“For what does it benefit a man to gain the whole world yet lose his life? What can a man give in exchange for his life?” Mark 8:36-37 HCSB

In our society we need money to live. As Christians, we must never make the acquisition of money the central focus of our lives. Money is a tool, but it should never overwhelm our sensibilities. The focus of life must be squarely on things spiritual, not material things. Whenever we place our love for material possessions above our love for God, or when we yield to the countless other temptations of everyday living, we find ourselves engaged in a struggle between good and evil. Let’s respond to this struggle by freeing ourselves from the temptation to love the world more than we love God.

“Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” 1 John 4:11 NASB

Love is always a choice. Sometimes we may “fall in love,” but it takes work to stay there. We may be “swept off our feet,” but the “sweeping” is only temporary; sooner or later, if love is to endure, one must plant one’s feet firmly on the ground. The decision to love another person for a lifetime is much more than the simple process of “falling in” or “being swept up.” It requires “reaching out,” “holding firm,” and “lifting up.” Love then becomes a decision to honor and care for the other person, come what may.

“Therefore, we may boldly say: The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” Hebrews 13:6 HCSB

Because we are saved, we can have hope for the future, no matter how desperate our circumstances may seem. After all, God has promised that we are His throughout eternity and He has told us that we must place our hopes in Him. Summon the courage to follow God even if the path seems difficult, even if your heart is fearful, trust your Heavenly Father and follow Him. Trust Him with your day and your life. Do His work, care for His children, and share His Good News. Let Him guide your steps; He will not lead you astray.

“But our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.” Psalm 115:3

It’s common to look up to those who are famous and wealthy and imitate how they behave in order to achieve what they have. When we do, we allow them to influence us. The truth is, only God rightfully warrants that kind of authority in our life. When we focus on God and consider which behavior would please Him, we are acting wisely.

By studying God’s word, praying for wisdom, and considering His viewpoint, we set ourselves on the path to real success! Always seek God and make choices which honor Him. God is the only One who’s truly worthy of a say in our life!

Live in Your God-given Blessings Today!

“Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God; let Your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” Psalm 143:10

There are times when God will give us ease in our journey. These are the blessed moments when we truly believe anything’s possible with God. There will also be seasons when we will feel like an ant, small and challenged by obstacles. Every pebble on the path will require an arduous walk, and it’ll be difficult to make progress.

These are those blessed moments where we will learn to rely on God. Whether simple or difficult, on the heights or in the depths, when God is directing us, we are always on stable, level ground. Proceed with confidence; God will protect and teach us wherever we go!

In His Love, Do All You Can, While You Can, As Long As You Can, To All You Can….Have a Beautifully Blessed Day!

“Even in darkness light dawns for the upright; for the gracious, compassionate and righteous man.” Psalm 112:4

There’s fear in the unknown; how we will pay bills, reconcile a relationship; whether or not we will recover from an illness or overcome an obstacle. As darkness covers our view, we cannot see what’s ahead, or why this is happening to us. When we look to God, He sheds light on our situation.

God will give us assurance of His help, and He’ll show us the good which come from our difficulties; God can illuminate it. When we trust in God with our whole heart we will see the light!

Live in Your God-given Blessings Today!

“The idols of the nations are of silver and gold, made by human hands. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see.” Psalm 135:15-16

When the people of Israel got impatient for God to act, they would mold an idol and ask it for help. Of course, these lifeless statuettes couldn’t hear, speak or move; they were useless. But the Israelites wanted something they could put their hands on to trust. The same is true when we base our security on our jobs, wealth, or some other tangible thing.

Trust in the Lord God who can carry you in His hands. True, we cannot see God, but we are assured that our faith in Him is well-founded because He is faithful and everlasting.

In His Love, Do All You Can, While You Can, As Long As You Can, To All You Can….Have a Beautifully Blessed Day!

“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine.” Isaiah 43:1 NKJV

As Christians, we have every reason to live courageously. After all, we know the ultimate battle has already been fought and won on the cross at Calvary. But because we are imperfect beings and possess imperfect faith, we sometimes fall prey to fear and doubt. The answer to our fears is God. The next time you find your courage tested to the limit, remember that God is as near as your next breath. He is your shield and strength; He is your protector and deliverer. Call on Him in your hour of need and then be comforted. Whatever your challenge, whatever your trouble, God can and will handle it.

“I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way; O when wilt thy come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.” Psalm 101:2

King David knew what it was like to be a poor shepherd boy and a wealthy king. He experienced having nothing and having everything, to be lowly and unnoticed and to have the respect and love of a nation. There was one thing which defined the worth of life to David, a healthy relationship with God. No matter how we define “the good life”, it’s always better with God.

As David discovered, possessions and power will fail to satisfy our soul, but God will never fail! God can fill us with more joy and purpose than anything we can imagine! Follow God to the best life, for the best life!

Live in Your God-given Blessings Today!