Powerful Verses to Pray that will Bless Your Children

There is nothing more important, nothing that will bless your children more than covering them in prayer ... asking God for faith, wisdom, and protection. #Prayer #PrayforChildren #SchoolYear #Wisdom #Parenting

You and I want so many things for our children and grandchildren as a new school year begins.

We want them to have a love for learning and creativity. We hope they’ll be happy, strong, and kind. And we’d love for them to be successful and well-liked by their teachers and classmates. We hope they will make the team and accomplish their goals.

I can remember reading books, talking with friends, organizing, and planning in an effort to help them flourish educationally.

But something I’ve come to believe is…

Although, being organized and helping them have the tools they need is important … nothing is more important, nothing will bless your children more than covering them in prayer.

For some, praying for their children and grandchildren is second nature but I know I have times when my prayers flow easily and other times when I’m at a loss for words.

So today, I’m praying for our children … asking God to grant us wisdom and bless the school-year ahead.

Powerful Verses to Pray that will Bless Your Children

♥ That They Might Grow in Faith

Let your roots grow down into Him, and let your lives be built on Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.
Colossians 2:7

Father, My greatest desire is that my children will grow in faith. That they will love You, Lord, with all their hearts, minds, souls, and strength. I pray that they will know You keep Your promises – that You are who You say You are and that You can and will do what You say.

Fill them with Your Spirit and give them a strong desire to SEEK You First and that they will trust and follow Your will as You reveal it to them. Guide them. Bless them. Hold them close.

♥ That They Might Be Courageous and Strong

Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.
1 Corinthians 16:13

Father, Some days are hard. There are days when we all would prefer to pull the covers over our heads and stay in bed. I know that’s true for my children as well.

They worry about assignments, tests, peer pressure, and popularity. They need a strong body and a strong mind to accomplish all that is asked of them each day. May they know who they are in You – no matter what others say to them or about them. May they be secure in the knowledge that they are deeply loved by You and by us. And may they remember … You go before [them] and follow [them]. You place your hand of blessing on their heads. (Psalm 139:4)

♥ That They Might Have Wisdom

Tune your ears to wisdom and concentrate on understanding… Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise choices will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe.
Proverbs 2:2, 9–11

Father, Please give my children a desire to have the wisdom only You can give. I pray they will know and trust Your will as You reveal it in Your Word.

Lord, I need to know and live with wisdom. Please help me be an example for my children. Make me a SEEKER and give me all I need to consistently encourage them to Seek Your truth that they might have wisdom that will guide and protect them throughout life. Please give us all wise mentors, teachers, and pastors to give us good counsel and show us the blessings of trusting and following Your “right way to go.”

Grant us grace and give us the knowledge, wisdom, courage, and strength we need to make wise choices in difficult situations. Bless us and fill us with the peace and joy that’s found in Jesus.

♥ That They Might Be Protected

But let all who take refuge in You rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread Your protection over them, that all who love Your name may be filled with joy.
Psalm 5:11

Lord, I’ll admit there are things about going to school that are scary. There have been some frightening things that have happened in our schools in recent years.

Please guard and protect my children and all children from any and all evil and from anyone who might try to harm them … physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually. Place a hedge of protection around them and please fill our family with joy, worship, and praise for all You are and all You’ve done.

♥ That They Might Have Self Control

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, temptations are everywhere. We face them every day and it’s hard. I know I don’t always set the example I want for my children. I lose my temper, I complain, I judge others, I get impatient, and fail to be a good steward of my gifts and abilities. Please forgive me.

And help me…

Help me admit when I am wrong. Help me set an example of confession, repentance, and forgiveness. By the power of Your Spirit, help me teach my children the truths of Your Word. Help me encourage them when they do well as well as encouraging them to try again when they fail.

Father, I ask that You would help my children make friends who encourage them to follow You … friends who are respectful, kind, and who have self-control.

♥ Bless Your Children

“May the Lord bless you
    and protect you.
May the Lord smile on you
    and be gracious to you.
May the Lord show you His favor
    and give you His peace.”
Numbers 6:24–26

Father, I pray this blessing over my children. Please bless them. Be with them. And give them Your perfect peace.

Friends, I pray you and your children are blessed with the love of the Lord and a wonderful school year!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

Back to School Survival Tips for Moms

by Marva Smith
@ Sun Sparkle Shine

Four Ways to Celebrate a Perfectly ImPerfect You

by and @ Lisa Murray

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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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!

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

I would really appreciate it if you would
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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.

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5 Prayers that will Strengthen You When You are Anxious and Afraid

8 / 8 / 19

There is a spiritual battle going on around us that can make us anxious and afraid but God is greater than our fear. He is able to give us His peace. #OvercomingFear #InnerPeace #FeelingAnxious #Prayer

Many of us have spent the week praying for hurting families in El Paso and Dayton while at the same time trying to get their heads around the unsettling feeling that the places we’ve always believed we were safe, may not be.

It’s understandable that some of us are feeling anxious and afraid. In the past week, news channels have recapped every terrifying event from recent history.

Friends, there is a spiritual battle going on. The enemy wants us focused on the evil side of the battle … crippled by anxiety and fear.

But the holy angelic warrior side of the battle is powerful and real. God is on the throne and His angel army fights for us.

I have held the following verse close this week…

“Don’t be afraid!” Elisha told him. “For there are more on our side than on theirs!” Then Elisha prayed, “O Lord, open his eyes and let him see!”
2 Kings 6:16–17

I’m fighting my anxious and afraid thoughts with the truth of God’s Word and prayer and I thought maybe you might be blessed by these prayers as well…

5 Prayers that will Strengthen You When You are Anxious and Afraid

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.
Ephesians 6:10–12

Father, I want to be strong in You … in the power You give. Please clothe me with the belt of truth, the shield of faith, and the shoes of peace. Please help me focus on the truth of Your Word when the enemy works to discourage me with anxiety and fear. Help me remember that You are with me; I am not fighting my battles alone.

You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You!
Isaiah 26:3

Lord, You are my Shepherd … I have everything I need. I trust You to care for me today and eternally. Please keep my heart and mind focused on all You are doing in my life. When I am tempted to fixate on all that is wrong in the world. When I’m anxious and afraid. Please help me by the power of Your Spirit to trust Your sovereign grace and love and rest securely in Your perfect peace.

We can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?”

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Hebrews 13:6,8

Father, I love these verses! They define faith! With Your Spirit’s help, I can say with confidence that You are always with me helping, guiding, providing, and protecting.

Your love is constant and never-changing. You proved Your love through Jesus life, death, and resurrection. By Your grace, I have nothing to fear.

Yet, sometimes fear still rises up in me. Please help me. When I am anxious and afraid, fill my heart and mind with Your promises and the truth that is unchanging and never fails.

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

Lord, When I am anxious and afraid, please help me remember the times You have helped me in the past. You lifted me out of the pit of fear and despair, placed me on solid ground, and steadied me as I walked along. (Psalm 40:2) I can trust You are with me today and always. Thank you!

Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt His name together.I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me. He freed me from all my fears.
Psalm 34:3–4

Father, I will praise You and lift You up. I will tell of the good things You have done for me. I lived afraid and anxious for so many years. I’ve trusted You for my eternal future for as long as I can remember but I struggled to trust You with my days … with my daily decisions, with my loved ones, with unknown circumstances and worldly terrors.

But because of Your grace and mercy, You carried me as I lived through one of my worst fears. You held me close as You met every need. I prayed and You answered me! And I will tell, all who will listen, of Your marvelous works … of Your greatness, Your grace, mercy, and love. Amen.

Friend, I’ve realized God is giving us an amazing opportunity!

When our anxious and afraid friends voice their concern…

We can tell them about God’s love. We can tell them that He is able to make us strong and give us peace.

Yes, there is a spiritual battle going on around us. Both good and evil are present in our fallen world. But God is greater! Jesus has already won the victory. And as God’s children … we are victorious, too.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

When Feeling Overwhelmed Doesn’t Make Sense

by Maree Dee
@ Embracing the Unexpected

A Prayer for the Disappointed Soul

by Susan Mcilmoil
@ Carry On My Heart

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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

I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

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.

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

Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses to Pray When You Need to Be Patient

8 / 1 / 198 / 1 / 19

The longer the wait, the harder it is to be patient. Here are 5 verses and prayers to help when you run out of patience and you need strength to go on. #BibleQuotes #Prayer #Hope #Blessings

I can be patient with people most of the time.

It’s a little easier now that our children are grown.

Although, I can still remember how daily demands and interruptions, bad attitudes (theirs and mine) and plain old mom exhaustion made for more than the occasional loss of my desired calm composed kindness.

Yep, being patient with our people, little and grown, is something that challenges us more often than we’d like but that’s not what I’m going to the Lord about today.

The patience I’m praying for is the kind you and I need when we’re waiting on our circumstances to change. When we’ve prayed and prayed and prayed some more. When we’re discouraged and frustrated because…

the job doesn’t happen.
the relationship isn’t restored.
the baby hasn’t arrived.
the behavior doesn’t change.
the healing doesn’t occur.
the bad habit taunts and haunts.
the loved one continues to reject a relationship with Jesus.
the loneliness continues.
the __________________.

We all have circumstances, situations, and attitudes we want to be altered and adjusted. Things we’ve hoped and prayed for … for what seems like forever.

And yes, I see several of my own prayers on that list.

I’ll admit, even though I want to trust God’s timing, I can still grow discouraged and impatient.

I think the problem is…

I want God to fix things according to my desires and expectations.
I want it now and yesterday would be better.
I focus on the problem and not on the Lord.
I let my fears and feelings overshadow my faith.

So, I’m going to the Lord and asking Him to help me. I’m stopping to remember the countless prayers He’s answered in the past and I’m surrendering my timeline and asking Him to help me be patient in my current circumstances. I’d love for you to join me.

5 Verses to Pray When You Need to Be Patient

I waited patiently for the Lord to help me,
    and He turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the pit of despair,
    out of the mud and the mire.
He set my feet on solid ground
    and steadied me as I walked along.
He has given me a new song to sing,
    a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see what He has done and be amazed.
    They will put their trust in the Lord.
Psalm 40:1–3

Father, Forgive me! You have reached down and pulled me out of the pit of despair more times than I can count. And yet, I can so quickly and willingly jump back into that place of despair. Where doubt creeps in and faith trembles.

But when I think of all the ways You have shown me Your love and care. When I remember the countless prayers You’ve answered with blessings. When I recall all the times You’ve given me the strength I needed to be patient on difficult days of waiting … I know I can trust in Your love and faithfulness today.

I surrender my timeline to Your perfect timing. Place my feet on solid ground and fix my heart and mind on Your truth. By the power of Your Spirit, keep me focused in faith on who You are and all You’ve done … singing Your praise and proclaiming Your goodness.

(If we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.) And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will.
Romans 8:25–27

Thank you, Father! Thank you! When I am impatient and disheartened, You are with me. Your Spirit within me knows my desires and my needs and when I can no longer put them into words … when I no longer know what or how to pray, Your Spirit prays for me according to Your will.

Please give me confidence as I wait that Your ways and timing are always best! Help me to trust Your plans as I live with faith one day at a time.

But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:31

Father, some days it feels like it takes every ounce of my energy to simply put one foot in front of the other but by Your grace, there are days when I have the strength and energy I need to run ahead with hope and courage.

But how I love those days when You help me soar above the challenges and wait with supernatural patience, peace, and strength. Your kindness and goodness overwhelm me. Hold me close and help me trust You to give me what I need right now.

May the Lord lead your hearts into a full understanding and expression of the love of God and the patient endurance that comes from Christ.
2 Thessalonians 3:5

Father, Please fill me with a greater understanding of Your perfect love. The battle happening around me is hard. Help me remember that Your grace is sufficient. Help me to stay focused on Jesus, the One who gives and perfects my faith. He has already defeated this enemy. Help me remember how very much You love me!

Give me the patience I need to endure the difficult days. Hold me close and help me cling to the truth of Your Word and faithfully bring everything to You in prayer.

We also pray that you will be strengthened with all His glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father.
Colossians 1:11–12a

Father, You are able to give me everything I need to live with strength each day. You are able to help me endure when my circumstances seem like they are more than I can bear. You are the One who gives me patience when I have none of my own … when it feels like I just can’t wait any longer.

I surrender my impatience to You. Fill me with hope and joy as I trust Your perfect will and timing. You are my confidence today and forever. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

Friend, waiting is hard!

But with God’s help, you and I can be patient as we wait. We can trust His perfect timing and love.

Again today!

We can rest in His love.

Be still and know that I am God!
Psalm 46:10a

We can trust His presence.

The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us!
Psalm 46:11

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

You are Christ’s Letter to the Broken –
Do You Make People Want to Read?

by Esther Dorotik
@ Chosen and Cherished

When Your Adult Child is Called to Do a Dangerous Job

by Tina Hulsey
@ Abundant Family Living

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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

I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

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.

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

Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses You Need to Pray Before You Speak Out

7 / 25 / 197 / 26 / 19

Every day the words we use are either building up or tearing apart our relationships. We need God's help! So, before you speak out...pray! #Prayer #Marriage #Friendship #Relationships

I think a lot about words!

Of course, I do. I’m a writer and as I said earlier this week … a talker. But it’s more than that…

Words of affirmation are my love language. Positive words fill my love tank and yes, negative words have the opposite effect.

Although not everyone feels the impact of words to the same degree I do; words are making and breaking relationships every single day.

Because … how we use words matters!

So much so that the Bible says:

The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.
Proverbs 18:21

Life or death! And if not physical life or death, relationships in our homes, workplaces, neighborhoods, and churches are having life breathed into them or sucked out of them based on the words people use.

Every day you and I are living out the consequences of our own or someone else’s words.

I know it’s true because I live out the consequences of my own words way more often than I’d like.

I mean, I try. Really I do. But something I’m well aware of … I can’t control my words on my own. Without the Lord’s help, my less than ideal attitudes get in the way and keep me from consistently speaking the “life” words God wants.

So, I’m turning to God in prayer … asking Him to forgive my past, guide my future and help me choose my words in light of His grace that I might breathe life into my relationships and give Him glory.

Verses to Pray Before You Speak Out

“If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies. Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it.”
1 Peter 3:10–11

Father, forgive me. It’s so hard for me to faithfully and consistently control what I say. I can be quick to complain and lash out in anger. The world tells me lying is normal. Everyone does it. Everyone bends the truth to make life easier, don’t they? But Your Word clearly tells me to speak the truth in love and avoid using my words to speak evil . . . even if I’m repeating something spoken by someone else. Help me! I want to search for peace. I want to make every effort to maintain peace. Lord, I want to be someone You can use for peace.

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.
Proverbs 15:1,4

Lord, Give me the self-control I need to choose my words carefully when I’m angry. Help me speak with words that work toward unity and understanding. Words that breathe life into my relationships. May I remember that people make assumptions about You based on the way Your children speak and act. Please forgive me for the times my words have been hurtful and with Your help, I will forgive those whose words have hurt me. Fill me so full of Your love that it overflows to the people around me.

Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and He will grant you His blessing.
1 Peter 3:9

Father, this is so hard. It feels justifiable to fight back and defend hurtful insulting words. It’s just the world’s way, isn’t it? But Your Word tells me to offer a blessing … to respond to cruelty with kindness. It also tells me this is the way to Your blessings and my happiness. I want that. Help me, Father. Help us all through the love of Jesus.

Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.
Colossians 4:5–6

Lord, make me winsome for You. My heart’s desire is to show people the greatness of Your love. Give me the words You want me to speak, words that give You glory . . . words that will help people who don’t know You have a desire to learn more about Your amazing grace and unfailing love. May they want to know Jesus.

Take control of what I say, O Lord,
and guard my lips.
Psalm 141:3

Lord, make me sensitive to Your Spirit’s guidance. Bless me with wisdom to know when to control my tongue and the strength I need to do it. Help me know when to speak out and put Your hand over my mouth when I need to be still. I surrender my will to Your control and direction.

I will exalt you, my God and King,
and praise Your name forever and ever.
I will praise You every day;
yes, I will praise You forever.
Psalm 145:4–5

Father, please help me speak out for Your glory. May praise and worship be on the tip of my tongue. Please help me keep my heart and mind focused on You. Help me take captive every thought that turn my heart and mind to the things that cause me fear or anger. May I remember that You are with me in all circumstances. Thank You, Lord! I will trust You and praise You today and every day forever. By Your all-sufficient grace and for Your glory that lasts forever. Amen.

Before you speak out, remember…

Controlling our words can be the most challenging part of our Jesus following journey. No matter how hard you and I try, we will never come close to controlling our words the way God wants without His help.

But He has promised to help.

He forgives when we fail. He guides us through His Word and by the power of His Spirit. And He even helps us when controlling our words is the last thing we want to do.

Praise God! You and I have a Father who loves us so much, He not only cares about the details of our words but He’s willing to help us for our good and His glory.

He wants to help us speak out in faith and in love!

So, before you speak out … PRAY!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

You Can’t Live a Victorious Christian Life Alone

by Jana Carlson
@ Wield the Word

How to Trust God When Bad Things Happen – My Stroke Story

by Diane Ferreira
@ Worth Beyond Rubies

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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

I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

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.

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

Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses to Pray When You Need a New Perspective

7 / 18 / 197 / 18 / 19

When my attitude stinks and I need a new perspective, I need help. God's help. So, I'm praying and asking Him to empower me and fill me with His transforming truth. #Prayer #Perspective #Faith #Hope

I can remember sitting with a friend over lunch.

Her daughter had recently returned home from college for summer break. My friend was thrilled to have her daughter home but also a bit concerned.

You see…

Her daughter had arrived upset with everyone! Her profs and teachers were uninformed and unhelpful. Her friends were unkind and unappreciative. And her roommate was the WORST! She wasn’t even sure she could take living with her the following semester.

My wise friend listened patiently to her child go on and on for a few days until she finally said, “You know how much I love you and I’m very sorry you’re going through this but I can’t help but think there is one common denominator in every one of these relationships.”

I will never forget her words because although I laughed with her at the “me” focus our children can have at times, I couldn’t help but wonder how often I’ve been the “common denominator” in one of my own bad days, or weeks, or longer.

How many times have I taken my bad mood, my insecurities, my quick to judge attitudes, my “I know I’m right” opinions (okay, well you get the idea) into a conversation where I should have listened with kindness, compassion, and love.

It’s hard though, isn’t it? Sometimes I want to be self-absorbed and “me” focused. Sometimes I want other people to take care of me … or just do it my way for a change.

I can almost see you nodding your head.

But there’s a problem … that attitude never makes me happy. If you’d like to know why, check out How to Have a Perspective that will Make You Happy.

As I looked back over those words from the other day, I realized that many of the tips began with “Ask God…”

So today, that’s exactly what I’m going to do! I’m asking God to give me a new perspective … one that will glorify Him, bless my relationships, and as an added bonus, maybe even make me happy.

5 Verses to Pray When You Need a New Perspective

Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things He does for me.
He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases.
He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies.
He fills my life with good things.
Psalm 103:2–5

Oh, Father, when I’m tempted to be “me” focused and self absorbed, please help me turn to You. Help me remember all the things You have done for me in the past, and quite honestly all You are doing for me today … I woke up, I can see, hear, taste, touch, and smell. I have a roof over my head and food to eat. And most important, I have You! I have faith and the peace-filled assurance that I can trust Your promises. Help me focus on Your goodness and mercy today and all the days of my life. Give me a new perspective.

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, forgive me. There are so many voices all claiming to speak the truth. Telling me Your Word is outdated and misinterpreted. I have to admit, the people shouting the loudest seem so very unhappy and distressed.

Father, I ask You to give me wisdom and strength. And by the power of Your Spirit as I study Your Word and turn to You in prayer … guide me by Your truth. Transform my thinking that I might know Your will for me … Your good, pleasing, and perfect will which I believe is the only true way for me to have a new perspective and enjoy peace, hope, and joy each day.

You must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day.
2 Peter 3:8

It’s so easy to grow impatient, Father. Honestly, I would like my prayers to have been answered yesterday. I want health restored and relationships repaired. I want peace and kindness to prevail. I want people to listen and understanding to win the day. I want to see lives surrendered to Your love.

I pray and I pray and wait and wait and time goes on. Please give me an eternal perspective. Help me remember that it’s all under Your control. You are at work in my life and the lives of the people I love answering prayers in Your perfect way at Your perfect time. Please give me everything to focus on You and trust Your love as I wait.

For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13

And Father, on those days when I’m tempted to lose the perspective and attitudes You want for me … give me the strength I need for this moment and help me go confidently into each one knowing You will give me all I need to live for You.

For Jesus Christ, the Son of God, does not waver between “Yes” and “No” … and as God’s ultimate “Yes,” He always does what He says.For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for His glory.
2 Corinthians 1:19–20

Father, thank you for Jesus. It doesn’t matter what the world says … Jesus is the answer. It doesn’t matter how I feel, whether or not I’m having a good day, or even if others agree … Jesus is the Way, Truth, and Life.

Every promise You have ever made is fulfilled in Jesus. Please help me surrender this day, my mood, my attitudes, and my perspective to You … so that in all I do and say I might follow Your will and live for Your glory. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

What am amazing blessing it is to know that even though you and I are completely incapable of getting this new perspective on our own … God not only wants to give it to us, He has given us His Spirit to live with and within us to transform and empower us.

The presence of the Spirit is able to help us look at life a whole new joy-inducing way!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

When Special Needs Truly are Special
and Labels are Over-rated

by Jen Avellaneda
@ Rich Faith Rising

Are You Stuck Between Your Calling and Real Life?

by and @ Rebecca Hastings

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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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!

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

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.

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.

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Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses to Pray When You Need to be Strong

6 / 27 / 19

When the challenge your facing feels overwhelming and it's hard to be strong, it's time to pray. These 5 Bible verses and prayers will help when it's hard for you to find the words. #Prayer #Faith #BeStrong #Hope

You tossed and turned most of the night and still, you can’t believe it’s morning already.

The challenge you’re facing feels overwhelming and if you could, you’d just pull the covers over your head and stay in bed … all … day.

Oh, I can relate!

Truth is … you and I have to live through what Jesus called “trouble” more often than we’d like.

“I told you these things so that you can have peace in me. In this world you will have trouble, but be brave! I have defeated the world.”
John 16:33

I’ll admit, I hate the “trouble!” I’m guessing you do too!

But you and I can be “brave.” We can be strong because Jesus defeated evil.

By living a perfect sinless life.
Through His suffering and death.
Through His resurrection.

He spoke those words just prior to His arrest. He knew what was coming. Jesus was no stranger to “troubles.”

He understands … and that truth gives us strength and hope when our giants loom large.

Whatever you and I are going through … whether it is a failing relationship, a daunting diagnosis, a financial concern, a legal problem, a what do I do now decision, or an ongoing pain that feels like it will never end.

Whatever it is … the Lord is able to give us everything we need to be strong one day at a time.

But I’ll admit…

When I’m going through “trouble” it’s hard for me to turn from my restless anxiety and focus on God’s all-sufficient grace.

Which is why I need to pray. I’d love for you to join me.

5 Verses to Pray When You Need to be Strong

I was so foolish and ignorant—
    I must have seemed like a senseless
animal to You.
Yet I still belong to You;
You hold my right hand.
You guide me with Your counsel,
    leading me to a glorious destiny.
Whom have I in heaven but You?
    I desire You more than anything on earth.
My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak,
    but God remains the strength of my heart;
He is mine forever.
Psalm 73:22–26

Father, You gave me Psalm 73:26 to claim as my own, when my heart was broken.

And I can so relate to the words above…

I’ve had many times when I’ve made foolish choices. Yet … You continued to call me Your own. You held me close and patiently taught me Your truth.

Thank you for Your loving me and covering me with Your grace and mercy. Thank you for Your healing touch … for holding me and for giving me strength when I was at my weakest.

Father, thank you for guiding me. There is nothing in this life I desire more than You. Even if my health fails and my spirit is weak, I believe You will always be my strength. In Jesus name. Amen.

Remember that I commanded you to
be strong and brave. Don’t be afraid,
because the Lord your God will be
with you everywhere you go.”
Joshua 1:9

Father, on my own, I’m not strong … not even a little bit. And this problem feels overwhelming.

But then I remember, You divided the Sea (Exodus 14) and used a marching band to defeat a city (Joshua 6). You gave life to dry bones (Ezekiel 37) and healed a broken world through Your Son.

My circumstances are not too great for You. Please help me turn my focus from the problem to You, the One who already knows the outcome. Please make me aware of Your presence. Help me trust Your will for me. Help me follow wherever You lead with courage and strength.

God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble.
“Be still, and know that I am God!
I will be honored by every nation.
I will be honored throughout the world.”
The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress.
Psalm 46:1,10–11

Father, You are my safe place and source of strength.

Your Word says You are always ready to help me. You invite me to “be still” and know You … Lord of all, God of gods, and King of kings.

Father, I need You to help me be strong.

I need You.

So, I will quietly sit here in Your presence trusting that You will give me whatever I need to face the day ahead. Thank you, Lord.

The Lord is king. He is clothed in majesty.
    The Lord is clothed in majesty
    and armed with strength.
The world is set,
    and it cannot be moved.
Lord, Your kingdom was set up long ago;
You are everlasting.
Psalm 93:1–2

Father, this world is Yours … everything in it. You speak the word and creation obeys.

Sometimes when I look around, I see a world in chaos. People turning on each other over ideology. Terrorism. War. Natural disasters. Personally, we are suffering with broken relationships, financial hardships, and health concerns. And we’re afraid.

Yet, nothing is new to You. You have always known the end from the beginning and You are always in control. Father, please help me keep my eyes focused on You, for You are able to make me strong today and give me the hope I need for tomorrow.

I begged the Lord three times to take
this problem away from me.
But He said to me,
“My grace is enough for you.
When you are weak,
my power is made perfect in you.”
So I am very happy to brag about my weaknesses.
Then Christ’s power can live in me.
For this reason, I am happy when
I have weaknesses, insults,
hard times, sufferings,
and all kinds of troubles for Christ.
Because when I am weak,
then I am truly strong.
2 Corinthians 12:8–10

Father, Help me remember that whatever I’m going through … Your grace is enough for today. Please help me remember that when my circumstances don’t change … when the struggle I’m facing doesn’t end.

I’ve prayed and prayed and You quietly remind me of Your more than enough grace. You are able to help me face today and I believe You will help me face tomorrow … because You have strengthened me through many yesterdays. Thank you!

I know Jesus is with me and Your Spirit is within me. I trust You to guide me. and give me all I need … joy in the midst of weakness and strength to live through this trouble with courage.

Thank you, Father. With Your help, I will be strong and live this day surrendered to You. By Your grace and for Your glory. Amen.

God knows exactly what you need to be strong.

He is with you.

And..

He will give you what you need today and what you need again tomorrow.

When I’m tempted to center my attention on my struggle and anxiously remind myself that I’m not enough … that I can’t, I will turn to the One who is able to give me exactly what I need through His grace, mercy, and love.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

When Your Busted Flip-Flop Speaks To You

by Lauren Sparks
Where Thoughts of a Special Needs Mom
Intersects with the Cross of Christ

10 Powerful Bible Verses to Help When You Fear the Future

by Tammy Kennington
Restoring Hope. Pursuing Peace

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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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!

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

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.

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.

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Thank you and God bless!

5 Psalms to Pray that will Help When You Feel Lonely

6 / 20 / 196 / 21 / 19

We've never been more connected than we are today. Yet, more people say they feel lonely often. We're praying 5 Psalms that will help and give us hope. #Prayer #Hope #Loneliness #FeelLonely

We’ve never been more connected as a society than we are today.

Social media has given us more “friends” than ever before. We get clicks and likes and shares. We feel loved when something we share goes “viral” and unloved when something else is ignored.

Psychologists tell us that in spite of all the connections we have online, more and more people say they feel lonely … as we’ve replaced real-life relationships with online “friendships.”

Loneliness is something the Bible could refer to as being “common to man.”

Solomon says there is “nothing new under the sun.”

Since the first death, the first rejection, or the first time someone was left out … loneliness has been a part of our sin-infected world.

But God…

[Oh wow, those are my two favorite words!]

But God told us that He cares about the lonely … about widows and orphans and those who feel abandoned and forsaken.

So, if you include yourself among those who feel lonely today, please join me in praying…

5 Psalms to Pray that will Help When You Feel Lonely

Turn to me and have mercy,
for I am alone and in deep distress.
Psalm 25:16

Father, Thank you for David’s honesty. It helps me to know that my loneliness is not unique or at all unusual. Even the one You called “a man after my own heart” experienced distress … times when he felt like no one understood him or what he was doing through.

I get it! I think that’s where some of my loneliness comes from. I look around and it looks like so many others have their act together and well, I don’t even feel close to that.

I need You, Lord.

Why am I discouraged?
    Why is my heart so sad?
I will put my hope in God!
    I will praise Him again—
    my Savior and my God!
Psalm 43:5

Father, Why is it that I have these days when it feels like no one understands. I can be standing with people who clearly tell me they love me or be surrounded by a room full of people, and still … my thoughts make me feel isolated and alone.

Please be my encourager. I need You! I want to keep my focus on You, Lord. I want to think about all You have done for me in the past. I want to remember that this feeling is temporary.

You are my hope … my Savior and my God! Thank you!

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, I am not alone. You are the One who created the heavens, counts the stars and knows their names. You created me and Your Word tells me You know everything about me … even the number of hairs on my head. (Matthew 10:30) That is beyond my ability to understand.

What I do understand … the times You have comforted my broken heart, the times You have given me hope when things appeared hopeless, the times You have forgiven me and covered me with Your love.

I am not alone! You are with me. Thank you, Lord!

The Lord keeps you from all harm
and watches over your life.
The Lord keeps watch over you
as you come and go,
both now and forever.
Psalm 121:7–8

Father, thank you for watching over me … for protecting me. Jesus promised to always be with those who trust and follow Him. (Matthew 28:20) He promised the Holy Spirit, the Helper, the Comforter. (John 14:16)

With You, I am never alone. You are with me to comfort, guide, and strengthen me. Please make me aware that You are watching over me wherever I am … always.

You are my peace, my strength, and my hope. Thank you, Lord! Amen.

You go before me and follow me.
You place your hand of blessing on my head.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too great for me to understand!
Psalm 139:5–6

Father, Thank you! The truth-filled knowledge of Your constant loving presence in my life is wonderful! It is my greatest blessing.

When I’m feeling lonely, I’ll admit, I spend a lot of time thinking about myself. When I center my heart and mind on You and all You have done and continue to do for me, I experience Your hard to understand gift of peace and supernatural joy.

And then … I’m able to reach out. To look for someone else I might help or encourage and I know from experience the best way to be free of feelings of sadness, discouragement, and loneliness is to go out and bless someone who needs Your love and encouragement.

When I feel lonely, Lord, give me eyes to see those who are lonely around me, a heart that understands and cares, and the courage to reach out with Your love.

By Your grace and for Your glory. Amen.

When you feel lonely…

I love the above quote by Kay Arthur.

And this one from Elizabeth Elliot…

Loneliness comes over us sometimes as a sudden tide. It is one of the terms of our humanness, and, in a sense, therefore, incurable. Yet I have found peace in my loneliest times not only through acceptance of the situation but through making it an offering to God, who can transfigure it into something for the good of others.

Maybe their words are the perfect responses to those times I feel alone…

Rest in God’s perfect love, humbly lay my feelings at the throne of grace, and look for ways use my struggle with loneliness to bless someone else.

With God’s help … we can all feel lonely a little less often!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

I Am a Soldier’s Mom – Learning to Let go

by Kim Turner McCulley
@ Finding Flowers Amid Thorns

14 Helpful Apps for Engaging the Scripture

by Deborah Haddix
@ Empowering You to Embrace God’s Design

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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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!

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

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.

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

Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses to Pray When You Want to Seek God First

6 / 13 / 196 / 14 / 19

I want to get up each morning and seek God first. I want to live surrendered and free in Jesus! But it takes prayer. So, I'm praying 5 verses asking for the Spirit's help. #Prayer #Faith #SeekGodFirst #Blessings #BlessingBloggers

SEEK was my word for 2018, and I chose Luke 12:31 as my verse…

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

At the end of the year, I knew there was no moving on. Seek went from being my word for the year to being my word for life!

I think the reason it’s so important to me is because giving God first place in my life was something I struggled with for much of my life. I believed and trusted in Jesus for my salvation but I also struggled to surrender myself completely.

Satan had planted a seed of doubt … one that told me much was asked of those who surrendered completely. So, I held back just a little because I doubted God’s ability to strengthen me through my “what if” fears.

But I was wrong!

Life is hard whether we’re surrendered or not. Bad things happen to the faith-filled and to those without faith. But by God’s grace, I’ve learned that God is greater than my circumstances, even when they are painful and unwanted!

The Lord provided everything I needed through a season of overwhelming events and proved He is able to give me everything I need whatever my situation. I can now say…

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

He gave me what I needed when I needed it! Never early. Never late. But right on time.

Now I cling to verses like…

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.

And…

“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.”
Psalm 46:1 and 2 Corinthians 12:9

I want to get up each morning and seek God first. I want to live surrendered and free in Jesus!

But it takes prayer. So, today I’m praying 5 verses asking for the Spirit’s help to…

Seek God First

Search for the Lord and for His strength; continually seek Him.
1 Chronicles 16:11

Father, Seeking is not a “sit back, wait and see” way of life. It’s spending time in Your Word, coming to You in prayer, and worshipping You in spirit and truth. Seeking is realizing I’m lost without You. It’s recognizing my need for Your mercy and grace. And it’s living a life of gratitude for Your gift of love … Jesus, the One who “came to seek and to save those who are lost” like me. Please help me continually seek You today!

Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.
Proverbs 3:6

Father, I want to trust and obey Your will faithfully but I fall short. Please forgive me and help me. Your Word says repentance is more than just saying I’m sorry; it is intentionally wanting to change. It’s trusting Your Word as truth and obeying Your will. It’s being willing to accept Your help in stepping off the path I’m on to take the path You want for me. Please help me apply these truths to my life.

The Lord is good to those who depend on Him, to those who search for Him.So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the Lord.
Lamentations 3:25–26

Father, I hear You whisper, “be still and know … cease striving” but it’s hard Lord. My life feels like it’s spinning. Do this. Be there. Check this box. Finish that project. Run this errand. Help. Serve. Accomplish. I’m exhausted! I need You! I am stopping right now … stopping to surrender and breathe in Your goodness.

By Your grace, help me remember, I don’t have to do this alone. Your Spirit is with me to counsel and guide. Make me constantly aware of Your sweet presence as I depend on Your truth to guide me and give me strength.

Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.
Matthew 6:21

Father, I know when I have You, I have everything I need. But the world shouts at me. My schedule harasses me. Some days … life simply wears me out.

With the help of Your Spirit, turn my focus from the chaos and desires of the world to the treasure I have in You. Fill me with Your peace. Help me replace the noise of life with the simple sounds of worship and praise. Give me a passion for Your Word and prayer. Be my treasure and my heart’s desire. Satisfy me with Your love.

Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim His greatness. Let the whole world know what He has done. Search for the Lord and for His strength; continually seek Him. Remember the wonders He has performed, His miracles, and the rulings He has given,
Psalm 105:1,4–5

Father, Thank you! When I remember all You have done in the past, I’m overwhelmed by Your grace and mercy. You have sustained and strengthened, healed and helped, provided and protected. I am overwhelmed. Thank you!

I surrender this day to You. I will follow where You lead and obey Your will as You reveal it to me. I will seek You with all I am and love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Please fill me with Your Spirit that I might willingly and faithfully keep this promise … by Your grace and for Your glory.

Seek God First

Jesus promised…

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.
Luke 12:31

Everything! And the next verse…

So don’t be afraid … it gives your Father great happiness to give You the kingdom.
Luke 12:32

Great happiness! Wow! What a blessing it is to know our prayers to “seek God first,” are prayers our Father loves to answer!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

Be Who God Created You to Be

by Dr. Michelle Bengtson
@ Hope Prevails

Feeling Betrayed by a Friend – Be Honest

by Diane Ferreira
@ Worth Beyond Rubies

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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

I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

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.

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

Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses to Pray When You Need a Miracle

5 / 23 / 195 / 23 / 19

We receive so many prayer requests from people who need a miracle. If you are someone who needs God to do the impossible, these verses and prayers will help you go to God and ask Him for help. #Prayer #Needamiracle #Hope #BibleStudy #SeekGodFirst

If you clicked on the title to this post because you wanted to know more, because you need to pray … I’m guessing you need a miracle in your life.

You’re not alone … my most visited post is 5 Verses to Pray When You Need God to Do the Impossible.

And if you visit the Blessing Counters Pray Page … you’ll find prayer after prayer from people asking for God’s miraculous intervention.

Which is one of the reasons why I write. You see…

I’ve experienced God’s miracles!

He has forgiven me.
He has given me the gift of faith.
He calls me His child.
He gives me hope for the future.

For this anxiety-ridden worrier who knocked herself out to do life “right” and failed miserably … His grace, mercy, and healing love are miraculous.

I’ve also experienced His miraculous power when…

He lovingly healed my broken heart I believed was beyond repair.
He healed Rev of near-fatal Constrictive Pericarditis and gave us bonus days to count.
He protected our 1 lb 9 oz preemie grandson through months in the NICU, PICU, and beyond. Today he is a thriving 11-year-old young man.

He is the God of miracles. The God for whom anything in possible.

I can’t promise you He will give you every miracle you ask for… you see, I have experienced His “no” at times and I am also still waiting and praying for miracles yet unseen because He is saying “not now.”

I can promise you … He hears every prayer, He loves you, and He will always give You His best even when you don’t understand.

So, we’ll pray and go to the One who hears, loves, and gives His best when we need a miracle.

5 Verses to Pray When You Need a Miracle

O God, Your ways are holy.
Is there any god as mighty as You?
You are the God of great wonders!
You demonstrate Your awesome power among the nations.
Psalm 77:13–14

Father, Help me remember today that You are who You say You are. You are holy, mighty, and powerful. You are my Creator, Redeemer, and Comforter. You are gracious, merciful, and loving. You are my way and the truth I need. You are my hope for the future.

You are the God of miracles, the One for whom nothing is impossible. And Father, I need a miracle and so I lay my problem before You asking for Your grace and mercy. Please strengthen me today and help me keep my focus on You rather than on this things that is overwhelming me.

The disciples saw Jesus do many other miraculous signs in addition to the ones recorded in this book. But these are written so that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in Him you will have life by the power of His name.
John 20:30–31

Father, Thank you for those You inspired to keep a record of all the works of Your hand from the beginning of time. Thank you for the people who documented Jesus’ life and ministry.

Your Word helps me know You. It inspires me and gives me hope. It is the weapon I need to fight the attacks of the enemy. Your Word is Truth! And I believe! I believe Jesus is Your Son and my Savior. I believe that through Him I have life and that is the miracle I needed the most. Thank you, Father.

Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.”
Matthew 19:26

Father, I believe in Your hands the impossible becomes possible. I admit that sometimes this problem seems impossible. It’s hard to imagine a good outcome. I know the way I want it to go but at moments I have my doubts that the outcome I hope for will happen. But then I remember all the good things You have done for me in the past. I remember miracles that were born in hopes and prayers. So, I surrender this need to You asking You to once again make the impossible possible.

“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

Father, This is hard! It’s hard to say, “Your will be done.” It’s hard to ask and then let it go in faith. It’s hard to surrender my will when the possible pain seems like more than I can bear.

Help me remember that although You didn’t take away Jesus’ cup of suffering You gave His all He needed to endure. And You did it for me. You strengthened Him and gave me life.

Help me remember that You see the big picture of my life and every life. You hold it all in the palm of Your hand. You sometimes allow what is painful because You know how it can affect the future.

So, help me trust You today and say, “I want Your will to be done, not mine.”

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!
His faithful love endures forever.
Who can list the glorious miracles of the Lord?
Who can ever praise Him enough?
Psalm 106:1–2

Father, Thank you! You are good! You are love! You are worthy of all my praise!

You are the God of miracles … too many to count! Today, I’m asking for You to bless me with one more miracle. I believe You are able. Please strengthen me and give me everything I need so whatever You decide, even if you don’t grant this miracle, I will rest secure knowing my hope is in You alone.

Father, I trust Your will. I am secure in Your perfect love and I will praise You now and forever and even then … it will never be enough. In Jesus name, I pray.

Amen.

Friend, I know you have moments when you wonder if you should give up because waiting on this miracle feels like the hardest thing you’ve ever had to do. And my heart hurts for you.

I can’t tell you how much I’ve struggled to find the words to say to encourage you in these last few sentences.

You see, I could stand with the prosperity teachers and tell you God wants you to have this miracle for which you’re praying. I could even stand with those who say you should simply forcefully and confidently bombard the throne room until God gives you want.

But I can’t. Because I will only share with You what I believe to be His truth.

And the truth I believe … is that God loves you and wants what is best for your eternal future. He hears every prayer and He loves you more than you can imagine. I am certain that your future is safe with Him.

If you need a miracle today…

cry out to Him.
fall at His feet.
touch the hem of His robes.
thank Him for all He has done in the past.
trust Him and follow where He leads.

Give it all to Jesus and surrender Your need and all that you are to God’s timing, love, and perfect will because that’s where miracles happen.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

Why You Don’t Have to Fear Being an Outsider

by and @ Stacey Pardoe

Talking Matters: To Know and Be Known, for Heaven’s Sake

by Sue Donaldson
@ Welcome Heart

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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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!

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

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.

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Thank you and God bless!

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

5 / 16 / 195 / 16 / 19

It’s that time of the year…

I’ve heard friends are calling it #Maycember.

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

The hardest part was dealing with impending CHANGE!

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

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

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

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

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

Things like…

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

Good or not so good – change is often stressful.

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

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

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6–7

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

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

The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.”
Psalm 32:8

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

Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”
Deuteronomy 31:8

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

You will keep in perfect peace
    all who trust in You,
    all whose thoughts are fixed on You! Trust in the Lord always,
    for the Lord God is the eternal Rock.
Isaiah 26:3–4

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

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Hebrews 13:8

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

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

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

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

My Bible reading this week included Psalm 103…

Let all that I am praise the Lord;
with my whole heart, I will praise His holy name.
Let all that I am praise the Lord;
may I never forget the good things He does for me.
Psalm 103:1–2

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

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

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

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

Praise the Lord!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

Before She Was Your Mother

by Pam Ecrement
@ A New Lens

20 Reasons You are a Great Mom

by Dr. Michelle Bengtson
@ Hope Prevails

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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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!

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

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.

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 Before You Tell Your Story

5 / 2 / 19

Thank you so much for SHOUTING your disapproval and disagreements on social media and blog comments. You’ve convinced me how much I really need to know your Jesus.

Said no one ever!

5 verses and prayers to help you be prepared to tell your story with gentleness and respect ... not to be right but to share God's love. #Prayer #SocialMedia #BibleStudy #VersestoPray #CountingMyBlessings #faithblogger

So many of those disagreements have to do with the things we consider moral and immoral, right and wrong, good and bad … you know the things we call the law!

There is an account in Scripture where Jesus addresses the subject with an “expert in religious law”…

Jesus asked, “What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?” And the expert answered…

“‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
Luke 10:27

And Jesus said, “Right!”

He didn’t correct the man or remind him of that well-known list of shalts and shalt nots. Jesus agreed that love is the way to sum up the message of that law. It’s interesting to note that love is also the message of grace.

If love is the message of the law and the gospel … I can’t help but question how well we’re sharing the message when I read through finger pointing posts and contentious discussions on social media.

So today, I’m praying about ways we might do a better job of sharing God’s love … not by telling people they’re wrong but by showing them through our kindness and compassion how God’s amazing grace and love is able to transform lives. By telling our own transformation stories.

I’d love for you to pray with me…

5 Verses to Pray Before You Tell Your Story

Father, I want to live for Your glory! I want to tell people about Your amazing grace, mercy, and love. I want to show them Your love. Please help me.

The man who had been freed from the demons begged to go with Him. But Jesus sent him home, saying, “No, go back to your family, and tell them everything God has done for you.” So he went all through the town proclaiming the great things Jesus had done for him.
Luke 8:38–39

Father, I was a broken mess and You delivered me. I am overwhelmed by Your grace and mercy. What a blessing to know Your perfect unfailing love covers me. How I want everyone to know the hope and joy only You can give. Please fill my heart with love and help me to go and tell all the “great things” You have done for me in and through Jesus.

You must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it.But do this in a gentle and respectful way.
1 Peter 3:15–16a

Father, Give me a heart of gratitude and worship. Make me mindful of all the blessings I have as Your child. And through Your Spirit, help me tell my story with gentleness and respect. Help me remember that I don’t have to be “right” because I know and love the One who IS RIGHT! Help me humbly remember that it is not my job to change hearts and minds … You do that. I just need to “always be ready” to tell my story of faith and hope.

“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.
Matthew 5:14–16

Father, I am so aware of my weaknesses and faults. Please forgive me for the countless times I fail to shine for Your glory. You have given me an amazing light-filled story to share. A story of the transforming power of Your love. A story of fear to faith, doubt to hope, and anxiety to peace. A story that knows Your grace really is sufficient. Help me shine … not so people will see me but so people will see You.

“Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.”
John 15:4–5

Jesus, please hold me close. Help me remain in You, producing fruit for Your glory. You said that I will “remain in You” when Your words remain within me. Then … You invited me to ASK! So, I’m asking today that You will help me make knowing Your Word and prayer a priority in my life. Please help me love You, Lord, with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength … and help me love my neighbor as You want.

So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
John 13:34–35

Jesus, You made it known it is our love that will show the world we belong to You. Forgive me. Too often, I have failed to love because I’ve been quick to criticize and judge. Forgive me. Too often, I’ve expected people to clean up and conform before I’ve accepted and loved them. Forgive me. Too often, I’ve refused to listen with love and compassion. Please help me love as You love. Make me humble and caring. Help me bear the fruit of joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Help me love! That the world may know You! Amen.

Always be prepared to tell your story.

Friend, I believe that by God’s grace we can do this … maybe not perfectly but certainly better. We can tell our stories of God’s grace with gentleness and respect. And with His help, you and I can love each other in ways that show changed lives for God’s glory.

One more thing…

I am not throwing out the Commandments nor am I saying the Law no longer matters. What I am saying is that Jesus Himself said that the list of rules we love to wave like a banner is about unselfishly loving God and loving others. It doesn’t throw them out … it’s just a better way of looking at them.

Here are a couple of articles I received this week that I believe speak to this…

Today’s Apostasy by Billy Graham, Decision Magazine

A Divided American – 3 Responses for Christians by Ronnie W. Floyd, National Day of Prayer Website

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

What You are Missing When You’re Not Honest With God

by Carlie Lake
@ From Dust Towards the Heavens

PERSONAL COMMUNION – ARE YOU JUST “MOWING GOD’S LAWN”?

by Diane Ferreira
@ Worth Beyond Rubies

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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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!

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

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.

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

Thank you and God bless!

5 of the Best Faith Books You Need to Reread Every Year

4 / 29 / 194 / 29 / 19

I’ve read a handful of books in my life that I would say have been “life-changing” in the ways they have challenged me and grown my faith.

Books I simply call – the Best Faith Books!

These are books I reread often. Most have them have been around for a while. I’m guessing that even if you’ve read them … it was some time ago. So, I thought I’d take a few minutes to tell you why I think it may be time to read them again…

5 of the Best Faith Books

♥ Soul Keeping: Caring for the Most Important Part of You by John Ortberg

How would you describe your soul?

If you’ve always wanted to know the answers to questions like:

1. What is the soul?
2. What does sin have to do with the soul?
3. What does the soul need?
4. How to restore an injured or hurting soul?

John Ortberg does an excellent job of explaining how you and I are more than a body, a mind, and free-will. You and I are souls, and there may be nothing more important than knowing about our soul’s care and keeping.

Pastor Ortberg draws upon his years of study and mentorship under the late Dallas Willard to provide readers with a guide to their souls, the gateway to a deeper relationship with God.”Your soul is not just something that lives on after your body dies. It’s the most important thing about you. It is your life.”

Quotes from Soul Keeping…

“You’re a soul made by God, made for God, and made to need God, which means you were not made to be self-sufficient.” In one of his books, Dallas has further explained, What is running your life at any given moment is your soul. Not external circumstances, not your thoughts, not your intentions, not even your feelings, but your soul. The soul is that aspect of your whole being that correlates, integrates, and enlivens everything going on in the various dimensions of the self. The soul is the life center of human beings.”

“Our world has replaced the word soul with the word self, and they are not the same thing. The more we focus on our selves, the more we neglect our souls.”

My mind may be obsessed with idols; my will may be enslaved to habits; my body may be consumed with appetites. But my soul will never find rest until it rest in God.

♥ The Case for Christ and The Case for Faith by Lee Strobel

I reread Lee Strobel’s books because they deal with facts … they always encourage my faith and give me tools I can use to share my own story of faith.

Lee Strobel wrote the following about this journey…

For much of my life I was a skeptic. In fact, I considered myself an atheist. To me, there was far too much evidence that God was merely a product of wishful thinking, of ancient mythology , of primitive superstition.

Then he spent nearly two years interviewing thirteen scholars and authorities on his quest for the truth about Christ. His “Case for” books present the facts and information gathered to the reader as a litigator would present evidence to a jury … facts and information that forever changed his life.

The reason I recommend reading and rereading Strobel’s books is I believe they will encourage your faith and give you tools you can use to share your faith with others.

Quotes from Lee Strobel…

“To continue in atheism, I would need to believe that nothing produces everything, non-life produces life, randomness produces fine-tuning, chaos produces information, unconsciousness produces consciousness, and non-reason produces reason. I simply didn’t have that much faith.”

“Christian faith is not an irrational leap. Examined objectively, the claims of the Bible are rational propositions well supported by reason and evidence.”

“I believe in Jesus on the basis of the historical evidence, but my relationship with Jesus goes way beyond the evidence. I have to put my trust in him and walk with him on a daily basis.”

♥ Your 100 Day Prayer: The Transforming Power of Actively Waiting on God – by John Snyder

This is by far, the best books on prayer I’ve ever read. It’s a book God placed in front of me in the middle of a book store when I was going through a very difficult time.

I’ve read and prayed through this book several times and I’m currently reading and journaling my way through it again.

When the need is so great, so seemingly impossible that only God’s direct intervention will ever bring it about, it takes a different kind of prayer. Your 100 Day Prayer is designed to take you straight to the heart and will of God by seeking him for a specific need. This book includes:
A dedicated page to express your need before God on the day you start your 100 day of prayer,
100 entries to help you focus your prayer through the truth of God’s Word and character,
Leading prayers to give you a jump start,
Writing space to capture your conversations with the Father and the spiritual transformation you experience day by day, and
A concluding page to memorialize how God answered your prayer and transformed you through the process.

Quote from Your 100 Day Prayer – A Prayer To Begin

Lord, as I embark on this journey of prayer, come and banish from my heart every last trace of self-reliance and captivate my mind with the truth that you are sufficient for my every need, great or small. Transform me by increasing my confidence in you, in all your extravagant forgiveness and mercy, and strengthen my trembling knees in the face of trouble. Cause my loved ones and me to emerge from this season of prayer with a fresh vision of Your glory, a new and lasting fearlessness, and a renewed devotion to Your purpose for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

♥ The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren

This is another book I’m currently rereading…

I love the first question … What on earth am I here for?

Do you ever feel like you’re just going through the motions of life … swimming around in your own little fishbowl, feeling like there ought to be more?

If you’re longing for more … if you need a new perspective and new hope it just may be time to reread this book.

Quote – Rick Warren dedicated The Purpose Driven Life to you…

Before you were born, God planned this moment in your life. it is no accident that you are holding this book. God longs for you to discover the life he created you to live—here on earth and forever in eternity.
It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone. Ephesians 1:11 (MSG)

And finally the #1 most important book you need to read, reread and then reread it again.

♥ The Bible … The Word of God

I promise you the more you read the Bible … the more you will fall in love with reading the Bible.

I’ve participated in more Bible Studies than I can count and although I’m still a fan, studies are primarily reading what someone else has to say about various and specific sections of Scripture.

And although valuable, I don’t want to rely simply on what someone else thinks about God’s Word … I want the Holy Spirit to speak God’s Word of truth directly to my heart and mind.

You see, through faithfully reading through the Bible every day I’ve not only fallen in love with reading the Bible … I’ve fallen in love with the Author.

Quotes from The Bible…

For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.
Hebrews 4:12

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.
2 Timothy 3:16

Jesus prayed…

Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.
John 17:17–19

You are so very loved by the God of the universe.

The 5 best faith books will bless and encourage you and if you’re like me you need that reminder most when you’re caught in the middle of life’s daily routine!

P.S. I don’t benefit from the sale of any of these books and have not linked to any resources for you to purchase them. They are all available through Amazon as well as a variety of other book distributors. However, I am adding a link to my favorite version and translation of the Bible because the New Life Translation plus the Life Application Bible Study Notes blesses me.

Thank you so much for joining me today.

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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Leave your prayer requests…

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

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Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

I’m asking God to bless you today!

How to Help a Loved One Struggling with Fear

4 / 25 / 194 / 26 / 19

I’m not a fan of many of the sayings you typically find on church signs.

Fear doesn’t leave because someone says . . . don’t be afraid or you need bigger faith ... practical ways to help a loved one struggling with fear. #Faith #BibleStudy #Prayer #OvercomeFear

You know. Things like…

Don’t tell God how big your fear is, tell your fear how big your God is.

F.E.A.R. – False Evidence Appearing Real

Feed your faith and your fears will starve to death.

Although there may be some truth in these quotes they sound trite to…

the parent who received a hard diagnosis about their child.
the spouse who is suddenly widowed.
the child whose parents are divorcing.
the employee whose boss just gave them a pink slip.
the family who can’t pay their bills.

The truth is that although there are countless verses telling us not to be afraid . . . there are things in life that are understandably frightening.

I can relate to this…

“It’s not the unknown I’m afraid of, it’s the known unknown.”

You see, I learned at a very young age that bad things happen.

I can still see my two-year-old self standing next to my grandmother looking out of an upstairs window as paramedics loaded my mother into an ambulance.

Until that, my only caregivers had been my parents or my grandparents and an aunt who lived upstairs.

But for the next two weeks – I stayed with family members I didn’t know very well and I learned . . . life can change in an instant.

And from that time on I was afraid.

Afraid of the dark. Afraid to spend the night away from home. Afraid something bad would happen to my parents. Afraid of being alone.

Once fear is a close companion it doesn’t leave because someone says . . . don’t be afraid or you need bigger faith. Frightened people know that and believe me, they would stop being afraid if they could!

Frightened people don’t want to be afraid! Telling them they shouldn’t be afraid and that their faith is weak or even sharing some trite church sign saying … is not going to help!

How to Help a Loved One Struggling with Fear

Listen with compassion – Don’t tell them not to be afraid. In fact, sometimes the best thing to say is, “I’m sorry you’re going through this. Would you like to talk about it?” Then listen, care, and be willing to help if you can.
Pray – Offer to pray for them. Better yet, offer to pray with them. Jesus understands fear as He experienced it.

While Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane praying before His arrest, trial, suffering and death, He prayed.

“Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”
Luke 22:42

Jesus was not afraid of the known unknown. He knew what was about to happen, and Luke, the Physician, wrote…

He prayed more fervently, and He was in such agony of spirit that His sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood.
Luke 22:44

♥ Pray that your loved one would come to know that God truly is greater than their fear.

I didn’t believe God was greater than my fear until He proved it to me by graciously giving me everything I needed while lived through some of my greatest fears.

And one day at a time, He gave me the strength to keep going and peace that I couldn’t begin to understand.

And gradually, I began to realize that He really was with me … I didn’t have to be afraid anymore. G

I started to realize things that used to terrify no longer upset me … not because some quip on a church sign or picture on Pinterest said so but because God was giving me strength and peace when I needed it most.

As I prayed and others prayed for me, I focused more on Jesus than on fearful “what ifs.”

Who needs you to pray for them today?

Verses to Pray for a Loved One Struggling with Fear

“And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:20

Jesus, __________ is struggling with fear. Please help them to know You are always with them … that You will never leave them nor forsake them. Help __________ know you understand their fear and how very much You love them.

Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
Matthew 11:28–29

Jesus, fear is a difficult burden … it is exhausting. __________ needs Your help. Fear-filled thoughts keep them from getting the rest they need. Please help them and fill them with Your peace.

You are my hiding place; You protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory. The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.”
Psalm 32:7–8

Father, be my __________’s hiding place; protect them in this time of trouble and surround them with songs of victory. Guide them along the best path for life. Advise them and watch over them.

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, Please give _________ Your hard to understand peace. Help them remember the big and small things You have done … ways You have blessed, helped, and protected. By Your grace, increase __________’s faith and help them turn to You in prayer whenever they’re afraid.

And please help my loved one remember…

Where God’s love is, there is no fear, because God’s perfect love drives out fear.
1 John 4:18a

Father, You are the perfect love who casts out fear. Thank you for demonstrating Your love through Jesus, who suffered our punishment so we know Your love and never have to be afraid again. Amen.

Friend, when someone you love is struggling with fear … listen and pray!

Because the truth is…

God really is greater than our fears!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

My Favorite Bible Resources

by and @ Rebecca Hastings

Three Ways to Surrender Judgment and
Welcome a Heart of Compassion

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How Can I Ever Begin to Thank You, Jesus?

4 / 21 / 194 / 19 / 19

It’s Easter!

He is Risen!

I thought this would be the easiest prayer of all to write until I began and words seemed beyond my reach because I knew the truth…

How Can I Ever Begin to Thank You, Jesus?

Your Resurrection Day changed everything! Everything!

Because of Your resurrection…

My sins are forgiven and I have been freed from sin’s greatest consequence.

He is so rich in kindness and grace that He purchased our freedom with the blood of His Son and forgave our sins.
Ephesians 1:

I have a LIFE that lasts forever.

[It] was God’s plan from before the beginning of time—to show us His grace through Christ Jesus. And now He has made all of this plain to us by the appearing of Christ Jesus, our Savior. He broke the power of death and illuminated the way to life and immortality through the Good News.
2 Timothy 1:9b–10

I have the promise that, You, Jesus are praying for me.

Because Jesus lives forever, His priesthood lasts forever.Therefore He is able, once and forever, to save those who come to God through Him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.
Hebrews 7:34–35

I have hope for today, tomorrow, and forever.

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.
1 Peter 1:3 (NIV)

I have Your perfect peace to guard my heart and mind.

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

I have confidence that all of Your promises are true and that You will faithfully accomplish them all.

Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. He was buried, and He was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said.
1 Corinthians 15:3b–4

I have the assurance that You are with me through good and bad … always and forever.

Be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:20

And today and every day I can proclaim with Job…

As for me, I know that my Redeemer lives,
   and He will stand upon the earth at last.
And after my body has decayed,
   yet in my body, I will see God!
I will see Him for myself.
   Yes, I will see Him with my own eyes.
    I am overwhelmed at the thought!
Job 19:25–27

How can I ever begin to thank you, Jesus?!

With Your Spirit’s help…

I will do my best to make everything I do and say an offering of thanksgiving for all that You have done for me.

I will surrender each day to You. I will trust and follow Your will as You reveal it to me.

I will rely on You to give me everything I need for whatever lies ahead.

I will love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength and I will love those You place around me.

Yes, I will love because that is the perfect way to thank You, Jesus!

By Your grace, please help me fulfill these “I will” promises as my thank you!

Because Jesus…

Your love overwhelms me! Your love transforms me! Your love surrounds me and fills me.

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.
Galatians 2:20

By Your grace, mercy, and love, I have everything I need now and forever!

Thank You! Thank You! Thank You, Jesus! Amen.

Thank you so much for joining me today.

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Father, Please Help Me on the Painful In-Between Days

4 / 20 / 194 / 20 / 19

I'm praying because I can relate to in-between days ... painful days of confusion, overwhelming grief and unanswered questions. #Jesus #Easter #MountainMovingPrayers #CountingMyBlessings

It’s the day between Good Friday and Easter.

And for a moment, I want to turn my attention from Jesus to His followers because I can relate to between days … painful days of confusion, overwhelming grief and unanswered questions.

I think most of us have experienced those “in-between” days. The truth is we’re all living in the “in-between” … so, I’m praying…

Father, Please Help Me on the Painful In-Between Days

Father, in-between days should be full of hope but when yesterday is painful and tomorrow is unknown … living in-between is hard.

I can imagine myself hiding in grief with Jesus’ disciples. I picture them overwhelmed with grief at Your Son’s death and terrified of those who killed Him. Confused because it didn’t turn out the way they thought it would and full of questions about what lies ahead.

Yes, I see myself grieving and afraid.

I’ve been there, between…

the diagnosis and the healing
the loss and the restoration
the lie and the truth
the lack and the provision
the bitter and the sweet
the unknown and the known

I need You, Father. I need You because You live on the side of the healing, the restoration, the truth, provision, and sweetness. You live on the side of the known and You are more than able to gently and securely take me from this in-between time and space to the one that awaits me. The one You are preparing … a future hope.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11

With Your Spirit’s help, I will focus on Your promises that give me hope.

I will trust that whatever is going on in my life, You are able to renew my strength. I believe there will be days when You will help me soar but there will also be others when it will take supernatural strength just to keep moving ahead. (Based on Isaiah 40:31) And that’s okay … because You are with me.

That’s what it’s all about, isn’t it? It’s what the disciples thought on that in-between day and it’s the lie I can so easily believe on my in-between days.

Their master was dead and they believed they had been left alone and I can feel alone sometimes too.

But Jesus said…

Jesus told His disciples, “Be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:20

And…

I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you.
John 14:16

Your Word also says…

I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38–39

So, with Your help, I will cling to Your promises.

I will trust You on the in-between days.

The truth is … every day is an in-between day … as we live between Jesus’ ascension and His glorious return. But just like those first followers on that Holy Saturday, that new day is on the horizon. A day of hope and promise and life!

Thank you, Father! Amen.

Thank you so much for joining me today.

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

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

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!