Saul is a tragic figure in the Bible. His lessons teach a great deal about why we fail and why instead of trying to force God to do what we want, we should pray in faith and relinquish the outcome to Him. When you are in a difficult position, instead of trying to rush an answer, pray and open your heart to accept His response.

God’s intervention is not always obvious. Sometimes He uses indirect circumstances and unlikely people to help us. Although you may not be aware of God’s hand guiding you through your life’s journey, in time and through retrospection, His work will be revealed.

God’s promise is not that life will be easy but that the journey will be worth it. One of the best measures of your faith is how much you trust God when blessings don’t seem to be flowing. In these times, take your eyes off of your problems and focus on God. Life’s most valuable experiences are often found amidst the toughest times.

Jesus tells us that to follow His Word, you must look ahead and focus your actions on serving the Kingdom of Heaven. When someone needs your assistance, do you make an excuse as to why you can’t help? Instead, make time to be of service knowing that your actions are following Christ.

Devote yourself to developing a closer relationship with God. Are you reflecting His light by showing kindness, patience and generosity with others? When God’s love shines in your heart, you spread His qualities here on earth.

Jesus is calling you to let go of any emotions, wants and desires that are harming your well-being. Now is the perfect time to reflect on who you want to be. Release your old agendas, leave your old and tired ways behind and begin anew.

In the above verse Moses’ response to God’s call is directly opposite to Isaiah’s, “Here I am! Send me” (Isaiah 6:8). Yet it’s understandable that when called to do something outside of our comfort zone, we doubt our own ability. God has given each of us unique skills and gifts to fulfill our purpose here on earth.

Search your heart. Is there someone you need to forgive? Jesus wants you to release the burden of anger and resentment and open your heart to feeling the freedom and peace that comes only through forgiveness.

What a beautiful promise. Seek God and you will find Him! But just as one should enjoy the journey and not just the destination, seeking God is an important and active part of your faith. Make it a practice to actively seek God in your life. The more you search for Him and His good works, the more blessings you will discover.

Striving to be your best when only you and God know is a beautiful reflection of your faith. Dwight L. Moody famously said, “Character is what you are in the dark.” Your secrets reveal what you really think of yourself and your relationship with God.

The Bible teaches that God is love, and when love is our motivation—when our actions are guided by selfless love—we truly experience His divine and perfect love. By connecting to God in prayer and feeling the Source of all love, we can shine a bit of heaven onto those around us.