Is there something in your past that weighs on your heart? Maybe something you said or didn’t say, a mistake or misunderstanding that still nags at your conscience? Turn to God and ask for His grace to forgive and cleanse you. Ask Him to lift this burden so that it no longer pulls you down and keeps you from experiencing His pure and beautiful love.

In the above verse, the Israelites were given instructions to march around the city blowing horns for days in order to win Jericho. Most likely, they were confused by the orders and yet, they obeyed and trusted Him. When you are up against defeat, express your faith, loudly. Even in the face of doubt and confusion, triumph will be yours.

Dr. Norman Vincent Peale believed that this verse held the power to change lives. By truly believing and putting your trust in Him you gain greater peace and can achieve victory over your problems.

David’s dancing in the above Scripture is his way of expressing great emotion. He clearly felt God’s presence. Have there been times in your life when you felt overcome with emotion by His presence? Perhaps the birth of a child, the beauty of a sunrise, divine comfort during a gripping moment of grief. Reflect on your divine experiences.

In the above verse, Blind Bartimaeus asked Jesus for mercy and his vision was restored. Bartimaeus’ testimony opened the eyes of countless others who grew in faith and started following Jesus. So many beautiful transformations were made possible simply because Bartimaeus had faith and asked for mercy.

As you know, God is always with you, not just at a planned prayer time, but anytime and every time you need Him. You can pray out of the depths of your soul, thank Him for the simple pleasures, or simply say, “I know You’re here. I know You’re with me.”

This time of year we begin to notice the change of season, the change in light. One of the best ways to counteract the darkness is to pick up your Bible. Take His Word into your heart and ask Him to reveal Himself to you.

Learning to wait is a necessary part of being prepared to receive God’s promise. It’s not a matter of time, but a matter of trust. When you open your heart to faithfully waiting, you pave the way for His promises to work in your life.

Jesus’ actions when he was tempted show us that the best way to fight temptation is to focus on the bigger picture. When you know and use God’s Word you are equipped to resist whatever trials you face. Jesus knows what it is to be tempted and understands what you are going through.

When you feel lost and uncertain about what the future holds, pause for a moment and look back at your life. Reflect on the many instances where you were guided and blessed by God; the times when you could clearly feel Him helping you. Know He is with you now. He is helping you.