Some days seem too busy to pray, yet prayer is possible anywhere and anytime. When you have a spare moment, turn your attention to God. Praise Him for the blessing of right now. Praise the beauty of the ordinary: the warmth of the sun, the beauty of the snow. Breathe in His grace and breathe out gratitude.

God’s love is great and steadfast. Every day He bestows mercies and blessings upon you. Open your heart to His amazing love and your faith will outshine your worries. Believe that God will bring you through hardship. True joy is always in reach.

Beloved former Guideposts Editor-in-Chief Van Varner wrote, “When the old year dies and the new one comes bounding in, I draw strength from knowing that in the next twelve months the snows will go, the buds will burst, the heat will rise, the leaves will fly, that all these things will happen according to Your schedule and in Your time; that there is order in Your universe and I am part of it.”

It happens in life. People let us down. They break promises and make mistakes. The good news is that God will never fail you. He is always faithful. Your connection to Him grows through prayer. When you are thinking about the future, be sure to plan more time for your spiritual life. The more energy you put into your relationship with Him the easier it is to discern His will and recognize His presence.

EXPECT A MIRACLE. Believe God can do the impossible. The secret behind having a miracle happen to you is simply to be open and ready to receive. Little daily miracles are often overlooked. Watch for them and be expectant enough to work for them and they will happen to you.

OFTEN WE GO from one concern to another without pausing to recognize that God regularly helps us through our problems. What was worrying you a year ago, a month ago? Occasionally, look back and consider the obstacles you have overcome with God’s help. It will give you perspective and confidence that present difficulties will get better.