Today as we celebrate Independence Day, reflect on the blessings God has showered on our nation. Give thanks for the many people who have sacrificed in the past and those who are currently serving to protect freedom. Pray for peace among nations and all people.

The above verse shows that God brings His own people into the fire to refine them. He compares you to a precious metal, showing how the “fire of life,” the hot water, the challenges and difficult situations are for refinement. He is teaching and guiding you to think and live by His ways.

Devote a specific time every day to connect with God. It is best to begin your morning with prayer and align yourself with God’s will. Pray that your day serves Him by showering those around you with love, understanding and kindness. Ask Him to fill your spirit with His immense love.

Do you ever feel too small to matter to God? If you feel God has forgotten you, turn to Scripture and tell Him that you are ready to serve Him. Pour out your worries. God wants you to know that you can do wonderful, great things for His glory. He has instilled a specific and genuine purpose in you to thrive and contribute to His kingdom.

Often, during life’s darkest times, we experience a glimpse of the divine that significantly changes our perspective and helps deepen our faith. During the grief of losing a loved one, or facing a serious illness, God will give signs that you are not alone. He will let you know that there is nothing to fear because when everything around you seems dark, it is easiest to see the light.

In the above verse, Jesus directed the blind man to go into the water without explanation. The man followed His words and both his physical and spiritual eyes were opened. When you have the faith to follow God’s divine instructions—not because of an end goal, but because you believe and trust His guidance—you experience the blessing of spiritual sight.

Bible scholars have translated the above verse in many different ways, but essentially the meaning remains the same. What is the purpose of life? How should we spend our finite time on earth? Of course, the answer is to use our time to grow spiritually, to nurture our relationship with God.

When the unexpected strikes, instead of filling your mind with worry, take a deep breath and say, “I trust You, God.” Redirect your feelings of being out of control and focus on letting go and trusting the One who cares deeply for you.

Dr. Norman Vincent Peale advised that when you need healing, do not think about the illness or condition. Instead, focus on God and His power to heal. Affirm over and over words of life, health, and strength. Steadfast prayer and faith in God are sure to bring results.

God is always true to His word. And in every difficult situation He is present, helping you through fearful times and guiding you to bring victory out of them.

The more you pray the more you realize God’s wisdom is greater than your own and His will more important than yours. When you make prayer a regular part of your day, it becomes easier to release control of the outcomes in your life and yield to His timing and glory.