5 Prayers that will Increase Your Faith When You are Worried

Praying God's promises and asking Him to help us seek Him first, increase our faith, and trust His promises ... things we need to have courage and strength when we're worried. #TrustGod'sPromises #Faith #BibleStudy #Hope #CountingMyBlessings

Why do I put myself out there week after week telling you about my struggle with worry and anxiety?

Because I hated it! And if, by God’s grace, one or two of you might be spared the emotional, mental, and physical suffering that accompanies perpetual worry … I will shout my story from the rooftops.

In all honesty, the problem for me was … weak faith.

I had a list of things that terrified me. Things I believed I couldn’t survive even with all of God’s promises to the contrary.

Luke chapter 12 begins with these words spoken by Jesus…

“That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life.”

And then the promise…

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

Everything! No qualifiers. No exceptions.

Look at what follows…

“So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.
Luke 12:32

“Great happiness” … your Father will not withhold a thing from those who seek Him.

The Life Application Notes say…

To “seek the Kingdom of God above all else” means to put God first in your life, to fill your thoughts with His desires, to take His character for your pattern, and to serve and obey Him in everything.

Oh, how I wish I could consistently do that!

I know, when I put God first, when I fill my thoughts with His truth and promises, when I prayerfully want what He wants for me, and when I spend my time living for Him – I’m not worried!

So, today I’m praying God’s promises and asking Him to help me seek Him first, to increase my faith, and trust His promises to give me everything I need when I’m worried. I’d love for you to join me…

5 Prayers that will Increase Your Faith When You are Worried

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

Father, I need You to hold me up. I need You to strengthen me and help me.

I don’t want to worry. I don’t want to be afraid or discouraged. My heart wants to seek You first and trust You completely.

Please help me. By the power of Your Spirit, fill my thoughts with Your truth, Your promises. Help me want what You want for me. Help me know that if You have not allowed something … if it’s not in Your will then it’s not for my good. Even when I don’t understand.

With Your Spirit’s help, I will surrender this day to You trusting that You will give me everything I need. Amen.

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

Father, for this moment … quiet my mind and my spirit as I sit here with You. I know You are sovereign, Lord of lords and King of kings. Whether people realize it today or not, at some point every knee will bow before You. You will be honored everywhere by everyone.

And the overwhelming miracle … You love me. You are with me. You care for me. You call me Your child.

So, like a little child is unafraid curled up in her daddy’s lap … I will rest in You! The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is with me protecting me. I have nothing to worry about! Amen.

So if you are suffering in a manner that pleases God, keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who created you, for He will never fail you.
1 Peter 4:19

Father, suffering is never pleasant and honestly, it’s hard to imagine that any suffering “pleases” You. Yet, Your Word tells us there is evil in this world and You sometimes allow it to touch Your children that they might show others Your ability to give them everything they need as they suffer.

You never fail Your children. I believe that! You have proven it time after time. Thank you! I will trust You! I will stand secure on the promise that Your grace is sufficient to meet every need every day. Amen.

“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need. So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.
Matthew 6:33–34

Father, Help me want You more than anything.

Jesus said that Your Kingdom is a priceless treasure, (Matthew 13:44) worth more than anything this world can offer; yet, You give it as a gift. By Your grace, You give Your children … peace, joy, patience, hope, love, and so much more. I have no reason to worry when I know You will give me what I need.

Please help me keep my heart and mind focused on You today, trusting that whatever this day offers You are with me and You are all I need. Amen.

My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; He is mine forever.
Psalm 73:26

Father, thank you for giving me this promise to hold in my heart as I lived through that painful and difficult time. You proved to me that You are able to give me the strength I need each moment. Day after day, You showed me that You will never leave or forsake me. You are mine forever. Whatever happens I can trust in You and that is a truth I can hold close any time I am tempted to worry. Amen.

I’d love to be able to tell you that I’m worry-free but you probably wouldn’t believe me anyway. Understandably!

Although, I’ll admit I still have “what-if” thoughts … I no longer live consumed by those thoughts. With God’s help, I’m able to prayerfully give my worries to God as I ask Him to replace them with “everything I need.”

And He is faithful, which is why…

I have made the Sovereign Lord my shelter, and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things You do.
Psalm 73:28

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

When Jesus Didn’t Show Up:
Four Vital Truths About Prayer

by Julia Kyte
@ Committing My Way

How to Slow Down When Life is Too Fast

by Christine Wood
@ Living With Margins

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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Deb Wolf
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and pray over the list left by our friends.

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

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5 Verses and Prayers that will Draw You Closer to Jesus

3 / 7 / 193 / 7 / 19

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

Why in the world do we talk about Lent anyway?

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

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

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

However…

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

Why?

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

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

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

So, what is Lent for me?

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

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

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

5 Verses and Prayers that will Draw You Closer to Jesus

“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.”

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

When a Loved One Disappoints: Six Biblical Ways to Respond

by and @ April Knapp

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

by Diana Abe
@ Diana’s Diaries

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

I would really appreciate it if you would
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Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

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

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

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

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Thank you and God bless!

When You Need to Reject Fear – PRAY!

9 / 27 / 189 / 27 / 18

I was afraid and I hated it!

I knew I had a need to reject fear but felt helpless to change…

We went years without traveling far because I was too afraid to get on an airplane. Praise God, I just returned from spending last weekend in Denver with beautiful friends.

I failed to set much-needed boundaries because I was terrified of rejection. Unfortunately, my lack of boundaries didn’t prevent painful rejection.

I missed so many opportunities for joy while worrying about “what ifs” that never happened. Countless moments I can’t get back.

Maybe you struggle with fear, too. The enemy has found your weakness and consistently fills your head with all the terrifying things that could happen to turn your life upside down and you listen…

Well, at least I listened.

Even with all the “do not fear” and “be strong and courageous” verses in Scripture … I still listened to the lies that filled me with fear and kept me from living the life of freedom God wanted for me.

Praise God! I’m getting better. I not only know I need to reject fear, but I’m also giving it to God before I’m robbed of precious time and suffer wasted opportunities.

So today, I’m asking God to help me reject fear once again. I’d love for you to join me…

When You Need to Reject Fear – PRAY!

Zephaniah 3:17

For the Lord, your God is living among you.
    He is a mighty savior.
He will take delight in you with gladness.
    With His love, He will calm all your fears.
    He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.

Oh Father, when I remember who You are my fear begins to fade. You are with me. You are my mighty Savior. Help me when I start to doubt that You delight in me, when I listen to lies and focus on myself instead of on You. Help me trust that You are able to calm my fear and give me the courage and strength I need for anything You allow.

Lord, I believe! Help my unbelief. I want to live in the freedom that comes from knowing you rejoice over your repentant forgiven child. You rejoice over me. Wow! My Father is with me, saves me, delights in me, rejoices over me, and loves me. Nothing in this world can change that! Thank you. Amen.

2 Timothy 1:7

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity,
but of power, love, and self-discipline.

Oh, Father, Your Word says You want Your children to be strong and courageous and You are willing to give us what we need. When I am afraid, please make me strong. When I am timid, make me courageous. Father, please give me Your power, cover me with Your love, and when I lose my focus … give me self-discipline.

Father, it’s so easy for me to focus on what-ifs and problems and the truth is, whatever I focus on becomes great in my mind controls my emotions. Please forgive me. Help me “seek You first” trusting that You will give me everything I need. Amen.

Isaiah 43:1b–3a

“Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you.
    I have called you by name; you are mine.
When you go through deep waters,
    I will be with you.
When you go through rivers of difficulty,
    you will not drown.
When you walk through the fire of oppression,
    you will not be burned up;
    the flames will not consume you.
For I am the Lord, your God,
    the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

Father, You are greater than my greatest fears. You are greater than my circumstances. You have called me by name and by Your grace, I am Your child. You are always with me and in your presence, nothing can defeat me. You are my Lord and Savior. You are my God. With You, I have nothing to fear! Thank you! Amen.

Romans 8:38–39

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

That is all I need to remember, Father. NOTHING can separate me from Your love. You love Your children so much, You gave us Jesus to suffer our punishment. By Your Holy Spirit’s presence, we are never alone. Even with all my weaknesses and failures, You continue to love me. I am overwhelmed, humbled, and so very thankful. I love You, Father. Amen.

Philippians 4:8–9

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. Keep putting into practice all you learned
and received from me—everything you heard from me
and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.

Father, please help me focus my heart and mind on You. Please help me remember Your goodness. Help me remember all the ways You have protected me in the past.

I remember the night I cried out to you in pain and heard You gently whisper, “Even in this … you have no idea how I have protected you.” I see such a small portion of who You are and what You do. With Your help, I will trust You through it all. You have given me all I need. I have You. I have Jesus. I have Your Spirit.

I will keep my eyes on You and trust that You are able to meet my needs and give me peace. All my thanks and praise now and forever. Amen.

Before you go, I want to tell you something important…

This is a daily battle. I’m so much better than I used to be but fear is my weakness and the enemy knows it.

So, when my neck hair stands on end and my stomach starts to churn with all too familiar feelings of worry and doubt and I need to reject fear, I … Stop! Pray! Take it to God immediately.

I remember that God will help. He promised…

This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord, your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

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

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlights from the Week!

Start with Joy

by Kathy Cheek
@ Devotions from the Heart

Where are You, God?

by Kaitlyn Bouchillon
@ It Just Takes One

How to Hold onto Hope When Life Disappoints You

by and @ Stacey Pardoe

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

I would really appreciate it if you would
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Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

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

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

Thank you and God bless!

Verses to Pray When You Need to be Forgiven

9 / 6 / 18

As I worked on Monday’s post, Jesus’ Commandments and Why You Need to Know Them, I can honestly tell you I found myself squirming a little.

Let me explain…

I think it’s possible when you and I use the original Ten Commandments as our guide for right and wrong, to come to the conclusion that we’re doing an okay job at this thing called obedience. We can look at the list and think, I love God, I go to church, I don’t steal, I haven’t killed anyone, and I didn’t _______ or _________.

Taking a closer look at Jesus’ Commandments, you and I not only find a list of dos and don’ts but directives that challenge our hearts and attitudes. And when I take a closer look inside myself, I suddenly realize just how far I fall short of God’s will.

I need to be forgiven.

Because, in all honesty…

I don’t love like Jesus. I struggle to willingly take up my cross and faithfully follow Him. I worry. I want to have child-like trust, humility, and sincerity but sometimes “adulting” and bad habits get in the way. I catch myself judging others and have days of selfishness when I’m definitely not as kind, compassionate, or forgiving as I should be.

I’m a mess who definitely needs God’s forgiveness!

If you’re a mess and know you need to be forgiven too, please join me as I turn to God’s Word and prayer. As I ask Him to forgive me and change me to become more like Jesus.

Verses to Pray When You Need to be Forgiven

Psalm 32:5

Then I confessed my sins to you
and didn’t hide my guilt.
I said, “I will confess my sins to the Lord,”
and You forgave my guilt.

Father, I’m so sorry. I want to obey Your commands and trust Your will for me. I’m ashamed of my tendency to be selfish and stubborn. It’s so easy for me to do things I know Your Word says to avoid and it’s even easier for me to fail to do the things You want me to do. I have a list of excuses and reasons but truthfully, they’re meaningless.

I love You, Lord, and I want to obey You. By the power of Your Spirit, please give me the strength I need to turn from temptation, the child-like faith I need to trust and obey, and peace that comes from knowing I am forgiven. Amen.

Psalm 51:9–10 (NCV)

Turn Your face from my sins
and wipe out all my guilt.
Create in me a pure heart, God,
and make my spirit right again.

Father, wash me clean. Fill me with Your love and purify my heart. Jesus said, “My God, why have You forsaken me?” You turned Your face away as Jesus suffered, allowing Him to suffer my punishment. And through His suffering, death, and resurrection You forgive my sins and remove my guilt.

It’s amazing! It’s really too marvelous to understand. Yet, by Your grace through faith, I will receive this precious gift and with Your help, I will do my best to live my life for Your glory. Amen.

Luke 7:47

“I tell you, her sins—and they are many—
have been forgiven,
so she has shown me much love.
But a person who is forgiven little
shows only little love.”

Father, my sins have been many, things I’ve done that I wish I hadn’t and so many things I failed to do, that I wish I had. Like Paul, I have to admit, “I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway.” (Romans 7:19)

Your Word tells me I am forgiven completely. I am covered by Your grace and mercy.

May the desire of my heart be to spend every day for the rest of my life showing You “much” love! Amen.

Psalm 103:11–12

For His unfailing love toward those who fear Him
is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth.
He has removed our sins as far from us
as the east is from the west.

Father, Your love never fails and it never ends. It doesn’t depend on who I am but on whose I am. I am Yours and You are love. Perfect love.

You are love who forgives every sin to the extreme … as far as the east is from the west. Love who removes my fear. Love who makes it possible for me to love and forgive others. Love who is able to make me victorious in times of temptation. Love who is not content to leave me as I am but who works in my life to make me more like Jesus.

Thanks and praise, worship and honor are Yours forever. Amen.

Psalm 32:1

Oh, what joy for those
whose disobedience is forgiven,
whose sin is put out of sight!

Father, You give me joy! Joy that makes me free and gives me strength. Joy I can feel in my mind and my heart. Joy that gives me peace and fills me with hope.

Joy because my past is forgiven; I don’t need to look back anymore. Joy because Your Spirit is with me blessing me with “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” Galatians 5:22–23

Although the consequences of my past may continue, Your grace and mercy change me and give me all I need to love like Jesus and live for Your glory. In Jesus name. Amen.

Praise God!

When you and I need to be forgiven … we can ask and receive!

For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. Luke 11:10

My dear friend, whatever is burdening you today … give it to God. He is true to His Word. When you ask Him for forgiveness, He forgives you. He doesn’t wait until you get it right. Your Father forgives you as soon as you ask because He loves you.

Turn to Him. Trust Him. And celebrate!!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlights from the Week!

Finding Purpose in Emotional Pain

by Sunshyne Gray
@ Sharing Truth that Changes Lives

We are Made to Brave Our Story
Made for Sisterhood

by Shannon Geurin
for Crystal Twaddell
@ Cultivating a Life of Intention and a Legacy of Hope

Are You Blinded by a Gospel of “Get”?

by Jen Avellaneda
@ Rich Faith Rising

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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

I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

Loading InLinkz ...

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

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

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

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

Thank you and God bless!

Powerful Verses to Pray When You Need Addiction Recovery

8 / 23 / 188 / 24 / 18

Too many lives are destroyed by the overwhelming power of addiction.

Too many families crumble because of the pain caused by addiction.

Addiction is defined as a persistent, compulsive dependence on a behavior or substance.

Some researchers speak of two types of addictions: substance addictions (for example, alcoholism, drug abuse, and smoking); and process addictions (for example, gambling, spending, shopping eating, and sexual activity).

Diagnosis is based on 5 criteria:

1. loss of willpower
2. harmful consequences
3. unmanageable lifestyle
4. tolerance or escalation of use
5. withdrawal symptoms upon quitting (Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine)

Based on that definition, I believe every family is touched by addiction in some way. Everyone knows someone whose life is being controlled by its power.

But there is a power greater than addiction … the Power that has overcome the evil of this world.

That Power is Jesus! The One who has invited us to come in prayer with every need.

So… let’s take Him at His word and go to Him on behalf of ourselves and our loved ones—those we know who need of addiction recovery.

Powerful Verses to Pray When You Need Addiction Recovery

Deuteronomy 31:6

Be strong and courageous.
Do not be afraid or terrified because of them,
for the LORD your God goes with you;
He will never leave you nor forsake you.

Prayer for the One Fighting Addiction

Father, I feel weak and afraid. Temptations taunt and test me. Somedays the battle feels too difficult. But Father … I believe You are with me. You will not leave me to fight hard battles alone and You promised to give me courage and strength when I have none of my own. You are always near enough to hear my cries and hold me close. I need You, Lord. Amen.

Prayer for a Loved One Fighting Addiction

Father, My loved one is hurting. I see them feeling helpless and alone. But God … I know You are with him/her. Please help them to know and feel Your loving presence. Be their courage and strength. Hold them close as they cry and give them the courage and strength to fight this battle. Give them victory, Father. In Jesus name. Amen.

1 John 1:9

But if we confess our sins to Him,
He is faithful and just to forgive our
sins and cleanse us from all wickedness.

Prayer for the One Fighting Addiction

Father, I struggle with so much guilt and shame. The enemy continuously taunts me with my past failures. But You are faithful. Faithful! That means always. Every time. You promise to forgive each time we ask. So once again, I ask You to wash me clean in Jesus. Heal me by Your grace and mercy. I am so sorry. Forgive me. In Jesus name. Amen.

Prayer for a Loved One Fighting Addiction

Father, I see my loved one struggling to be free of the past. They continue to carry past pain and failures and it hurts me to see them in so much pain. Your Word promises that when we ask You to forgive us—You do! Please help my loved one come to You for forgiveness. Help him/her trust Your healing mercy and grace. Help them know the joy of being washed clean through Jesus. Amen.

2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore if anyone is in Christ,
He is a new creature;
the old things passed away;
behold, new things have come.

Prayer for the One Fighting Addiction

Father, You can make all things new … even me. You can restore me. I’ve made a mess of things but You redeem my mess and through Jesus, You give me a future filled with hope. And with Your help, I can be the person I want to be. I can rise above the pain and misery, and live with joy. Thank you, Father. Amen.

Prayer for a Loved One Fighting Addiction

Father, I know You love my _____________. I believe You are able to transform him/her. Please turn them around and place them on a new path. Father, help me trust that You are at work in my loved one’s life. Keep me from interfering and each time I start to worry, help me to return to You in prayer. In Jesus name. Amen.

Matthew 6:33

But seek first the kingdom of God
and His righteousness, and
all these things will be added to you.

Prayer for the One Fighting Addiction

Father, my addiction is powerful but I believe You are more powerful. So, I will seek You first. I will come to You for strength. I will surrender my all to Jesus, trusting that He is able to make me righteous … to take my sinfulness and make me holy. Thank you, Father, for this beautiful promise of hope. I am humbled and so very thankful. Amen.

Prayer for a Loved One Fighting Addiction

Father, please help my loved one to seek You. You alone are able to meet their needs. I pray that my ___________ will begin to know how much You love them. Please surround him/her with people who will point them to You. Unsettle them, Lord, until they turn to You. Please grant them addiction recovery. In Jesus name. Thank you. Amen.

Proverbs 3:5–6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He will make straight your paths.

Prayer for the One Fighting Addiction

Father, I surrender my heart, my addiction, my all to You. I trust that You are able to guide me today and every day in the future. You are my Healer and my Redeemer. You are my future hope and happiness. Thank you, Father. I trust You with all my heart. Help me remain strong as I stay humbly dependent on You. Amen.

Prayer for a Loved One Fighting Addiction

Father, please make my loved one’s path straight. Help him/her to find in You the recovery they so desperately need. Lord, I believe You are greater than their circumstances. You are the God of miracles. We need a miracle, Lord. Please help us. In Jesus name and through His power to heal and transform, I pray. Amen.

Addiction is painful for everyone who is touched by it. I pray these prayers will bless and comfort you. Know that I am praying for you and asking God to hold you close as you go through this difficult time.

Paige Taylor wrote a powerful post for CMB which published last Monday about the ways her faith in Jesus helped her with addiction recovery … if you missed it, you can find it here.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlights from the Week!

When You’re Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired

by Brittany Bonnaffons
@ Ordinarily Extraordinary Mom

Running On Empty…

by Christine Wood
@ Living With Margins

3 Truths on How God Designed His People for Community

by Dawn Klinge
@ Above the Waves

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

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

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

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

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

Thank you and God bless!

Verses to Pray When You Need to be Sure God Loves You

8 / 9 / 18

Earlier this week, I shared a post about an email exchange I had with a reader who said…

“I’ve had a problem all of my adult years. I’ve been unable to feel God’s love.”

You can read the rest here.

I could relate to her email … I’ve had times when God felt distant and I doubted His love, times when life didn’t make sense and answers seemed distant.

Something I learned this week is that most of you can relate to the faith/feelings conundrum, too!

My earlier post shared a list of things I believe you and I need to know and do when the enemy taunts us with doubts that discourage and overwhelm us.

Be Honest with Yourself and God.
Take Your Doubts to God in Prayer.
Live Your Faith Until You Feel God’s Love.

Today I want to focus on #2 and pray…

Verses to Pray When You Need to be Sure God Loves You

God loves you!

Psalm 13:1–2

O Lord, how long will You forget me? Forever? How long will You look the other way? How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day?
How long will my enemy have the upper hand?

Father, thank you for showing us the honest men of faith throughout Scripture. Even David, “the man after God’s [Your] own heart” experienced times of doubt, times when You seemed distant.

I believe You want me to be honest about my feelings. I believe You want me to come to You with anything that troubles my heart or mind. I believe You hear my prayers and I believe You love me.

Thank you, Father! Please hold me close. Give me a sense of Your presence and love. “Lord, I believe. Please help my unbelief.” In Jesus name. Amen.

God loves you!

Romans 8:38

Father, Your Word tells me that You are love and You are with me … nothing in this world can separate me from Your perfect unfailing love. Forgive me, Father! Although I know Your Word is truth, I am still prone to fear and worry — things that distract me and tempt me to doubt Your promises. But Lord, no matter how I feel, nothing can ever change who You are. You are LOVE! I can trust You … today, tomorrow, and forever. Thank you! Amen.

God loves you!

Psalm 86:5–7

O Lord, You are so good, so ready to forgive,
so full of unfailing love for all who ask for Your help.
Listen closely to my prayer,
O Lord; hear my urgent cry.
I will call on You whenever I’m in trouble,
and You will answer me.

Father, thank you for every word of hope and promise, for faith-filled prayers of people like David, for examples that show me I can come to You with the rawness of my life … with my regrets and worries, doubts and fears. You love me and hear the cries of my heart. Thank you. Lord, may I remember to pray without ceasing, and may I come to You with my praise and gratitude more than I cry out for solutions and intervention.

You are love. Perfect love.

By Your grace and the power of Your Spirit, help me trust Your promises. Remove my doubt and fill me with the truth of Your Word. I will hold Your promises in my heart and remember that You are: patient and kind, forgiving and merciful, holy and just. Your love is a fact greater than my feelings. Thank you! Amen.

God loves you!

Lamentations 3:22–23

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

Father, thank you for Your never-ending, unfailing love. Thank you for mercy that will never stop no matter how I feel or what I’ve done. Thank you for giving me a fresh start each morning.

I surrender my feelings to You today. I give You my doubts, my fears, my insecurities. Fill my heart and mind with Your truth. Help my faith to grow and may my feelings overflow with heartfelt love for You … the One who loves me most and best as You cover me with underserved mercy and grace. I love You, Lord. Thank you! Amen.

God loves you!

Psalm 23:6

Surely Your goodness and unfailing love
will pursue me all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.

Father, You are good. Your love never fails. And because of Your perfect goodness and love, You pursue me. You work in my life in ways that are always for my good and for Your glory. Open my eyes that I might see the mighty and beautiful things You are doing in my life. Fill me with the things of Your Spirit – with faith, hope, and love.

Give me an eternal perspective Lord, full of hope and promise knowing that I can trust You completely. Whatever my feelings, nothing will change who You are … Holy and Perfect Lord of lords and King of kings, Creator, Redeemer, Comforter, Father, and Friend.

Thanks and praise now and forever. In Jesus precious name, Amen.

Friend, the truth is … our hearts and minds deceive us. We’ve been told to “trust our guts” even though we know gut feelings are less than reliable.

But we have someone in our lives who is perfectly reliable. Someone who loves us so much He died to show us…

I read the following in my Life Application Bible Notes this week…

If the Bible makes no other point, it shouts this one: God loves us! His love had no beginning and is incredibly patient. All we need to do is respond, not try to earn what is freely offered.

God has said in many ways, “I love you. I have demonstrated that love to you by all I’ve done for you. I have even sacrificed my Son, Jesus, to pay the price for what is unacceptable about you—your sin. Now, live because of my love. Respond to me, love me with your whole being; give yourself to me in thanksgiving, not as payment.” [The price has already been paid!]

Live life fully. In the freedom of knowing you are loved!

No matter how you and I feel, the fact is … God loves you!

Have a wonderful weekend and rest in the Father’s perfect love!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlights from the Week!

I Quit! – How Fear of Failure Kept Me from Finishing

by Diane Ferreira
@ Worth Beyond Rubies

When You Don’t Know How to Embrace the Delay

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

Did You Make it Home this Summer”

by Carlie Lake
@ From Dust Towards the Heavens

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

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

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

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

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

Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses to Pray that will Help You Have Joy One Day at a Time

8 / 2 / 188 / 2 / 18

I want to live one day at a time! Really, I do!

Jesus said, “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries.” Matthew 6:34

He also said, “I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!” John 15:11

I want that too! The overflowing joy of remaining in the love of Jesus.

But life distracts and details discourage and my joy heads south as my heart and mind fill with the regrets of yesterday and the worries of tomorrow.

So, I’m going to the Lord in prayer and thought you might want to join me…

5 Verses to Pray that will Help You Have Joy
One Day at a Time

Psalm 32:5

I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, “I will confess my rebellion to the Lord.” And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone.

Father, thank you! I have confessed and repented and You have forgiven me. My sin is gone and by Your grace, my guilt and regret can be gone too. I know I may have to live through some difficult things because of my failures but I trust that You will be with me and give me everything I need to live joyfully knowing I am redeemed and forgiven. All because of Jesus. Thanks and praise forever. Amen.

Psalm 103:11–13

For His unfailing love toward those who fear Him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth.He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west. The Lord is like a father to His children, tender and compassionate to those who fear Him.

Father, You love me! You really love me. So much that through Jesus I am washed clean. My sins are completely gone. Your forgiveness is complete. I am Your child and I can rest in Your tender, compassionate embrace. Whatever today brings … You hold me close. That alone is a reason to celebrate with joy! Thank you, Father. Amen.

Philippians 4:6–7

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

Father, You tell me to bring every worry and trouble to You. You want me to tell you what I need because You care for me. Because You love me. You also invite me to thank you for past blessings. And as I remember with gratitude all You’ve carried me through … You fill me with that hard to understand peace; You fill my heart and mind with confident faith, knowing You are able to carry me through whatever tomorrow brings. I have You to help me face today and You are all I need. Amen.

Proverbs 3:5–6

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.

Father, I surrender my heart, my mind, my life … my all to you today. Please guide me and show me the path You have prepared for me. By the power of Your Spirit, please help me focus on You when life tries to distract me. When guilt and regret taunt me and worries tempt me, call me back to Your Word of truth. Lead me. Fill me with Your Spirit. Show me Your will. I will seek to know Your will and by the power and with the help of Your Holy Spirit — I will follow where You lead. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

Revelation 22:13

^“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last,
the Beginning and the End.”

Jesus, You are the Beginning and the End, the Word Made Flesh, the Author and Perfector of my faith, my Redeemer, my Good Shepherd, the Kind of kings, my Hope for the future, my Defender … You are the Great I AM, and Lord of all. You are my Lord and Savior.

Because You know the end from the beginning I can have peace when I think about the future. Nothing in my life comes as a surprise to You. You are with me, always. (Matthew 28:20) Your Spirit never leaves me. (John 14:16) You give me joy. (John 15:11) Thank you, Jesus. Amen.

It’s not easy to have joy one day at a time!

We’re busy and everything from stacked up little annoyances to great big joy-busting problems are trying to pull our attention in a million different directions.

It’s crazy how quickly I can obsess over something that happened yesterday and find myself anxious about something that may or may not happen tomorrow.

And the truth is … that ain’t no way to live!

Regret, guilt, worry, and anxiety are all tools the enemy uses to keep you and me from living with joy.

But God… (Oh, how I love those two words.)

But God is willing and able to give us everything we need to live today in His love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Everything we need to live with joy one day at a time!

So, just for today, I will prayerfully carry these words in my heart…

This is the day the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:25

Without a doubt … that is the way to live!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlights from the Week!

5 Ways to Get an Infusion of Hope

by Dianne Thornton
@ Sweeter Than Honey

Zip Your Lips (And 15 Other Ways to be a Better Wife)

by Sheila Qualls
@ The Not So Excellent Wife

Are You Following a Bootstrap Gospel?

by Rebecca Hastings
@ My Ink Dance

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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

I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

Loading InLinkz ...

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

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

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

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

Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses that will Help When You Need to Be Still and Listen

7 / 12 / 187 / 12 / 18

In case you’ve missed the first five from the Countdown to #1 Series – you can check them out here:

How to Trust God’s NO When You are Suffering

12 Things You Need to Know About God that Will Make You Humble

The Best Ways to Teach Your Child Humble Confidence

25 of the Best Ways to Love Yourself the Way God Wants

7 of the Best Verses to Inspire Your Worship of God

Here’s the 3rd most popular post here at CMB…

5 Verses that will Help When You Need to Be Still and Listen

I’ve had a few times in my life when I’ve felt God’s voice loud and clear.

Like the time He challenged my grumbling or the time He gave me a word of love for a specific person as I was driving to a speaking engagement.

There was also the time that completely changed my view of things — all I could think about was the pain and loss when His tender Spirit whispered, “You have no idea what I’ve spared you from!”

But oh, how I would love to listen better. Kira’s post, from the other day, made me think about my need to do a better job of listening. Especially when life gets crazy and busyness takes over. When you and I can get caught up in all the doing and forget to focus on the reasons for the doing.

So today, I’d like you to join me to stop for just a moment and listen. To pray with me and wait quietly for His voice to fill us with all we need to live each day.

5 Verses to Pray that will Help You Be Still and Listen

Psalm 62:5–6

Let all that I am wait quietly before God,
for my hope is in Him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress where I will not be shaken.

Father, it’s so hard to wait and even harder to wait quietly. I want to complain. I want what I want and I want it now! Forgive me. I’m behind with all the things I need to do but right now at this moment what I need more than anything is time with You. I need Your promises of hope. I need to remember who You are and all You’ve done. You are my Savior, my place of safety, my unshakable foundation. Thank you! Please guide me this day and where You lead with Your Spirit’s help, I will follow. Amen.

John 10:27

My sheep listen to my voice;
I know them, and they follow me.

Lord, forgive me for the ways I let other voices distract me. The truth is … my own voice distracts me. My thoughts run in circles making deepening ruts as they tread the same ground again and again. Here I am, Lord. I need Your voice to help me quiet the craziness. I need Your truth and wisdom. Thank you for the many ways You assure me that I am Yours. You know me … nothing can change that. My heart’s desire is to obediently follow wherever You lead. Speak to me, Lord. I will be still and listen that I may follow where you lead. Amen.

Psalm 37:7a, 23–24

Be still in the presence of the Lord,
    and wait patiently for Him to act.
The Lord directs the steps of the godly.
    He delights in every detail of their lives.
Though they stumble, they will never fall,
    for the Lord holds them by the hand.

Father, here I am — quiet and still in Your presence. Watching and waiting for Your direction. I love this promise … You “delight in every detail of my life.” You know everything about me. You know my weaknesses and You are aware of every stumble. Yet, by Your grace, You will not let me fall. Your hand is always there to help me and hold me. You faithfully forgive my foolish and distracted busyness and consistently call me back into Your holy presence where Your love surrounds me. Oh, how I thank and praise You! Amen.

John 14:26

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

Oh, Holy Trinity – Father, Son, and Spirit, thank you! Father, I am awed by the love You showed us in Your plan to redeem us. Jesus, I am overwhelmed that You would willingly sacrifice everything for me. Spirit, I am so thankful for the ways You draw these truths to my mind each day. My God how I love you and thank you for Your blessings. Amen.

Psalm 25:4–5

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.

Father, I may not finish my to-do list today but by Your grace, may I accomplish Your list. May I follow Your path and fulfill each task You assign. By the power of Your Spirit, teach me. Lead me. Help me to be still and listen as You lovingly call me back into Your sweet presence … where we can sit and talk or maybe for a few moments, just rest in each other’s presence. I love You, my hope, my Redeemer, my all. In Jesus name, Amen.

Praying you find peace in the busyness as you stop for a moment to just be still and listen.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlights from the Week!

How to Live Without Fearing Eternity

by Stacey Pardoe
@ Encountering God in the Ordinary

Relationships Advice from Colossians 3:18–25

by George & Eunice
@ G & E – Adventures in Faith | Love | Parenthood

When You’re Unsure and Overwhelmed, Remember This…

by Kaitlyn Bouchillon
@ It Just Takes One

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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

I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

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

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

Loading InLinkz ...

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

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

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

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

Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses to Pray When You Want to be Thankful and Happy

9 / 22 / 179 / 22 / 17

It’s so easy to get caught up in the dailiness of life.

I get busy just doing and living and somehow forget to fill moments with gratitude and thanksgiving. Oh, I can talk about it “real good” in this space but the doing it . . . yeah, that can get pushed aside by the more pressing and noisy.

This week, I’ve stopped to thank God for 3,653 bonus days with Rev and thank those who left handprints on our hearts through a difficult season.

And my heart has been full of joy as we’ve remembered the many people God has used to bless, mentor, heal, and encourage us.

With His help, I don’t want to ever again allow a day to go by without intentional thanksgiving and praise and to help . . . I’ve found 5 verses to hold close and pray often. I hope and pray they bless you!

5 Verses to Pray When You Want to be Thankful and Happy

Psalm 9:1

I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. Psalm 9:1

Father, I want my life to be one of gratitude and praise. I am humbled by all you have done for me. Please forgive me for getting lost in the busyness of life. My heart’s desire is to tell of Your goodness and love. Thank you, Father. Amen.

Psalm 106:1

Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.

Father, I want to thank you for all You do but most of all I want to praise You for who You are. You are good! You are love. All I need now and forever. Thank you for Your Spirit who whispers reminders of my need to stay connected to You through Word and prayer when I’m distracted and begin to wander. You meet every need and keep every promise. Thank you! Amen.

Psalm 118:21–24

I will give you thanks, for You answered me;
You have become my salvation.

The stone the builders rejected
    has become the cornerstone;
the Lord has done this,
    and it is marvelous in our eyes.
The Lord has done it this very day;
    let us rejoice today and be glad.

Jesus, My greatest need in this life is salvation found in Your saving grace. Thank you for living the perfect life I cannot accomplish. Thank you for dying for my sins. Thank you for giving me hope and a full and satisfying life today. (John 10:10) As well as the promise of life with You forever through Your resurrection. I can rejoice! Whatever is going on in my life – You are more than enough! Thank you! Amen.

1 Corinthians 15:57

But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Father, thank you for the victory You have given us in and through Jesus. Victory over today’s problems and Satan’s lies. You give me all I need to overcome any problem or challenge. (Romans 8) By the power of Your Spirit, I have joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, and love. (Galatians 5) That arsenal helps me live with courage and strength. Thank you! Your victory giving grace is all I need. Amen.

Colossians 3:17

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

Father, living with thankfulness is living for You. May every word I speak and thing I do — come from a grateful heart. Help me remember that as Your child every word and act I live become the thoughts and opinions people make about You. Forgive me. Help me. You are my everything and I am so thankful. May I live to bring honor and glory to You. Amen.

Philippians 1:3

I thank my God every time I remember you.

Father, thank you for the community of friends who gather here. I am so grateful for each of them. They bless and encourage me. Father, bless them and hold them close. Please meet every need and grant favor to their ministry efforts. Use them for Your glory and give them joy in serving You. Thanks and praise in Jesus name, Amen.

I am so thankful for you!

Please take a moment to leave a comment and tell us the verse that encourages you to remember to give God thanks and praise when life distracts you.

Now it’s time to share your links and visit your friends…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

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I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

I’m excited to share the following posts with you this week.

3 Ways Our Insufficiency Can by More than Enough

by Gretchen Fleming

@ Following Hard Blog

From 30 – 90, how to revitalize your young-at-heart spirit…

by Pam Depoyan

Writing . . . Apples of Gold

In the Midst of the Storm – Hurricane Irma

by Robin Pyke

@ Robinality

Lord, Restore My Marriage

by Valerie Murray

@ Cord of 6

Thank you, Gretchen, Pam, Robin, and Valerie for partying with us!

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.

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

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May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

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

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

I’m always looking for stories that will encourage and inspire readers to live in faith, stay faithful in hope, and find joy in loving Jesus and others. If you’re interested in sharing your story here at Counting My Blessings –check out my Contributor Guidelines page.

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

Thank you and God bless!

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5 Verses & Prayers that will Help You Trust God More

5 / 12 / 175 / 15 / 17

When I’m struggling. When I don’t know what to do next. When I’m anxious about the path God is placing before me . . . I go to the Psalms.

Because David penned words there that are raw and honest. It almost feels like I’m getting a peek at his personal journal.

“Lord, I’m afraid. I need You. I’m sorry. I’m a mess. Help me.”

Yep, it looks a lot like my prayer journal.

So, I’ve pulled five passages that encourage me when I’m doubting God’s plan. Words that give me strength when He’s leading me through something I’d rather go around and inspire to keep going when the path looks hard and I want to quit.

5 Verses & Prayers that will Help You Trust God More

Psalm 25:4-5

5 Verses and Prayer that will Help You Trust God More - Counting My Blessings

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.
Psalm 25:4–5

Father, I feel like I’m at a crossroads. I want to honor You and follow the path You want for me. Please make Your will clear. Show me the path to take. I will study Your Word to know Your truth. Please give me the courage to willingly accept even rocky paths knowing You are with me. I love it when life is smooth and easy but I know You sometimes choose to allow bumps to draw me close and help me grow. So, I put my hope in You that whatever the journey holds for me, You will never leave me or forsake me. Thank you, Father. Amen.

Psalm 139:7–10
I can never escape from Your Spirit!
     I can never get away from Your presence!
 If I go up to heaven, You are there;
     if I go down to the grave, You are there.
 If I ride the wings of the morning,
     if I dwell by the farthest oceans,
  even there Your hand will guide me,
     and Your strength will support me. 
 Psalm 139:7–10
Oh, Father, how I love these words of Your servant, David. Wherever I am, You are there guiding, strengthening, supporting. Wow! When life is hard and I’m frightened I’m so thankful I can lean on You. I know you will meet my every need according to Your plans and purposes for me. And I believe Your grace is sufficient for every circumstance. Even when I walk through a dark valley, You are always with me. Help me keep my eyes on You and fill me with the joy of Your presence. In Jesus name. Amen.
Psalm 32:7–8For You are my hiding place;
     You protect me from trouble.
     You surround me with songs of victory. 

The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.
I will advise you and watch over you.
Psalm 32:7–8

Oh, Father, how I love that You guide me. You are my loving Father, who wants to shelter and protect me yet, I foolishly and stubbornly go my own way. Forgive me. Help me. I believe Your way is best but when I take my eyes off You, I am so easily tempted to get myself into trouble. Please help me follow You on the path that leads to lasting victory. In Jesus name, thanks and praise now and forever. Amen.

Psalm 109:104–105

5 Verses and Prayer that will Help You Trust God More - Counting My Blessings

Your commandments give me understanding;
no wonder I hate every false way of life.

Your Word is a lamp to guide my feet
and a light for my path.
Psalm 109:104–105

Your Word . . . I am so thankful! You have given us Your written Word. You surround us with Your Spirit who helps us understand and follow Your commands. And You have given us Jesus, the Word made flesh. I have everything I need to follow You. Thank you. Help me stay on the lighted path trusting that You will give me everything needed to more forward one step at a time. Thank you, Father. By Your grace and with Your help, I will follow where You lead. Amen.

Psalm 48:14

This God is our God forever and ever.
He will guide us from now on.
Psalm 48:14

Father, You are God eternal. The One who is forever and ever and always. You know the beginning from the end. You know my beginning from my end . . . exactly what I need to grow closer to You. Father, You’ve been with me through my failures and hurts and cover me with healing and forgiveness. I surrender myself to You and offer You my day. I want to live each moment for Your glory. Guide me. Help me. I know when You are with me I can do even those things that seem impossible. Thank You, Father. In Jesus name and with His help. Amen.

Those are my favorite Psalms when I need to remember God is with me, guiding me and giving me all I need to follow Him.

What are your favorite verses to ponder and pray when you need to trust God more?

Now it’s time for…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings" target="_blank"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/FaithnFriends-RB.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

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

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

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

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

I’m excited to share the following posts with you this week.

The Amazing Struggle

by Shannon Geurin

@ Fiercely His

and

Why is Doctrine Important to Me

by Dawn Klinge

@ Above the Waves

Thank you, Shannon and Dawn, for partying with us!

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.

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

Loading InLinkz ...

May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

Never Miss an Update

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

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