Surrender can have a bad connotation in our culture: It can mean that you gave up or lost a battle. But when it comes to faith, surrendering to God is key to experiencing His love and mercy. Surrendering or offering yourself to Him, trusting and obeying His instructions even when they don’t make sense—these actions make you a winner in God’s eyes, for they are the heart of your faith.

It is easy to be distracted by technology—a second to check social media or email can turn into an hour of missed time with your family or enjoying the beauty that God has placed before you. Make a commitment to unplug during your vacation or family time—and keep it! You won’t regret being present in the precious moments that you share with your loved ones.

What does it mean to fear God? Author JoHannah Reardon gives her insight as: “Fearing God keeps us from fearing anything else. Because God also loves perfectly, we can trust him and know that one so powerful will conquer all else that we fear in the world. Perfect love balances fear.”

The prophet Isaiah‘s words can help you stay calm in the midst of times of trouble. When everything seems out of control, rely on your Redeemer to guide you through rough waters. He is with you.

When you are facing a difficult decision, turn to God. Pray about your options and ask Him for guidance and the ability to see the situation from all perspectives. Then be still and wait for His insight to come to you.

As Dr. Norman Vincent Peale said, “Your thoughts can change your life,” and the most positive thoughts are stated in the Bible. The Word of God is alive. When you fill your mind with Scripture, the Word becomes part of you, guiding your actions, leading you to live a secure life—free from fear and filled with meaning.

Everything that God does for us is out of love. Often we misunderstand His intentions and see the world through a lens of judgement or punishment—and we adopt that same viewpoint of judging others or seeing a downward turn of life’s circumstances as the result of wrongdoing. Instead, shift your view to reflect on God’s intention of shaping our actions and intentions to come from a place of love and compassion.

As we enter into bathing suit season, the time of year when you might be tempted to look in the mirror and judge your reflection, shift your focus to the above verse. If you find yourself being critical, recognize that God designed every part of you. You are His masterpiece! You are His child.

When you feel alone or lonely reflect on the above verse. God invites you to turn to Him in prayer. He offers comfort and support. He will meet you in life’s lonely places and give you the peace, rest and sense of belonging you desire.

The Old Testament uses the name Jehovahjireh meaning “God Will Provide.” Like Abraham, you can be confident that God will provide the resources to fill your needs. When you turn to Him in prayer, there is no doubting or hesitation, because your faith is larger than your circumstance.

When you feel tired and need a boost of God’s goodness, ask Him to fill you with His strength and inspire you with divine energy. He will give you the courage and confidence that you need to keep going.

When you are faced with a problem, instead of closing down in disbelief or anger, open your mind and your heart to Jesus. Lay your fears at His feet. Praise Him for His grace and His infinite love that will lead you into glory.