessings into my life over the past year. And You have mercifully protected me in ways I’ve seen and I’m sure in immeasurable ways I haven’t. You have given me hope and courage when I’ve needed it most. Your love covers every area of my life! Thank you!

Thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 15:57

Father, Your greatest gift is forgiveness through Jesus. Through Him, You have removed my sin and redeemed me from its eternal consequences.

Jesus, Thank you for living the perfect life I am unable to live, for suffering the punishment I deserve, and for the forever victory I have by trusting You and applying Your promises.

Spirit, Thank you for coming into my heart and giving me faith. Thank you for making it possible for me to love the Lord with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. On my own I can’t, I won’t … but with Your help, I do!

Thanks and praise forever!

I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, asking God, the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God.

Ephesians 1:16–17

Father, thank you for the people in my life. Those around my table and those who could not be here. Please be with us all. Give us wisdom, insight, and strength that we might glorify You with our lives. May we continue to hold each other up. May we encourage each other with Your love. May we be quick to forgive as You have forgiven us. And may we grow closer to You and to one another every day.

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

Father, this feels hard sometimes! Please help me see who You are in my life … as long as I have Jesus, I have everything I need. Your Word says that You will provide for the needs of those who SEEK You above all else. May I faithfully know and follow Your will for me. May I be filled with thanks knowing that whatever is going on my life, You will give me everything to endure through Your all-sufficient grace.

Whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.

Colossians 3:17

Father, may my life glorify You. May everyone I meet know I love You. May I live each day as a sacrifice of gratitude for who You are and all You do. Thank you for my home, my family and friends. Thank you for food and clothing. Thank you for work and for the time to rest from work. Thank you for love and laughter, and music, and hope and the ways You fill my life with good things.

Thank you! May all I do be by Your grace and for Your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

5 verses to pray and bless your Thanksgiving celebration with your family and friends. Gratitude is good for you & is an important part of giving God glory! #Thanksgiving #Prayer #Holidays #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Praying your Thanksgiving is abundantly blessed!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

How to Embrace Gratitude in the Midst of the Unexpected by Maree Dee

How to Embrace Gratitude
in the Midst of the Unexpected

by Maree Dee
@ Embracing Life in the Midst of the Unexpected

5 Ways to Find Peace in a Busy Season by Rebeccca Hastings

5 Ways to Find Peace in a Busy Season

by and @ Rebecca Hastings

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

Counting My Blessings
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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!

I'm finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith 'n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! Click to Tweet

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!

I’d love it if you would invite your friends to join us.
I visit every linked post and share many of them on social media.

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.

And I’d love for you to join our new Facebook Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. Click on the link to learn more!

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…

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!

Verses that will Inspire and Encourage You to Glorify God

To remind myself how very much I need His Spirit's help to glorify God the way He wants, I gathered a list of verses and prayers to help. #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #GiveGodGlory #GlorifyGod

What does it mean to glorify God?

Henry Blackaby wrote:

“Will God ever ask you to do something you are not able to do? The answer is yes–all the time! It must be that way, for God’s glory and kingdom. If we function according to our ability alone, we get the glory; if we function according to the power of the Spirit within us, God gets the glory. He wants to reveal Himself to a watching world.”

And every day, I can think of countless things I am unable to do on my own. Things the Bible says God asks of you and me … things I know would be impossible without Him also giving us the counsel, courage, and comfort of His Holy Spirit.

And just to remind myself how very much I need His Spirit’s help, I decided to make a list of things the Bible says I should do … things that will glorify God.

So, from A to Z here’s a list of…

Verses to Encourage and Inspire You to Glorify God

To remind myself how very much I need His Spirit's help to glorify God the way He wants, I gathered a list of verses and prayers to help. #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #GiveGodGlory #GlorifyGod

Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. John 15:4 (NRSV)

  • Father, please help me remain connected to You through Your Word, prayer, and the power of Your Spirit.

“Be still, and know that I am God!” Psalm 46:10 (NLT)

  • Lord, please help me sit at Your feet, know Your heart, and trust Your will.

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 (NLT)

  • Lord, please help me bring every concern and problem to You in prayer … knowing You will give me everything I need.

Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you your heart’s desires. Psalm 37:4 (NLT)

  • May I delight in You, Lord … loving You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all! Romans 12:16 (NLT)

  • Father, please give me all I need to love others in ways that glorify You.

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. John 10:27–28 (NLT)

  • Lord, it can be hard to follow You when the road ahead appears challenging. Please help me trust You to go before and behind me to keep me safe. With Your Spirit’s help … I will follow wherever You lead.

Grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever. Amen. 2 Peter 3:18 (KJV)

  • Father, grace is a gift I don’t deserve and I definitely don’t deserve all that You have given me in and through Jesus. Please help me grow in wisdom and knowledge that I might grow closer to Him and live for Your glory.

Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Ephesians 4:2 (NLT)

  • Lord, please keep me humble and kind … remembering that all I am and all I have is a gift from Your loving hand.

Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord. Psalm 119:1 (NLT)

  • Father, please help me trust and obey You always … even when I don’t believe anyone is watching.

I take joy in doing Your will, my God, for Your instructions are written on my heart.” Psalm 40:8 (NLT)

  • Lord, may trusting and obeying Your will be my joy and not an obligation or burden.
To remind myself how very much I need His Spirit's help to glorify God the way He wants, I gathered a list of verses and prayers to help. #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #GiveGodGlory #GlorifyGod

I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for He is right beside me. Psalm 16:8 (NLT)

  • Father, may I rest in the knowledge of Your sweet presence today and every day.

You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength. Mark 12:30 (NLT)

  • More than anything, I want to love You with all that I am, Lord. Please help me by the power of Your Holy Spirit.

Show mercy, just as your Father shows mercy. Luke 6:36 (NLT)

  • Father, may I glorify You by extending the same mercy to others that You have so lovingly given to me.

You have begun to live the new life, in which you are being made new and are becoming like the One who made you. This new life brings you the true knowledge of God. Colossians 3:10 (NLT)

  • Father, thank you for the new life you have given me in Jesus. May it shine Your light and give You glory.

If you love me, you will obey my commands. I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. John 14:15–16 (NLT)

  • Oh, Lord, I want to obey You but I stumble and fall on my own. Thank you for the gift of Your Spirit. Please help me rely on His strength each day.

I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praises to my God as long as I live. Psalm 146:2 (NCV)

  • By Your grace and with Your help, I will praise You now and forever.

Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in Him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken. Psalm 62:5–6 (NLT)

  • Quiet is hard in this world, Father. It’s hard to slow down and wait in faith when the world is shouting at me. When I can’t, I will trust Your all-sufficient grace to give me strength and hope.

Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38 (NLT)

  • Father, I am so sorry. You have shown me countless times that Your way is better than mine. Please forgive me and give me all I need to trust You and obey.

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

  • Lord, this will be my prayer every day the rest of my life … that You will help me SEEK You above all else.
To remind myself how very much I need His Spirit's help to glorify God the way He wants, I gathered a list of verses and prayers to help. #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings #GiveGodGlory #GlorifyGod

Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust Him, and He will help you. Psalm 37:5 (NLT)

  • When I SEEK You first, Lord … I can trust You to guide me and help me through Your grace, mercy, and love.

I am in them and You are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that You sent me and that You love them as much as You love me. John 17:23 (NLT)

  • Father, please help me glorify You by doing all I can to honor Your prayer for unity among Your children. Forgive us and help us to love like Jesus.

But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57 (NLT)

  • Thank you for the victory we have in Jesus! Help me live in victory today … free of the past and confident of the future.

So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Ephesians 5:15 (NLT)

  • Father, please give me the wisdom I need to live each day for You.

I will exalt you, my God and King, and praise Your name forever and ever. Psalm 145:1 (NLT)

  • Lord, You are the X … the Christ (Χριστός) and I will exalt You and lift Your name high forever.

But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace-loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. James 3:17 (NLT)

  • May I be humble, Father … willing to yield my will to You and to others out of love.

“I am the A and the Z,” says the Lord God, the one who is, the One who was, and the One who is coming, the Almighty. Revelation 1:8 (MSG)

  • Lord Jesus, You are eternal … present before creation and You will reign forever and ever. May I live every day by Your grace and for Your glory. Amen.

A Heart Prepared to Glorify God

Whenever I’m inclined to be a little self-righteous and Pharisaical, all I have to do is pray through a list of verses I know God wants me to obey. I’m always humbled when His Spirit affirms the ways I know the Lord wants me to demonstrate my love and trust for Him and my love for others.

On my own, I will consistently fail because as Blackaby wrote, when we “function according to our ability alone, we get the glory” or maybe another way of saying it is … we take the glory.

But when you and I humbly surrender to the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives, we not only receive the counsel and courage we need to more consistently trust and obey God’s will but we are able to humbly admit our failures and share God’s grace, mercy, and love to a hurting world.

And that, my friends, is one of the best ways to Glorify God!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

Because of Jesus, My Home is Overflowing with Thankfulness by Tiffiney Holmes @ Welcome Home Ministry

Because of Jesus,
My Home is Overflowing with Thankfulness

by Tiffiney Holmes
@ Welcome Home Ministry

One Simple Truth to Help Your Heart Feel Grateful by Betsy de Cruz @ Faith Spilling Over

One Simple Truth to Help Your Heart Feel Grateful

by Betsy de Cruz
@ Faith Spilling Over

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!

I'm finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith 'n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! Click to Tweet

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!

I’d love it if you would invite your friends to join us.
I visit every linked post and share many of them on social media.

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.

And I’d love for you to join our new Facebook Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. Click on the link to learn more!

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…

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Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses to Pray When You Doubt Your Faith

One of satan's favorite temptations beginning in the Garden of Eden is to get you to doubt your faith. So, we're praying the promises of God, thanking Him for His faithfulness even when we doubt. #Faith #Prayer #DoubtFaith #Blessings

I’ve recently come to the conclusion that the enemy has one primary form of tempting God’s children.

It’s the same thing he’s used since the Garden…

“Did God really say…”

Genesis 3:1a

He is all about tempting us to doubt.

Doubt God. Doubt the Bible. Doubt Jesus.

And if all else fails … he wants you to doubt your faith.

I recently received a prayer request from someone who was being taunted with a couple of faith-related questions.

  • What if my faith isn’t strong enough?
  • What if I lose my faith?

It’s easy to understand where the questions come from at a time when famous leaders are coming forward saying they no longer believe.

It’s confusing and satan loves to use things like the fall of the popular and influential to get us to question God’s Word and His love.

Growing up, my pastor would assure us that it was okay to doubt if…

And the IF is really important.

It’s okay to doubt your faith if doubting motivates you to turn to GOD and SEEK HIS TRUTH!

Everyone will doubt from time to time. When circumstances are difficult and fear looms, when people let us down and life disappoints, when we question and wonder and want and wait … satan uses those moments to taunt and discourage us—tempting us to doubt God’s love and our faith.

Which is why I’m going to the Word and prayer today. I’m asking God to assure us of His gift of faith, asking Him to remind us of His past presence and faithfulness, and asking Him to help us know the truth of His grace, mercy, and love even when we’re weak and worried. I’m asking Him to help us celebrate His blessings no matter how we feel or how the enemy tempts us.

I am making the prayers personal and I’m hoping you will pray with me…

5 Verses to Pray When You Doubt Your Faith

One of satan's favorite temptations beginning in the Garden of Eden is to get you to doubt your faith. So, we're praying the promises of God, thanking Him for His faithfulness even when we doubt. #Faith #Prayer #DoubtFaith #Blessings

The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, He will show you a way out so that you can endure.

1 Corinthians 10:13

Father, Thank you! Your Word assures me that I’m not alone. Since the first temptation, satan has been taunting us with questions and doubts. He is not a respecter of persons or positions … every one of us is tempted from time to time.

But You, Lord God, are faithful. I am not alone. You are with me. Through the power of Your Spirit, You give me what I need to stand strong and endure in the midst of the battle and You give me what I need to bravely walk away.

When I can’t. You can. You will. You do. Your grace is sufficient and I am so very thankful!

I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.

Philippians 1:6

Father, Thank you so much for making me Your own. This promise blesses, encourages, and gives me hope. Jesus is the source of my faith and hope. Thank you for Your Holy Spirit who continues to work within me … reminding me of Your love and giving me eyes to see the way You are at work in my life giving me everything I need.

When doubts arise, remind me that the enemy is the source of doubt but…

Jesus is the source of my faith and through the Spirit, He is the One who keeps me strong until that day when He returns to take me home. I have nothing to fear.

But in that coming day
    no weapon turned against you will succeed.
You will silence every voice
    raised up to accuse you.
These benefits are enjoyed by
the servants of the Lord;
    their vindication will come from me.
    I, the Lord, have spoken!

Isaiah 54:17

Father, with Your Spirit’s help, no weapon of doubt turned against me will succeed. You silence every voice that rises up to accuse of past sins that have already been forgiven. You silence every voice that tempts me to doubt You … to doubt my faith in You.

You have given me the gift of faith. I belong to You.

I humbly surrender this day to You in child-like faith. I will trust and follow Your will as You reveal it to me and I will live moment by moment secure in Your presence and protection.

This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for He faced all of the same testings we do, yet He did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.

Hebrews 4:15–16

Lord Jesus, Thank you! I am not alone. You know me inside and out. You understand our human nature and You know the temptations we face.

Thank you for showing me how to fight satan’s temptations with the Word, for showing me that we can stand with strength on Your Truth.

And thank you, thank you, thank you for making it possible for me to come to the Father in prayer and for promising that at His throne I will receive the grace and mercy I need.

When the enemy tempts me with doubt … Your grace, mercy, and love are my strength when I am weak, my courage when I’m afraid, my hope when I am lost, my possible when circumstances seem impossible, my source and sustainer of faith when questions arise.

You are Lord of lords and King of kings. I am so thankful for You!

“From eternity to eternity I am God.
    No one can snatch anyone out of my hand.
    No one can undo what I have done.”

Isaiah 43:!3

Father, Thank you! Thank you for giving me the gift of faith in Your Son, Jesus. My confession is not because of who I am … I am not strong enough or wise enough. My belief is not because of what I’ve done or because of the church I attend. It is fully based on Your grace, mercy, and love.

And You say, “No one can undo what You have done. No one can snatch me out of Your hand.”

I am Yours.

When I am tempted, fill me with Your Spirit. When I doubt, assure me of Your love. When I question, teach me Your truth. When life is hard and even when it’s not, help me SEEK First all You want for me one day at a time. Amen.

One of satan's favorite temptations beginning in the Garden of Eden is to get you to doubt your faith. So, we're praying the promises of God, thanking Him for His faithfulness even when we doubt. #Faith #Prayer #DoubtFaith #Blessings

When you doubt your faith…
When I doubt my faith…

The Good News is – we are not alone.

We are loved. We are understood. And by God’s grace and mercy, we can take it all, our questions, concerns, and doubts, to him in prayer and receive everything we need to live each day with hope and with the assurance of our faith.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

3 Ways to Encounter God when You are Weary and Burdened by Stacey Pardoe @ Encountering God in the Ordinary

3 Ways to Encounter God when
You are Weary and Burdened

by Stacey Pardoe
@ Encountering God in the Ordinary

I Wear Orange Because I Can: How Identity Informs Our Actions by Sue Donadson @ Welcome Heart

I Wear Orange Because I Can:
How Identity Informs Our Actions

by Sue Donaldson
@Welcome Heart

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!

I'm finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith 'n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! Click to Tweet

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!

When You Want to Thank God for the Gift of Hope

When I've prayed and prayed and waited and waited, when life is hard and circumstances frighten me ... I'm praying and thanking God for the gift of hope. #Prayer #Blessings #Hope #Faith #Godlovesyou

I’ve spent a lot of time this week thinking about hope.

You see, I’d never really stopped to think about the differences between the way secularists and people of faith perceive hope.

For the secularist, hope is based solely on the strength of their inner desires and the belief that they will achieve or receive the things they want.

But for the person of faith, hope is based on the promises of God and given as a gift of grace through faith.

The Apostle Paul wrote…

We were given this hope when we were saved. (If we already have something, we don’t need to hope for it. But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.)

Romans 8:24–25

I love that!

It means you and I don’t have to suck it up and generate hope on our own when life is hard and we’re overwhelmed. We can go to God in prayer and ask Him to give us the hope we need.

Paul also wrote…

God has given both His promise and His oath. 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.

Hebrews 6:17–18

That place where our prayers reach God’s heart … where you and I can run for comfort, strength, and hope when life is hard.

And the Father who loves us is faithful to give us exactly what we need.

When I watch the news and see people floundering to find secular answers to change a broken world, trying countless worldly ways wishing one of them will bring the peace and satisfaction they “hope” for.

But nothing does.

Because the hope that is able to change lives is given by God and I don’t know about you, but for me, when life is hard or when I’ve prayed and prayed and waited and waited … I’m thankful for God’s gift of hope.

Will join me today and thank God for His grace in giving us the gift of hope?

Verses to Pray When You Want to Thank God for the Gift of Hope

When I've prayed and prayed and waited and waited, when life is hard and circumstances frighten me ... I'm praying and thanking God for the gift of hope. #Prayer #Blessings #Hope #Faith #Godlovesyou

I find rest in God;
    only He gives me hope.
He is my rock and my salvation.
    He is my defender;
    I will not be defeated.

Psalm 62:5–6

Father, Thank you for the countless times I’ve been able to come to You with my doubts and fears. Thank you for hearing the cries of my heart, even when I can’t put them into words.

Lord, I can say with David, “I will not be defeated” not because of who I am but because of You, my Defender. You give me hope, my Rock and my Salvation. You are loving and gracious and good. Thank you for Your blessings too numerous to count.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade.

1 Peter 1:3–4a (NIV)

Father, Thank you for giving Peter, a fearful denier, everything he needed to boldly and powerfully profess the message of Jesus after the resurrection. Thank you for giving me new life through Jesus’ sacrificial love and thank you for filling this new life with hope. I love that Your promises never change, never perish, spoil or fade.

Of all the things this world has to offer … I know I can completely trust Your perfect love and that truth gives me hope.

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love.

Romans 5:3–5

Father, I’ll admit that I don’t feel like rejoicing when problems and trials arise. I typically find myself whiney and worried. But by Your grace, when I think of all the times You have given me everything I needed to walk through life’s challenges … I have hope that You will never leave me or forsake me no matter what I have to face.

The hope You give never disappoints … not because I always get the outcome I want but because You always give me what I need each day to live through whatever You allow. Sometimes You allow things that teach me I can endure with strength when I put my hope in You.

Thank you, Father, for the gift of Your Holy Spirit who reminds me of Your love and fills me with hope.

I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope He has given to those He called—His holy people who are His rich and glorious inheritance.

Ephesians 1:18

Confident hope is a gift only You can give Lord. Our world offers us wishes to go with our wants but when those desires fail to happen … wishing falls apart. But hope that shines with the light of Your perfect love lasts forever.

The hope You give is focused on You, Lord, the God of the impossible. The loving Father who has made me His own. Thank you for Jesus, for faith, hope, and love. By Your grace and for Your glory.

‘I see that the Lord is always with me.
    I will not be shaken, for He is right beside me.
No wonder my heart is glad,
    and my tongue shouts His praises!
    My body rests in hope.

Acts 2:25–26

Thank you for always being with me, Lord. Your presence gives me strength and courage.

No wonder my heart is glad!

I will forever praise You as I place my life safely in the palm of Your hand … for there is no better place on earth to rest in hope.

Thanks and praise now and forever. Amen.

When I've prayed and prayed and waited and waited, when life is hard and circumstances frighten me ... I'm praying and thanking God for the gift of hope. #Prayer #Blessings #Hope #Faith #Godlovesyou

If you need the gift of hope today…

  • Pray and ask God to give it to you.
  • Remember the times He has given you hope in the past.
  • Thank Him for being the God of possibilities … including the ability to give you hope when you need it.
  • Trust Him to give you everything you need today.
  • And read … What Gives You Hope When You Need it Most?

God bless you today, tomorrow, and all the days to come with all the hope you need that you might rest in His love and rejoice!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

Trusting God in Your Pain by Nicki Schroeder @ Living for an Audience of One

Trusting God in Your Pain

by Nicki Schroeder
@ Living for an Audience of One

How Grandma Did Hospitality by Laura Thomas @ Heartwarming Encouragement for the Soul

How Grandma Did Hospitality

by Laura Thomas
@Heartwarming Encouragement for Your Soul

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!

I'm finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith 'n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! Click to Tweet

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!

5 Verses to Pray that will Help You Fight Your Spiritual Battles

Praying God's Word and asking Him to give you everything you need to be equipped and prepared to fight your spiritual battles with courage and faith. #Prayer #Faith #SpiritualWarfare #Blessings

I always believed there would be a point in my life when I would anticipate and be ready for life’s inevitable spiritual battles. But unfortunately, there are still times when they catch me by surprise and I’m unprepared.

Honestly, I’m most susceptible after a period of smooth sailing or an awesome mountaintop high. It seems the enemy loves to sneak in with an attack when I’m feeling fine and all is right with the world.

Which is why, I believe, Paul wrote what he called his “final word” to the Ephesians.

Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

Ephesians 6:10–12

Paul was familiar with the enemy’s spiritual battles and the strategies used in an effort to discourage and defeat God’s people. He knew he wasn’t strong enough to withstand these assaults on his own and that he needed to depend on God to help and equip him, making him ready to fight every attack with faith.

I’m thankful the Lord saw to it that you and I were not only told that we need to be equipped and ready but that He made sure we were told how to be equipped and ready.

Paul wrote:

Put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.

Ephesians 6:13

We need the:

  • Belt of Truth – to defeat the devil’s lies.
  • Body Armor of God’s righteousness – to protect us from the attacks on our hearts … our emotions.
  • Shoes of Peace – to take the message of God’s peace to a hurting world.
  • Shield of Faith – to see beyond our current circumstances with hope.
  • Helmet of Salvation – to protect us from the doubts that attack our minds.
  • Sword of the Spirit – to help us fight evil attacks offensively with the truth of the Word of God.

And then Paul followed the armor verses with these words…

Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.

Ephesians 6:18

Which is why we’re praying today … asking God to give us all we need to be equipped and prepared for all of the spiritual battles we face.

5 Verses to Pray that will Help You Fight Your Spiritual Battles

Praying God's Word and asking Him to give you everything you need to be equipped and prepared to fight your spiritual battles with courage and faith. #Prayer #Faith #SpiritualWarfare #Blessings

“Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”

2 Kings 6:16 (NIV)

Father, I admit that I feel alone when an attack hits. Spiritual battles so often make me feel anxious and afraid.

Please help me remember that I am never alone. You are with and within me giving me the strength and peace I need whatever the day brings. When the enemy confronts me with lies that overwhelm me, Your Word says Your angel warriors fight for me even as the battle rages around me.

Jesus won the victory, Your angels are fighting for me, and Your Spirit is with me … I have nothing to fear. Thank you, Father! Your grace and mercy overwhelm me.

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

1 John 4:4

Oh, Father, how I love these words. You have made me part of Your family through the gift of faith. You have forgiven me and given me the gift of Your Spirit … the One who is greater.

Greater than anything that comes against me in this world. Greater than temptations, lies, and the forces of evil. You, Lord, are greater! You have defeated all that stands against Your children. You have made us Your own. You have made me Yours! I am safe. By that power of Your greatness and love, help me resist all the enemy throws at me as I humbly live each day for Your glory.

No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you.
This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the Lord.

Isaiah 54:17 (NIV)

Father, nothing, absolutely nothing intended to rob me of who I am in You will ever succeed. Every time satan reminds me of my faults and failures, each time I face my spiritual battles, You say I am vindicated, justified, absolved … I am washed clean because of who I am in Jesus.

This is my inheritance as Your child … just because You claimed me as Your own. Not because of any good in me but because You are loving, kind, and good. Thank you, Father. May I always remember Your promise to give me everything I need … I have nothing to fear.

The Lord is faithful; He will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.

2 Thessalonians 3:3

Father, thank you for the strength and protection You give me when my heart and mind are under attack. I will run to You when temptation overtakes me. I will turn to Your Word when doubts arise. I will cling to Your promises in the middle of my spiritual battles. I will trust Your unfailing love when life is hard and I need hope.

You alone are worthy of all my worship and praise! Thank you, Father! Thank you!

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.

John 10:10

Father, Jesus said He is the Good Shepherd who watches over and protects His sheep … even to the point of sacrificing Himself for them. The enemy is always working to steal, kill, and destroy the people You created. He lies and tempts and taunts and confuses us, all in an attempt to get us to deny Your love. Please forgive us, Lord.

Thank you for the blessings You give to those of us who love Your Son … blessings of Your mercy and grace giving us a rich and satisfying life. Maybe not rich in things of this world but rich everything we need.

Because of Jesus, I am rich in love, peace, mercy and grace, courage and strength, hope, and so much more … all the things I need for a rich and satisfying life. Thank you, Father. The spiritual battles are real and sometimes they’re overwhelming—but by Your grace, I can rest in the truth that although there are battles, the war has already been won and the enemy has already been defeated! I give You my thanks and praise forever. Amen.

Praying God's Word and asking Him to give you everything you need to be equipped and prepared to fight your spiritual battles with courage and faith. #Prayer #Faith #SpiritualWarfare #Blessings

The enemy has been defeated.

God has given us everything we need for every battle.

Yet, in those moments when life feels overwhelming and satan is trying to steal, kill, and destroy who you are in Christ Jesus…

Run to God with your need, trust Him to give you everything you need, and praise Him for helping you fight your spiritual battles.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

Who Knew a Hug Could Cause Such Anger by Yvonne Chase - The Single Woman's Cheerleader

Who Knew a Hug Could Cause Such Anger

by Yvonne Chase
@ The Single Woman’s Cheerleader

What the Bible Says About Body Image by Diane Ferreira @ Worth Beyond Rubies

What the Bible Says About Body Image

by Diane Ferreira
@Worth Beyond Rubies



AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

Counting My Blessings
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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!

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Deb Wolf
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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.

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5 Important Things You Need to Bless Your Prayer Life

I read a quote that inspired me to dig deep into the Bible to study 5 practical and very doable things I believe will encourage and bless your prayer life. #Prayer #Blessings #PrayerJournal #Faith

Have you ever been among the people who spend way more time reading books and doing Bible studies about prayer than you actually spend praying?

Yeah, me too!

If I’m really being honest, I would tell you that I’ve spent most of my life feeling like I should have done so much more when it comes to prayer. The one thing that reassures me a little is that I’ve never met anyone, even those I’ve considered great prayer warriors, who say they believe they’ve got this prayer thing down pat.

And maybe we’re not supposed to. Maybe we’re supposed to always crave more when it comes to spending time with the Lord in prayer. Maybe we, like Brother Lawrence, should be “practicing the presence of God” … longing for a continuous open line of communication rather than brief one-way monologues of pleas and petitions.

The other morning I was reading a devotion in Andrew Murray’s book, Power in Prayer: Classic Devotions to Inspire and Deepen Your Prayer Life, and well, I can’t stop thinking about the following quote:

Through prayer, God has given to everyone the right to take hold of Him and His strength. It is on prayer that promises wait for their fulfillment, the kingdom for its coming, and the glory of God for its full revelation.

Prayer must be to the glory of God, in full surrender to His will, in full assurance of faith, in the name of Jesus, and with a perseverance that refuses to be denied.

Andrew Murray

I wonder how often I’ve failed to go to the Lord and let Him hold me close … filling me with the peace and strength I’ve needed. I wonder how often I’ve missed promises God wanted to fulfill in my life just because I didn’t ask. I wonder how often I failed to give Him glory because I was just too focused on myself.

Even with all my wondering, it was the second sentence that really grabbed my attention.

Because I wanted to know the Biblical truths behind Murray’s “must”s for prayer. So, I went to the Word because I want to know … if these are truly things that could make a difference. And when I want to know, that’s where I go.

And I believe these things can and will inspire and deepen my prayer life and I believe they will bless your prayer life as well. So, here are:

5 Important Things You Need to Bless Your Prayer Life

I read a quote that inspired me to dig deep into the Bible to study 5 practical and very doable things I believe will encourage and bless your prayer life. #Prayer #Blessings #PrayerJournal #Faith

1. Pray to the Glory of God

Do you remember the first sentence in chapter one of The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren?

It’s not about you.

Only God could take a book that begins that way and turn it into an international bestseller.

And the second chapter…

You were made for God’s pleasure.

Isaiah wrote…

Bring all who claim me as their God,
    for I have made them for my glory.
    It was I who created them.

Isaiah 43:7

My prayers change when I believe I was created for God’s glory. Whatever He allows, wherever He leads, whatever He asks … I simply pray that He will go with me that I might be used by Him for His glory.

2. Pray Fully Surrendered to God’s Will

Surrender was always hard for me and honestly, I wouldn’t say it’s necessarily easy now. But I do believe that whatever God wills … He will give me the courage and strength I need to trust and obey.

Much of being able to pray the following words of Jesus…

“Abba, Father,” He cried out, “everything is possible for you. Please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want Your will to be done, not mine.”

Mark 14:36

Is trusting that He is able to give us everything we need to endure. We can stand with Paul and say…

I can do all things because Christ gives me the strength.

Philippians 4:13 (NLV)

With God’s help, and the strength only He can give, you and I can pray fully surrendered to His will.

3. Pray Trusting God is Who He Says He Is

You and I have to know who God says He is if we are going to trust that He is who He says He is. And if He isn’t, why do we pray to Him at all?

I gathered 35 “I Am” Verses – God Is Who He Says He Is. Here are a few of my favorites:

“From eternity to eternity I am God.
    No one can snatch anyone out of my hand.
    No one can undo what I have done.”

Isaiah 43:13

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

John 14:6

“The Lord God says, “I am the Alpha and the Omega. I am the One who is and was and is coming. I am the Almighty.”

Revelation 1:8

When you and I trust God to be who He says He is, His promises become life-giving power for every need and circumstance.

4. Pray in the Name of Jesus

God met our greatest need in and through Jesus who lived the perfect life we are unable to live, suffered and died to take our punishment upon Himself and rose to life again proving God’s ultimate power over sin and death.

Paul wrote:

But thank God! He [Jesus] gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 15:57

And because of the victory Jesus knew we would have in Him, He said…

I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and He will grant your request because you use my name. You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.

John 16:23–24

You and I pray in Jesus name … not as some magic formula to get God to fulfill our self whims and wishes but in faith, praying to give God glory, to follow His will, trusting His promises—confident in the name of Jesus, the Father will give us everything we need.

He’s already met our greatest need. He gave us Jesus to bridge the gap that sin created.

5. Pray Without Ceasing

So, back to practicing the presence of God … that is praying without ceasing.

I can be persistent in prayer when I trust and believe that God is with me.

  • When my circumstances are hard.
  • When I’m grieving.
  • When I’m afraid.
  • When I’m filled with joy.
  • When I’m at peace and when I’m stressed out.
  • When I’m washing the dishes and doing the laundry.
  • When I’m sitting in church and when I’m not.
  • When I’m running errands, sitting in traffic, or on the job.
  • Wherever I am…

David wrote…

Even when I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
    for You are close beside me.

Psalm 23:4

Jesus said…

 “I am with you always, even to the end of the world.”

Matthew 28:20 (NLV)

And…

“If you love me, show it by doing what I’ve told you. I will talk to the Father, and He’ll provide you another Friend so that you will always have someone with you. This Friend is the Spirit of Truth.”

John 14:15–17a (MSG)
I read a quote that inspired me to dig deep into the Bible to study 5 practical and very doable things I believe will encourage and bless your prayer life. #Prayer #Blessings #PrayerJournal #Faith

When I am aware of God’s presence, trusting that He is as close as my beating heart … I will simply talk with Him throughout the day.

That’s praying without ceasing.

Bringing every overwhelming or seemingly insignificant, my own or someone else’s to the “I Am” … the One who is, was, and always will be Lord of all.

The One who says…

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”

Matthew 11:28

That’s prayer – the kind of prayer that is inspired and deep … the kind that changes lives.

Prayers that…

  1. are for God’s glory.
  2. are surrendered to God’s will.
  3. trust God is who He says He is.
  4. are in the name of Jesus.
  5. are persistent.

Prayers that come before the Father with child-like faith … humbly trusting His perfect unfailing love.

I believe by God’s grace these things will inspire and deepen my prayer life and I believe they will bless your prayer life too.

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

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Simple Prayers that will Help You Praise God in the Storm

It's hard to praise God in the storm when I just want Him to stop the chaos. So, I've written prayers so I'm ready to praise Him even when life is hard. #Prayer #Faith #PraiseGod #Blessings #Hope

I can sing my heart out along with Casting Crowns anytime I hear – Praise You in this Storm.

And I’ll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
That You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I’ve cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

Or with Mercy Me when I hear – Bring the Rain.

So I pray…

Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings You glory
And I know there’ll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that’s what it takes to praise You
Jesus, bring the rain

I’ll admit, I’ve often had tears streaming down my face as I sing along because the truth is … sometimes it’s hard to praise and worship in the middle of the mess.

And it’s even harder to surrender the mess when I just want God to take it away. My heart wants to accept whatever it takes to bring Him glory but my stubborn humanness just wants it to go away.

When life is hard, my prayers include way more pleas than praise.

It hit me this week, that in those moments it would be so helpful if I had prayers of praise and worship ready to lift up when my heart hurts and soul aches … when I want to praise God in the storm.

And I thought you might find those prayers helpful too.

So, I’d love for you to join me as I pray…

Simple Prayers that Praise God in the Storm

It's hard to praise God in the storm when I just want Him to stop the chaos. So, I've written prayers so I'm ready to praise Him even when life is hard. #Prayer #Faith #PraiseGod #Blessings #Hope

“You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For You created all things, and they exist because You created what You pleased.”

Revelation 4:11

Father, when I look at the beauty of Your creation, I’m overwhelmed. You spoke and earth, sea, and sky came to be. Sun, moon, and stars filled the sky in perfect formation. Plants and animals filled the earth showing us Your creativity. Colors and forms beyond anything we could imagine came into being at Your command.

Then You created me and You even created people for me to love. Then when we made a mess of what You made … You gave us Your healing mercy and grace.

Thank you, Lord. I will lift Your name all the days of my life. You alone are worthy of my worship and praise for Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever.

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

Father, life is hard and I’ve prayed and prayed. When I concentrate my attention and energy on my problems, I’m frustrated and discouraged. But when I remember all You have done for me in the past and cling to Your promises to provide for me now and in the future … I can face today with hope and peace.

Thank you, Lord. Life is hard but You are able! When I face the impossible I can trust You to give me everything I need. So, I will praise You. I will tell others of Your goodness and grace and I will live today for Your glory.

 O Lord, You are my God. I will praise You. I will give thanks to Your name. For You have been faithful to do great things, plans that You made long ago.

Isaiah 25:1

Father, when I think of Your faithfulness, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and praise. Just a few verses later, Isaiah wrote — “You are a refuge from the storm and a shelter from the heat.”

You invite me to run to You in the middle of the storm and You promise to be my place of safety. Lord, I know You may not choose to change my circumstances but I believe You are forever faithful to give me everything I need to endure through. My days do not come as a surprise to You and with Your Spirit’s help, I can live each one for Your glory.

I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me. He freed me from all my fears. Those who look to Him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces.

Psalm 34:4–5

Father, this verse is so personal to me. You allowed me to live through one of my greatest fears and taught me that You are truly greater than my worst concern. You have and continue to forgive me … replacing my pain with the joy of Your presence.

David wrote, “Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in Him!” And all I can say is, “Amen!”

In the beginning the Word already existed.
    The Word was with God,
    and the Word was God.
He existed in the beginning with God.
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 1:1–2,14

Father, I just want to thank and praise You for Jesus! The Word – who was with You at creation and promised by the prophets. The Word – who became fully human and lived a perfect life … full of inexhaustible love and truth.

And Your Word says, that because of Jesus, I can truly know You. Jesus Himself said, “No one truly knows the Son except the Father, and no one truly knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him.” So today, I simply want to thank and praise You for allowing me to know and love You through Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit.

I surrender my all to You. In the storm or when skies are clear, I will trust Your love, worship and praise Your holy name, and live each moment for Your glory. Help me by Your grace and the power of Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

It's hard to praise God in the storm when I just want Him to stop the chaos. So, I've written prayers so I'm ready to praise Him even when life is hard. #Prayer #Faith #PraiseGod #Blessings #Hope

One of the things I love about the Bible is reading the accounts of people of faith who were able to praise God in the storm.

I’m also thankful for the accounts of people like me, who at times cried out in fear before they felt God’s peace and strength … before their pleas became praise.

So, I will keep these prayers close at hand, always ready to praise God who is with me even in the worst of storms.

When life is hard and I want to praise God in the storm!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

How the Holy Spirit Inspires Christians to Serve Him by Valerie Murray @ Cord of 6

How the Holy Spirit Inspires Christians to Serve Him

by Valerie Murray
@ Cord of 6

7 Practical Ways for Engaging the Scripture When Days are Busy by and @ Deborah Haddix

7 Practical Ideas for Engaging the Scripture When Days are Busy

by and @ Deborah Haddix



AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

Counting My Blessings
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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!

I'm finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith 'n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! Click to Tweet

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…

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Thank you and God bless!

What Happens When You Pray the Promises of God

God promised to give us everything we need for whatever we're living through. So, when I don't have the words ... I pray the promises of God. #Prayer #Faith #PromisesofGod #Hope

I always struggled to put my prayers into words. And in all honesty, most of the time, I tried to figure things out on my own before I’d pray about them.

When the kids were acting out, I’d read a couple of parenting books.
When one of us had health issues, I’d do a symptom check investigation.
When a relationship was strained, I’d go looking for advice from so-called relationship experts.

Oh sure, I prayed. But they typically went like this…

“Please heal __________.”
“Please help __________. “
“Please fix __________.”
“Please give __________.”

Now, I’m not saying those aren’t valid prayers or that we shouldn’t pray them. In fact, sometimes when I’m in the middle of a crisis and my emotions are frayed and thoughts scattered, those are the only words I can find.

But I’ve experienced something that has blessed and transformed my prayer life.

When I can’t find the words … God has filled Scripture with verses and prayers of His people. God’s Word gives me everything I need to go to Him with my burdens, gratitude, and praise.

The truth is, nothing you and I face is new to God. Solomon wrote…

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

Ecclesiasted 1:9

Nothing in our lives surprises or shocks our Father.

And He promises to give us everything we need for whatever we’re living through. So, when I don’t have the words … I pray the promises of God.

His Word helps me thank and praise Him, repent and implore. And praying Scripture imprints it on my heart and mind.

I’d love for you to join me as I …

Pray the Promises of God

God promised to give us everything we need for whatever we're living through. So, when I don't have the words ... I pray the promises of God. #Prayer #Faith #PromisesofGod #Hope

This hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out His love to fill our hearts. He gave us His love through the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to us.

Romans 5:5

Father, Thank you for the amazing and overwhelming gift of Your love. Your creation shows Your love and care but the One who came … who lived and died to show us Your love is our promised hope. Through Jesus’ resurrection, You give us the promise of victory over sin, death, and satan’s power. And from His ascension on through time, You give us the Spirit’s presence to fill us with love and the hope that will not disappoint.

I believe Your Word and trust Your promises. Please fill me with all I need today through Your Spirit. Fill my heart with faith, hope, and love – three blessings I can count on now and eternally.

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 4:6b–7

Father, I need You!

It’s funny, I can make a long list of things I thought I needed in my life … things I brought to You through pleading whines that bordered on childish tantrums. And the truth I’ve learned is whether You answered me with a “yes,” a “no,” or you asked me to “wait,” You always gave me what I needed. You always gave me Your best. How can I begin to thank you?

And when my circumstances were painful and hard, You gave me what I needed to live through them one moment at a time. Your grace is sufficient! In every high and every low, You are able to give me exactly what I need.

Resting on that truth gives me the peace I need. Today, I ask You to help me remember all You have done for me in the past that I might experience Your peace today and hope for tomorrow.

The Lord is faithful; He will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.

2 Thessalonians 3:3

Lord, Thank you! You are faithful! You are the same yesterday, today, and forever. Your children are safe under Your care.

When I look around, it feels like the enemy at work everywhere. Your Word says He will use every kind of deception to fool the world. And Jesus taught that we should pray and ask You to deliver us from evil.

Please protect me through the enemy’s attacks on my heart and mind. Give me the strength I need and keep me focused on You, Lord … remembering how You have faithfully given me the strength and protection I have needed in the past.

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

Father, these words are unsettling. I see churches adjusting to the world’s customs and behavior. James wrote, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you.” I need wisdom. I want to know Your truth that gives freedom from the world’s lies. I want to know, trust, and follow Your will.

Please transform my heart and mind through Your Word and the power of Your Spirit. Make me humble and teachable. Help me listen and fill me with love. Give me the courage and strength I need to obey You even when everyone around me is not. I need You, Lord, and surrender myself to You.

We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.

Romans 8:28

Father, I rest my heart, mind, and soul on this beautiful promise. You are always working in my life doing what is best for my eternal future. I’ll admit, sometimes it’s hard to find the “good.” Sometimes people are cruel and life is painful. And in those moments, it’s hard for me to remain focused on You.

Help me cling to the promises that…

Whatever is going on around me … You are at work for my good and Your glory. I can trust this promise because I know that my ultimate good is to spend my life now and forever surrounded by Your glory and love.

Thank you, Father. In Jesus name. Amen.

God promised to give us everything we need for whatever we're living through. So, when I don't have the words ... I pray the promises of God. #Prayer #Faith #PromisesofGod #Hope

So…

What Happens When You Pray the Promises of God

God promises to hear you. (1 John 5:14)

We are confident that He hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases Him.

  1. God gives you hope that does not disappoint. (Romans 5:5)
  2. God gives you hard to understand peace. (Philippians 4:6–7)
  3. God reveals His will for you. (Romans 12:2)
  4. God gives you strength and protection for your circumstances. (2 Thessalonians 3:2–3)
  5. God works in your life for your good and His glory. (Romans 8:28)

What is your favorite of the promises of God?
Think about how you might add it to your prayers.

Blessings!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

Are You Sick and Tired of Being Busy by and @ Maree Dee

Are You Sick and Tired of Being Busy

by and @ Maree Dee

If You Feel Yourself Breaking Under the Load by Lois Flowers @ Waxing Gibbous

If You Feel Yourself Breaking Under the Load

by Lois Flowers
@ Waxing Gibbous



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