Be Strong: Joshua 1:9

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

The Lord our God, is with us wherever we go. He is with us, He loves us, and He forgives our sins, we just have to ask. The Lord reminded Joshua to be strong and courageous, not to fear for God was with him. God is with us also. Our Heavenly Father is faithful to His promises. We need to be strong in the Spirit, to have faith, and to trust in the Lord. Faith enables us to feel secure to be strong for we know that we are not alone for God is with us always.

When you are dismayed, and trembling with fears, struggling to be strong, where do you turn for strength? God is patiently waiting to hear from you.

Prayer: Our Heavenly Father, we thank you for surrounding us with Your love, and for being with us always. Dear Lord, we know that we are weak, but you are strong. Like the impressive display of gathered flowers on the doublefile viburnum branch, teach us to display our faith and find our strength in You. In Jesus’ holy name. Amen

Strength and Peace: Psalm 29:11

Vinca blooms after rain

The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.

Psalm 29:11 NIV

This verse speaks of qualities many are searching for. Strength to continue through the next hour, day, week, or year. Often we rely on our capabilities instead of asking God for strength. Asking God for His strength and assistance leads to peace. As Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you (John 14:17a).” If you need strength or peace, ask Jesus.

Where do you find peace during the holidays?

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your many blessing teach us to go to You for strength. Your sunshine and rain bring blossoms to plants. Teach us, in turn, to rely on You, so our peace grows and blooms. Like the tranquil beauty of the white vinca flowers, help us to be serene in Your unconditional love. In Jesus’ holy name. Amen

Strength: Philippians 4:13

monarch butterfly on butterfly weed

Philippians 4:13… And I find that the strength of Christ’s explosive power infuses me to conquer every difficulty. – The Passion Version (TPT)

Philippians 4:13  for I can do everything God asks me to with the help of Christ who gives me the strength and power. – Living Bible (TLB)

Are you afraid, weary, or confused? You can receive strength from Christ. You just need to take the first step. Let go of worry and accept Christ’s strength. I love the wording of the Passion Version which states, “the strength of Christ’s explosive power infuses me to conquer every difficulty.” All I can say is Wow! The Living Bible version states, “for I can do everything God asks me with the help of Christ…” Do you need strength today? Ask Christ.

What is God asking you to do?

Prayer: Our Father help us to spread our wings like the monarch and use your strength to conquer every difficulty. As this flowers bright blossoms reach upward help us also reach out for Your help and guidance. Dear Lord, we thank you for your power, grace, and love. In Jesus name. Amen