Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.
(1 Peter 2:17)

It's hard for us to respect others, especially those who are different from us.  We also must respect and honor our political leaders, regardless of our political views, and pray for their leadership decisions.  God loves us all and made each one of us different.  What a dull world this would be if we were all made with the same cookie cutter.  Love your neighbor....respect each other..... and learn to appreciate the differences. 

And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
(Philippians 2:8)

Humility takes on a different picture when I think of Jesus humbling Himself to be human.  That's more humbling than me taking on the form of a flea.  And then to die when He could have turned them all into dust.  Dying on a cross....dying the death of a criminal.  All for me.....all for you..... all for the sinners of the world.  It's just hard for me to fathom that kind of humility, that kind of selflessness, that kind of sacrifice.  Thankfully, I don't have to fully understand, I only have to believe.

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;  persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
(2 Corinthians 4:8-9)

This scripture came in a daily devotion today and was inspiring to me.  Life is tough, at it's best.  I'm feeling a bit battered and bruised and know that no matter how rough my life may be at times, it's still rewarding and blessed beyond measure.  As long as I never give up on God, nothing has the power to conquer me or my life.

Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.
(2 Corinthians 3:5)

There are days when I know that God has directed my every step.  On days when I'm unable to take the next step, He takes it for me.  He carries me.  Every breath I take comes from God and I thank Him for loving me enough to take good care of me.  And as far as competence goes, I'm nothing without Him!

But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit,  keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
(Jude 1:20-21)

Keeping myself in God's love..... what a wonderful place to be!

Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.
(3 John 1:2)

How amazing when both the body and the soul are healthy.  That would certainly be my prayer for everyone, not just my friends, and also for myself.  It may not be in God's will for me to have all parts in harmony at the same time but I know that my day of a healthy body and a healthy soul in tandem will come someday.  I'm ready.

The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
(Deuteronomy 31:8)

Sometimes we just need to repeat this over and over........

He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.
(Ecclesiastes 3:11)

God gives us His Word.  He gives us nature.  He gives us the Holy Spirit.  He gives us life.  He gives us miracles.  But no matter how many clues, how many books in the Bible, how many helps, it just isn't possible for us to grasp the enormity of God's power and wisdom.  I try to not get wrapped up in understanding all of the details.  The most important lesson is trusting God at His word and knowing that all of His promises will be fulfilled.  The "how" really doesn't matter.

You will be secure, because there is hope;
you will look about you and take your rest in safety.
(Job 11:18)

If anyone was put through the wringer, it was Job.  

Even if my house were to fall on me and take my life, I would still be resting safely in God's loving arms.  As long as I have hope, I have peace of mind in any circumstance.  OK....the truth is that I still have my moments of fear and frustration, but a true believer has nothing to worry about.  I continue to work on the total trust that I know I should be giving God.  No doubts, no complaints, no judging, no worries.  Sounds so simple, yet I struggle to apply what my mind and heart knows to be true.

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
(Hebrews 12:11)

Although I don't think of discipline as painful, it certainly can be difficult at times.  I'm grateful that my parents were gentle disciplinarians, making sure that I got the message without making their point in a harsh manner.  God makes His point in a gentle manner too.  The more we discipline ourselves to obey the Word of God, the better our life becomes.  We gain, not lose, by discipline.  We learn by being disciplined.  We become better people with discipline.  So don't think of discipline with a negative connotation.  Look at it as a learning experience to benefit and enrich your life.  It's another priceless gift from God.

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,  keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
(1 Peter 3:15-16)

No one wants to feel lectured or judged when you present your faith to them.  In fact, that's a great way to turn someone in the opposite direction.  Be soft with your words, be consistent with your behavior, and let God open their minds and hearts to accept His word. 

"The poorest person I know is the one who has nothing but money."
J.D. Rockefeller, Jr.

"Greed is the logical result of the belief that there is no life after death.  We grab what we can while we can however we can and then hold on tight."
Sir Fred Catherwood

"Content makes poor men rich: discontent makes rich men poor."
Benjamin Franklin

All of these quotes came from church this morning as we continue studying the Book of James, Chapter 5.  Fifteen years ago, I don't think I would have fully understood these quotes as I made adjustments that I looked at as being "poor me" adjustments while I picked up the pieces after a divorce and chronic illnesses (I still have the illnesses.....).  Money certainly makes things easier....no doubt about that, but I'm leading a much fuller life now as a member of the poorer crowd.  My priorities, thankfully, have taken a 180 turn.  And as I get older and older, all of the "things" that I have held onto for dear life no longer have the grasp on me that they once had.  Things are only things and will all be thrown away some day after I'm long gone.

So I try to live each day with gratitude as I sleep in a warm (or cool) home, get a drink of water out of my faucet, a snack from my fridge, and know that the Lord provides ALL that I need. 

“Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty;
the whole earth is full of His glory.”
(Isaiah 6:3)

Today and everyday, may we remember that only God is holy and may everything we say, think, and do glorify our Holy God.  Being sinners, I know this is an impossible task but it's a lofty goal worth attempting every single minute of every single day. 

(I've been off line for a few days due to Internet problems.  When I don't post, I'm either ill or having computer issues.  Hang in there with me, please.)

But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD,
whose confidence is in Him.
(Jeremiah 17:7)

It's hard to explain this scripture to a non believer.  How can you feel blessed in the middle of troubles and trials?  Once you believe, you receive a wonderful gift of peace of mind.  It doesn't mean that things are easy....that simply isn't possible in this world....but it does mean that you can look at bad things with a good attitude.  No, I don't always see the blessings right in the middle of the pain but if I continue to rely on the Holy Spirit and the power within me, I eventually see that the good things far outnumber the bad things.  Believing is a blessing, filled with more gifts and joys than I can really imagine and understand.

They confronted me in the day of my disaster,
but the LORD was my support.
(Psalm 18:18)

Disasters are waiting around every corner.  Sometimes we can head them off at the pass, other times, they ambush us and we fall victim to the ruin.  But....no matter what, God will be by our side, guiding and directing our paths, supporting us and pointing out the learning opportunities and blessings hidden in the rubble. 

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.  Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
(1 Peter 5:8-9)

Every one of us face temptations and the devil knows just which ones are the most tempting and most hard to resist.  He uses that knowledge to worm his way into our lives.  None of us are exempt from the devil's tricks and sneaky tactics but we do have our own super power....that of the Holy Spirit.  Tap into that power....trust in that power..... utilize that power..... and make the devil powerless.

When I said, “My foot is slipping,”
 Your unfailing love, LORD, supported me.
(Psalm 94:18)

....A scripture I've used before and will, no doubt, use again.  My footing is always slipping and this gives me the promise of comfort and support from my Heavenly Father.

The LORD reigns forever;
He has established His throne for judgment.
(Psalm 9:7)

He has established His throne for judgment...... I'm not the one that is supposed to judge anyone or anything, but I truly feel that it's my worst attribute.  I'm equally hard on myself, but that still makes it wrong and sinful for me to judge anyone else.  I recognize this shortcoming, even when I'm doing it, yet I still continue.  The day will come when I receive the ultimate judgement and the only one that matters..... and I'll get what I deserve.  :(

More things are wrought by prayer
  Than this world dreams of. Wherefore, let thy voice
  Rise like a fountain for me night and day.
  For what are men better than sheep or goats
  That nourish a blind life within the brain,
  If, knowing God, they lift not hands of prayer
  Both for themselves and those who call them friend?

"Morte D'Arthur"
Alfred, Lord Tennyson

Prayers for friends and prayers from friends are some of the greatest gifts of all.

But may all who seek you
rejoice and be glad in you;
may those who long for your saving help always say,
“The LORD is great!”
(Psalm 40:16)

And may I always remember to seek His help and not go it alone.

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
(Acts 2:42)

I had a wonderful breakfast with several ladies from church this morning.  I had met several of the ladies before, others were complete strangers...... until after the breakfast.  What a nice way to begin the weekend with fellowship and sharing the Word of God with new friends and old friends.  I'm feeling very blessed!

I do wish, brother, that I may have some benefit from you in the Lord; refresh my heart in Christ.
(Philemon 1:20)

In our moments of weakness, it's always nice to have fellow Christians to help diminish our doubts and strengthen our faith.  I'm blessed with wonderful Christian friends who help me when I'm down and point me in the right direction with their own examples of faith and trust.

Flowers appear on the earth;
the season of singing has come,
the cooing of doves
is heard in our land.
(Song of Songs 2:12)

It may seem like it's too early for spring in Indiana, but God has everything in His control, including the blooming flowers.  After all, this IS my Father's world, every inch of it, and I will do my best to see the beauty in every season, in every type of weather, in every plant, and in every creature.  Nature abounds!

Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone but in every leaf of springtime.Martin Luther

I love this quote and the way it points out the miracles that surround us in any given day.  Nature is certainly one of God's most amazing creations with beauty overflowing every day, in every direction, regardless of the season.  With spring approaching, we always look forward to the new buds, the brown shades turning to grasshopper green, and the promise of warmth and new growth.... new beginnings. 

We may be living in the winter of our lives right now, but God promises us a fresh spring for those of us who believe.  I don't know what Heaven will be like, but sometimes I visualize a kind of Garden of Eden, surrounded by God's warmth and tender loving care.  Whatever it may actually be like, I know it will be perfect beyond my imagination!

Let us acknowledge the LORD;
let us press on to acknowledge Him.
As surely as the sun rises,
He will appear;
He will come to us like the winter rains,
like the spring rains that water the earth.”
(Hosea 6:3)

I never doubt that the sun will be shining (even if it's behind the clouds) when I get up in the morning.  It's happened every day of my life and I can depend on it happening until the end of time.  I don't think twice about the sun rising.....it just will.  That same confidence and trust must also be placed in the knowledge that the Lord will come to take us home.  It IS going to happen, just as the Bible says and just as the dawn promises.

Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly.
(Leviticus 19:15)

This scripture is a continuation from yesterdays thoughts.  Even in churches, we see favoritism.  It may be unspoken, but it's still in the air.  Aren't we a bit more proud when we have a sanctuary overflowing with doctors, lawyers, and business men and a little more ashamed when we have many lower class, poorer, members?  Don't we approach and welcome those who most fit our mold of what a church-goer should look like?  God doesn't care what our occupation may be and He doesn't care if we are dressed in the latest styles.  What He does care about is what is on the inside.  Leave your judgements and opinions at the door and don't let them into your hearts.  And of course, always remember that looks can be very deceiving!

Food for thought.  If God judged me with the same standards that I judge others, would He choose me?  This question was posed at church today and really made me think twice about some preconceived notions that I have about others and ways that I judge them unfairly. 

God does not show favoritism.  My love has strings and I certainly have my favorite people and people that I barely tolerate.  I'm unworthy of God's love, yet He accepts me and loves me for who I am.  I'm not sure where I'm going with this....it just makes me feel so blessed that God loves me in spite of my shortcomings and the least I can do for others is give them a fair chance too. 

The beginning of anxiety is the end of faith, and the beginning of true faith is the end of anxiety.
George Müller

Love this quote.  It came in one of my daily devotions this morning and was right on target for my life and attitude. 

I woke early this morning, around 4:30 AM, and my mind immediately began worrying about one thing after another.  Besides needing the sleep, what was I going to do about any of my worries at 4:30 in the morning?...... Nothing, absolutely nothing.  I wasn't able to get back to sleep and I wasn't able to solve any of my issues.  All I accomplished was making my day harder by being tired.

I'm not proud that I don't always turn my troubles over to God.  Maybe it's an old habit that's hard to break.  God sees it the way it is..... a lack of faith. 

I'm not giving up on myself and neither is God.  I'll keep working on strengthening my faith, praying, and turning everything over to God and His will for me.

And he said, “These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
(Revelation 7:14)

It may not seem like it right now, but we will see the other side of our trials and tribulations some day.  Be strong and shoulder your troubles with the help of the Lord.

I will give you hidden treasures,
riches stored in secret places,
so that you may know that I am the LORD,
the God of Israel, who summons you by name.
(Isaiah 45:3)

Treasures abound....both in this life and the life to come.  As I study the Bible, I certainly have changed my opinion of what a treasure really is.  Material treasures are great, but will come and go and become virtually worthless.  Eternal treasure is exactly that.....eternal!

You will be secure, because there is hope;
you will look about you and take your rest in safety.
(Job 11:18)

Hope is such a wonderful gift.  It gets us through the worst of times and helps us look toward the future an not get bogged down in the present situation.  We should be able to rest easy.....( I'm not saying that I'm always able to do this) ..... without worry and feel safe and secure in the hope the Lord has graciously given to us.

The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.
The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.
(Romans 16:20)

Satan cannot have power over us unless we give it to him.  None the less, he's smart, crafty, and clever.  Fortunately for us, God is more powerful than 10,000 Satan's and will eventually destroy him.  Even though we know Satan's fate, we must keep our guard up at all times and not let Satan take advantage of us during weak moments.  Be strong and aware of his games and temptations. 

Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.
(1 Thessalonians 3:10)

I try and do self assesments to figure out where my faith needs shoring up.  It can be hard to see yourself and your faults with an outlook that God might have.  I'm grateful that I have friends that pray for me and offer support, as well as knowing that God is in my corner while I work on my shortcomings.   

Your right hand, LORD,
was majestic in power.
Your right hand, LORD,
shattered the enemy.
(Exodus 15:6)

The power in the Lord's hand is hard for me to fully comprehend.  What I do understand is that the Lord's hand trumps everything in the universe. The enemy doesn't stand a chance if we rely on God's hand to deliver us from evil.  Hold on tight!

Never forfeit faith too soon.
Wait and see what God will do.
When the silence listens long
For the faintest sound of song,
You may believe your hope's misplaced,
But moments wait in time and space.
And God will give you strength to stand
Until your moment is at hand.

(I don't know who wrote this....it came from a perpetual calendar of mine with no credit given.) 

I hope that it offers hope for you today.

Let those who love the LORD hate evil,
for he guards the lives of his faithful ones
and delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
(Psalm 97:10)

Even though we may hate evil, as human beings, we are still naturally subject to committing evil and behaving in sinful ways.  How comforting to know that the Lord still guards and protects us from the ways of the wicked, always guiding us along a more righteous path. 

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.
(Colossians 3:17)

For Kathy, who continues to live her life according to the will of God, regardless of her own wants and needs.  Thank you for all that you do for me and for others.  You are such a blessing to me and I'm grateful for YOU!  

God is not human, that he should lie,
not a human being, that he should change his mind.
Does he speak and then not act?
Does he promise and not fulfill?
(Numbers 23:19)

Because we are human and full of flaws, I think it can be hard to imagine a perfect God ..... literally, perfect.  We are so far from perfect and can only relate to our own behavior, which is full of sin and contradictions.  God is God.  God is perfect.  Trust in God and His Word.  He will not let you down if you allow Him into your life.

I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
(Psalm 34:4)

How often do I rely on my own view and knowledge of a situation instead of turning to the Lord for His account? ..... More times than I should, that's for sure.  Turn to the Lord first.... not after you have tried your own way...... not after everything else has failed......turn to the Lord first.

Think not, thou canst sigh a sigh,
And thy maker is not by.
Think not, thou canst weep a tear,
And thy maker is not near.

O! he gives to us his joy,
That our grief he may destroy
Till our grief is fled & gone
He doth sit by us and moan.

On Another's Sorrow
By William Blake

God is with us during all of our days, hours, and minutes.  He never deserts us, never turns away.  He feels our pain, as well as our joys, and only wants the best for His children. 

I know all of this in my heart, but I sometimes need to see it in print or read it in His Word to remind myself of God's amazing promises to an undeserving me.

Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as His children. For what children are not disciplined by their father?
(Hebrews 12:7)

Hardships.....we all have them, like it or not.  We talked about this in church today...that hardships are a part of life and used by God to make us rely on the Holy Spirit for our strength, wisdom and guidance.  Thinking of hardships as being part of God's discipline (as a father would discipline his child), rather than punishment, helps me accept them better...... with less "poor me"..... with less "what did I do to deserve this"..... and with less resentment.  I'll never like trials and tribulations, but this scripture directs me to look at them with a different, positive perspective. 

Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.
(1 Timothy 6:18)

My friends certainly set the example of generosity and good deeds.  I am forever grateful for their tender hearts and Godly ways.

If it is a matter of strength, He is mighty!
And if it is a matter of justice, who can challenge Him?
(Job 9:19)

We get challenged and confronted on so many angles in this world, yet it is all relative when we compare it to the power of God.  No one.... not one thing..... not anyone..... is stronger or more just than the Lord.  Keep this in mind as you face daily challenges.  We will all answer to God..... everyone.

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance;  perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
(Romans 5:3-5)

I'm sure I've posted this scripture before, as it's one of my favorites.  I quoted it today to offer hope to a friend.  It can be so tough to suffer through any kind of trial, from illness to persecution and everything in between, but we always have hope in the Lord and know that He will love and support us through anything.  In spite of these difficulties, we learn from them, like it or not, and it will someday, in some way, improve our lives.  He gives us hope of a better tomorrow.... a new day.... a new beginning.

So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.
(Luke 17:10)

Doing just what is expected or required of us is not enough.  We need to do more and we need to it willingly, heartfelt, and with enthusiasm.  It isn't enough to just get by in this life.....God wants us to climb the next step and make a positive difference in this world.

Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.
(Jude 1:2)

Happy Valentine's Day!  No matter what your "love" situation may be, the Lord loves you more than anyone else.  His love is pure, His love is perfect, and His love is forever.

For the Lord will carry out
his sentence on earth with speed and finality.
(Romans 9:28)

We don't know when this will occur......are you ready?  I have my share of fear and doubts, but ultimately, I must trust in the Lord's promises for my future.

But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever,
the purposes of his heart through all generations.
(Psalm 33:11)

The Lord's plan.....the Lord's purposes.....the Lord's promises..... all stand firm forever and are as relevant today as they were centuries ago as well as centuries to come.

Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous;
it is fitting for the upright to praise him.
(Psalm 33:1)

Don't you think the Lord must love to hear millions of His followers singing His praise on Sunday morning?!  I hope He enjoys my praise and forgives my rusty voice. :)

These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come.  So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!
(1 Corinthians 10:11-12)

In this day and age, we can't say that we "didn't know."  We have the Bible, God's sacred word, and all of the lessons containing the consequences of actions, both good and bad.  We know that God forgives us if our hearts are truly repentant, but that isn't a free card to do as we please, then ask for forgiveness.  He wants us to learn from our mistakes, change our direction, and set a good example of Christlike behavior.

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
(Colossians 3:12)

Sometimes I wear these wonderful traits, other times, I wear judgement and other negative attributes.  It's only with the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit that my negative traits can be tamed and the positive traits can be nourished.

Worry is an indication that we think God cannot look after us. Oswald Chambers

How true, yet I still worry about so many things.  Another chink in my armour that needs patching.

But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in Him and receive eternal life.
(1 Timothy 1:16)

Feeling like the worst of sinners myself, this scripture is so comforting.  No one is free from sin.  Not the disciples or any other human being....only Jesus can claim that honor.  But even the worst sinners are given mercy from the Lord.  So don't give up.....don't think you aren't good enough to receive eternal life.  Everyone has been sent the invitation to follow Christ to an everlasting life.  Just accept it!

But let all who take refuge in You be glad;
let them ever sing for joy.
Spread Your protection over them,
that those who love Your name may rejoice in You.
(Psalm 5:11)

The Lord protects me from the evil in this world and the evil that lives within.  His refuge gives me hope and comfort.

I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
(Luke 5:32)

I'm still in the sinner category and will remain there all the days of my life.  I'm working towards the righteous category and repenting, but find that I fail in one way or another on a daily basis.  None the less, I have a hopeful, eternal future to look forward to, as our God is the God of forgiveness.  Just one of my many undeserved blessings.

Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.
(John 14:23)

I do love Jesus....and yet.........I don't always obey.  It seems as though I disobey as much as I obey.  My only hope lies in God's promises, His forgiveness, His mercy, and His grace.

For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his love for those who fear him;
as far as the east is from the west,
so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
(Psalm 103:11-12)

"To infinity and beyond!"..... ;)  That really is how far God's love reaches and how far my sins are driven away.  Amazing Grace!

Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
(Psalm 51:10)

Renewal.....we all need renewal from time to time.  Turn to God in full submission and He will restore your spirit.

As believers, we have the right to claim God's promises. When discouragement sneaks in and you don't feel like reading the Bible--go to the Word. When you're frustrated with life's circumstances and are tempted to quit--go to the Word.

Protect your heart from discouragement. Open the Bible. Claim His promises. And that old desperado named discouragement will be driven away.

Fear knocked at the door and faith answered. No one was there.
Old English Proverb

(This was taken from Today's Turning Point with David Jeremiah)

I really enjoyed this topic today.  Don't you find that when things aren't going well you may turn away from the Word instead of turning toward the Word?  I know that I often respond this way.  We get discouraged....we feel that God isn't listening.....we surely aren't seeing any results from praying.  All of this is beyond our understanding and we need to turn toward the Word....always .....under all circumstances......good and bad...... turn toward God's Word. Open your Bible.

But I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation.
(Psalm 13:5)

I must trust.....I must trust that the Lord loves an unlovable me.

But we do see Jesus, who was made lower than the angels for a little while, now crowned with glory and honor because he suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone.
(Hebrews 2:9)

A Christian funeral has to be a different animal than a pagan funeral.  We are saddened, of course, and tears flow, but we are also joyful, knowing that our dear one is with Jesus and joined with loved ones already in Heaven.  Jesus Christ made that possible for us.  I can't quite grasp all that His death meant to the world, but I know that I don't deserve His mercy and grace, yet He gives it to me for the taking. 

In his distress he sought the favor of the LORD his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his ancestors.
(2 Chronicles 33:12)

It often takes distress and trouble for us to realize that we simply can't do it alone and that we need to turn it (everything) over to God.  It's sad that it takes distress for us to humble ourselves before the Lord.  We've tried it our own way and we are finally so desperate that we turn to God.  Turning to God should always be our first action, never second, third, or as a last resort. 

The fruit of that righteousness will be peace;
its effect will be quietness and confidence forever.
(Isaiah 32:17)

Another comforting scripture from Isaiah.  "Quietness" is a word that means a lot to me, both in my physical surroundings and in my restless mind.  When I'm quiet, I'm more receptive to the Holy Spirit and my mind is calm and peaceful.  "Forever" will be here soon and peace and quietness will be standard for me, not just a fleeting moment.

Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.  Do everything in love.
(1 Corinthians 16:13-14)

Five commands.  Simple in theory, difficult in commission.

But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit,  keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
(Jude 1:20-21)

Faith and praying builds our character.  It helps us to resist the temptation that is put before us every day.  I still cave in to temptation, but when I go back to the Holy Spirit, my resolve is restored and shored up, ready for the next attack. 

May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(Romans 15:5-6)

I can only give God the glory for helping me avoid a major disaster last night.  Was it a coincidence......? just good timing.....? being in the right place at the right time......?  NO, it was God's timing as He held me up and guided my actions.  Thank you, Dear Lord!

What you decide on will be done,
and light will shine on your ways.
(Job 22:28)

Decisions can be difficult.  If only we knew the future....how will this decision affect us in six months.... a year from now?  Prayer for wisdom is our best defense against poor decisions.  God will light our way if we make the decision based on His direction.  Even if we don't see a specific sign from God, if we are walking in His ways on His path, our decision will be sound.

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
(1 Peter 4:10)

I picked this scripture because of the wording "God's grace in its various forms."  Gods' grace is not only unlimited, it comes to us in every way imaginable.  I know that I don't recognize His grace in some instances, which also means that I don't acknowledge and thank Him in those circumstances either.
God wants us....and actually demands us....to serve others, using the gifts that He has given us.  We all have gifts from God and should use those gifts.  I often use illness as an excuse not to serve.  Legitimate as my excuse may be, I also know that God will enable me to serve if I am following His will.
I'm throwing out lots of words that, simplified, just mean that God wants and equips us to serve others.  Just do it!

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.  Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
(Colossians 4:5-6)

It's hard to be "salty" and bold in today's world.  The only way to be saltier is to study God's word and commit it to memory or at least have a good overview and understanding of scripture.  This is a huge weakness in my spiritual growth but I'm working on it.....slowly, but surely.

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
(Hebrews 10:24-25)

This scripture came from the front of a varsity gymnastics program today.  It was wonderful to see this scripture right on the front page and even better yet, to see the girls clapping for and congratulating their competition.  True sportsmanship.

Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up.
(Romans 15:2)

I know this is not speaking specifically of next door neighbors, but of fellow human beings in general, but today, I'm grateful for considerate next door neighbors.  I've been praying for 13 years for decent neighbors....didn't even ask for good neighbors, just decent neighbors.....and God has answered my prayers.  No one is perfect, myself included of course, but I'm not being tormented and harassed by my neighbors, I'm being helped by my neighbors.  So this morning, my oven is full of mini pumpkin loaves to give to my neighbors as small tokens of appreciation.  And I do hope that it builds them up and lets them know that their actions have not gone unnoticed.

Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the LORD.
(Leviticus 19:32)

I'm a baby boomer and many of my friends have faced, or are now facing, taking care of their aging parents.  It's tough to watch those we love losing their health and independence, especially if those we love aren't able to recognize their weaknesses.  They may be angry, belligerent, and just plain ungrateful for the efforts being made to keep them safe and comfortable.  We have to remember what they did for us, the sacrifices that they made for us and now it's our turn to repay them, easy or not.  God commands us to take care of our elders, showing them love and respect.  It really isn't much to ask and it should be a pleasure, regardless of the challenges, to assist them during their final years on earth.

But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the LORD; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out.
(Numbers 32:23)

You can run, but you cannot hide.  Our sins will always be revealed to receive deserved consequences.

Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
(Psalm 139:23)

God tests us every day, whether we ask for it or not.  He also knows that I have many anxious moments which shows my weakness and lack of faith.  I often fail His tests.  Because He knows my heart, I'm comforted that He knows why I fail His tests and offers me guidance and forgiveness to help me pass the next test.

He had a dream in which he saw a stairway resting on the earth, with its top reaching to heaven, and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it.
(Genesis 28:12)

I can picture this in my mind too.  A sweet vision of a stairway to Heaven, with God holding my hand and leading me upward.  I don't know what my ascension into Heaven will really be like, but I'm sure that it will be the best journey of my life.