Jan 01 2022

A man's heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.

Everyone has those days; days when nothing seems to go right.

From the time we rise until we go to bed at night, we encounter a series of trials and tests. It can be difficult not to allow our fears and doubts to lead us, especially when it seems like everything is spinning out of control.

Family issues, relationship woes, illnesses, and work-related problems can leave us feeling overwhelmed. When everything seems to pile on us, it can be challenging to know where to start. As long as we are tirelessly devising our plans and attempting to figure out what to do, we are depriving ourselves of what God has in store for us. His ways are always better than anything we come up with.

Our daily plans should be placed in God's hands and left there. Then, we should follow the wisdom in Proverbs 16:9 and allow the Lord to direct our steps. This action takes the pressure off ourselves and strengthens our dependence on God. As we meet each situation, we can have the assurance that God is with us.

When we allow God to direct our steps, and we succeed, then only He can get the glory. And with God leading us, we will not fail. Things may not always turn out exactly as we think they should have, but we can have peace in knowing that God's ultimate plan is always to lead us closer to Him.

Dear Lord, there are times when I don't know which way to go or what to do next. I struggle between wanting my way and leaning on you to direct me. I know you hold the answers to every question in my life. Help me to trust you when I don't know what's coming next. From the moment I wake up until I go to bed at night, thank you for lovingly leading me. In Jesus' name, amen.

Dec 31 2021

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. :

Each year, at least 60 percent of the population makes New Year's resolutions. The intent is to do better in certain areas in the coming year, and we make lofty and often unattainable goals. That's why research continues to show, year after year, that only about 8 percent of people accomplish even one of the resolutions they have set.

Often, we have the best intentions. We may resolve to be kinder and more giving, to get along better with people at work, or to take better care of ourselves and our families. But intentions lead nowhere if we don't put action behind them.

In Proverbs, King Solomon uses the word "diligence" to show us that for our hearts to stay right with God, we have to work at it and be diligent.

In our relationship with God, it can be far too easy to say, "I commit to praying more or studying the Bible more"—but have no actionable steps put into place to make the goal happen.

When we are diligent, we begin doing something and we stay the course. We don't quit. Being diligent is a wonderful quality in the workplace. Diligent people work hard, and they are dependable. You never have to worry if they will get the job done. Diligent people earn the reputation of seeing things through to the end.

What can we say about our walk with the Lord? Are we diligent? God can give us the strength and endurance to prosper in our relationship with Him. It's not always easy, and sometimes we may want to quit, but with God's help, we can make it for the long haul. It will speak volumes to those who know we are followers of Christ if they see us being diligent in everything we do. It reflects the heart of God, which never gives up and is always faithful.

Dear Lord, I want to be a diligent follower. Your example shows me the value of never quitting because you have never quit on me. I want to reflect a persistent attitude in my workplace, family, and relationships. I want to be dependable and trustworthy among my peers. Within myself, I often want to give up when things are hard, but with your strength and courage in my life, I can stay strong in every area. Help me to be diligent in my walk with you and help me take the commitments that I make to you and others seriously. Please give me a diligent heart, Lord. In Jesus' name, amen.
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