Endurance

Life is a marathon. We're not in it for the sprint. Some miles are easier than others, but the finish line is worth it!

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (James 1:2-4 ESV)

Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. (Romans 5:3-6 ESV)

Go North

Sometimes we keep praying about a situation that God has already given us an answer to. We go in circles hoping for a different direction or different answer; one that is easier or more comfortable. Delaying obedience is disobedience. Be bold. Take a step of faith today and do the thing that God has been telling you to do. He's got your back!

"You have circled this mountain long enough. Now turn north..." -Deuteronomy 2:3

God's got your back!

When you feel like everything is going wrong and all of your friends have abandoned you, remember that God loves you. He's got your back!

So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6 NLT)

Protect Me From Me

When we pray for protection, it doesn't always have to be against an enemy or situation. Sometimes we just need to pray protection against ourselves. 

For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. (Romans 7:15 ESV)

But you, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head. (Psalm 3:3 ESV)

Calm me

Whether you are struggling with fear, anxiety, temptation, frustration, sadness, overwhelming emotions, or just a really bad day, remember that the same Jesus that calmed the raging storm can calm your raging heart. 

"...He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." (1 John 4:4 ESV)

Talk to God

Talking to God won't change Him, but it will change you.  Having a conversation with God can bring encouragement, strength, wisdom, comfort, and an overwhelming peace that only comes through talking with your heavenly Father.  Talk to Him today.  Tell Him everything you've been afraid to tell Him.  He will hear you.

"Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart." -Jeremiah 29:12-13

Courage to Obey

There are times when we know what we're being called to do, but are so afraid that we second guess ourselves. We are afraid of rejection, of embarrassment, or of being uncomfortable. It takes courage to obey. Sometimes it's making the decision to walk in obedience to God even when all of our human being is shaking from fear. Sometimes that step of faith needed is a step of obedience.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” --Joshua 1:9

"Jesus replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it." --Luke 11:28