For Reflection: Luke 11:9-10

"And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will be given what you ask for. Keep on looking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And the door is opened to everyone who knocks." Luke 11:9-10

Some people wonder why God doesn't answer their prayers. In reality, this often means they have hardly given God a chance. They may have prayed a few times and not gotten what they wanted. Jesus did promise to give if we ask, but he expects us to keep asking. Prayer should be an integral part of our lives, not just practiced in emergencies. Make talking to God a habit. Tell him about everything, at any time of the day. (Holy Bible NLT, Bible Memory Verse)

For Reflection: Romans 8:28

"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them." - Romans 8:28

This verse talks about "good." This is often interpreted to mean "pleasant" or "enjoyable." But some things that are good for us involve pain. Consider the parent who disciplines a child or the doctor who must apply a painful treatment o heal a wound. The parent and doctor know why they are 'hurting" the child and patient, even though the one being affected may not understand. God knows everything, including the future, and he has a purpose for our life. We need to submit to God and trust that what we are experiencing will be used for good. (Holy Bible NLT, Bible Memory Verse)

For Reflection: Galations 5:22-23

 ^"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!" - Galations 5:22-23

What kind of person do you most appreciate and like to be around? What kind of person do you want to become? Most likely, the person who exhibits these qualities found in Galations 5. Wouldn't it be great to be known as a loving, joyful, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle and self-controlled person? God wants to transform you into that kind of person. What holds you back from giving God complete control of your life and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in you? (Holy Bible NLT, Bible Memory Verse)

For Reflection: 1 Peter 1:7

"These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world." - 1 Peter 1:7

When gold is melted, impurities float to the top and can be skimmed off. Steel is tempered or strengthened by heating it in fire. In the same way, our trials, struggles, and persecutions refine and strengthen our faith, making us useful to God. When you through tough times, ask God to teach you his lessons and to show you how to use your experience to glorify him. And remember, if you're being tried by fire, your faith is valuable to God. (Holy Bible NLT, Bible Memory Verse).

For Reflection: Ephesians 6:10-17

The Full Armor of God

"A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness.  For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." - Ephesians 6:10-17

For Reflection: Philippians 4:13

"For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need." - Philippians 4:13

This verse comes at the end of a section where Paul explains that he can be content in every situation. What was Paul's secret to contentment? He knew that God was with him, whether he was in need or had plenty, was hungry or well fed, was feeling bad or feeling great. Paul knew that, regardless of the circumstances, God would give him the strength to make it through. When are you tempted to be discontent? When things are going well and you have a lot, do you want more? When you are struggling, do you fret and doubt? In both extremes, and everything in between, keep your focus on Christ. Remember the source of your strength, and look for his guidance. (Holy Bible NLT Bible Memory Verse)

For Reflection: Matthew 6:34

"So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today." - Matthew 6:34 (NLT).

The message in this verse is one that I have run across consistently over the last few weeks. As I reflected, I realized it was a reminder I sorely needed. I had been worrying about things outside of my control that may or may not occur. Why borrow trouble? Instead, I have been working to focus on the here and now. Finding the beauty and blessings in where I am in this moment. Feeling the joy and thankfulness that fill my spirit and turning over to God, the issues found in today. A lightened load and brighter spirit have been God's reward. Remember, God wants us to prepare for the future but to LIVE for the moment!

Today's Verse: Be joyful and always thankful

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 tells us to be joyful, keep praying and always be thankful. I often wondered how this could be possible. How can someone always be joyful and thankful through all the ups and downs in life? But the Bible note helped to put this in perspective; it says, "We might wonder how someone can rejoice or be joyful all the time, especially during painful or difficult experiences. But unlike happiness, which is based on circumstances, joy is a positive and confident outlook on life, despite our circumstances. Knowing that God is in control and that his love surrounds us gives security and confidence. No matter what happens, we should delight in God and praise him for his goodness." That helped me. There is something in each and everyday that I can be thankful for and knowing God is in control and works all things for my good helps me to maintain a positive outlook.

Have you found that if you stay in contact with God through prayer and remember all of the blessings you have in your life, does this help you get through less than wonderful circumstances?

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