I have set the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure.
Psalm 16:8,9
Set the Lord before you. Lean into the confidence that provides and let that drive your emotions, your physical well-being and an overall sense of peace.
In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
Acts 20:35
If you spend your time focusing on how to give and serve, you’ll be less concerned about what you have or need.
Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.
And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family.
Acts 16:24,33
Consider Paul and Silas’ perspective. The same man who had beat them earlier in the day, was now washing their wounds. If God is doing a work in and through someone around you, follow their example and put your pride, intimidation and fear aside; make room for God to do the work He has intended.
For the LORD takes pleasure in his people; he adorns the humble with salvation.
Psalm 149:4
Be kind to yourself. Be reminded that the Lord takes pleasure in you.
If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
John 15:10,11
Consider the root of your joy, or lack thereof. Consider making adjustments accordingly.
He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the steadfast love of the LORD.
Psalm 33:5
When we consider the death, destruction and poverty that is highlighted by the media, it’s easy to forget that amidst that, the earth is also full of the steadfast love of the Lord. Be intentional today to look for the steadfast love of the Lord and celebrate that with thanksgiving!
Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all.
Psalm 34:19
Do not be surprised when life brings uphill battles; they’re going to happen. At the same time, expect God to be faithful.
Seek good, and not evil, that you may live; and so the LORD, the God of hosts, will be with you, as you have said.
Amos 5:14
Don’t over-complicate your theology to the point of missing the most critical messages. Allow the simplicity of passages like this be solid reminders of what’s important, for example, “Seek good, and not evil.” Simple yet vital.
Cast away from you all the transgressions that you have committed, and make yourselves a new heart and a new spirit!
Ezekiel 18:31a
Let us constantly endeavor toward a new heart and a new spirit, refreshed by God’s mercy and forgiveness.
For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself?
Luke 9:25
Consider the life, the values and the character that your Maker has woven into the fabric of who you are. Adhere to your true north and don’t be distracted by what doesn’t matter.