Pastor E. M. Bounds said, “Importunate praying is the earnest, inward movement of the heart toward God. It is the throwing of the entire force of the spiritual man into the exercise of prayer.” Do not be discouraged if your prayer to God feels unanswered. Follow the model of the persistent widow and know that God hears you.

To live you best life you must invite God into your thoughts. When you allow your thoughts to be shaped by His Word, your actions will follow. Positivity and blessings will flow into your life.

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.