Listen, for I have trustworthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right.  

Thought:

We must all strive to live by this…everyday…all the time.  If everyone, always, spoke the truth and stood up for what was right, think of what kind of world this would be.   We would all have respect for each other and deeper relationships built on trust.  We’ve all heard the phrase “Think before you speak”, but this is so true.  If we think about how our words affect one another; we should be more careful to speak in love and only speak to gain trust between one another.  Friends, how are your words building trust?

And let us be concerned about one another in order to promote love and good works.  

Thought:

Life is a team sport and all of us need a pat on the back from our teammates from time to time.  It is important that we encourage each other to have faith:  first, in God and then, in the abilities that God has given us.  Friends, we must look for the good in others and celebrate the good that you find.  When you do, you’ll be a powerful force of encouragement to your friends and family.

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you.  But do this with gentleness and respect.  

Thought:

Have you made the decision to allow Christ to reign over your heart?  If so, you have an important story to tell:  yours.  Your personal testimony is profoundly important, but perhaps shyness or a fear of being rejected makes you hesitant to share your story.  We all have a story.  Our testimony outlines to others who we are in Christ and how Christ has transformed and continues to work in our lives.  Friends, when we share our faith with others, we must also be willing to serve as shining examples.  You know how He has touched your heart; now help Him do the same for others, through you.

You will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed.  

Thought:

The Bible is a road map for life here on earth and for life eternal.  As Christians, we are called upon: to trust its promises, to follow its commandments, and to share its Good News.  Friends, as we face the inevitable challenges of life, we must arm ourselves with the promises of God’s Word.  When we do, we can expect the best.  Not only for the day ahead, but also for all of eternity.  Remember when it comes to studying and standing on the truths of God’s word….school is always in session.

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.  

Thought

While I read this verse, my mind plays the song.  But if you really focus on the words, there is so much there.  Can you imagine “taking the wrap” for someone else’s wrongs?  Especially if it might cost you your job, your family, or even your LIFE?  Or can you imagine someone else “taking the wrap” for you?  Would you be able to sit back and do nothing about it and watch them endure the punishment?  That is exactly what happened…Jesus “took the wrap” for all of us.  Through his punishment, we are given peace and healing.  How does that happen? 

Only by his mercy… grace… and love.  Are you sharing what God has done for you and making the most of his sacrifice for us?

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation; because by Him everything was created, in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities – all things have been created through Him and for Him.  

Thought:

“What did God put me here for?”  I am sure you have asked yourself that question many times.  Well, it should be comforting that God has a plan for the universe, and He has a plan for you.  And you know what else is amazing?  That He thoroughly and completely knows that plan as well as He knows you.  Friends, God has big things in store for you…but, you must be willing to accept His direction.  Are you willing?

Success, success to you, and success to those who help you, for your God will help you.  

Thought:

Life’s occasional setbacks are simply the price that we must pay for our willingness to take risks as we follow our dreams.  But even when we encounter times of disappointment, we must never lose faith.  We will succeed and we will fail; but remember that failure isn’t permanent…unless you fail to get up.  So, pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and trust God.  Friends, our God is the God of new beginnings.  So, what are you waiting for?  The best time to begin is now.   

“What may seem defeat to us may be victory to him.”  C.H. Spurgeon

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  To Him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity.  

Thought:

When it comes to your faith, God doesn’t intend for you to stand still.  He wants you to keep moving and growing.  In fact, God’s plan for you includes a lifetime of prayer, praise, and spiritual growth.  Spiritual growth need not take place only during times of adversity; we must seek to grow in our knowledge and love of the Lord every day that we live.  Friends, always remember:  Spiritual maturity in always a journey, never a destination.

I sought the Lord, and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears.  

Thought:

We live in a world that can be, at times, a very frightening place.  We live in a world that is, at times, a very discouraging place.  We live in a world where life-changing losses can be so painful and so profound that it seems we will never recover.  But, with God’s help, and with the help of encouraging family and friends, we can recover.  Remember the words of Jesus, who assured his disciples, by saying “Take courage!  It is I.  Don’t be afraid.”  Friends, today ask God for the courage to step beyond the boundaries of your fears.

Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.  

Thought:

Whom will you try and please today:  God or man?  Your primary obligation, of course is to please your Father in heaven, not your friends in the neighborhood.  Our circle of influence is very important in our lives because it affects many different areas.  The very nature of who we are is sometimes determined by those we surround ourselves with, just like any successful business owner will typically surround himself with good, honest, dependable people who will continue to grow the company.  Friends, who are you surrounding yourself with today?