This time of year can test your self-control, whether it’s a decadent dessert that threatens your diet or overspending on the holiday season. A large part of self-control is about will power or more specifically, “God’s will” power. By focusing on Him and asking for His help and strength you can stand firm when you feel tempted.

When you place your focus on God and His teachings, your perspective changes. You develop clarity on what is important and recognize that new opportunities and blessings are part of every day. No matter what challenges you face His Word enables you to live a life filled with joy.

Try this powerful prayer technique; begin your prayer time with praise. Praise God for His glory and mercy and His ability to redeem every situation and convert challenges into positive growth. Praise Him for His holiness, His greatness and His promises.

It may be hard to believe, but Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Sometimes the details of family gatherings—planning the meals, shopping, or making travel arrangements—take center stage and we fret over making everything perfect. Don’t worry. Everything always gets done, and instead of trying to make everything perfect, focus on your love of God and your family and friends.

The parable of the good and faithful servant in Matthew emphasizes the value of little things. Sometimes we think in grandiose terms—what bold grand gesture can we do to show our faith? But in this parable, as well as in the life of Jesus, it is the little things that “Enter into the joy of the Master.”