Overcomers February 28, 2017

1 John 4:4 (NIV)

4 You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

The world can often be a hostile place for believers. God wants his spiritual children to know, however, that they are not alone. He lives in us through his Spirit. We can be assured, therefore, that no matter what spirit someone else may have, the Holy Spirit of God is greater, more powerful, and more glorious. The victory is ours because God's presence in us is greater than any force that we will ever face. We have our victory assured over all forces, powers, spirits, or opponents.

Thought for today: Do I look for God’s shelter?

Very Present February 27, 2017

Isaiah 41:13 (NIV)

13 For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand
and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.

Life crashes in and we wish we could be children again and have someone to take care of us and protect us. Into our confused and chaotic world, God's promise comes to us once again. Like a loving parent with a frightened child, God reaches out and takes hold of our hand and comforts us with his precious words: "Don't be afraid. I'm here with you. I will help." Even when he seems distant, the echo of this thought can remind us that we are never alone or forgotten (cf. Heb. 13:5-6).

Thought for today: Do I acknowledge God’s presence in my life?

Fearless February 26, 2017

Isaiah 41:10-11 (NIV)

10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

11 “All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced;
those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish.

Not only does God's blessing rest on us, his presence goes with us. We cannot ever be in a place where he is not with us (see Psalm 139). His presence and power will uphold us and strengthen us. No matter what may happen in our physical bodies or our physical worlds, God has given us the ultimate triumph over every enemy and all wickedness in Jesus. Even Jesus' doubters and enemies will worship our Lord and kneel at his feet and will recognize that our faith is not only appropriate, but it is victorious (cf. 1 Thess. 1).

Thought for today: Do I honor God’s presence?

Blessings February 25, 2017

Numbers 6:24-26 (NIV)

24 “‘“The Lord bless you and keep you;
25 the Lord make his face shine on you
   and be gracious to you; 26 the Lord turn his face toward you
   and give you peace.”’

How would you like to place the mighty name of the LORD on people you love? God promised that this priestly blessing enabled his name (his power and authority) to be placed on his people. What an incredible gift that we have the power to give to others with just our faithful words! Blessings are found all throughout Scripture. Why not begin looking today for ways to pronounce God's blessing on others? You can start with this one, and then add a bunch of others as you find them in Scripture.

Thought for today: Do I look for the blessings in situations?

God’s Plans For My Life February 24, 2017

Psalm 138:8 (NIV)

8 The Lord will vindicate me; your love, Lord, endures forever—
  do not abandon the works of your hands.

First there is conviction: the LORD will finish his work in us! (cf. Phili. 1:6). Second, there is declaration: the LORD's love endures and doesn't fail (cf. 1 Cor. 13:8). Finally, there is supplication: O Lord, don't forget me, your creation (cf. Ps. 139:13-16). What beautiful balance for our walk with the Lord.

Thought for today: Do I constantly interfere with God’s plans for my life?

The Power Of God’s Hand February 23, 2017

Exodus 15:6 (NIV)

6 Your right hand, Lord, was majestic in power.
Your right hand, Lord, shattered the enemy.

One of the great images of the Old Testament is that of God stretching out his right hand with power and doing mighty things for his people. So often, Israel faced a larger and more experienced foe. Yet when his people fully trusted in him, he gave them great victory.

Thought for today: Do I ask God to touch my life?

Connection February 22, 2017

Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV)

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

We need each other. We cannot make it on our own. God calls us to get together regularly to encourage and to motivate each other to live vibrant lives of service and faith. With the day of Jesus' return and our ultimate victory on the horizon, we should be motivated even more to help and to encourage each other.

Thought for today: Can I get past my own “stuff” and encourage others?