Devotion Archives - New Life Harvest

Fruit Trees
Written by Michelle Smythers

Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. Matthew 7:17

Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Matthew 7:20

When you think about fruit trees, what comes to mind? Do you realize it takes a while before the tree is mature enough to bear the fruit it was created to bear? Through the maturing process, trees must be trimmed and cared for. Sometimes the branches break and must be removed. Sometimes fungus can grow and need to be killed. Insects can try to destroy the roots or even the fruit once it begins to bud. All these things can destroy future fruit if not taken care of. But if it's properly cared for, the fruit can be abundant and be used in many ways.

Now think about why Jesus compared us to trees. Each day we are faced with brokenness - hurt, bitterness, anger, fear. There are things that can start out as a spiritual fungus, seemingly harmless until you realize they are taking over your life - that tv show that you wouldn't watch if Jesus was sitting on your couch, that person you shouldn't be texting. Insects - little white lies, the slip of a cussword, gossip - can creep in to try to destroy your roots or the fruit you are trying to bear.

Is it time for you to tend to your fruit tree? We need to check ourselves often to make sure we are showing Jesus in our lives. There are many times we are around people that may have no desire to go to church or hear a sermon. The way we live will be the only sermon some people hear. So, what is your life preaching? Are you talking like Jesus would talk or would He be ashamed if He was standing beside you as you talked to a friend? Do you have an attitude even close to Jesus or are you constantly smarting off to anyone who is around? Do you need to trim some anger and unforgiveness out of your life? Do you need to permanently kill some bad habits?

A spiritually healthy tree can bear fruit that can be used in many ways, just like an actual tree. The fruit you are bearing can either bring people to God or make them wonder what's the difference. Your fruit can cause your home church to grow or lose members. It can make your family know you are sincere about your faith or just all talk. Your fruit can be the difference in someone's decision for their salvation. That is a huge responsibility that God has given each of us. What kind of fruit are you bearing?

Matthew 5:16

John 13:15

Romans 12:2

1 Corinthians 11:1

Ephesians 4:29

Colossians 4:6

Titus 2:7-8

1 Peter 1:15-16

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

The Reason For The Season
Written by Michelle Smythers

And all that heard it wondered at those things which were told them concerning this child by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:18-19

During Christmas most of us focus on our loved ones. We want them to have the best gifts. We want everyone to get along. We try to please everyone. We go out of our way to make sure others are happy. We sacrifice and go without so others can have. We don't necessarily make material things priority, but with our time or cookies and snacks, it makes us feel good to see others smile.

But just like we want others to be happy, God wants to make us happy. Not just at Christmas but every day. That doesn't mean He wants us to have the best car or house, but He wants us to be happy. He desires to see our family have peace not tension. He wants us to be stress-free. He wants us to be healthy. He wants our struggles to be gone.

In the coming days, take the time to sit back and ponder on the things God has done for you. We hear from others how God has blessed them, just like the shepherds told about Jesus. We have also told about how God has blessed us, even if we only told one person. In the rush of Christmas, take time to thank God for all He has done for you. If you can't think of anything, thank Him for the gift of His Son, the reason for the season.

Merry Christmas!

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Love For The Season
Written by Michelle Smythers

Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

I recently read a post on social media asking people to be sensitive when posting about having an abundance of Christmas gifts. As the post explained, this year may have brought loss to a lot of people. People have lost income, homes, vehicles and, most important, family and friends.

During Christmas season, there are a lot of families in need. Not just financially, but spiritually and emotionally. With the loss of so much, people need to be uplifted, not shamed because they aren't handling things a certain way. We are all created differently so our emotions may be far from what some consider normal. They may even change so quickly that others can't keep up with the changes.

As you celebrate this year, our focus needs to be on the love that Christ came to earth to teach us. As He walked this land, Jesus reminded us in Matthew 22:39, And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. We need to make an extra effort to be patient with ones that are hurting and lashing out in anger. Try harder to reach the ones that won't answer a text or call because they are sad and lonely. Send a Thinking of You card, not just a Christmas card.

This is a time of year that we hear and sing about Joy To The World and Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas. Not everyone feels joy or is looking forward to a holiday without a loved one. We need to be sensitive to others during this time. We need to show love to each other. We need to be there for each other. When you can't be there physically, there is no distance in prayer. Life each other up daily.

Philippians 4:11-12

1 John 4:18

Colossians 2:5

John 13:34

Romans 12:10

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

No Room
Written by Michelle Smythers

And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7

The birth of our Savior Jesus is an amazing miracle. God took a young girl that had never been with any man and placed in her womb the baby that would grow to save the whole world. God touched the heart of a carpenter to marry this pregnant girl when he knew he wasn't the father of her child. But he trusted God that this child was the prophecy of Isaiah.

But when it was time for Mary to deliver the Savior of this world, no one had room for Jesus to be born. All the inns were full, and Mary and Joseph had to go into a barn, where the animals sleep and eat, and deliver Jesus. Then the only place to lay him was in a manger filled with hay for the animals.

But even in these dirty surroundings, the angels of heaven rejoiced and announced the birth of the Savior. Even though there was no room for Jesus to arrive, He still came.

Are you making room for the Savior in your life? You may not feel like your situation is 'clean enough' for Jesus to be in your life, but there is no situation that He will not come into. Sometimes, we want to get rid of the dirt in our lives before we decide to let Jesus in.

But we need to realize that Jesus is coming again. We can either turn Him away by saying "I don't have room for you in my life yet" or we can open our hearts and welcome Jesus to come. When we welcome Jesus into our lives, the angels rejoice. It is a time of celebration because our Savior has saved once again. When we invite Him into our lives, we prepare ourselves for His return. We are preparing to live with Jesus forever.

Are you prepared for Jesus to come? Please remember, Jesus came even when there was no room for Him to be born, and He is returning to gather His children even if others don't have room for Him in their lives. Isn't it time to make room for Jesus in your life?

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Making Mistakes
Taken from My Time With God by Joyce Meyer

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23 ESV

Everyone sins. We all make mistakes and do wrong things, but Jesus has provided for our sins to be forgiven and for us not to be under the burden of condemnation. The Bible says there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (see Romans 8:1). Recently I did something wrong, and as I talked with the Lord about it, I said, "I'm so sorry for my mistake, Father," and He spoke to my heart and said, "Remember, just because you make a mistake, that doesn't mean you are a mistake!"

Needless to say, that really ministered to me, and I want you to remember the same thing when you sin, fail, or make mistakes. Just because we fail at something, that doesn't make us a failure. We are still God's children, and He loves us just as much as He before we failed. God meets us where we are and always helps us get to where we should be. The righteous man falls seven times and yet he rises again, according to God's Word (see Proverbs 24:16).

When we fall, the main thing we need to do is get up again. When we make mistakes, we can learn from them. When we sin, complete forgiveness for us has already been bought and paid for by the blood of Jesus. Celebrate the truth that God's mercy is always new and fresh every morning (see Lamentations 2:22-23).

Prayer: Father, I am sorry for all of my sins, and I am grateful for Your complete forgiveness. Thank you for teaching me that even though I make mistakes, I am not a mistake!

Last Updated: December 1, 2025

I Give You Thanks
Written by Michelle Smythers

O that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! Psalm 107:21

It is so easy to go about each day without thinking about the blessings you have in your life. Especially if life is good, your job is good, your family is getting along and there seems to be no health issues in your life. We can get in a routine of just going about your day and forgetting to thank God for all that is good in your life.

Even though we have one day a year set aside to be thankful for our blessings, we should make a point to be thankful every day. Did you get out of bed this morning, even if you tossed and turned all night? Did you have food for breakfast, even if you decided not to eat? Did you have a job to go to, even if it's stressful? Did you have a family to come home to, even if they are loud at times? Sometimes we take for granted all that God has blessed us with. We don't mean to, it just becomes part of our life, and we get comfortable with the way things are.

Today and throughout the holiday season there will be families that are missing loved ones. There are people that don't have a family to share the holiday with. There are people that won't have extra money for big holiday meals or gifts. There will be people suffering from depression and loneliness.

Will you take time to be thankful each day for all your blessings? Will you take time to reach out to those who are without? I know that it's easy to get busy and forget to thank God, but I challenge you to write down or tell someone each day at least one good thing God is doing in your life. Be thankful for the good and bad things. The bad things can bring you closer to God. But in all things - Be Thankful!

2 Corinthians 9:11

1 Timothy 4:4-5

Hebrews 13:15

1 Chronicles 16:8

Psalm 9:1-2

28:7

86:12

92:1-2

95:2

Last Updated: November 24, 2025

Take Your Life Back
Taken from: My Time With God by Joyce Meyer

If any of you is deficient in wisdom, let him ask of the living God [Who gives] to everyone liberally and ungrudgingly, without reproaching or faultfinding, and it will be given him. James 1:5

Sometimes we feel that our lives have gotten confusing or out of balance. They are not satisfying to us, and yet we don't quite know what to do. The first thing to do is ask God to grant you wisdom and be assured that He will. The second thing you can do is be prepared to take action. Knowing what we should do and doing it are two different things.

I recently felt that some things in my life had gotten out of balance and I was not even sure how it happened, but I knew something needed to be done. I heard myself complaining about dissatisfaction in some areas and finally realized that I was the only one who could do anything about it. It is quite common to want to blame circumstances or other people for our problems, but I have learned over the years that it is usually me who needs to take responsibility.

I needed to pray and get some direction from God and then take action. I determined to take my life back. I saw that I needed to be more organized, because disorganization causes confusion. Organizing my thoughts and following God's lead felt much better than floundering around aimlessly, murmuring about things that only I could change.

If you feel your life has gotten away from you and you're ready to take it back, God will help you. However, His directions do us no good if they are not followed. Set your mind and keep it set for victory!

Prayer: Father, I ask for Your wisdom in knowing how to make improvements in my life that will please You and enable me to be the person You want me to be. Thank You!

Last Updated: November 18, 2025

Grace for Today
Written by Michelle Smythers

Moreover the law entered, that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound. Romans 5:20

Today's world seems to be limited in patience. We are living in a time where most things are instant or can be done within minutes. From online shopping to banking. If we need to research something, we can google or ask AI and get an answer in seconds. It doesn't take long for us to expect things to happen quickly to keep life moving.

But in the rush of life, we are all facing different battles, whether it is mental, physical or spiritual. Sometimes we can deal with our issues and keep moving forward. Sometimes we need a minute. I heard someone talking about needing a minute. She was sitting at a red light and as soon as it turned green, the person behind her started tapping their horn. She said that moment made her realize that we never know how much others need for us to extend grace to those around us. She said the person behind her didn't know that she had just left the funeral home, making arrangements for her mother's sudden death. She needed a minute. She said she often thinks of that moment when she finds her patience with people wearing thin.

While you are out today, whether at work, home or in the neighborhood, let's work on extending God's grace to those around us. We never know why someone is struggling to get their money out of their wallet in a busy store line. Maybe their hands are shaky from stress or grief. Maybe the waiter didn't come fast enough to your table because they needed a minute outside to wipe their tears away. We all have places to be and things to do, but we are also all facing a situation in our lives. How much better would the world be if we slow down and extend the grace that God gives us daily?

He hath shown thee, O man, what is good and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? Micah 6:8

Last Updated: November 11, 2025

Freedom
Written by Michelle Smythers

As we celebrated Veteran's Day, we offer tributes to those who have served our country. We honor them for fighting for our freedom. We praise them for defending our country against terrorism. We give moments of silence to those that lost their lives so that we can live ours without fear. We want to show service men and women of every branch that we have respect for all they sacrifice for us.

Take a moment today to pray for all our service men and women. Pray for their safety as they are active duty. Don't forget their families that are home. Pray over peace of mind for spouses, children, parents and all extended family. This is a heavy burden to carry, and each person involved needs support and prayer from everyone. As we are praying for the ones on active duty, also remember the ones that have been injured. They may still be recovering or suffering from the mental stress of seeing the effects of war. If we have not been in their situation, we don't know the images, sounds, and smells that may be etched into their mind forever. It is so important that we as Christians stand in the gap for those who are laying their lives on the line so that we can continue to live in freedom.

Paul tells us in Galatians 6:2, Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. We are required to help our troops even if we can only offer our prayers for them and their families. By doing this, we show God's love in our lives.

Although the sacrifice of our troops cannot compare to the sacrifice that Jesus made for us, we can see similarities. Jesus was willing to lay down His life so that we could have freedom from sin, death, depression, sickness, and so much more. Daily our troops are willing to lay down their lives so that we can have freedom from terrorism, freedom to worship in a church of our choosing, freedom to speak as we feel (even though sometimes we should keep our mouths shut), and freedom to live a wonderful life. Through these men and women's sacrifice, their love for their country is shown. Jesus said in John 15:13, Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

As you go about your busy life, not only today but every day, take time to say a prayer for our troops and their families. If you get the opportunity, say thank you to a veteran or a current soldier. It is because of them that you are free.

Last Updated: November 4, 2025

Thank God
Taken from Daily Wisdom for Women

Hallelujah! Thank God! And why? Because He is good, because His love lasts. But who on earth can do it - declaim God's mighty acts, broadcast all His promises? You're one happy man when you do what's right, one happy woman when you form the habit of justice. Psalm 106:1-3 MSG

Are you in the habit of thanking God? Taking one minute each morning to turn your thoughts toward thanks to God can change the outlook of your entire day. Maybe you woke up to the reminder of all the extra work on your plate this week. Maybe your children didn't sleep well last night but you have a nonstop day today. Maybe you just don't feel like being in a good mood!

Stop. Just stop what you're thinking for a moment and focus your mind on God. Allow His Spirit inside you to remind you of His goodness. His love lasts. Always. Now thank Him for at least one great blessing in your life right now.

You are the only one in charge of your attitude. Many things will happen today. Some good, some maybe not so good, but all are outside of your control. You can control how you respond to everything that happens this day. Why not thank God no matter what? Think that might change how well your day goes? Why not give it a try and see what happens!

God, please remind me in this moment of Your goodness and Your great love for me! Please help me choose YOU in each moment. Help me thank You in every circumstance. Amen

Last Updated: October 27, 2025

Appreciate Our Pastors
Written by Michelle Smythers

And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding. Jeremiah 3:15

We have set aside October as Pastor Appreciation month. But appreciating our pastors shouldn't just happen one month out of the year. It takes someone with a special call to go above and beyond like our pastors do.

Years ago, I watched a show about a pastor and his family. In one episode, for a school assignment, two middle school boys decided they would follow their pastor for a week and do a report. It would be easy because the pastor only worked for an hour on Wednesday and Sunday, so how much work would there be to have to write about. And all he did was read scripture and tell a story. Simple and easy research and essay. From day one, they found out quickly that their research wasn't going to only be two days of work. They learned that a pastor doesn't have set hours to work. You may be called in the middle of the night to rush to be with a church member. There are sick people to visit. There are desperate people searching for one last hope. There are things that go wrong in the church building that must be taken care of. There are fund raisers and special services to be organized. And most of all, there are prayers that need to be prayed almost constantly.

When God lays it on your heart to be a pastor or associate pastor, He doesn't just accept the bare minimum that person is willing to do. He calls those that are willing to give up their sleep to pray for someone that is desperate. He calls those that financially do without so the church can stay open. He calls on those that are willing to never give up on people that seem unworthy of compassion. He calls those that face lonely times without showing their weakness. He calls those that give up so much just to be pushed aside and taken for granted.

I think the reason this stuck with me is because I grew up with a father that was a pastor and an evangelist. There is a lot that pastors do that is never seen or even given a second thought. Pastors and their families sacrifice with the realization that their reward is reaching others for God, not a pat on the back.

New Life Harvest is blessed to have a pastor and an associate pastor that is willing to go above and beyond for our members. I'm sure we have not always made it easy for them to do God's work and lead us in the right direction. But they have never given up on any of us.

With their prayer and commitment to each and every one of us, we have been able to overcome and face many different battles in our lives. They are quick to tell us they love us, they are quick to pray when we need them, and most of all, they are faithful to us. We never have to wonder if they will be in service.

Take some time out of your day to pray for your pastor, whether you come to New Life Harvest or somewhere else. Take a few minutes to send them a card telling them you appreciate them. Take them a meal so they don't have to cook. But more importantly, tell them face to face that you love them. Where would we be without our pastors?

Psalm 37:23

Hebrews 13:17

2 Timothy 4:2

Titus 1:7-9

1 Thessalonians 1:2, 5:12-13

Last Updated: October 20, 2025

Be Honest With God
Taken from: My Time With God by Joyce Meyer

Trust in, lean on, rely on, and have confidence in Him at all times, you people pour out your hearts before Him. God is a refuge for us ... Psalm 62:8

Recently God whispered in my heart, "You can talk to Me about anything." This is a good reminder for all of us from time to time, because we have a tendency to think that we need to approach God from a standpoint of total faith and strength, pretending we have it all together, sounding eloquent in our prayers. One of the things we enjoy about a good friend is that we can be honest with them, we can tell them anything and expect them to understand. Surely we should not expect anything less from our Heavenly Father. He invites us to pour out our hearts to Him!

Where sin is concerned, we should never attempt to hide it. God already knows everything we have done wrong and He has provided for our forgiveness, but He wants us to confess our mistakes so we can release the burden of them. David said, "When I kept silence [before I confessed], my bones wasted away through my groaning all the day long" (Psalm 32:3).

If we are having difficulty trusting God in a s situation, there is no need to pretend otherwise. Pour your heart out before Him in total honesty, because it will give you relief and open a door for Him to help you. If we are angry, we can tell God all about it. If we are confused or disappointed or weary or struggling with doubt, we can be totally honest with Him. I don't know about you, but that makes me feel really good. You can never shock God, so try the "totally honest" approach. I think you will be glad you did.

Prayer: Father, I love You very much and I want to have a great friendship with You. Help me have the courage to be totally honest with You, and to never try to hide anything!

Last Updated: October 13, 2025

Worship With A Song
Written by Michelle Smythers

And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord. Psalm 40:3

What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. 1 Corinthians 14:15

How do you handle the hard times in your life? Maybe you are just having a day when it seems one thing after another is going wrong. Maybe you are dealing with uncertainty in your health. Maybe the economy has taken a toll on your family. Do you begin to think about all the things that can go wrong? Do you dwell on the negative? Or do you push to put the negative far from your mind?

For some, it's easy to move forward and just wait until good things start happening again. But for others, it may be a fight to see anything good coming anytime soon.

I've been thinking a lot about the power of a worship song. After attending a funeral for a worship leader, the pastor spoke of this man's favorite worship song that helped him in a two-year health battle. She said he lived by the words:

Never been a day, Never been a minute

Never been a moment that You weren't in it

There's never been a time that You didn't see me through God

So I worship You

When anxiety and fear come to your mind, is there a song that you can put on to help you enter into the presence of God? Because we are different and face different battles, we all have a song that grabs our heart and spirit in a personal way. These special songs may change with each battle we face. Since we are not promised a life of ease, these songs may change. Some days we may not be able to hear an encouraging word from someone. We may not want to talk to anyone about what is going on in our life. We may just want to enter into God's presence and find peace that only He can give. He gives us strength when our world is crumbling. He gives hope when we see no way around our situation. God can drown out the noise that keep us anxious and fretful.

I want to encourage you today to find a song that you can listen to on repeat. A song that will uplift your spirit. A song that brings peace in the middle of a storm. Most importantly, a song that can bring you into God's presence and nothing else matters. One that welcomes God's presence into your situation. Even if your situation doesn't change quickly, God will give you peace as you worship.

Last Updated: October 6, 2025

The Big Picture
Written by Michelle Smythers

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

While looking at some of the trees that are starting to change colors, I thought about how pretty one tree was. Then I saw another with different colors. Some are still green, but a lot are in the changing process. I drove along for a few minutes and then went across a bridge over the lake. As I looked along the cliff, all the colors blended into a beautiful picture. Not one tree looked out of place. Not one color was too bright or dull. It was perfect.

I began to think about the seasons in life like a single tree and a cliff. As we go through the different seasons and change, we may see the dead of winter in one battle, the new growth of spring, the drought of summer or even the beauty of fall. But during each battle or victory, we tend to see only that one tree, right now. We may have a beautiful life full of joy, peace and everything moving forward. It only takes a moment for that life to change seasons. We can go through the driest point of our spiritual life. We may not be able to fill our thirst for God. The dead of winter may be in our life to where nothing is moving forward, or we feel the chill of depression. When we are in these dry, cold seasons, we tend to only see what is right in front of us.

The hard part is seeing our life as a cliff, which I believe God does. When you take all these seasons of your life into account, do you see how you need all these seasons to make you beautiful? If there was only one season in nature, nothing would ever change. Nothing would grow. Things could still be beautiful, but all the different colors of our life wouldn't come through. When we grow from season to season, God looks at our life as a cliff. He sees the beauty of all the trees in our life. All the colors blend together to make that perfect picture that God created.

Because each season changes us, the growth that we experience draws us closer to God and closer to being what He wants us to be. That cold winter chill turns to a warm breeze. That dry heat turns to crisp fresh air. That dead branch stretches out with a new budding flower. That dry grass softens from the morning dew. No matter what season you are in right now, try to see the big picture. Look at where you have been but see where God has brought you. Look at your need but see how God is meeting that need. Believe in your heart that God is creating a perfect cliff in your life, a cliff where everything is blended perfectly. Try your best to see the Big Picture. God does because He loves you!

Last Updated: September 30, 2025

This Is How I Fight
Written by Michelle Smythers

Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. 2 Timothy 2:3-4 KJV

Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer. 2 Timothy 2:3-4 NIV

Take your share of suffering as a good soldier of Jesus Christ, just as I do and as Christ's soldier, do not let yourself become tied up in worldly affairs, for then you cannot satisfy the one who has enlisted you in his army. 2 Timothy 2:3-4

We all face battles. Some more than others. These can range anywhere from home life to financial, mental to physical and even spiritual. Sometimes we have people that surround us and fight with us. But there are some battles that we must face alone. No one can change the situation, no one can take away the pain and frustration. We feel surrounded by trouble.

When we face these battles, it may be hard to focus on what to do. Our minds may wonder about the 'what if's' or the 'how am I going to get past this'. It's so easy to get distracted and depressed.

Reading the Bible verse in 2 Timothy 2:3-4, it says 'no man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life' or 'do not let yourself become tied up in worldly affairs'. Sometimes it's hard to remember that. It doesn't take much to get tied up in our troubles. But the last part of the verse days, 'You cannot satisfy the one who has enlisted you in his army.'

There is a song that says, 'It may look like I'm surrounded, but I'm surrounded by You. This is how I fight my battles.' Fighting our battles means looking at the One who surrounds us. We fight by worshipping God. We fight by praising God for the outcome He sees fit for us. We fight by focusing on God and His will, not our own. We fight by surrendering the worries, mind battles and depression to God. In order to please Him, we need to take our mind off the things we are fighting and keep our mind on Him. Let Him surround us with love, strength, and peace of mind. THIS IS HOW I FIGHT MY BATTLES!

Last Updated: September 22, 2025

Take A Good Look
Written by Michelle Smythers

Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. Psalm 139:16 KJV

Your eyes saw my unformed body all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. Psalm 139:16 NIV

How do you see yourself? What do you think when you look in the mirror? Do you get depressed because you see gray hair? Do you feel down and out because of laugh lines or crow's feet? Do you want to avoid looking because of extra weight or not enough weight? Do you avoid people because you have a rotten attitude for no good reason? Do you snap at the simplest comment from someone?

We all go through phases where we are just plain miserable with the way we look or act. Some days we feel confident and proud. Other days we don't even want to leave the house. But this is not how God wants us to see ourselves. He didn't create us in His image so we can find all our imperfections. David said, Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect. God knows we're not perfect and doesn't expect us to be. But God loves us because we are the clay, and thou our potter we all are the work of thy hand. Isaiah 64:8

So, the next time you look in the mirror and see nothing but imperfections or realize that it really is your voice that sounds so hateful and demanding, remember what Job said. The spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life. Job 33:4 We need to be thankful for the gray hair. It means we've aged and are still here with loved ones. When you see the extra weight, be thankful for the food you've had to eat, many people don't have enough. As for the attitude, we need to lose that! The breath of the Almighty hath given life and we need to appreciate that. We all have bad days, but we don't need to take it out on those around us. We have the breath of the Almighty in us. When you feel the attitude building, take a deep breath and think about who gave you that breath.

Most of all, remember that God loves you. It doesn't matter if you're old or young, tall or short, fat or skinny. He loves you when you're mean and hateful or joyful and bubbly. We are constantly being molded by the Potter. Don't dwell on the negative. Focus on the positive and the love that God has for you. How can you feel down and out when you think about God's love?

Last Updated: September 15, 2025

No Fear
Written by Michelle Smythers

And the Lord, He it is that doth go before thee, He will be with thee, He will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed. Deuteronomy 31:8

Today there are a lot of people that are dealing with depression and anxiety. The stress and uncertainty of jobs, health and the economy is affecting people in a lot of different ways. Some people can handle the stress and accept that things will be better without any worry. For others, the fear of the unknown is eating away at their peace of mind.

It's easy to tell people "Don't worry, God is in control". And even though it's true, some people can't get past all the fear and disappointment. Their mind just won't move past the bad side of any situation. They may know in their heart that God is taking care of them and truly believe that. But the devil's job is to plant just a seed of doubt or fear in your mind and then continue to remind you of that fear. If he can keep your mind reeling, he can take your focus off God. He can steal your sleep. He can destroy any joy that you feel. He can cause frustration and anger with family members.

Even though each day may be a struggle to keep positive thoughts in your mind, push through that struggle. If you feel the depression drift back in, think about a few special Bible verses that remind you that God is there. When you feel fear surrounding you, sing the chorus of a song that lifts you up. When you don't know how much more you can take, pick up your Bible and search until you find just the right verse to remind you that God is your help in time of any need.

This is not an easy time to live through. But God is a very present help in time of need. If you feel like depression and fear is too much to handle, reach out to someone you trust to pray with you. If you know someone that is fighting a battle of depression, reach out to them and pray with them. There's no doubt that God is with us but there is also no doubt that God wants us to be there for each other also. With God, and each other, we can face every day and every situation. Take time to pray for someone today.

Psalm 40:1-3

Psalm 46:1

Psalm 30:11

Isaiah 41:10

John 16:33

Revelation 21:4

1 Peter 5:7

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Matthew 11:28

Last Updated: September 8 , 2025

Always
Taken from My Time With God by Joyce Meyer

I am the Lord, and I do not change ... Malachi 3:6 NLT

God is always the same He is the Rock on which we can stand. He will be with us always. He always forgives, He will always love unconditionally, He is always for us, and He is always faithful! I urge you to focus on these promises and the word "always," and realize how comforting it is to know that we can always count on God.

Even if we become faithless, God remains faithful. As humans, we often change toward people when they change toward us, but God does not do that. He is who He is, and nothing we do (or don't do) changes that fact. It is awesome to think about how God is always with us, and therefore, we are never alone ... we are never without hope and strength.

It is equally wonderful to remember that anytime we acknowledge our sin and are willing to turn from it, He always forgives us completely. He removes our sin and does not even remember it anymore. If you are hanging on to the guilt of old sins, you need to stop remembering what God has forgotten.

On the days when you feel that nobody loves you, and perhaps you even feel very unlovable, you can be assured that God always loves you. He has promised to love you with an everlasting love (see Jeremiah 31:3).

When everything around you is shaking and nothing seems stable, remember that God never changes and you can always depend on Him.

Prayer: Father, thank You that You are always the same and I can rely on You. Help me always remember that You are always with me and always for me!

Last Updated: September 1 , 2025

Prayers
Written by Michelle Smythers

Now Hannah, she spake in her heart only her lips moved, but her voice was not heard: therefore Eli thought she had been drunken. And Eli said unto her, How long wilt thou be drunken? Put away thy wine from thee. And Hannah answered and said, No, my lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit: I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but have poured out my soul before the Lord. 1 Samuel 1:13-15

And she said, Oh my Lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that sttod by thee here, praying unto the Lord. For this child I prayed and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of Him. 1 Samuel 1:26-27

I heard a man talking about his mother that passed away several years ago. He was raised in church but hasn't gone since he was a teenager. He's now in his late 60's. He was talking about health problems and other things when he made the comment, "I know the only reason I'm still here is because of my mommy's prayers. If she hadn't prayed for me, I don't know what would have happened to me."

Knowing that this woman prayed for him her whole life made me think about the prayers that I have prayed. We all have prayed for people and situations that seem like God is just not quite hearing our prayers. Maybe you've prayed for your child to come back to God, maybe your spouse isn't where they need to be or even prayed for a desperately needed healing for you or a family member. There are times we wonder if God is ever going to answer our prayers. We believe He is faithful, and we read over and over in the Bible that if we are faithful, our prayers will be answered. But just like this man's situation, even though his mother didn't live to see her prayers answered, there's no doubt God heard her prayers. This man realizes it and it's still not too late for her prayers to be answered.

As I think about this, it makes me realize that God's promises are for today and the future. If He says He hears our prayers and will answer them, He is true to His word. Just like Hannah says in 1 Samuel 1:27, "The Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of Him." He did it for Hannah and He will do the same for us. Don't ever give up on the prayers that you pray. Even if you don't see them come to pass, God's timing is all that matters.

Last Updated: August , 2025

I Will Not Fear
Written by Michelle Smythers

When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. Isaiah 43:2

With recent flooding, I have thought a lot about this verse. When I looked at some of the water, I realized how fast and strong the flow was. Within hours, houses were flooded, roads covered, property was floating away or twisting in the trees and even huge trees were knocked over and swept away.

As I thought about this, I thought about the fears in life. Some are slight but some can be so overwhelming that just the thought can take your breath and make your heart pound. Fear can be like flood water. Fear can hit slowly, taking time to creep into your mind. It may take hours or days before it seems that fear has control. But it can also hit suddenly and just completely overflow you. Before you know it, your heart is racing and panic sets in.

In either situation, we need to take a deep breath and focus on God. He promises us I will be with thee. When it feels like fear is going to win, remember His promise: through the rivers (of flooding fear), they shall not overflow thee. Call on God in those fearful times. Talk to Him, He is always with us. Tell Him your fears. Tell Him you need Him. Tell Him you don't want the fear to overflow. He is faithful. He will hold you close. He will stay with you even after the fear subsides.

Memorize this verse so you can remind yourself when fear tries to overtake. Look up more verses also so that fear doesn't stand a chance in your mind. Remember that God is always just a prayer away.

Psalm 27:1-3

Psalm 56:11

Psalm 91:1, 4-7

Proverbs 3:25-26

Isaiah 54:14

John 14:27

Romans 8:15

2 Timothy 1:7

Last Updated: August 18, 2025

God Is Still Good
Written by Michelle Smythers

To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that it might be glorified. Isaiah 61:3

I was listening to a talk show and one of the hosts was talking about a big life change that had taken place in the past month. After two years of serious health battles for him and his wife, life seemed to be getting back to normal. But without any kind of warning, note or conversation, while he was out of town on a planned trip, his wife moved out. She wouldn't return calls or texts, and he was contacted by a lawyer a week later that she had filed for divorce. He has no explanation for why. He talked about how he was embarrassed and hurting so badly that he told no one, not his mother or friends. But then he says "But no matter what, God is still good. He is still in control." They went on to talk about how he had a broken relationship with his son from his own past mistakes, but they had recently been working on their relationship. Unexpectedly, he is now helping raise his six-year-old granddaughter because of his son's own personal issues. And he says, "Once again, God is still good, and He is still in control."

We often hear how our attitude can make or break us. When I heard his story, the other hosts were all talking about how they had no idea he was dealing with all of this because he came to work smiling and laughing. It sure makes you wonder how people can go through things without God. Even though this man's heart was breaking and his mind was full of questions, he leaned on God. He trusted that God has it all under control, no matter what it looks like.

Do you have faith like that? It would be great to think that no matter what comes up, expected or unexpected, we have no doubt that God is still good. When bad times come into our lives, it seems easier to be negative. We may worry about how will we be able to handle changes. But when the doubt comes, let's focus on the fact that God is with us. When all else seems to be falling apart, God never changes. He is ready to give joy and beauty for the hurt, mourning and loss. Most of all we need to remember that God is still good, and He is still in control.

Last Updated: August 11, 2025

Greater Faith
My Time With God by Joyce Meyer

Yes, though I walk through the [deep, sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me ...

Psalm 23:4

When we experience trials in life, we usually ask God to deliver us from them. We want them to go away, and that is understandable. God often does deliver us as we stand in faith, but there are also times when He chooses to take us through them, and that requires greater faith. It is easy on our emotions when we get what we want, but it requires great faith in God and steadfastness if we don't.

Whether God delivers us from something difficult or gives us the grace to go through it is up to Him, and we should receive His choice graciously, knowing that His way is always best. We receive strength in the struggle! When life is easy, we don't really make spiritual progress, but when we must stand firm, we grow!

We live life forward, but we understand it backward. In other words, we usually don't understand the "why" when we must go through a thing that is difficult, but we often do understand later on in life.

Be patient with God's choices and trust Him. His way is not our way, but it is always the best way!

Prayer: Father, I commit my way to You and I trust that You will work all things out for my good!

Last Updated: August 4, 2025

The Lord's Purpose
Written by Michelle Smythers

Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:21 NIV

We have all had days when everything is a struggle. Just the thought of getting out of bed brings us to tears. Realizing that we have to face people and pretend our lives are happy can make our hands tremble. Going to work for eight straight hours seems like an eternity. We don't want to answer questions. We don't want people to give us that look of pity. All we want is for life to go back to normal and be happy. We want the plans we had to work out the way we planned.

But life is not easy. People change. Feelings change. And despite our best efforts, plans for the perfect future fall apart.

In Matthew 5:45 we are told that 'He maketh the sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust'. We know that just because we are God's children, living a Christian life, we don't get a trouble-free life. But because we are God's children, living a Christian life, we have a promise that It is the Lord's purpose that prevails.

It's good for us to make plans, set goals and work towards those. Sometimes everything goes as planned and we watch as things slowly fall into place. But in those times when everything falls completely apart and all you see is broken pieces, close your eyes, take a deep breath and call out to God. We see all the pain, disappointment and frustration of the day that is ahead of us. God sees our tomorrow and the next day and the next. He sees us coming through the struggle. He sees the purpose He has for our life. And yes, He sees the plans you have made. He sees the goals you are working toward. But sometimes our plans and goals are not lining up with God's, so He leads us down a new road. And sometimes things are out of our control and changes are made regardless of how hard we try to make things right in our eyes. But nothing is a surprise to God. He knew before we were even born what challenges we would face and the disappointments that would come into our life, but He still has a purpose for us. God loves us and even though we face scary, questionable times, He has a purpose and is always in control.

Last Updated: July 29, 2025

Turning From Doubt
Written by Hannah Whitall Smith

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering (for He is faithful that promised) Hebrews 10:23

You cannot perhaps hinder the suggestions of doubt from coming to you any more that you can hinder someone on the street from swearing as you go by consequently you are not sinning in the one case any more than in the other. Just as you can refuse to listen to them or join in their oaths, so can you also refuse to listen to the doubts or join in with them. They are not your doubts until you consent to them and adopt them as true. When they come you must at once turn from them.

Give up your liberty to doubt forever. Put your will in this matter over on the Lord's side and trust Him to keep you from falling. Tell Him all about your weakness and your long-encouraged habits of doubt and how helpless you are before them. Then commit the whole battle to Him. Tell Him you will not doubt again, putting forth all your will power on His side and against His enemy and yours. Then "keep your eyes on Jesus" (Hebrews 12:2), looking away from yourself and away from your doubts, holding fast the profession of your faith without wavering, because "He who promised is faithful" (Hebrews 10:23). Rely on His faithfulness, not on your own. You have committed the keeping of your soul to Him as the faithful Creator, and you must never again admit the possibility of His being unfaithful.

Cultivate a continuous habit of believing, and sooner or later all of your doubts will vanish in the glory of the absolute faithfulness of God.

Luke 1:11-20

John 20:26-29

Last Updated: July 21, 2025

A New Thing
Written by Michelle Smythers

Behold, I will do a new thing now it shall spring forth shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:19

Are you tired of how your life is? Tired of wondering when God is going to answer your prayers, how is He going to provide in a situation, and even sometimes wondering if He is really listening when we pray and cry out to Him. But then, just as fast as the fear, worry and doubt come, God's peace comes to calm us. I'm sure I'm not the only one that has said, "I'm just not going to worry about it anymore" but it's not long until the devil is whispering "Are you crazy? God sure is taking His sweet time. Are you sure He really cares about you?"

Sister Susan Thomas once preached a message that really touched my heart. She preached about the dry, desert place and the new beginning that God is going to give. But the new beginning is our choice. We have to forget the past, understand the present and look to the future. Those three simple steps are not so simple. In order to forget the past, we need to let go of the hurt that someone may have caused us. We have to let go of the regret that we have lost significant income. We have to let go of the grief of losing someone special. Look at your present situation. Do you understand why you are in the desert place that you are? Sometimes to understand this, we have to face the fact that we made some bad choices. Sometimes things are beyond our control and that makes it harder to understand. But dig down deep in your heart, look at your situation with an open mind and heart. Realize that sometimes there are changes we need to make ourselves and some changes that only God can make. Find the difference. Do your part to make changes and then let go of your control so God can change what He needs to. Now look to the future. What do you see? Do you see God opening a door that only He can? Do you see a better job coming your way? Do you see your family's needs being met? Do you see the one you've prayed for so long surrendering to all to God? That should be our goal, see what will be, not what is.

God's Word is so full of promises that sometimes we overlook them or thing they are not for us. No matter what your situation is, there is a promise of a new beginning. You don't have to get everything in order before God will work for you. Leave all of your worry, regret, pain and fear with Him. Leave it. Don't put it there and pick it up in a couple of hours. Leave it. Ask God to show you the new beginning that His Word promises in Isaiah. Ask Him to make a way in your wilderness. Ask Him for the rivers in your desert. His Word promises it and He doesn't go back on His Word.

Last Updated: July 16, 2025

Stand Strong
Taken from Anchor For My Soul

Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13 NLT

When you have done all you know to do, there is only one thing left: to stand. When you remain alert and hold firmly to what you believe, you can persevere in courage. Wisdom does not ignore the world, but it does see from a higher perspective. Stay alert and strong.

Today's verse is describing tenacity. Have the tenacity to stand tall and be aware of what goes on around you. Let faith root you in the goodness and power of God. He can't be fooled, and He is not weak. No matter what, He is faithful. Christ's triumph is sure. Stay rooted in His love, and let it be your courage to keep going no matter how bleak the situation may seem. God is still powerful, merciful, and victorious.

Powerful God,

I am grateful for the power of your love in my life. I don't have to depend on my own strength (or lack of it). Empower me to stand firm in your grace.

Last Updated: July 7, 2025

Natural Beauty
Written by Michelle Smythers

That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him the eyes of your understanding being enlightened that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints. Ephesians 1:17-18

Sitting on the beach is like a whole other world. When I look at God's beauty that He created just by speaking it into existence, I am amazed. When I look out in the distance, and only see water, my mind begins to wonder.
People say the world just all of a sudden showed up after a "Big Bang". How can you look around you and really believe that? Think about an artist with a clean canvas. Do they just take the brushes and bang them together and end up with a beautiful image that people will enjoy? I don't think it's that easy.

If you are fortunate enough to be able to enjoy slipping away to another part of the world and get away from your usual setting, take some time to soak in what God has created for us to enjoy. If money is tight for you, take a day to slip off to a local park or trail. Don't just walk around killing time. Take time to really look at what God has created.

At a beach, every wave brings in another trail of shells and there are no two alike. How many billions of sea creatures has God created, that even with all the shells that wash up, there are still millions that are waiting their turn to wash ashore? How many grains of sand has God created for us to walk on, sink our toes in, bury ourselves or make thousands of sand castles that get washed away but there is still enough sand to build another?

As you go outside today, look around you. Think about all that surrounds you. God took the time to create a beautiful world for us. Look closely at the leaves on the different trees. Take in the smallest flower. Soak up God's wonderful sun that is big enough to heat and light the whole world. It's too easy to take God's creation for granted. After all, we se it every day. But today, look at it - don't just see it. We are truly blessed by the riches of the glory of God.

Last Updated: June 30, 2025

He's A Good, Good Father
Written by Michelle Smythers

If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give you good things to them that ask him? Matthew 7:11

There are times that it seems easy to be a parent and then there are times when you just don't know what to say or do. But even in uncertain times, we always want the best for our children. There are a lot of times, things are beyond our control and all we can do is pray.

When I think about this, it makes me realize how good our Heavenly Father is. Sometimes we take for granted that when our lives are upside down and we don't know which way to turn, God is patiently waiting for us to turn to Him. In our daily lives, we try to guide our children so that they will learn to lean on God with anything that comes their way. But are we leading by example?

It's easy to say, "I trust that God will provide" or "I know God will change this situation". But saying it and giving God complete control and trust is completely different. There are many times in the Bible that God reminds us to trust Him. Many times, He reminds us that worry, fear and doubt will get us nowhere. But even more than that, He reminds us how much He loves us, and He wants the absolute best for us. He doesn't want us to struggle daily. He doesn't want us to be depressed. He doesn't want our lives to be empty of joy and happiness. He doesn't want us to deal with sickness and death. Because of sin and the world we live in, we still have to deal with all these things. But the important thing to remember is that He is there for us, waiting for us to ask Him for help to face each day. He wants to remind us how much He loves us. There is nothing we say or do that will surprise Him or leave Him wondering what He can do for us.

As you begin your day, thank God for being a Good, Good Father. Thank Him that you can come to Him with anything that weighs heavy on your mind. And then be sure to leave your worries with Him. Ask Him to give you the peace you need, the strength you need or any other need you have. Keep in mind "How much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?"

Deuteronomy 7:9

Job 12:7-10

Psalm 84

Psalm 86:15

Isaiah 54:10

Matthew 6:25-34

Matthew 7:7

Luke 12:7

Romans 8:37-39

Philippians 4:6-7

1 John 4:10, 16, 19

Last Updated: June 16, 2025

Kindness
Written by Michelle Smythers

And be ye kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32

My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue but in deed and truth. 1 John 3:18

There is a popular catch phrase that people use today: Be kind to one another.

It seems simple enough to do. All you need to do is be nice. Most of us have people in our lives that we have known since childhood or most of our adult lives. We can have friendly conversations, make jokes and even have heart to heart talks if needed. It seems easy to be kind to those we love and appreciate. But even with those we don't know, we need to show them love and kindness. You never know how much a kind word, or even just a smile, will change a person's day.

But sometimes kindness is shown in different ways. 1 John 3:18 tells us to love in deed and truth. A lot of times we show kindness through offering a compliment or offering to help someone in need. Other times, it may be buying dinner for someone, washing their clothes or picking up their groceries. When we show kindness to others, a humble heart doesn't need everyone to know what they have done. They don't need for their actions to be in front of others, waiting for applause. Sometimes kindness is shown secretly, without boasting or expecting anything in return. It's simply love being shown.

To most people, it's easier to show love and kindness than to receive it. Maybe we don't feel worthy of a gesture. Maybe we don't want to appear needy. But when someone goes out of their way to show kindness, whether it is a small or large gesture, we should respond with a grateful heart and attitude. We never know when God has laid something on someone's heart to do something special for you. And as important as it is to bless others with kindness, it is just as important to be blessed by others. God uses each one of us at different times to show His love. That's what makes God's family so special. We need each other. Ask God to show you how you can show kindness to someone today. Then follow His leading. You never know how much your kindness will affect a person.

Last Updated: June 9, 2025

In His Presence
Written by Michelle Smythers

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord Acts 3:19

We all go through times in our life that we are not able to be at church. The reasons can vary from weather to health to work. There are times when we are required to work because God has blessed us with jobs to take care of our needs, we are obligated to fulfill that job. During the winter, there are times when bad road conditions prevent us from making it to church or even having a church service. And of course, there are times when we, or other family members, are sick. Regardless of how hard we try to be the perfect Christian, there are times we are just not able to be in God's house.

God knows our heart. He knows if we sincerely desire to be in His presence but just can't be in church. I have realized in my own life that when I'm not able to be in church like I want to be, there is a longing to be in God's presence. I know that God is with me everywhere I go, no matter what day or time it is. I don't ever have to worry about God not being with me. But there is something about actually being in His presence in a church service. Just like in Acts 3:19. the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. I know that being a Christian is not based on feelings, but there are times in a church service that you can actually feel God's arms wrap around you and pick you up so you can stand tall again. And sometimes that's all you need to face another day. I know that there are preachers and religious programs on tv that are a tremendous help to those that can't physically get out to attend church. These programs can help us make it from day to day. But the blessings and strength that you can draw from being in an actual service are priceless. To participate in the worship music and the alter service can bring peace that you can't find anywhere else.

So no matter what the reason for your absence from church, try to make it a priority to be in a church service as much as possible. It's not just to keep the numbers of attendance up, it's to keep your spirit up. We all need the strength and refreshing that only the Lord's presence can give. Make plans to be in His presence soon.

Last Updated: June 2, 2025

Beauty From Ashes
Written by Michelle Smythers

To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.

Isaiah 61:3

We had to once have reconstruction on water damage in our home. We could see some of the damage and definitely smell mildew that was growing beneath the floor. It wasn't until the contractor came and tore up the surface that we saw all the damage. But as he tore out the damaged areas, you could see that the major foundation was still intact without damage.

I thought about how so many times in our lives, things seem ruined and damaged beyond repair. We're afraid to even begin to work on ourselves because the damage may be too great for God to handle. Just like water damage, when things seep into our lives, the hurt and disappointment can lay beyond the surface without drawing too much attention and then it just takes one more thing to completely break us.

That's why it is so important to have a strong foundation in God. 2 Timothy 2:19 says, Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. We can stand sure in knowing that out of the damage, God will give us beauty beyond compare. He will clean out the mess that we hold inside. He can take away the anger, frustration, disappointment, fear and hopelessness. We are His. Without a doubt, He knows us.

Are there ashes in your life that need to be turned to beauty? Do you need to replace mourning for joy? Do you want to carry praise instead of heaviness? Take a look at your foundation. Are you standing sure on God's foundation? He's there. He's waiting on you. Turn all your heaviness over to Him. Let Him give you beauty for your ashes. Let Him be your joy. And then, give Him your praise.

Last Updated: May 19, 2025

Self-Sacrifice
Written by Jo Ann Lemon

2 Peter 1:3-11
Romans 12:9-13

1 John 3:11-18

There were once two porcupines who lived in Alaska. Desiring to get warm, they drew close to each other. As they did, they needled one another. It hurt so much that they pulled apart. But when they did, they got cold again, so they drew close once more, and hurt each other as before. Their predicament - they were either cold or hurting.

All too often this is the situation, even in Christian homes. Personality differences are like the quills of the porcupines. They can get tangled and cause hurt. We must work at our relationships so that we will demonstrate the Christlike qualities of love, compassion, self-sacrifice and a forgiving spirit. The motto for our homes should be: "Be completely humble and gentle be patient, bearing with one another in love" (Ephesians 4:2).

Love demonstrates itself in action. Have we done something today to demonstrate our love for our families? Love takes pleasure in its object. Jesus' example of love and compassion teaches us that it is possible for these qualities to be part of our Christian homes.

Self-sacrifice is against our human nature, yet it should be part of our "new nature." If each of us had an attitude of self-sacrifice, what a change would come about in the atmosphere of our homes. Self-sacrifice is total unselfishness.

Loving unselfishly does not mean making the least of ourselves but making the most of someone else. We view the other person through the eyes of Jesus.

This thought can transform relationships in our homes, especially with our unsaved loved ones.

Last Updated: May 13, 2025

The Perfect Mother
Written by Michelle Smythers

Strength and honor are her clothing and she shall rejoice in time to come. Proverbs 31:25

While thinking about Mother's Day, I thought about all the times I've looked to my own mom for advice. From little things to life changing things. Did I always use her advice? No, even if it was the right advice. Not everyone has a great relationship with their mother, but I'm blessed to have a relationship that some can only dream about.

As I thought about this, I thought about Eve, the first mother in the Bible. Talk about going into a blind situation. Eve didn't have a mother to turn to for advice when she needed help with her children. She couldn't ask what she should do when she thought she was failing at every turn. No one could guide her with suggestions when her children were sick. But she made it. She raised her children, even though there may have been days she didn't think she made a difference in their lives.

I want to encourage all the moms today. We all miss the mark sometimes. We lose our temper. We may lock ourselves in the bathroom and cry while the kids destroy the house with their toys. We may fight with our teens because they know more than we do. We may worry ourselves sick over our adult children. Being a mother isn't always easy. But there is also an indescribable feeling you get from a sudden hug for no reason, a dandelion being handed to you from a small dirty hand or an 'I love you' text out of the blue.

Even on the days it seems hard, God gave you your children because He knew you could have an impact on their lives. He didn't expect you to be perfect. He only expected you to love them unconditionally and teach them about His love for them.

Happy Mother's Day!

Last Updated: May 6, 2025

I Am With Thee
Written by Michelle Smythers

Fear thou not for I am with thee: be not dismayed: for I am they God: I will strengthen thee yea, I will help thee yea, I will uphold thee with they right hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41:10

Have you ever had a time when fear seemed to overtake all your thoughts? Maybe even to the point of trembling or being short of breath. Maybe you feel like you can't even stand. You feel as if the world is coming to a complete stop. Time is moving ever so slowly. Even if you try as hard as you can, you can't seem to stop the fear from taking over.

In Deuteronomy 31:6, we're told, Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. In those moments when fear has a grip on you, it may not seem so easy to be strong. Our courage may seem nonexistent. And if we admit it, we're not so sure that God is really with us.

In those times of uncertainty, we need to find a way to take the focus off what has brought so much fear to us. It's definitely not easy to just let go and stop worrying. But Psalm 34:4 tells us what David did: I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. He went straight to God. He didn't try to figure it all out. He didn't try to make sense of his situation. He simply sought the Lord. When we seek the Lord, our peace may not come immediately. We may have to wait. In Psalm 46:10, God tells us Be still, and know that I am God.

In the moments of fear and anxiety, it's important to find a quiet place, seek the Lord then be still and trust that God is there with us in the middle of our circumstance. Even though we have to fight sometimes, it's worth it to find peace and strength that only God can give.

Last Updated: April 28, 2025

Led By Truth

Taken from: Anchor For My Soul

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 25:5 NLT

When we look to God as our faithful leader, we listen to His guidance and wisdom. We adopt His ways, and we walk by faith. Nothing in this world could surprise Him. Knowing He doesn't get frustrated or overwhelmed, we can trust His guidance as He teaches us to stand on His Word and come into our own.

Reliance is beautiful and nothing to be ashamed of. Relying on God doesn't mean we have no choices. As He instructs us, He shows us the ways we can stand and move in His grace. He will not take the steps that are ours to take. We get to partner with Him and experience His help whenever we need it, but we also get to choose to walk in the ways of His love.

Gracious God, teach me your ways even as I walk through the hills and valleys of this world. I trust your strength and leadership, and I'm not afraid to take the steps in front of me. You will be with me every moment.

Last Updated: April 22, 2025

God's Love
Written by Michelle Smythers

But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

As we celebrate Easter, what comes to mind? Do you think about the suffering Jesus did for you? Do you think about the pain His mother and followers were feeling? Do you think about that silent Saturday, while those close to Jesus waited, hoping that He would rise like He said He would? Or do you think about the rejoicing that went across the land when the word spread that Jesus wasn't in the tomb, He was alive!

There are a lot of things to think about and celebrate this Easter weekend. We have a risen Savior that conquered death, hell and the grave. We have the promise of not only eternal life but the forgiveness of our sins. Not just one time, but when we daily miss the mark, Jesus died for those sins also. We've been taught that sin is sin, there is no small or big sin. But we have also been taught that we can ask for forgiveness daily.

I heard a DJ on the radio as he talked about the love of God. He finished his talk with a thought that stuck with me: God loves the me that people only tolerate. Think about that quote. Add a little food for thought this Easter weekend. Jesus didn't die for the perfect person. He didn't give His life for only the one with the right attitude, the one that never doubted. He didn't take the beating for the one that had it all together and never wavered in their faith. He died for the sinner. He gave His life for the one that has had a bad day and snapped at everyone in sight, so that when we realize what we've done, we can come to Him and ask for forgiveness. God knew we will never be perfect. He knows we can't please everyone. Most of all, God knows your heart. When people just tolerate our bad behavior and wrong choices, God loves us with unfailing love.

What an amazing love! God loves us so much He gave His Son for our sins. Jesus loves us enough to die for our sins. What more can we ask for?

Last Updated: April 14, 2025

Defined by God
Written by Michelle Smythers

The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand. Psalm 37:23-24

While talking with a friend about her daughter and her struggle with depression and anxiety, she made a statement that stood out. She asked her daughter, "How long are you going to let someone else define you by your faults?". Her daughter is struggling to find her good qualities, and there are many, because of the negative things that are constantly being brought up. Once she corrects one fault, another is pointed out. She is in an endless battle to become the person someone wants her to be.

This made me think about the things the devil will throw up at us. He is trying his best to keep us worried about our faults. We all have them. We are all different, but no one is perfect. As hard as we try, we can't change on our own. The habits we develop over time may not always be good ones. Not necessarily sinful, but we are not the best that we could be. There are times when we realize the things we need to change and work very hard to change them. But then there is something else that we see. We are constantly trying to overcome the faults in our own lives. And the devil doesn't mind whispering in our ears to remind us of those faults.

But I want to remind you today that you are a child of God. He loves you with a perfect love. He doesn't expect you to change everything about you before He can love you completely. He isn't going to push you away if you can't make all the changes without His help. He doesn't need you to be perfect. He needs you to be willing to work towards being a better you. He wants you to need Him for support to change the faults in your life. You are not defined by what is wrong in your life. You are defined by God.

Last Updated: April 7, 2025

New Start
Written by Michelle Smythers

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away behold, all things are become new.

2 Corinthians 5:17

What would you do to have a new start, a new life? At one time or another, we have all come to a point that we need a do-over. It doesn't matter whether it is because of a bad attitude, a hurtful word, or a life-changing mistake. Maybe you took a job that seemed to be a challenge but took up too much of your family time. Maybe you started a friendship with the wrong crowd and that led to bad choices in your own personal life. Maybe you took part in spreading hurtful talk (true or gossip) which led to several confrontations. It would be nice to be able to erase our mistakes and no one remember them. But that doesn't happen. People tend to hold things against us, sometimes just so they can remind others that we are far from perfect. Maybe they just want to be able to tell us we are no better than them.

But we don't have to be perfect to have a new start, a new life. We only need to be forgiven. When we come to God, sincere and whole-hearted, tell Him our mistakes and ask Him for His forgiveness, He is faithful and just to forgive us. He takes our life, washes us in Jesus' blood, and gives us a brand-new start.

He forgives us for being angry and saying things in the heat of the moment. He cleanses our minds from having negative thoughts about those we are with every day. He helps us deal daily with getting away from negative influences, so we don't fall back into a deadly lifestyle. He even forgives us for mumbling under our breath as we walk away from someone.

We may compare our mistakes to other people and try to convince ourselves that we aren't as bad as them, but wrong is wrong, no matter what it is. Although with some mistakes we don't need a whole new life, we may just need a new attitude on a new day. But Paul tells us that in Christ, old things are passed away and all things are new. Did you catch that? ALL THINGS are new. So, the next time you snap at someone, end up somewhere you don't belong or tell someone something that's not completely true, Christ can make you a new creature. Yes, you can be forgiven of anything but first you have to ask. So don't ever think that you are so far gone that God can't help you. You have never made so many mistakes that God won't forgive you. But in the same token, your mistakes are never so slight that you don't need to ask forgiveness. Either way, don't be afraid to ask for God's forgiveness. It's the only way to receive it. And He is ALWAYS there for us.

Last Updated: March 31, 2025

God's Magnum Opus
Taken from: Just Like Jesus by Max Lucado

Why do Jesus and His angels rejoice over one repenting sinner? Can they see something we can't? Do they know something we don't? Absolutely. They know what heaven holds. They've seen the table, and they've heard the music, and they can't wait to see your face when you arrive. Better still, they can't wait to see your face when you arrive. Better still, they can't wait to see you.

When you arrive and enter the party, something wonderful will happen. A final transformation will occur. You will be just like Jesus. Drink deeply from 1 John 3:2, "We have not yet been shown what we will be in the future. But we know that when Christ comes again, we will be like Him" (italics mine).

Of all the blessings of heaven, one of the greatest will be you! You will be God's magnum opus, His work of art. The angels will gasp. God's work will be completed. At last, you will have a heart like His.

You will love with a perfect love.
You will worship with a radiant face.
You'll hear each word God speaks.
Your heart will be pure, your words will be like jewels, your thoughts will be like treasures.

You will be like Jesus. You will, at long last, have a heart like His. Envision the heart of Jesus and you'll be envisioning your own. Guiltless. Fearless. Thrilled and joyous. Tirelessly worshipping. Flawlessly discerning. As the mountain stream is pristine and endless, so will be your heart. You will be like Him.

And if that were not enough, everyone else will be like Him as well. "Heaven is the perfect place for people made perfect." Heaven is populated by those who let God change them. Arguments will cease, for jealousy won't exist. Suspicions won't surface, for there will be no secrets. Every sin is gone. Every insecurity is forgotten. Every fear is past. Pure wheat. No weeds. Pure gold. No alloy. Pure love. No lust. Pure hope. No fear. No wonder the angels rejoice when one sinner repents they know another work of art will soon grace the gallery of God. They know what heaven holds.

There is yet another reason for the celebration. Part of the excitement is from our arrival. The other part is from our deliverance. Jesus rejoices that we are headed to heaven, but He equally rejoices that we are saved from hell.

Last Updated: March 24, 2025

A New Thing
Written by Michelle Smythers

Behold, I will do a new thing now it shall spring forth shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:19

Are you tired of the old things in your life? Tired of wondering when is God going to answer prayers, how is He going to provide in a situation, and even sometimes wondering if He is really listening when we pray and cry out to Him. But then, just as fast as the fear, worry and doubt come, God's peace comes to calm. I'm sure I'm not the only one that has said "I'm just not gonna worry about it anymore" but it's not long until the devil is whispering "Are you crazy? God sure is taking His sweet time. Are you sure He really cares about you?"

I once heard a message about the dry, desert place and the new beginning that God is going to give. But the new beginning is our choice. We have to forget the past, understand the present and look to the future. Those three simple steps are not so simple. In order to forget the past, we need to let go of hurt that someone may have caused us. We have to let go of regret. We have to let go of the grief of losing someone special. Look at your present situation. Do you understand why you are in the desert place that you are? Sometimes to understand this, we have to face the fact that we made some bad choices. Sometimes things are beyond our control and that makes it harder to understand. But dig down deep in your heart, look at your situation with an open mind and heart. Realize that sometimes there are changes we need to make ourselves and some changes that only God can make. Find the difference. Do your part to make changes and then let go of your control so God can change what He needs to. Now look to the future. What do you see? Do you see God opening a door that only He can? Do you see a better job coming your way? Do your see your family's needs being met? Do you see that one you've prayed for so long surrendering all to God? That should be our goal, see what will be, not what is.

God's Word is so full of promises that sometimes we overlook them or think they are not for us. No matter what our situation is, there is a promise of a new beginning. You don't have to get everything in order before God will work for you. Leave all of your worry, regret, pain, and fear with Him. Leave it. Don't put it there and pick it up in a couple of hours. Leave it. Ask God to show you the new beginning that His Word promises in Isaiah. Ask Him to make a way in your wilderness. Ask Him for the rivers in your desert. His Word promises it and He doesn't go back on His Word.

Last Updated: March 17, 2025

You Can Change the Future
Taken from: Unstoppable by Christine Caine

Once you've thrown off what you should not be holding on to, you are free to grasp new batons. You cannot be grabbing new batons if you are clutching old weights. Your capacity to grab a new baton is determined by how wide you open your hands as you await what God has in store for you.

When you are living for the race, you'll be running that race all week long, all month long, all year long, and all life long, actively and passionately seeking where God is at work and joining Him in that work. You'll be intentionally and purposefully carrying your baton into the building where you work, into your interactions with your neighbors, into your community, your school, your grocery store, your bank, even your own kitchen, always on the lookout for what God wants to accomplish through you in every circumstance.

Just consider the power of carrying your baton into those places rather than dragging along the ball and chain of hurts, resentments, sins and scars, and old priorities that are not God's priorities. You will feel lighter and run as a beacon of light for the Lord's glory rather than hibernating in a dark den surrounded by the weights of the past. Such freedom awaits you as you throw off those things that hinder you from becoming an unstoppable runner in God's divine relay.

Are you ready to put an end to all that holds you back, so you can run like the wind to your next exchange zone, chomping at the bit for your next baton? Then do so. Put an end to it. Endings, it turns out, are the perfect place for a new start.

I have often thought of the story of Joseph - beloved by his father but betrayed and sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, betrayed by others and thrown into prison but rescued by God and raised to a position of prominence and power. "You intended to harm me," he later told his brothers when God enabled him to use that position of power to help his whole tribe, "but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." Genesis 50:20

God promises that the plans He has for you are for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Why would you choose to live weighted down by the past when His promises are beckoning you into your future? Cut yourself free from all that hinders and cast it all away so you can experience the truth of Psalm 40:1-3 I waited patiently for the Lord. He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire. He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in Him.

Last Updated: March 10, 2025

Fear
Written by Michelle Smythers

Fear thou not for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee yea, I will help thee yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41:10

Fear. Such a small word. Only four letters. But what a hold it can have on our lives. Fear of the dark, fear of the light. Fear of the unknown, fear of the known. Fear of the past, fear of the future. Fear of going to the doctor, fear of not going. It seems there are so many things that can bombard our mind and fill our hearts with absolute dread.

The actual definition of fear: a strong emotion caused by great worry about something dangerous, painful or unknown that is happening or might happen. We all have times when we worry a little or get nervous. It's natural. But there are times that fear grabs hold of our mind and we can't shake it. We may pray and seek God but still have no relief. We may even worry what others will think if they know we are carrying this fear with us. After all, fear not or do not be afraid is repeated over 100 times in the Bible. It's as if God knew we needed to be reminded with stories of how much fear can affect us.

At times, fear can be crippling. We can get to the point of sleep loss, weight loss, not leaving the house or even shutting people out. We can feel alone and just sit and wait for the worst possible thing to come into our lives. Try as we may, the fear just won't go away.

When we are at this point, God doesn't give up on us. He doesn't turn away and tell us to grow up. He tells us that He is with us, He will strengthen us, He will help us and He holds us up with the right hand of His righteousness. How comforting. Can you feel the strength He offers? Can you feel Him reaching towards you trying to help? He simply says I am you God. Just as Pastor Vines has said, "Not only is God a God to everyone, He is MY God!". So, when fear creeps into your mind and tries to control your thoughts and emotions, remind yourself that God is with you. He's not going to leave you alone. No matter what comes your way, God is there to help you. He is YOUR God!

Last Updated: March 3, 2025

Pure Water
Taken from A Little God Time for Women

I want more than anything to be in the courtyards of the Lord's Temple. My whole being wants to be with the living God.
Psalm 84:2NLV

Have you ever noticed that the more consistently you drink water, the more your body thirsts for it? And the less you drink water, the less consistently you desire it. Though you still need water to live, you become satisfied with small amounts of it disguised in other foods and drinks. But for a body that has become accustomed to pure water on a daily basis, only straight water will quench its thirst.

The same principle applies to God's presence in our lives. The more we enter His presence, the more we long to stay there. The more we sit at His feet and listen to what He has to say, the more we need His Word to continue living. But if we allow ourselves to become satisfied with candy coated truth and secondhand revelation, we will slowly begin to lose our hunger for the pure untainted presence of the living God.

Does your entire being long to be with God? Press into Jesus until you no longer can be satisfied with anything less than the purest form of His presence. Cultivate your hunger and your fascination with Him until you literally crave Him. Spend your life feasting on His truth, knowing His character, and adoring His heart.

Last Updated: February 24, 2025

The First Miracle
Written by Michelle Smythers

Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? Mine hour is not yet come. His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it. John 2:4-5

While listening to a sermon about knowing who Jesus is and what He is able to do, the preacher began talking about the very first miracle Jesus performed. Jesus already had His disciples following Him but hadn't begun to perform miracles. While at a wedding, the bridegroom ran out of wine and began to panic. Mary goes to Jesus, telling Him and expecting Him to do something. And after telling Jesus, she turns to the people and says, 'do whatever He tells you'. She had no idea what He was going to do or how He would do it, but she knew He could change the situation.

I never thought of it like that before. Mary never saw Jesus do anything spectacular. To others He was just a guest at a wedding. But Mary knew in her heart that God sent Jesus and He had a purpose. She simply believed. She believed enough to say, 'do whatever He tells you'. That was all. No begging, no crying, no worrying.

If only we could have that much faith. Wouldn't life be simpler? When those little surprises pop up, we could face them with certainty that Jesus has it under control. When the disasters come, it's ok, just do whatever Jesus says. Don't go around asking others what to do. Don't try to fix the situation yourself.

A lot of times we hear people telling us to be more like Jesus. But today, I would like to encourage you to be like Mary. Just believe.

Last Updated: February 18, 2025

He Sees You
Written by Michelle Smythers

I will praise thee for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works and that my soul knoweth right well. Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:14,23-24

There are a couple of new songs out now, Made For More by Josh Baldwin and He Sees You by Terrian, that have touched my heart with the same line in both songs: I know who I am because I know who You are. Can you think about that and feel confident about who you are?

There are so many times we fail to live up to God's standards. We miss the mark, sometimes several times a day. Then we deal with the guilt of not living up to who we think we should be. If we are not careful, we can let this guilt and shame keep us from pushing forward to do better. We may feel like we will never live up to what is expected.

In Made For More, the chorus says, So why would I make a bed in my shame When a fountain of grace is running my way? I know I am Yours, and I was made for more. In He Sees You, the first verse says, I'm not perfect, Even at my best I don't deserve Him, When everything's a mess under the surface, He never makes me feel ashamed. Think about these words. God's grace and love can override any feeling we have. He sees everything we are facing. He knows why we act out sometimes. He knows we are far from perfect and never expects us to be.

Are you afraid you aren't who you should be? Are you focusing on your failures instead of God's grace? I want to encourage you today. God sees exactly where you are. He sees your heart. He knows your intentions. He knows your capability. He is there for you to reach out to. He is ready to lead you in the right direction. Don't give up because you've slipped up. Bring your burdens, Bring your shame, Lay it down, At His feet, You are a child of the living God. (He Sees You)

Last Updated: February 11, 2025

Doing Right
Taken from Anchor For My Soul

Trust in the Lord and do what is good dwell in the land and live securely. Psalm 37:3 CSB

When we trust the Lord, our actions will follow suit. We choose to walk in the light of His ways and do what is right in integrity and love. Wisdom directs us to fix our hearts on the promises of God. As we do, we find security in His faithfulness. He is reliable and true, and He does not fail to follow through on His Word.

Knowing that God is faithful propels us to act in kind. We do good according to God's law of love because we know it is the highest standard. His character will not change, and His ways won't fail. Let's do the right thing, no matter the temptation to cut corners, because the One who directs us in wisdom is faithful and true.

Father,

I trust You. Your nature doesn't shift or change with the times. You are faithful, just and true. I choose to follow your ways over the shortcuts of the world that only want to get ahead. Your ways are better, and in the end, I won't regret being true to You.

Last Updated: February 3, 2025

Searching for the Rock
Written by Michelle Smythers

And he said, The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer. 2 Samuel 22:2

The first time I took my kids tubing, we had never been to that section of the creek and I assumed that it was shallow all over. So, as we began, we could see the rocks at different levels in the creek. Some sections were deeper than others. But the rocks were constantly visible.

It wasn't long until we came to some small rapids. Rocks were along the creek bottom so I felt certain that there would be no problems, other than scrapes and bumps. I went first so I could let the kids know if they should stay on one side or go down the center. When I began, the rush of the water was exciting. But as I slowed down and tried to turn around to say it was ok to go, I realized I couldn't see any rocks. My first response was panic, we had no life jackets and no guarantee that the kid's floats wouldn't flip. I began yelling for them to stay to the side, not the middle. Then I was paddling trying to get to the side so I could see the rocks. Seeing them made me feel safe and secure.

When I calmed down, I was able to enjoy the rest of the day. I laid back on the tube and began to think about how God is described as our Rock, Fortress and Deliverer. Daily things come into our lives. Some things are good, exciting and fun. Then we have days that all news is bad and nothing seems to go right. I compared the days of smooth sailing like tubing where we can see the rocks. We know that if we need to, we can stand up quickly and everything will be fine. But on those bad days, we look around and we may be in a panic, searching desperately to find our Rock, our Deliverer. When we don't feel God's presence, we may think He's not near enough to help.

In the times we feel lost and desperate, our faith needs to be strong. We may not see our Rock directly around us. We may need to work to get to the Deliverer. We may have to cry out to our Fortress. But He will never fail us. Regardless of how lost we feel, how alone we are or how panic surrounds us, our Rock is there. He is the sure foundation that we can rely on. So, remember the next time you are in unfamiliar territory, and you can't find the Rock, work your faith and go to the Rock. He is waiting and will always be there for you.

Last Updated: January 27, 2025

Continual Praise
Written by Michelle Smythers

I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together. Psalm 34:1-3

Daily we talk and interact with people. Some days we reach more people than other days. There are some we are close to and some we are friendly to. Some know more about us than others. Some we are eager to share good or bad news with. Some we shy away from with our news.

We also all go through things in our lives that can have huge impacts on our emotions, whether it's happy, sad, scared or angry. There are times we just feel hopeless and lost. It may seem that there is no answer to our prayers, no way out and God is busy taking care of others that are hurting as bad or worse than we are. We may feel like giving up but a small part of us believes so strongly that you just can't lose hope.

We may face short battles or an all-out war. We are not immune to trouble just because we are God's children. Times like these can shake us to the core. But we fall to our knees and cry out to God. And even though God's Word tells us He is our Protector, Provider, Confidant, and Deliverer we are still amazed when He comes through for us.

When we receive the answer to prayers it can make us want to shout it from the rooftop. But it can also make us feel so humble and blessed that God really does care about our problems. We all have different situations and emotions. We all react differently. Just because we are not telling everyone God has come through for us, doesn't mean we take it lightly. It means the answer was so personal and appreciated that all we can do is thank God over and over. David said, My soul shall make her boast in the Lord:. I know when my prayers are answered, many times all I can do is cry. I believe God sees that as praise. My soul is continually praising Him. God most definitely deserves our praise daily. It's up to us how we praise Him. Shout it from the rooftop if you want but don't feel inadequate because all you can do is whisper Thank You over and over.

Last Updated: January 20, 2025

Authentic Ministry
Taken from Anchor For My Soul

We have proved ourselves by our lifestyles of purity, by our spiritual insights, by our patience, and by showing kindness, by the Spirit of holiness, and by our uncritical love for you. 2 Corinthians 6:6 TPT

Paul was aware of the power of a person's values and ministry and how it can influence the effect of the gospel on those who witness it play out. How we live matters. How we treat people matters. How we approach challenges matters. Though we cannot be expected to be perfect, integrity keeps us moving on the path of honesty, love, and grace.

How will people know you are trustworthy? By the way you live. How you show up in relationships, how reliable you are, and the openness and humility of your heart all matter. Instead of getting caught up in what a successful ministry looks like, focus on the foundation of your character and how you treat everyone around you.

Jesus, thank you for leading by example when you walked this earth. Your ministry always exemplified the mercy and power of God. It was not exclusive or cold, and I want to live the same extravagant kindness in my life. Help me, Lord.

Last Updated: January 13, 2025

Peace
Written by Michelle Smythers

I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8

After watching a Reelz about taking a nap, it made me think about how we can apply that in real life. It was saying Daniel slept in a den of lions and Jesus slept through a storm. So, she took it to mean when things around her are wild and stormy, the best thing to do is take a nap.

Although it seems comical, what if that was how we handled situations? Maybe not take an actual nap until all our problems went away, but what if we handed everything over to God and trusted Him to control the circumstances around us and rested in His peace?

David tells us in Psalm 4:8 that only the Lord can make us dwell in safety. Sure, there are things we can do to prevent some things that come into our life. But some things are beyond our control. And it seems that when those things come, we often panic and lay awake wondering how we can solve this problem. When we let this become our way of dealing, loss of rest and sleep can cause us to overreact or handle things the wrong way.

When things come into our lives, we need to turn to God's Word and promises. It may not be easy to let go and let God handle them, but when we do, He will bring us peace and rest that no one else can give. If you are facing a storm right now or things seem wild with no possible way out, look to God. Trust that He is in control, and we don't need to keep our minds racing with negative thoughts. Let His peace surround you.

Last Updated: January 6, 2025

Follow Your Heart, Not Your Schedule
Written by Michelle Smythers

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away behold, all things are become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17

The beginning of the year is a perfect time for people to make resolutions of improvement. They promise themselves new diets, fitness routines, financial restraint and so many different ways they are going to change their lives. Although most of us start out with the very best intentions, they usually don't last. We may eat better and exercise for a few weeks, but then fall back into our old habits of cookies and chips. We may cut back on our spending after Christmas because we are broke, but once our money begins to build back up, we start spending because of the great seasonal sales.

Often, we even decide to be more faithful in Bible reading, praying and church attendance. We look back at the time we wasted instead of reading. We realize that all the times we meant to pray, we forgot because we were too busy. We made excuses when it came time to go to church. We don't mean to push God to the side or let other things take priority, but it just happens. We hear over and over how we need to use discipline and self-control but regardless of our true efforts, we fail.

I was listening to a radio program that was talking about the new year and making a true, heartfelt effort to draw closer to God. He was saying to not make unrealistic goals, don't say you're going to read an hour a day and pray three to four hours. It's important when setting goals for ourselves, to make them reasonable and reachable. I have started this in my life. Begin by reading 10 or 15 minutes a day and praying early in the morning before you begin your daily routine. Get up early if you have to but make it a priority. Once you start, it grows in your heart. You want to read just five more minutes. You want to pray when you begin your day and when you end it. You catch yourself recalling scripture throughout the day. You begin to remember parts of scripture and can't rest until you have found the full scripture in God's Word. It becomes more than just routine, it becomes part of your day that you don't want to leave out. It changes your attitude, your outlook and your desires.

When you begin to make your New Year's resolutions in the next few days, look at your spiritual life as well as your physical. What changes do you need to make? Are you willing to put a true effort into growing? Are you going to continue with the changes or let the discipline wear off? Make small changes to begin with and let your heart, not your schedule, guide you. You will see that it is very much worth the effort.

Last Updated: December 30, 2024