Are you ever surprised how often “I can’t” is your first thought about something?
I know that too often my first thought is “I can’t do this,” whenever I’m facing a challenge.
Oh, I want to consistently enjoy God’s strength and peace but I’m ashamed to say that I can let doubt dictate my thinking.
Knowing that the disciples walked with Jesus and experienced the same struggle helps.
Jesus said to them…
“I feel sorry for these people. They have been here with me for three days, and they have nothing left to eat.”
Mark 8:2
And the disciples replied…
“How are we supposed to find enough food to feed them out here in the wilderness?”
Mark 8:4
But remember, Jesus had already fed 5,000+ people with just 5 loaves of bread and 2 small fish.
And that word is the way to be relieved of doubt.
Remember!
Remember what God has done!
When we remember all that He has done in the past we are less likely to doubt Him in the present.
Remember how He:
Forgives
Provides
Knows
Heals
Protects
Saves
Loves
And remember, if He has done it in the past He is able to do it today.
Faith is knowing that God is who He says He is and He is able! He is true to His Word! He is able to relieve our doubt when we place our trust in Him.
Pray When You Need to Be Relieved of Doubt
Father, I want to be strong and I want to KNOW and completely trust that You are able to help me through this time but I feel overwhelmed by this journey ahead of me. Please forgive me and help me.
Paul wrote that “faith comes from hearing the Good News about Christ.” (Romans 10:17) Please help me to faithfully read, study, and prayerfully ponder Your Word. When doubt tries to crowd out Your TRUTH, please remind me of all the ways You have cared for me in the past.
Help me remember that You love me. I am Your child. You know everything about me . . . even the number of hairs on my head. Nothing happens in my life that is beyond Your care. I give myself to You. Remove my doubt. Give me strength and fill me with Your peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
The other day I watched Joni Eareckson Tada talk about her illness and as she needed to be relieved of doubt, she cried out to Jesus and heard Him ask…
“Do you trust me?”
Remembering what God has done in the past helps us to be able to say…
“I believe!”
On today’s note write…
I BELIEVE! God is for me!
If God is for us, who can ever be against us?
Romans 8:31
Then, start a “remembering list.” List the ways God has been there for you in the past. Times He healed or provided. Times He gave you strength and peace. Times He helped you do the impossible. Times He has forgiven you. And anything else you can thing of.
Remember . . . God is with you and He wants you to trust Him. He wants you to be relieved of all doubt.
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Yesterday we looked at what Jesus said about being prepared for His return. Today, in Matthew 25, Jesus went on to tell His followers about the importance of having faith and the importance of showing others their faith by demonstrating His love.
The first parable today, tells the story of 10 bridesmaids who were waiting for the party to begin. 5 if them brought everything they needed to be ready whenever but the other 5 were literally caught napping without the most important thing necessary.
Those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was locked.
Matthew 25:10b
The Life Application Bible Notes say…
When Jesus returns to take His people to heaven we must be ready. Spiritual preparation cannot be bought or borrowed at the last minute.
Be ready for Jesus!
You and I are ready for Jesus to return by grace, through faith. And one of the ways we demonstate our faith is through the ways we use the blessings God gives us to show our love for Him by loving others.
Loving others for Jesus is seen in our “doing.”
‘I tell you the truth when you did it to one of the least of these, my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’
Matthew 25:40
And the notes say…
The importance of this parable is that we should love every person and serve anyone we can. Such love for others glorifies God.
James wrote:
Humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls. But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says.
James 1:21b–22a
Loving others for Jesus is simply serving wherever we are needed . . . using our passions, and our gifts and abilities. It’s using the blessings God gives us to touch lives in ways that show others His loving care and compassion.
This is What You Need to Do to Be Ready for Jesus
Let’s ask God to give us faith that flourishes and make us willing to share His love through “doing.”
Father, when doubt and confusion cloud my mind please help me SEEK You above all else and increase my faith. When trials burden me please help me TRUST You that I may know and obey Your will.
Please help me LOVE like Jesus. Give me eyes to see the needs around me and make me willing to “do” whatever I can to shine the light of Your love.
Father, may I always be ready for Jesus to return for me. Whether He is coming with all the angels to judge the nations or quietly returns for me alone, help me be a good steward of all you have entrusted to me. May I trust and obey by loving You and loving others as You desire. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
In Matthew 25, we learn that we can’t borrow or buy what we need to be ready for Jesus. Our relationship with God is personal.
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No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
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Do you ever feel like life is a crazy roller-coaster ride? One minute you are climbing high . . . life is going well and you are able to get up each day with hope and enthusiasm. And the next . . . you’re taking a giant nose-dive riddled with sadness, fear, and anxiety.
I’ve been trying to imagine myself walking with Jesus and the disciples through Matthew 17.
One minute they are literally on the mountain top…
Jesus took Peter and the two brothers, James and John, and led them up a high mountain to be alone. As the men watched, Jesus’ appearance was transformed so that His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as light. Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appeared and began talking with Jesus.
Matthew 17:1–3
And then…
After they gathered again in Galilee, Jesus told them, “The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of his enemies. He will be killed, but on the third day he will be raised from the dead.” And the disciples were filled with grief.
Matthew 17:22-23
Talk about the confusion of an emotional roller coaster . . . one minute they were anticipating that Jesus was going to reveal His power, glory, and majesty to the world and the next He was predicting His death.
But one thing was certain for the disciples . . . they had been with Jesus for three years. They had heard His teaching and seen His miracles. They lived with Him and they believed!
Maybe life doesn’t make sense right now. There certainly are plenty of things to make the ride challenging and emotional. But when we live with Jesus, when Jesus lives with and within us, we can believe. We can trust His promises to give us what we need no matter how extreme the ride.
Will you pray with me as I ask God to hold us close when life’s roller-coaster ride is confusing and frightening.
A Prayer to Have Faith On the Roller-Coaster of Life
Father, I am confused. I don’t understand so much of what’s going on in the world. One minute I’m trying to find a glimmer of hope and the next I’m overwhelmed by anxiety. Please hold me. Make me aware of Your constant presence. Help me remember that you are with and within me.
Please give me discernment and wisdom through the TRUTH of Your Word and help me KNOW with absolute confidence that You will never leave me or forsake me. I am Yours and You are LORD OF ALL! In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
If you are confused and tired of riding the highs and lows of life, please remember that the Lord is with you . . . you are not alone.
The One who revealed His glory on a mountain top and His love on the cross is the Great I AM, the resurrected King of kings and Lord of lords.
And the father of lies who wants to overwhelm your emotions with fear and confusion . . . well, he has been defeated!
So, on today’s note write…
I am not alone on life’s emotional roller-coaster. The Lord is always with me.
God bless you as you surrender you confusion and fear to the One who will never ever leave you.
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
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Leave your prayer requests…
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I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
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“Be afraid. Be very afraid.” (The Movie – The Fly, 1986)
Those words have been repeated again and again. And even if the actual quote isn’t being reiterated . . . it can seem like there is an intentional effort by the enemy to overwhelm us all with anxiety and fear.
If you’re a frequent visitor here at CMB, you know that I’ve spent much of my life under a cloud of fear and apprenhension.
I’ve talked with many of you and know I’m not unique . . . nor is this something that is new to our generation.
The first emotion Adam and Eve experienced after eating the forbidden fruit was fear, and because of sin and the tauntings of the enemy, we’re still struggling thousands of years later.
But, if it’s a given, if it’s inevitable, if it’s something we just have to live with . . . why did Jesus say, “Don’t be afraid,” so often?
He never just tossed around pie in the sky platitudes; He spoke the truth and He gave reasons. And these reasons are just some of the promises He told His followers to hold close to their hearts . . . assurances to give them and all of us courage and hope.
Don’t be afraid – you are valuable to the Father. Matthew 10:31 Don’t be afraid – but take courage, I am with you. Mark 6:50 Don’t be afraid – just have faith. Mark 5:36 Don’t be afraid – it makes your Father happy to give you the kingdom. Luke 12:32 Don’t be afraid – or troubled, I’m leaving you the gift of peace. John 14:27
My Life with Fear and Anxiety
Years ago, my doctor diagnosed me with high anxiety depression. I was afraid of almost everything. Everything except the number one thing on the list of common fears. I’ve never been afraid of public speaking.
But my list of other things was long. I was afraid of:
Heights
Flying
Rejection
Abandonment
Failure
Death
Death of a Loved One
the Dark
Illness
Disapproval
Yeah, I was just a bundle of joy to be around!
Here are a few examples my family still talks about:
As a teen, I once had to get off a glass elevator because my fear of heights kicked in. Another time, Rev and I hiked for hours on one of our romantic getaways because I was afraid to get back on a gondola for the 15-minute ride down a mountain. (Yes, we walked down a mountain. Thankfully there was a path and it was a beautiful day. Just not the day we planned.)
And I didn’t get on an airplane for years after a flight where the pilot shouted, “Take your seats now,” just before the plane rocked with the worst turbulence I’d ever experienced.
The other things on my list of fears were frequent visitors. Thankfully, I’m much better. I can get on an airplane and ride in elevators. I’m no longer afraid of rejection or abandonment. And the others don’t linger like they once did, but I’m still not consistently where I want to be.
If I could live my life over, I’d spend less time afraid and worried. Though I may not be able to undo my past years of fear; with God’s help, I’m changing my future and I believe you can change yours too.
How?
Well, It all begins with the fear of the Lord!
I know that seems like a contradiction. It sounds like I’m just replacing one fear with another.
But the fear of the Lord leads to freedom. It trusts that He is sovereign. It has faith that His Word is Truth and His ways are best.
Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.
Proverbs 9:10
The Lord is a friend to those who fear Him. He teaches them His covenant.
Psalm 25:14
Did you know the verse right Proverbs 3:5-6, the verse that tells you and me to “trust the Lord” and “seek His will” and that promises “He will show you (and me) the path to take,” says…
Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil. Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones.
Proverbs 3:7–8
I want that! I want courage and strength! I want to trust God and follow His will. Because I’ve learned that is the way to be fearless.
I use the tools God gives me to surrender my anxious and fearful feelings to Him.
That’s the reason I’ve made a list for myself because well . . . when you’ve had a problem with fear for as long as I have, it can be easy to slip back into old patterns. But I’ve found that when I follow these steps I enjoy the freedom and peace I’ve always wanted.
And I believe they will help you too…
10 Steps to Be Fearless and Enjoy Freedom and Peace
Identify your fear – Name it. Know the source and reason you’re afraid. (Psalm 94:19)
Ask yourself if it’s true – Check the facts. Is it a reality or a possibility. (John 8:31–32)
Pray about it – Ask God to take your fear and tell Him that you trust Him with your future. (Psalm 34:4)
Imagine positive outcomes – Remember that God is able to turn even things intended to harm us into something good. (Genesis 50:20)
Change your surroundings – Do something to redirect your thoughts. (Philippians 4:8)
Accept that you can’t control everything but that the God who loves you can and does. (Jeremiah 29:11)
Limit the things that trigger your fear, like the news and social media. (Romans 12:2)
Understand the where, what, and why of your fear. (Psalm 119:34)
Memorize Bible verses to replace fearful thoughts. (See List of Verses)
Get a “freedom from fear” friend – Someone to call who encourages you with God’s love. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
Verses to Hold Close When You Want to Be Fearless
I cried out, “I am slipping!” but your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me. When doubts [and fear] filled my mind, Your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.
Psalm 94:18–19
Jesus said to the people who believed in Him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings.And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
John 8:31–32
I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears.
Psalm 34:4
You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good.
Genesis 50:20a
Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
Philippians 4:8
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
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.
Romans 12:2a
Give me understanding and I will obey your instructions; I will put them into practice with all my heart.
Psalm 119:34
For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us.So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.
1 Thessalonians 5:9,11
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”
John 14:27
If you’re tired of living with fear. If you’re tired of sacrificing your peace, contentment, and joy at the altar of anxiety. There is hope!
With God’s help you can be fearless. You can trade your fear of the world’s trouble and problems for the fear of the Lord that leads to freedom. That’s the love of God! He invites us to surrender our brokenness to Him and He replaces it with His goodness and grace. It just doesn’t get any better than that.
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
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You can also…
Leave your prayer requests…
and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.
I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
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It only took one terrifyingly turbulent flight to convince me that staying on the ground was better than being in the air. So much better that it took years before I was willing to go anywhere that required air travel.
But flying was just one of my many fears.
As a child, I was afraid of the dark, bugs, heights, and rejection. Then I grew up and realized that although bugs and the dark weren’t that scary there were plenty of other things that were … eventually, I was diagnosed with agitated anxiety.
There are more than a dozen verses in Scripture that speak to God’s children being strong and courageous.
Me … strong and courageous. Not even close!
That was a little over a decade ago when…
Someone I deeply loved rejected me.
Rev suffered from an undiagnosed illness for over a year. Although, the doctors determined that heart surgery was the only thing that could save him … we were told not to expect it to be successful.
My mom went home to heaven.
And our first grandchild was born at 24 weeks, weighing 1lb. 9oz.
Our friends started calling us – the “high maintenance” prayer family.
My worst fears were coming to pass and I had to a choice to make … either run to God or pull the covers over my head and give up.
Giving up didn’t seem like an option. So, I grabbed my Bible and I prayed. Again and again and again.
Each time I gave a problem to God, He gave me enough strength for that moment. Not a magical infusion of strength and courage that made me fearless, but enough to make it through one moment at a time.
That’s really all we need, isn’t it? Enough strength and courage for this moment?
If you struggle with fear, I’d love to share some things God has taught me to do that help me when I’m tempted to fall back into that place of fear and anxiety.
How to Replace Fear with Strength and Courage
1. Decide that You Want to be Strong and Courageous – Living with fear became a bad habit for me. I had to make up my mind that I no longer wanted to live that way … that I wanted to have strength and courage.
“Fear is 100% dependent on you for its survival.” ~ Steve Maraboli
2. Admit You’re Afraid – There will always be something to be fear. It’s the nature of the world in which you and I live. Everyone is afraid sometimes. In fact, it’s not always a bad thing. It can keep us from putting ourselves in harm’s way. So, it’s important for me to admit and identify my fear, refuse to spin on it, and face it head-on.
“The first step forward is to admit your fear, then you can take the next step to conquer it.” ~ Ken Poirot
3. Analyze Your Fear – Once you’ve identified your fear, remember…
Fear is an emotional response to a perceived threat.
So, I’m asking myself if my “perceived threat” is real and true or if it is simply something I feel. Is it based on facts and information or rumor and speculation? Is it something I can change or control? How is it affecting my life and my relationships? Have a talked to God about it?
You have received the Holy Spirit, and He lives within you, so you don’t need anyone to teach you what istrue. For the Spirit teaches you everything you need to know, and what He teaches is true—it is not a lie.
1 John 2:27
4. Pray and Ask – Paul wrote, “Never stop praying.” I Thessalonians 5:17 In all circumstances, whatever is going on in the world or in my head … I want to take it to Jesus and ask Him to give me His peace. You and I can trust His promises.
I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.
John 14:27
5. Talk to a Strong and Courageous Mentor – I’ve had several times in my life when I’ve gone to a Christian counselor because I needed someone to help me look at my circumstances with fresh eyes and help me see it from a different perspective. I’ve also asked friends to talk with me about the ways God has gotten them through times of fear.
Talk to a counselor. Or ask a friend to tell you how they were able to get through a fearful time.
As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.
Proverbs 27:17
6. Don’t Borrow Fear from Others – If the news and your friend’s posts on Facebook bring your fears to the surface. Take a break. I’ve learned to turn off my television and take breaks from social media so I can avoid the “ain’t it awful” out there. My head is always spinning with thoughts. I want to remember that I get to choose what those thoughts are about. You can even call it taking every thought captive…
We break down every thought and proud thing that puts itself up against the wisdom of God. We take hold of every thought and make it obey Christ.
2 Corinthians 10:5 (NLV)
7. Stay Focused on the Present – Why do “what if” thoughts rarely have happy endings? Worry and fear are close cousins. I don’t want to give in to worry or allow fear to rob me of what God wants for me right now. So, with His help, I want to focus on today, change what I can, and entrust tomorrow to His mercy and grace.
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done.
Philippians 4:6
8. Keep a Prayer Journal and Gratitude List – When I remember the countless times and ways I know God has helped me in the past in addition to those I can only imagine … I am more likely to count on Him to help me and give me what I need when I’m afraid today.
So, I keep journals and lists and memories close to remind me of His unfailing love and bountiful blessings.
Don’t be afraid of them! Just remember what the Lord your God did…
Deuteronomy 7:18
9. Live Your Life – Even if we have to do it afraid, it’s important to get up and live, trusting that God will provide for every need.
The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust Him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.
Psalm 28:7
10. Hold On to His Promises – Carry note cards with quotes and verses that remind you to have courage.
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
When my worry is great within me, Your comfort brings joy to my soul.
Psalm 94:19 (NLV)
But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” He said. “Take courage. I am here!”
Matthew 14:27
God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So [I] will not fear…
Psalm 46:1–2a
I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me. He freed me from all my fears.
Psalm 34:4
“I am leaving __________ with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”
John 14:27
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 [me] from God’s love.
Romans 8:38
I praise God for what He has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid?
You and I can trust God to replace our fear with strength and courage.
All of the fear I talked about at the beginning of this post … God has redeemed it. He has given me freedom.
Oh sure, I have fearful thoughts occasionally … but I’ve learned where to take them. I trust God to replace my fear-filled thoughts with His promises.
I believe…
Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise.
Hebrews 10:23
So, I will continue to faithfully work through this list of ways to replace my fear with strength and courage … not because of anything I will think, do, or say but because I have placed my faith in the One who has promised to give me everything I need—even when I’m afraid.
I’m praying for you today and asking God to give you whatever you need to replace your fear with His perfect love. Love that drives out fear. (1 John 4:18)
Let’s talk: What fears has God helped you past? How has He helped you by giving you the strength you needed to do something you feared?
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
Subscribe to Blog via Email
You can also…
Leave your prayer requests…
and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.
I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…
Do you struggle to pour out feelings of impatience or frustration?
Are you able to tell Him when you’re losing hope because your problem persists and you wonder if things will ever change even though you’ve prayed and prayed and prayed?
I love that God loves us so much, He included the honest struggles of those who followed Him throughout Scripture.
One of my favorite examples is David, who openly cried out to God when he was afraid, worried, lonely, angry, disappointed, uncertain, restless, outraged, or heartbroken.
And yet, he never stayed there…
He also praised, adored, worshipped, exalted, and received what he needed to be hopeful.
Maybe like me, you have several things for which you’ve prayed again and again … things that are important to your heart but you’re starting to wonder if God’s is responding with a “no” rather than a “not yet.”
Yes, I too have days when I feel disappointed and discouraged.
And it used to be hard for me to share those feelings with the Lord.
But the more I read and pray Scripture, the more I’m learning that God wants me to honestly tell Him when…
I’m discouraged.
I’m frustrated.
I’m anxious.
I’m afraid.
I’m worried.
I’m impatient.
Why?
Because He already knows anyway and when I’m open and honest before Him, I’m reminded that He loves me just the way I am.
And because of His compassion and love, God wants us … you and me, to trust that He will answer our prayers in His way and His time. He wants us to trust that He will give us everything we need while we wait … including hope.
So today, I’m writing honest prayers based on the words of the Psalmists asking the Lord to help me remain hopeful as I wait … trusting His unfailing love and perfect care. I’m excited to have you join me.
Psalms to Pray When You Need to Be Hopeful
I cried out, “I am slipping!” but Your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me. When doubts filled my mind, Your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.
Psalm 94:18–19
Father, at this moment when hope seems like it is fading into the distance. I feel like I’m sliding into despondency. Lord, I so desperately want to keep my focus on You but the longing in my heart beats so loudly it’s hard for me to think about anything else.
I know the enemy is at work, speaking words of hopelessness and doubt. So, I’m running to You. I’m trusting Your unfailing love and asking You to encourage me and hold me. I need You, Lord. Please restore my hope, strengthen me and give me everything I need to live through this trying time.
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
Thank you for this reminder, Lord. Sometimes I can focus on the fact that I’ve prayed and prayed for what seems like forever … and still I wait. And yes, when I do, I feel sad and discouraged.
Your Word tells me to trust You to know and do what is best in my life. It tells me to look at the ways You have protected and helped me in the past as I look to the future in faith with hope.
So, I will praise You in this storm. I will wait in faith today and if I must continue to wait another day, week, or longer … I will count on You to give me whatever I need to put my hope in Your wisdom and love.
I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and He turned to me and heard my cry.
Psalm 40:1
Father, It feels like I’ve been waiting forever. I confess that I don’t feel very patient right now. I want my faith to be greater than my doubt but right now I feel weak and vulnerable.
I believe You are greater than my feelings. I need You. This season of waiting has gone on for so long. Please help me keep my eyes on You. Help me trust that You are working in my life on this situation even when I cannot see.
Hear my prayer. Restore my hope as I place my trust in Your unfailing love.
The Lord hears His people when they call to Him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed.
Psalm 34:17–18
Father, I am overwhelmed and I need You.
These words of Dave, comfort me and give me hope. Even in this moment, You hear the cries of my heart. You hold me close when I’m crushed and brokenhearted … You forgive me and lift me up.
You are my rescuer and the source of my hope. Thank you! I will trust Your promise to give me everything I need when I SEEK You and follow You with all my heart. (Luke 12:31)
So, I will faithfully ask, seek, and knock. I will continue to run to You with honest emotions and trust Your love to comfort and strengthen me today, tomorrow, and forever.
But I trust in Your unfailing love. I will rejoice because You have rescued me. I will sing to the Lord because He is good to me.
Psalm 13:5–6
Thank you, Lord! By Your grace, You have given me everything I need to trust Your perfect love that never fails and never ends. Your Word says that You are LOVE. (1 John 4:8) And LOVE is patient and kind. It forgives, endures, and never gives up.
Thank you for Your patient love. Thank you for never giving up on me. Thank you for Your goodness and grace.
Today, I will praise Your holy name. I will surrender to Your will. I will trust Your love. And I will live with hope … by Your grace and for Your glory. And I will count on Your promise to give me everything I need to live with hope again tomorrow. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Friend, I know what it’s like to pray and pray and wait and wait and feel like I’m losing hope.
Something has changed for me in recent years.
You see, I’ve been asking God to answer a very specific prayer for a very very long time. One day, as I was crying and explaining to Him that the wait and the hurt were just too great … I felt Him gently whisper, “You have no idea how I’ve spared you.”
And it changed everything.
You and I can only see what’s right in front of us. God sees the whole picture … past, present, and future.
I will always hope and pray that one day I will receive a heavenly “YES” to my heart’s desire, but I’m learning that the focus of my hope is not the thing for which I hope but in the One who gives me hope.
God is showing me that I can be hopeful because of who He is and because even if He asks me to wait or if His answer to my prayer is “no” … He will give me everything I need to endure in faith.
You and I can endure whatever He allows because…
Praise the Lord! Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever.
Psalm 106:1
He will not leave us to endure alone and although He may not always answer our prayers the way we want, we can be hopeful because He will always answer them out of His goodness and love.
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
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You can also…
Leave your prayer requests…
and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.
I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
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Do you feel optimistic and positive on most days or…
Are you disappointed and discouraged?
Overwhelmed and under-appreciated?
With a never-ending to-do list?
Exhausted and wondering if things will ever get any better?
If this describes you . . . it may be time to ask yourself some important questions to understand how your core beliefs are influencing you.
Because I’ve been wondering lately…
I know what I believe influences every part of my life, so if I’m struggling in some area of life … what if it’s the result of a faulty core belief.
Every decision you and I make … how we act, how we treat people, how we spend our time and our money; every choice is based on our core beliefs.
To put it simply…
Your core beliefs and mine are based on a personal set of perceived truths about life.
Truths that are developed over the expanse of our lives and based on the influence of people, our past experiences, education, entertainment, and the thought tapes we play on repeat in our heads.
So…
When we’re struggling with unhappiness and we’re ready for a change it’s time for us to know our core beliefs.
But beyond knowing our core beliefs, we need to recognize if those beliefs are true or if they are some distortion of the truth.
Some distorted beliefs people think are true:
My spouse’s happiness is my responsibility.
My child’s happiness is my responsibility.
My unhappiness is someone else’s fault.
My past defines me and determines my future.
My worth is based on my accomplishments.
If people knew the real me, they wouldn’t like me.
There’s no such thing as absolute truth.
Everything is relative or subjective.
God’s love for me is based on my performance.
Can you think of any distorted beliefs to add to the list?
It shouldn’t surprise us that some of our beliefs are distorted, we develop them in common ways experienced by everyone.
Some of the ways distortions/lies become a core belief.
They are taught by well-meaning parents, teachers, and mentors who have accepted a flawed set of core beliefs.
They are developed as an act of rebellion toward authority.
They are the result of one or more traumatic experiences.
They come from books, music, media, and entertainment.
They are instilled through peer influence.
Once something, even a distorted untruth becomes a core belief, it will influence every thought and decision.
And most of the time we don’t even realize how much!
The bottom line…
Our core beliefs are deeply planted and full of emotional baggage.
Some examples:
Following half-dozen bad dates, Sheila has decided that guys are jerks. With that as a core belief, the next guy won’t have to make many mistakes to affirm what she already “knows” to be true about men.
Kara has been trying to lose weight for as long as she can remember. Each time she binges … it confirms her belief that she’s weak and unable to change.
Jill comes from a long line of accomplished lawyers and doctors. She is confident people with graduate degrees are more important and highly valued than those without.
John grew up with parents who constantly stressed that the only failure is giving up. He believes quitting anything is a sign of weakness. But now he’s exhausted and stressed from trying to do it all.
Suzie has had a couple of friends betray her and share things she told them in confidence. She’s convinced you just can’t really trust anyone.
Collin lied to get out a difficult situation. He knows several friends who do the same. He believes it’s something you just have to do sometimes to get by in life.
It’s funny how it is easier to identify these things as distortions when they’re about someone else but the truth is we all have some flawed core beliefs that get in the way of our happiness.
And I’m ready to identify them and I’m more than ready to be done with them. So, I came up with some questions that will help me identify my core beliefs.
If you’re ready to be done with your flawed beliefs, you may want to join me.
But remember…
Be Honest!
Questions that will Help You Know Your Core Beliefs
1. What do you believe about yourself?
Finish the sentence – I am _______________.
List the messages that flood your thoughts each day. i.e. I am beautiful, fat, tall, skinny, smart, talented, foolish, blessed, valued, loved, successful, too emotional, etc.
2. What do you believe about others?
Finish the following sentences – Most people are _____________? Most men are _____________? Most women are ___________? Most children are ____________?
My spouse is _____________? My child is _____________?
List things that relate to . . . appearance, success, finances, personality, blessings, etc. List any generalizations you believe about . . . race, background, religion, sex, age, etc. List attributes you believe about people in general . . . honesty, helpfulness, kindness, judgmentalism, laziness, hard-working, mean, etc.
3. What do you believe about the world/life?
Finish the sentence – The world is ____________?
List things like . . . safe, full of opportunity, getting better, doomed, good, painful, depressing, etc.
What do you believe about the future?
Finish the sentence – I believe the future is ______________.
Are you mostly optimistic or well, not so much?
What do you believe about faith?
Finish these sentences – God is ____________. Jesus is _____________. The Bible is ____________.
List as many things as come to mind.
And finally, ask yourself…
Do I use words like everyone and no-one? Always and never? Do I see variety, beauty, and love or ugliness and hate? Do I see people as individuals or do I label them by gender, skin color, education, or lifestyle?
Okay, now it’s time to analyze your answers.
Are most of your answers positive or negative?
If you’re not sure, grab a small notebook and keep track of your thoughts throughout the day … then ask yourself if they were mostly hopeful or hopeless?
If you’re mostly discouraged, don’t give up. There’s good news!
It is possible to change your core beliefs.
Start by asking yourself…
Are my core beliefs helping me reach my goals or are they holding me back?
Are my core beliefs true 100% of the time?
Are they true for everyone 100% of the time?
You may have to go through the process a few times but that’s okay, it’s worth it when you’re ready to make a positive change in your life.
And now the most important question of all.
Do my core beliefs line up with the truths of God’s Word?
How can I know for sure? I have to ask, seek, knock.
“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.
Matthew 7:7–8
I have to get into the Word to know God’s truth and ask Him to help me base my core beliefs on the lasting truth of His promises.
David wrote some beautiful prayers that ask God for His help to align our core beliefs with His will.
O Lord, I give my life to you. I trust in you, my God!
Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you.
Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may live according to your truth. Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honor you. With all my heart I will praise you, O Lord my God. I will give glory to your name forever, for your love for me is very great.
Be good to your servant, that I may live and obey your word. Open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your instructions.
Lord, Make Your truth the foundation of my core beliefs. By Your grace through the power of Your Spirit that I might live for Your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
I’ve made a printable version of Core Belief Questions. Just click on the graphic below to make your copy…
Here are some of my favorite Scripture verses that have encouraged me on my journey to know my core beliefs…
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.
Proverbs 3:5–6
“I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life.
John 5:24
The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God.
Psalm 51:17
Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.
John 11:25
The Father Himself loves you dearly because you love me and believe that I came from God.
John 16:27
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.
Luke 12:31
Jesus replied, “The most important commandment is this: ‘Listen, O Israel! The Lord our God is the one and only Lord.And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.”
Mark 12:29–31
We love each other because He loved us first.
1 John 4:19
So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 10:31
Friend, the enemy’s lies are everywhere and if you and I want our core beliefs to be grounded on God’s truth … we need to know His truth.
These verses are some of the ones I turn to when I need to remember who I am because of whose I am.
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
Subscribe to Blog via Email
You can also…
Leave your prayer requests…
and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.
I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…
It’s been a blessed year here at Counting My Blessings!
I feel so very blessed to be able to do something I love each day.
And I’m blessed by all of you who faithfully visit this space and take the time to encourage me with your comments, shares, and prayers.
I thought it might be fun here at the end of the year to share with you a countdown of this year’s most popular posts. The ones that grabbed your hearts and minds … the ones you passed along to your friends and families, the ones that caused conversations and encouraged prayers.
Maybe you’ve read them recently. Maybe it’s been a while. Either way … I pray they bless you today.
5 of the Most Popular Posts at Counting My Blessings this Year
Do you lie awake at night thinking, if I just knew what God wants me to do?
You have a decision to make, a problem to solve, or a path to pursue … you’ve prayed, oh how you’ve prayed but you don’t feel like God is giving you the clear direction you need.
So, you stare at the ceiling, weigh your options, plan to do more research in the morning, and pray some more…
Father, I love you and I want to glorify you with my life. This choice is hard. There are so many possibilities and I have no idea what Your will for me is in this. Please help me. Guide me by Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
And you roll over and try yet again, to get some rest.
I’ve been there. I’m guessing you’ve been there, too.
Although, it may not be easy to know God’s will in some specific situations … there are verses that will help you and me know God’s “always” will. Verses we can turn to when choices are hard and life is confusing.
Do you ever wonder whether you are following God’s will or plan for you?
Do you worry that you might be headed in the wrong direction?
Do you wish God would write His will for your day on your to-do list?
Yep, me too!
Since his ordination, Rev has received calls to serve at various ministries and I’ve had to decide whether I should go back to teaching full-time, part-time or if I should stay at home.
And work is just the beginning, isn’t it?
How many children should we have? Where should our children go to school or should we homeschool? Where should we live? Is that the right house for us? The right church family? When should I retire?
What should I do?
The questions go on and on.
Sometimes it’s easy to tell where God wants us, other times are harder.
Life decisions can cause some of the greatest stress in our lives.
So the question we all want to know is…
“How can you and I know if something is from God?”
Do you ever have times when your life’s circumstances seem impossible?
Times when … your relationship is broken, or you can’t find a job, or your child is rebellious, or you can’t break a long-held bad habit, or your pain or illness is worsening, and life is just plain hard?
Times when you wonder if the outcome you’re praying for is even possible?
I’ll be honest with you. I do, too!
I’ve had times when my heart was heavy and I felt like I’d prayed the same prayer request a thousand times. Even now, I have a few big prayers that I continue to pray even though nothing seems to change.
And in my sadness, I start to wonder if I should give up and stop hoping.
But Jesus said…
“What is impossible for people is possible with God.”
Luke 18:27
And He also told people to…
“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.”
Matthew 7:7
So, I’m praying today but I’m not only asking God to do the impossible … I’m believing that He CAN DO the IMPOSSIBLE!
(This post went viral a few weeks ago, getting more than 600,000 views in one week. If you haven’t read it, you may want to check it out. If you have, you may want to read it again or send it to a friend.)
I’m not a perfect parent.
I’ve always known that, but for a long time, I thought, at least, I was perfect for my children. I don’t know if that’s true either.
But…
One thing I know to be true.
I love them. With all my heart … I love them.
Not perfectly, but completely. Always have. Always will.
I don’t give much parenting advice because well . . . I don’t have much to give. Each child is unique and what worked for me may not work for you and what didn’t work for me might be the answer for you.
Since our children have been grown for some time, I do however have some advice on loving your adult children well…
Well, that’s it! The 2019 Countdown of Popular Posts.
Thank you again – for your prayers and for inspiring me with your faith and prayers. You bless me more than you know!
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
Subscribe to Blog via Email
You can also…
Leave your prayer requests…
and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.
I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…
I remember the first time I read Charles Sheldon’s book, In His Steps.
To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps.
2 Peter 2:21
The Holy Spirit used seven words…
“That you should follow in His steps.”
A simple phrase inspired a group of people to ask a question.
What would Jesus do?
And lives were changed … their lives and the lives of people around them.
Because they quickly learned that a question like “What would Jesus do?” is easy to ask but not easy to consistently apply. You see, before someone can do what Jesus would do they have to KNOW what Jesus would do.
Which is something I’ve been thinking a lot about this year.
I’ve wondered if #WWJD has become an easy phrase to use to tell other people what they should be doing and saying rather than being a personal commitment to actually knowing, loving, and obeying Jesus.
When I hear someone proclaim that Jesus wants people to affirm something that clearly goes against God’s Word, I fear that a phrase like “What would Jesus do?” has lost a bit of its significance for a few of the people who use it.
So, earlier this year, I started asking myself a new question…
What would give God glory?
Based on the verse…
Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 10:31
And I’ve discovered this is a question that has the power to change lives. Well, at least it’s changed mine.
Before I explain that, I want to take a minute to explain what I believe it means to do everything for the glory of God.
Glory isn’t a part of God; it’s all that God is. Every aspect of who God is and every part of what God does is glorious. But even that’s not enough of a description. Not only is He glorious in every way, but His very glory is glorious!
God’s glory encompasses the greatness, beauty, and perfection of all that He is.
If the intent of my life is to live for God’s glory … then everything I do and say needs to point others to want to know Him – know the greatness, beauty, and perfection of all that He is.
So, asking the question, “What would give God glory?” causes me to stop and pause and think before I speak or act.
#WWGGG
Before I do or say anything, I want to pause and ask #WWGGG.
Before I respond to an unkind comment … #WWGGG.
Before I post something online …#WWGGG.
Before I make a purchase … #WWGGG.
Before I choose a TV show, movie, or book … #WWGGG.
Before I eat … #WWGGG.
Before __________ … #WWGGG.
What would give God glory in my life? And I invite you to ask, “What would give God glory?” in yours.
Like #WWJD, we first have to know what God says gives Him glory rather than trying to make things up on our own. So let’s do a little digging…
Let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16 (HCSB)
Our kindness, compassion, care, and concern … our love for others gives God glory.
God bought you with a great price. So honor God with your body. You belong to Him.
1 Corinthians 6:20 (NLV)
Caring for our own bodies physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually gives God glory.
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
Discerning God’s will and following it gives God glory.
Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God, and keep the vows you made to the Most High. Then call on me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory.”
Psalm 50:14–15
Thankfulness and praise give God glory.
Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:32
Forgiving others because God has forgiven you and me gives God glory.
“If you love me, obey my commandments.”
John 4:15
Obedience shows our love for God and gives Him glory.
I worship and praise Your name for Your unfailing love and faithfulness; for Your promises are backed by all the honor of Your name.
Psalm 138:2
When you and I worship and praise God we give Him glory.
But why is it important? Why does it matter?
Why does my signature line say – By His grace and for His glory?
Because I believe it’s why I was created…
Bring all who claim me as their God, for I have made them for my glory. It was I who created them.
And
“You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For You created all things, and they exist because You created what You pleased.”
Isaiah 43:7 and Revelation 4:11
You and I were created for God’s pleasure and His glory! It’s the very reason we are here.
So, are you ready?
Let’s start by making a commitment to stop and pause and ask … “What would give God glory?”
Then let’s invite our friends and family to join us.
Who knows … maybe we could start a movement that could not only change our lives but one that would change the lives of people everywhere.
Let’s make #WWGGG a way of life for those who love and follow Jesus. Because the truth is … if you and I want to do what Jesus would do, we need to live for God’s glory. That’s what Jesus did!
Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to Your name goes all the glory for Your unfailing love and faithfulness.
Psalm 115:1
If you’re in let me know in the comments. I can’t wait to hear from you!
And if you’d like to join a community of people who are committing to ask themselves #WWGGG as they live each day for Him – click here.
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
Subscribe to Blog via Email
You can also…
Leave your prayer requests…
and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.
I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…
To cherish a desire with anticipation:to want something to happen or be true – as in hope for a promotion or hope for things to go well.
To trust.
To desire with an expectation of obtaining, accomplishing, or fulfilling.
To expect with confidence.
So, of course, that made me wonder…
Based on those definitions – What gives people hope?
I started with a Google search of the question “What gives you hope?” and found the following answers:
Not much.
Knowing that things could always be worse.
An inspiring person with strength and courage.
The belief that things will get better.
The determination and will power to improve whatever is wrong or overcome what’s going on.
When a child smiles.
Believing that dreams come true.
A sense of humor.
Optimism
Then I looked up the Biblical definition of the word “hope”…
Hope is the confident expectation, the sure certainty that what God has promised in the Word is true, has occurred, and or will occur in accordance with God’s sure Word.
Bible.org
Hope is the confident expectation of what God has promised and its strength is in His faithfulness.
Wiley Online Library
So, what’s the difference?
With the secular definition, the degree to which a person has hope is based solely on the strength of that person’s desires. But for those of us who believe that our hope is based on the Biblical definition … our hope, our strength is based on the promises of God.
In other words – you and I don’t have to be strong in order to be hopeful because weak or strong, God’s promises remain the same, God remains the same and He IS the source of our hope.
The writer of Hebrews wrote:
Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
Hebrews 11:1
Paul wrote:
The Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.
Romans 15:4
And…
I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13
And, one more…
Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope, comfort you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say.
2 Thessalonians 2:16–17
So, you and I don’t have to be strong to achieve that thing for which we hope; God Himself is our source of strength, confidence, peace, and hope … He has always been and He always will be true to His promises.
I don’t know about you, but I find that very encouraging.
As do many of my friends. I asked them…
What Gives You Hope When You Need It Most?
Here’s what they had to say in response to the question – What gives you hope?
Stacey wrote, “Looking back on the ‘suicidal’ me, seeing how far He’s brought me from there and knowing He’s not DONE with me yet!! Praise His Holy Name!!”
Jenn wrote, “Truly, the Word of God gives me hope. Many years ago, I read in Psalm 107 that God sent forth His Word and healed the people. My spirit latched onto that and hasn’t let go. His Word and being in intimate relationship w/ Him have brought me so much healing.”
Sandra said, “God’s Word.”
Samantha wrote, “The knowledge that God is in my corner which I know to be true based on the experiences. I’ve seen God’s unending faithfulness in my life over and over again.”
Teri said, “The presence of the Holy Spirit gives me hope. Being down and out for over a month and a half, I’ve relied so desperately on His ‘still small voice’.”
Shelley wrote, “Reading and learning the Word of God gives me hope and the peace that ‘passes all understanding’.”
Patsy said, “The promises of God and His faithfulness.”
Sarah said, “Reading in Revelation 21–22 about the New Heaven and New Earth where there will be no more tears of suffering.”
Over the years, others have shared…
God’s grace and forgiveness give me hope … no matter how many times I mess up, what Christ has done has already cleaned up my mess.
The grace of God in Christ Jesus gives me hope.
Knowing God is in control of my life here on earth and for eternity and that His only motives for me are love.
Trusting that God is faithful and that He always keeps His promises.
Knowing I belong to the Lord and that someday I will live with Him forever.
The testimonies of people who have been changed by the saving grace, mercy, and love of God.
Knowing God has everything under control even when it looks to me like nothing is under control.
Have the peace and strength that only God can give … making it possible to take things one day at a time.
Remembering that God created me, sent Jesus to save me, and calls me His own.
The confidence that nothing happens outside of God’s control.
Would you like to know what gives me hope when I need it?
God’s patient love and transforming power!
The way He worked in my life to create a hope-filled story that changed everything.
I’m sitting here trying to find the words to explain it to you and tears fill my eyes as I think about the journey God allowed to take me from an anxious people-pleasing afraid to make a mistake “good girl” … to a completely broken hopeless mess.
But God…
(Two of my favorite words in the Bible because they are always followed by verses that tell of God’s gracious love and transforming power. They always bring words of hope!)
But God, in His mercy gently put the pieces back together. Not all of them. There are still parts of my story that aren’t completely filled in … but that’s where the hope shines through.
That’s where I can come to you and say, if Jesus can heal this broken mess and in the process transform me into someone who wants to simply live each day surrendered to honoring His command to…
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Luke 10:27
It sounds so simple and yet, we make it so complicated, don’t we?
This is why I know I need the hope that comes from knowing and trusting God’s promises.
7 Promises from the Message that will Give You Hope When You Need It Most
God loves you.
This is how much God loved the world: He gave His Son, His one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in Him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.
John 3:16 (MSG)
God will meet every need you have.
You can be sure that God will take care of everything you need, His generosity exceeding even yours in the glory that pours from Jesus.
Philippians 4:19 )MSG)
God’s grace and forgiveness give you freedom.
That means you must not give sin a vote in the way you conduct your lives. Don’t give it the time of day. Don’t even run little errands that are connected with that old way of life. Throw yourselves wholeheartedly and full-time—remember, you’ve been raised from the dead!—into God’s way of doing things. Sin can’t tell you how to live. After all, you’re not living under that old tyranny any longer. You’re living in the freedom of God.
Romans 6:12–14 (MSG)
God will protect you when you are tempted.
No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; He’ll never let you be pushed past your limit; He’ll always be there to help you come through it.
1 Corinthians 10:13 (MSG)
God cares for you and He is always with you.
God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.” So we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?”
Hebrews 13:6 (MSG)
God is always working for your good and His glory.
God’s Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn’t matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.
Romans 8:26–28
God promises you will have a home with Him forever and always.
Jesus said, “My sheep recognize my voice. I know them, and they follow me. I give them real and eternal life. They are protected from the Destroyer for good. No one can steal them from out of my hand.”
And…
“Trust me. There is plenty of room for you in my Father’s home. If that weren’t so, would I have told you that I’m on my way to get a room ready for you? And if I’m on my way to get your room ready, I’ll come back and get you so you can live where I live. And you already know the road I’m taking.”
John 10:27–28 & John 14:1–2 (MSG)
And finally, a verse to memorize that will give you hope when you need it…
Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Savior and my God!
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In response, someone who self-identified as an atheist tweeted a list of hashtags to both Beth and myself with the following … #ChristianFairyTale #Indoctrination#BlindFaith#Delusion#ImmoralBible#ChildishNonsense
In a later tweet, this person wrote the following…
Calling you out is an attempt to allow you to question what you’ve been taught, an invitation to reject the fairy tales and join the real world. You can do it. I know you can.
Since it seems that more and more people feel justified and almost self-righteous, if you will, in attacking those who have placed their faith in Jesus; and because I also feel like everyone from politicians to pastors are telling people what they want to hear and preaching a non-Biblical view of Christianity … I felt it might be time to rerun an older post that encourages all of us, Christians and non-Christians alike, to question what we believe.
I replied to the “atheist” on Twitter with a link to the post. You may have someone you would like to invite to stop, read this, and answer the question as well.
You Need to Answer the Most Important Question About Faith
I’ve asked God again and again if I’m really the person He wants to write these words.
It’s much easier to write feel-good grace-filled posts that remind us of God’s abundant goodness and mercy.
But the Lord just kept prompting me … so, I finally gave in.
And with His help:
I’m writing this for the person who wants to know what they believe and why they believe it.
I’m also writing it for the person who finds it easy to ridicule and mock those who (like me) have surrendered their lives to God through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ.
And I’m writing it for:
The person who has rejected the “crutch” of Christianity.
The person who has decided Jesus is one of the countless ways to God.
The person who believes there is no hell.
The person who is self-sufficient and too strong to need God.
The person who is too busy and doesn’t have time for God.
The person who puts their political views ahead of God’s Word.
The person who believes “good people” will go to heaven.
The person who believes this life is all there is.
So, to everyone listed above … I’d like to challenge you with a question about faith.
A question I hope will make you stop and think — and pray. One that will invite you to keep SEEKing until you know the answer.
So, here it is…
The Most Important Question
When it comes to what you believe…
What if I’m wrong about Jesus?
What if Jesus really is the Way, the Truth, the Life, and no one comes to God, the Father, except through Him? John 14:6
What if there is life after death? John 3:16
What if both heaven and hell are very real places? Revelations 20:12,15
What if I will have to stand before a holy and righteous God at the time of my death to give an account for the way I lived? Matthew 12:36
What if my good isn’t good enough? Ephesians 2:8–9
What if Jesus really is the only way to heaven? John 3:36
What if?
These questions are more important than where you’ll go to school or who you’ll marry, where you’ll live or what you’ll do.
Those questions are important … they’re just not the most important.
Why? Because the way you and I answer them determines our today, our tomorrow, and our forever.
Here is my answer to – When it comes to what I believe … what if I’m wrong?
Let me start by telling you what I believe.
I believe the Bible. I believe in the Triune God – Father, Son, and Spirit … Creator, Savior, and Comforter. I believe I am a sinner. I believe Jesus, the Son of God … lived, died, and rose again to live forever. I believe through faith in Jesus – I am forgiven and promised the gift of life forever in heaven with Him. I believe God wants me to love and trust Him with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. And I believe He wants me to love others in ways that show them how much He loves them. I believe Jesus will return to judge everyone.
And I asked myself … what if I’m wrong?
What if there is no God. No Creator. No Resurrected Savior. No Comforting Holy Spirit. No life after death.
And my answer…
If I’m wrong and there is no God. If I’m wrong and Jesus isn’t the Way, Truth, and Life … I wouldn’t change a thing.
My life has been full of hope, unexpected joy, impossible to understand peace, indescribable strength when I needed it most, and miraculous healing.
And if I get to the end of my life and discover there is no life after this one … I can’t imagine having lived my life any other way. The things I chose to sacrifice out of obedience to the God of the Bible, protected me from so many problems and potential consequences … I don’t believe I missed out on a thing.
Have you ever stopped to think about that?
When I listen to people who believe followers of Jesus are weak, foolish, believe a “faith” tale, or even border on “mental illness,” I can’t help but notice how miserable and angry many of them seem.
So, whatever you believe, and everyone believes something—I’m inviting you to ask…
What if I’m wrong?
Consider what the Bible says about the “what if” questions I asked above.
What if there is life after death?
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 5:23
Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Luke 23:43
What if both heaven and hell are very real places?
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
Matthew 7:13–14
What if you and I will have to stand before a holy and righteous God at the time of death to give an account for our lives?
I saw the dead, both great and small, standing before God’s throne. And the books were opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books.
Anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire.
Revelation 20:12,15
What if my good isn’t good enough?
“And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.” (Jesus to religious leaders)
Matthew 12:36–37
What if Jesus really is the only way to heaven?
Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” (to His disciples)
John 14:6
One more word from Jesus…
Jesus told a story of The Rich Man and Poor Lazarus. You can read it here.
One of the most moving parts of this story is when the rich man pleads with Abraham to allow Lazarus to return from the dead to warn His family…
“Then the rich man said, ‘Please, Father Abraham, at least send him to my father’s home. For I have five brothers, and I want him to warn them so they don’t end up in this place of torment.”
Luke 17:27–28
So, I’m inviting you to consider one more important question…
What if my loved ones – children, parents, siblings …. my relatives and friends are being influenced for eternity because of my beliefs?
So, please ask yourself…
What if I’m wrong?
And if it makes you stop and think for just moment or two, if you’re not sure about your relationship with God through Jesus, and wonder about your life today, tomorrow, and eternally…
Please seek the truth!
Ask questions. Pray. Ask God to reveal the truth to you. Talk to people who have placed their trust in Jesus. Don’t quit until you have answers.
I’ve never known anyone who sought the truth, who didn’t realize the only truth that matters is Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life and that God is who He says He is in the Bible.
And…
This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. For, there is one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. He gave His life to purchase freedom for everyone.
1 Timothy 2:3–6
God loves you so much, He sent Jesus to pay the price for every wrong you have ever done, every thoughtless or cruel word you have ever spoken, every single foolish mistake you’ve made.
You can trust Him. Nothing you have ever done can make Him love you less. He wants to cover you with His grace and mercy sacrificed in and through Jesus on the cross.
He loves us so much, He used 40 writers (prophets, priests, and kings; a fisherman, a doctor, and a tentmaker), taking over 1500 years, to write 66 books full of history, poems, letters, and prophecies all pointing to His plan to save sinners through Jesus.
I’d like to challenge you to read the Bible with an open heart and mind, asking God to reveal Himself to you through its pages.
Because I promise you…
There is no better way to live than faithfully trusting God’s promises.
Because even if I’m wrong and I don’t believe I am.
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No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
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Leave your prayer requests…
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I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
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On Tuesday of Holy Week, Jesus spent one last day teaching in the Temple Courtyard and the leading priests and elders came to Him with a challenge…
“By what authority are you doing all these things? Who gave you the right?”
Matthew 21:23
After answering their question with a question … He began teaching some very important lessons about obedience, love, patience, and faithfulness.
So today, we’re going to pray and ask the Lord to help us sit with Him and learn the important truths we need to love and obey His commands and patiently wait with unwavering faith.
Jesus, Help Me Obey and Love with Faith and Patience
Jesus, I am overwhelmed that even though You had cleared the Temple courtyard the day before and You knew the very leaders of that Temple would succeed in their efforts to have You tortured and killed … You returned yet again to teach them the truth. To give them one more opportunity to change their hearts and minds and believe.
Your love amazes me. You continue to pursue each one of us … offering Yourself, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Offering the transforming power of faith.
Please forgive me for the hurriedness that prevents me from sitting with You — listening and learning. Please forgive me for the times I’ve believed lies without examining them against the truths that You taught. Forgive me the many times I’ve failed to love the way You want and wait the way You ask. I’m so sorry.
I’m asking You to help me sit with Your Word today and hold the truths You taught in my heart praying…
Please Lord Jesus, help me…
Obey when You ask me to go and work. Matthew 21:28–32
Surrender my heart, my life, my all to You, the Cornerstone of our faith. Matthew 21:33–44
Prepare my heart and mind for heaven knowing that to enter, I am completely dependent upon You, my Lord and Savior. Matthew 22:1–14
Trust and obey Your commands to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. And love your neighbor as you love yourself. Matthew 22:34–40
Sit and learn both the Old and New Testaments that I might know and understand the way every account and testimony points to You. Matthew 22:41–45
Help me to test the teachings of people against the teachings of Scripture that I might know the Truth that gives me forgiveness and freedom. Matthew 23:2–12
Surrender my life completely to You that I might reject hypocrisy and be clean inside and out. Matthew 23:23:13–36
Give You my all. Luke 21:1–4
Faithfully wait and watch … always prepared and ready for You to come for me personally or for Your triumphant return for us all. Matthew 25:1–13
Invest in things that matter. Make me a faithful servant. Matthew 25:14–30
Do for others in love as if I were doing for You … for this is your will for me. Matthew 25:31–46
Lord, thank you for seeing to it that Your teachings were written for us. Thank you for being the Way for us to be forgiven and restored to the Father. Thank you for being the Truth that gives us freedom today and hope for tomorrow. Thank you for being the Life we need … life that lasts forever and always.
Thank you for being all we need to heal our past, to live in the present, and to face the future with anticipation and joy.
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
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You can also…
Leave your prayer requests…
and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.
I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…
Many churches have stopped making much of this season of preparation but I’ve always found it a blessing to slow down a little and prayerfully think about all Jesus has graciously done for me through His life, death, and resurrection.
I see comments out there from people who are giving something up as a way of fasting … not as a diet or to better the environment (I understand there’s a push to give up plastic this year) but as a way to consider what Jesus may have felt as He lived out 40 Days of fasting in the wilderness.
And actively taking on some small form of self-sacrifice as a way of remembering Jesus’ far greater sacrifice can be a beautiful way of drawing closer to Jesus.
However…
For the past few years, I’ve chosen to add rather give up. So, I make a plan each Lenten season to intentionally spend even more time in prayer and Bible study than I do throughout the rest of the year.
Why?
Because I want to use this time to reflect on being humble, repentant, and grateful for Jesus gracious sacrifice that saved me.
And … I also want to use it as a time of anticipation…
Not just the anticipation of remembering and celebrating Jesus’ “Easter” resurrection but as a time of heartfelt preparation for His glorious promised return.
So, what is Lent for me?
It’s living in awe and wonder at God’s amazing grace, underserved mercy … and unfailing love! The reasons that bring me to my knees in humble repentance, reflection, and anticipation.
So, I’m praying today and asking God to fill me with His Spirit and to draw me closer to Jesus.
Most of all, I’m praying that He will help me love Him more and more each day.
5 Verses and Prayers that will Draw You Closer to Jesus
“For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent His Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through Him.
John 3:16–17
Father, Your love is evident in everything. In the past … the present … and the future. It is most evident through Your Son, Jesus. He told us how very much You love us … then He showed us by sacrificing everything for us.
Please, by the power of Your Spirit, help me keep my heart and mind focused on all I have been given through the gift of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. And help me live each day in humble service, overwhelmed with gratitude for all You have done for me through Him. Amen.
The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God.
Psalm 51:17
And Father, all You ask in response to this amazing sacrificial gift is the offering of a humble heart, broken in repentance. I can’t earn this gift. There is nothing I can say or do. So, I come to You today to say…
I am so very sorry. I am self-righteous, prideful, and impatient. I’m not as kind and compassionate as You want me to be. Each day there are countless things I fail to do that I should and just as many things I do that I shouldn’t … all ways I fall short of Your will for me. Father, please forgive me and by Your grace, help me to change. Amen.
[Jesus] opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.And He said, “Yes, it was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day.It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of His name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’”
Luke 24:45–47
Father, You promised a Savior, a Messiah, who would suffer my punishment as soon as sin entered Your perfect world.
I love that Jesus spoke these words to His disciples after His resurrection … after Your promise had been fulfilled.
You keep all Your promises. I can trust every Word You’ve given and count on Your faithfulness to forgive my sins.
Wow! No matter how often I come to You … You remove my sins and wash me clean. I am humbled and grateful. And yet, words of gratitude don’t seem like enough. So, I give You my surrendered heart. Amen.
“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
Jesus, Some days are just hard! You said there would be trials and sorrows and You knew what You were talking about … You lived through unimaginable trials and sorrows because of Your great love for me.
So, I can be confident that when You told us to “take heart”You were telling us to be encouraged and hopeful because of who You are and what You’ve done. And because I belong to You, the One who has defeated the enemy and overcome the world.
Lord, You not only give me peace … You are my peace. You are my hope. You are my Way, Truth, and Life. Thanks and praise forever. Amen.
He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.”And the one sitting on the throne said, “Look, I am making everything new!” And then He said to me, “Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true.”And He also said, “It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End.”
Revelation 21:4–6
And this is the hope I have, Father. Whatever today brings, I know that my Redeemer lives. He lives with and within me reminding me of Your promises, calming my fears, and filling me with Your love. He is making all things new! He is the Beginning and the End … my Savior, my Always!
Father, thank you! Please help me keep my heart and mind focused on Jesus and all He has done for me. And help me spend every moment of my life serving You in humble gratitude for Your grace, mercy, and undeserved love. Amen.
And one final closer to Jesus thought from Dietrich Bonhoeffer…
“Self-denial means knowing only Christ, and no longer oneself. It means seeing only Christ, who goes ahead of us, and no longer the path that is too difficult for us… . Self-denial is saying only: He goes ahead of us; hold fast to him.”
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
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A fireman who will put out the fires in your life? A genie or fairy godmother who will grant your every wish? A judge who will punish you when you fail? A hard to please parent who always expects more? An administrator who makes decisions from a distance?
Is He intimate or impersonal?
The truth is … how you and I picture God will deeply influence not only our relationship with Him but it will have a huge impact on the way we live our lives.
Let me explain…
For most of my life, I pictured God watching me from afar … blessing good behavior and withholding blessings for bad behavior. When things weren’t going well, I believed I needed to make life adjustments so I could once again please God and earn His favor.
I believed that “God is love” and “Jesus loves me.” I’d learned both things as a young child in Sunday School.
And because of those childhood lessons, I believed God loved me so much He gave Jesus as the sacrifice for my sins. I believed that it was through faith in Jesus, my eternal future was and is secure. All true!
This is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16
The problem … I was focusing on the eternal message and missing out on the things God was offering me every single day.
I didn’t understand the intimate personal relationship He wanted with me.
Yet, this is how intimate and personal God is … He gave my childhood pastor the following verse for me.
“Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.”
Revelation 3:20
He told me as a child, that He wanted a personal friendship with me. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the message!
It took me another 40+ years to finally understand the truth … and in all honesty, I’m still a work in progress.
Recently, Rev asked me, “What’s the most important thing, you want people to know about God from your story?”
I have to admit, my voice cracked and my eyes filled with tears as I started to put my feelings into words. In fact, my greatest concern as I type this is that my message will fall short.
You see, because I had a distorted picture of God, I missed out on many of the blessings He wanted to give me to live each day.
♥ I missed out on experiencing God’s peace because I believed the enemy’s lie that I must obey God perfectly to gain His pleasure.
But the truth…
The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His steadfast love.
Psalm 147:11
♥ I missed out on God’s courage and strength because I believed the enemy’s lie that I was on my own for day to day living.
But God’s Word says…
God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.
Psalm 46:1
So, the most important thing I want you to know about God from my story is…
I want you to know how very much Your Father loves you and wants to give you everything you need to live each day.
I want you to know He meant it when He said…
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord, your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
For too many years, I missed the promise part of that verse…
I was not strong and courageous.
I was afraid of:
Rejection
Death (my own or a loved one’s)
Illness
Not being good enough
Not being loved
Not being a good mom
Heights
Getting lost or losing my child in a crowd
Not being in control of my weight, my health … my life
It wasn’t pretty!
On the outside, the picture looked good but on the inside I was a mess. I craved strength, courage, peace, contentment, and a whole host of other things God promises in His Word … but I wasn’t willing to surrender control of my life.
Why?
Because of another verse:
In this world you will have trouble.
John 16:33 (NIV)
I know, I left out the other important parts of the verse, too. The…
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.” and “Take heart! I have overcome the world” parts.
In my defense, all I had to do was look around. Bad things were happening everywhere and I’ll be honest with you, I saw very few people, even Christians, living in victory.
I saw people like me, who were going to church, putting on their Sunday smile … just trying to do it right and avoid “trouble.”
But troubles happen and they happened to us.
Many of greatest fears became reality.
I’d spent a lifetime trying to please God and people to control my circumstances and avoid “trouble” and it all collapsed around me.
But God in His mercy allowed me to hear the Spirit whisper Jesus’ words…
“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
And I did…
I surrendered it all at the foot of the cross, cried out to God for help, and started getting to really know for myself who God says He is in the Bible.
And I’ve spending time at His feet every day since … more than a decade of learning that God is who He says He is and that He keeps His promises.
I’ve learned…
Even when everyone else forgets, God doesn’t; when no one seems to notice, God sees; when not one seems to care, God cares; when you feel all alone, you aren’t.
Life Application Bible Notes pg. 87
I laid my junk at the foot of the cross. I gave Him my fear, my need to control, my need to please, my doubts, my “self.”
I surrendered it all!
And God replaced what I gave Him with those things I’d been craving all along … strength, courage, peace, contentment, and so much more!
What’s the most important thing you need to know about God?
Your Father loves you! You can know Him and have a relationship with Him through Jesus. You can trust His Spirit to teach and guide you. You can believe that He is who He says He is. You can count Him to keep His promises.
When you seek Him first … HE WILL GIVE YOU EVERYTHING YOU NEED!
My story is the reason the tagline here at Counting My Blessings is “at the intersection of faith and life.”
Because…
Once you have experienced the saving power of faith in Jesus, God is able to give you everything you need for your life right now … today!
I want you to believe that when Jesus said…
“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and He will give you everything you need.”
Luke 12:31
It is a promise you can count on.
He is not only able to give you everything you need, it also makes Him happy to do so. The next verse says…
“So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.
Luke 12:32
Your Father loves you!
He gave Jesus for you and to you because that’s how much He loves you.
He won’t withhold the thing you need today. In fact, It makes Him happy to give you His kingdom’s blessings!
So, don’t wait! Don’t suffer with fear, anxiety, discouragement, or anything else for one more day.
Make today the day you surrender everything at the foot of the cross. The day you start seeking God with all you’ve got.
The day you start picturing Him happily giving you everything you need.
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
Subscribe to Blog via Email
You can also…
Leave your prayer requests…
and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.
I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…
