February has a fair share of gray, overcast days. The next time the weather has you feeling down, look to the Bible and remember this glorious silver lining—clouds are often a symbol that God is near. From the Lord’s people being led out of Egypt under the cover of a cloud, to the clouds in the ascension and return of Christ, clouds frequently represent God’s glorious presence.

Have you found your passion? Theologian Fred Buchner wrote, “The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” God has created a specific purpose for your life. If you are unsure of what that might be, ask Him to reveal it to you and then pursue it with all your heart.

In the above verse, Jesus is telling His disciples that all they need is Him. It’s easy to become distracted by your possessions, to hold on too tightly to what you own, or put too much energy and effort into wanting something that you think is the key to happiness. But Jesus’ directions are still true today—as long as you have Him in your life, you don’t need anything else.

Decide to face the day with a gentle and joyous heart. Make an effort to surround yourself with positive people and experiences. If you find yourself falling into negative patterns, pray and tell God you are ready to approach life with an upbeat attitude.

When you need guidance, focus on God. Listen to Him over everyone else. He will guide you to the right choices. Commit to making your Heavenly Father your trusted friend.

Sometimes a shift in perspective is all that is needed to ease anxiety. Instead of worrying about the future have faith that God will bless you. Change your uneasiness to peace, believing that the best is yet to come.

When chosen by God, Zechariah questioned the angel’s message and expressed that he was too old. Faith is the unshakeable belief that God can do anything and that you are never too old, weak or fearful to join Him on the journey—wherever it may take you.

Commit this verse to memory so that when you face a challenging time you can find comfort knowing God is with you. He is the One who can help you conquer your fear and give you the peace your heart craves.

In the above verse, Matthew leaves his sinful ways behind to follow Jesus. This passage shows that Jesus came to those who needed His help to right their ways. He did not come to the righteous. He went to those in need of His love and mercy.

Nothing is hidden from God. As Charles Swindoll said, “God knows our complexities and quirks; He ‘gets’ us better than our closest friends. Best of all, He cares.” God is with you throughout the day, lighting your path and guiding you with His wisdom.

Dr. Norman Vincent Peale coined the phrase “victorious forgetfulness”—the act of forgetting about whatever barriers keep you from letting go of the past so that you can have a prosperous and beautiful future. Forget your mistakes, your feelings of insecurity and fear. Focus on victory.