Where is Hope Found?

Spiritual Vitamin: "You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word." Psalm 119:114 "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, and whose hope is in the LORD." Jeremiah 17:7

Challenge: As you transition to the new year, where will you place your hope? To be without hope is a dangerous place to be. We can hope in a lot of things....we can hope that COVID is better. We can hope that we are financially stable. We can hope for a new home. But true hope is found in God. Will you hope in Him today for 2021?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you that You are my hiding place and my shield. Show me today what that feels like to trust You and be covered by You. Help me hope in your word. Help me to trust in You and place my hope in You for 2021. I need You, God. Amen. 

Peace

Spiritual Vitamin: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27

Challenge: What keeps you from experiencing God's perfect peace? Are the circumstances of your life affecting you? Pray for a greater measure of God's peace. 

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for this beautiful promise of John 14:27. To think that You give a very different kind of peace than the world gives. I'm so tempted to look at what will make me happy. But, Lord, You know that we can get everything we want and still lack peace! God, do not let me heart be troubled today. Help me not be afraid. Help me trust in You for this day. Thank you for your peace. Amen.

Contrite and Lowly of Spirit

Spiritual Vitamins: "For thus says the high and exalted One who lives forever, whose name is Holy, 'I dwell on a high and holy place. And also with the contrite and lowly of spirit in order to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the hearts of the contrite.'" Isaiah 57:15

Challenge: God identifies Himself as the great and exalted One Who lives forever and Whose name is Holy.  He is always present with each of His own. He is close to those who are crushed in spirit. It is only those who are contrite of heart and lowly of spirit who will be revived by the Lord. Place your faith in His grace and mercy by trusting in God. (Knowing Jesus Commentary on Isaiah 57:15)

Prayer: Dear God, I'm so amazed that you have stooped to save and comfort me and dwell within my heart by faith. Lord, I desire to have a contrite and lowly spirit. Help me walk humbly before You and give me courage to walk by faith. Amen.

Shepherds and Humility

Spiritual Vitamin: "You must have the same attitude that Jesus Christ had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges, he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on a cross." Philippians 2:5-8

Challenge: The shepherds were the least likely people to be included in the Christmas story. In fact, they would be the ones who would feel excluded. Shepherds were seen as outcasts of their day and were ceremonially unclean. Yet, it was the shepherds that were front and center in the Christmas story. God chose the unpopular shepherds to see Jesus first and tell others. Have you ever felt rejected? Outcast? Less than? Celebrate today that God came for all of us. Let's be like the Shepherds and never get over Christmas.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for sending your son Jesus. He gave up his divine privileges and took the position of a slave and was born a human being. Thank you that you choose to humble yourself! Thank you for the shepherds in the Christmas story. You used those unpopular shepherds to tell others about Jesus. Thank You! Amen. 

Come and See!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Come and see what God has done: he is awesome in his deeds toward the children of man... Come and hear... and I will tell what he has done for my soul." Psalm 66:5,16

Challenge: How has Jesus, the baby born in a manger, been the strength in your life when your best thinking and power have proved insufficient? Come and see what God has done! Take time to write in your prayer journal what God has done through his Son Jesus. Celebrate!

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for sending your Son, Jesus. Help me open my eyes and see all around me all that you ave done! You are awesome in your deeds! Help me tell others what you have done for my soul. Amen.

The Shepherds

 Spiritual Vitamin: 'When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child." Luke 2:17

Challenge: Why do you think God announced Jesus' birth to some of the lowliest members of society?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for letting the shepherds know about the good news of Jesus' birth and sending them to meet Him.  You made it clear that no one was outside your love! The Messiah came for everyone! You wanted the Shepherds to know the good news about Jesus' work of salvation. Thank you so much for Jesus' birth and thank you for using the Shepherds to spread the word! Amen.

Merry Christmas!

Spiritual Vitamin: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotton Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish,  but have everlasting life." John 3:16

Challenge: Take time today to read the Christmas story in Luke 2:9-14. Picture yourself in the story. What do you see? Hear? Feel? Smell? How will this story change you in the coming year?

Prayer: Help us remember the birth of Jesus, that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and worship of the wise men. Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting. Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts. May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus' sake. Amen. (By Robert Louis Stevenson)

Immanuel!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign; The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and will call him 'Immanuel.'" Isaiah 7:14

Challenge: To think that all that majesty chose to become intimately acquainted with us by humbly coming in a human body to dwell among us! Jesus fulfilled Isaiah's prophecy because he was literally "God with us". He was fully human and fully God. In Jesus, God walked with us and talked with us as He did with Adam and Eve. Our Immanuel is always with us and will be with us forever. How does this change how you live your life?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for the prophecy in Isaiah and that Jesus fulfilled it! You are "God with us." Thank you for the miracle of the Son of God becoming a human and making His home among us so that He could reveal God to us. Lord, I celebrate you being Immanuel today! Amen.

Joy to the World

Spiritual Vitamin: "Joy to the world! the Lord is come! Let earth receive her King! Let every heart prepare Him room and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing and heaven and heaven and nature sing." Isaac Watts

Challenge: The good news of Jesus birth has the power to bring us great joy this season. Our joy isn't dependent upon what gifts are or aren't under the tree. Our joy isn't dependent upon how many family members show up for Christmas. There is no earthly gift or thing that can ever give us true joy outside Christ. Let your heart prepare room for him this Christmas! Join with heaven and nature and sing to the top of your lungs: Jesus is born!

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for the carols at Christmas, particularly, Joy to the World! It's an invitation to invite my heart to prepare room for Jesus. It's an invitation to join with all heaven and sing. Lord, truly this is a time to worship You and celebrate the Christ child. May I do that today! Amen.

The Best Gift

Spiritual Vitamin: "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8

Challenge: Christmas is a few days away and it's so easy to make the focus on gifts, buying gifts and getting gifts. The tradition of giving gifts is a wonderful tradition. Today, would you turn your attention to the best gift of Christmas? God's gift of Jesus came in the most humbling of wrappings. Jesus was not born in a palace, but in a manger, a feeding trough. God gave to us Jesus, a great sacrifice to humanity! Through Him, we can enjoy the gift of eternal life. Will you consider this most amazing gift of God's Son, Jesus?

Prayer: Dear God, We're so grateful for this week of Christmas. In the midst of the wrapping and giving and wonder of the holiday season, can we turn our hearts and minds on you, Jesus? You are the very best gift we could ever receive. So often, we just miss this at Christmas. Today, let me focus on Jesus and the amazing gift of eternal life that we can have through Christ. Amen.

Unto Us a Child is Born

Spiritual Vitamin: "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Challenge: What's in a name? The Messiah was given 4 amazing names: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. Meditate on these beautiful descriptions of Jesus. What comes to your mind as you pause and take in these descriptions?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for this amazing prophecy which came to be! I'm so grateful that the Messiah embodies these beautiful descriptions. Jesus is a counselor. He is mighty. He is my perfect Father. He is Prince of Peace. During this time where peace can feel like it's a distant thought, we ask that You would be our perfect peace. Amen.

Joy to the World

Spiritual Vitamin: Joy to the World; the Lord is come! Let earth receive her king! Let ev'ry heart prepare Him room, And heaven and nature sing.  Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns! Let men their songs employ; While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains repeat the sounding joy. No more let sins and sorrows grow, nor thorns infest the ground; He comes to make his blessings flow, far as the curse if found. He rules the world with truth and grace, and makes the nations prove. The glories of His righteousness, and wonders of his love." Isaac Watts

Challenge: This popular Christmas Carol comes to us reflects the following scriptures: Psalm 96: 11-12, Genesis 3:17-18, and Psalm 98. Read through the scriptures. Then make note what words describe the character of our God. Think about the hymn. Consider the words your'e singing. What did you learn?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for this beautiful carol that speaks to the joy of you coming to the world. We worship you today and we too, want to repeat the sounding joy! Lord, you rule the world with truth and grace! In the midst of our worries and anxieties of this life, help us find peace in knowing that you rule! Amen.

The Shepherds

Spiritual Vitamin: "When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph and the baby, who were lying in the manger." 

Challenge: God gave through the angels the birth announcement to the lowly shepherds on the hillside! In their excitement they hurried off to Bethlehem to see the miracle of the Messiah! Did you know  that the bible describes us humans as sheep? Check out Psalm 100:3, Isaiah 53:6 and Matthew 9:36. We are stubborn sheep always wanting to go our own way. Take a moment and thank God for choosing to lay down His life for his sheep, of which we're one.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for the Shepherds in the Christmas story! Thank you for using lowly shepherds on the hillside to see your miracle, the Messiah! Lord, you are the good shepherd! We are your sheep. Please help me follow you as my shepherd. Amen.

The Magnificat

Spiritual Vitamin: "And Mary said: My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed for the Mighty One has done great things for me-holy is his name." Luke 1:46-49

Challenge: Have you considered following Mary's story, the mother of Jesus? Her actions throughout this season of giving birth to Jesus were exemplary. She glorified God in song for what You were going to do for the world through her. Mary said 'yes' to bearing the Christ child. She refused to take credit for what God had done. How will you model Mary's attitude in your life?

Prayer: Dear God, Teach me to praise you in my life and circumstances. Thank you so much for Mary who modeled such a way of life. She humbled herself and said 'yes' to You. Lord, teach me this way of life...humility. Amen.

Wise Men Worship!

Spiritual Vitamin: "When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh." Matthew 2:10-11

Challenge: The wise men gave these expensive gifts because they were worthy presents for a king. They worshiped Jesus for who He was and was willing to give him something valuable to them. Lord, the wise men came to worship! Pray today that you would worship the Messiah this Christmas with your time, your words, your actions and your resources.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for the Christmas story and the wise men. They worshiped you with their treasures that were costly! Lord, help me to do the same. Amen.

Shepherd's Perspective

Spiritual Vitamin: "But the angel said to then, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you. You will find a baby wrapped in clothed and lying in a manger.'" (Luke 2:10-12)

Challenge: What do you think it would have been like to be a shepherd that night? Suddenly a flash of radiant light appeared in the darkness, momentarily blinding the shepherds. The angel of the Lord appears and the glory of the Lord was all around them. The angel knew...of course, they'd be afraid. But, the shepherds searched fro Mary, Joseph and the baby and found them, the baby lying in the manger. What would you have done if you were a shepherd at that moment? This Christmas, let's give our fears over to God and rest in His peace.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for this part of the story, hearing the story from the shepherds' perspective. It would have been magical, yet very real. I have a feeling I would have been very afraid when I saw that radiant light. Yet, God, You were so present and ready to explain what was about to happen and what they were to do. Lord, may I, like the shepherds, search for you with all my heart. I know I will be found by you. (Jeremiah 29:14) Amen.

Joseph's response

Spiritual Vitamin: "And Joseph awoke from his sleep and did as the angel of the lord commanded him, and took Mary as his wife, but kept her a virgin until she gave birth to a Son; and he called His name Jesus." Matthew 1:24-25

Challenge: God interrupts Joseph's original plans by sending an angel in a dream. He lets Joseph in on the good news that Mary will bear a child conceived by the Holy Spirit. How would you respond if you were Joseph? He was just told he had been chosen to be His Son's earthly father! Joseph chose to believe God. He set aside his own logic and what others might thing or tell him to do. He chose faith over his feelings and surrendered his life to God. Will you chose faith over your feelings?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for Joseph in the Christmas story. We often think of Mary, but very rarely do we consider what Joseph must have been going through. Thank you that he chose to believe the angel and surrender His life to God. Lord, please help me to follow by surrendering my life to you each day. Amen.

Jesus, Light of the World

Spiritual Vitamin: "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it." (John 1:5)

Challenge: Christmas is such a good reminder that no matter how dark it may feel, there is always a light to be found in Jesus. Jesus is the light of the world. Consider the last verse of the carol "Silent Night:" "Silent night, holy night. Son of God, oh, love's pure light. Radiant beams from Thy holy face. With the dawn of redeeming grace. Jesus, Lord at Thy birth. Jesus, Lord at Thy birth. Jesus, Lord at Thy birth." May Jesus's light live through You today!

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for being the light of the world. Lord, there is so much darkness all around me! Help me not to be drawn into the darkness, but live in the light, which is in Christ. Thank you that Christmas is such a beautiful reminder of the light You bring. Amen.

Mary, A Servant

Spiritual Vitamin: "And Mary said "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her." Luke 1:38

Challenge: Consider being in Mary's position. How would you have responded to the angel Gabriel coming to you with the news of being the one to bear the Christ Child? Mary responded that she was a servant. The word actually means bond-servant. It has the idea of complete submission. She truly wanted to follow God with sincerity. Keep in mind that Mary was a young woman around 14 years old! She was willing to embrace shame and suffering for saying "yes" to God.

Prayer: Dear God, There's so much about Mary I love! She responded to the angel with such a beautiful humility and submission. She wanted what You wanted God. She was your servant and was willing to embrace the suffering and shame that this choice might bring on. God, teach me from Mary's example. In the midst of this challenging season, help me be willing to follow you, no matter what! Amen.

Take Courage!

Spiritual Vitamin: "In this world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world." John 16:33

Challenge: COVID has affected all of us. It's so easy to worry about the things that concern us. We can struggle with anxiety, worry and fear. Instead, you desire for us to live free from all fear, deeply rooted in the victory of God won through Christ. Today, would you really believe Jesus' words? Take courage. Jesus has conquered the world. Take time to slow down and enjoy the true reason for the season.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for your words of comfort. We don't have to fear! Jesus has conquered the world. Thank you Lord, that You give direction and guidance for what to do with our anxiety and worry. Help us to take courage. Your courage. Help me give thanks to You, knowing that you are the One who gives true peace. Amen.

Pondering These Things

Spiritual Vitamin: "But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be." Luke 1:29

Challenge: The angel, Gabriel, had just told Mary that she was highly favored and that the Lord was with her. The fact that Mary was troubled at his words shows her humility. Mary was surprised to hear such words about her. Mary needed to ponder these things in her heart. Did you get that? In the midst of this busy time, are you taking time to be calm and quiet? Advent invites us to resist the busyness and listen and reflect upon the Word of God. Read Luke Chapter 1 several times. Take at least 15 minutes of uninterrupted time with God. Be present to God.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for the Biblical text today, showing Mary's response to the angel Gabriel. I'm so grateful for Mary's response, one of humility and submissiveness. Thank you for this obvious need I have to be still and be present with you. I need You God and I'm so thankful that Mary took time with You. May I do the same. Amen.

Messiah- A New Shoot

Spiritual Vitamin: "A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the lord will rest on him- the Spirit of the Lord will rest on him- the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord- and he will delight in the fear of the Lord." Isiah 11:1-3

Challenge: This is a prophecy from Isaiah. Judah would be like a tree chopped down to a stump but from that stump a new shoot would grow- Messiah. Jesus was the fulfillment of God's promises! In this prophesy, we should see God's perfect love for his broken, fallen people and their need for a Savior.  It was through God's love and compassion, He set in motion the perfect plan to save the world by sending His Son. Do You comprehend His perfect love for you? May it cause you to worship Him today!

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for the prophesies which spoke clearly of You coming. Thank you so much that you would be like a tree chopped down to a stump. It's a reminder when I see a stump, to remember that the new shoot that would come was the Messiah! Jesus, thank you for coming to deal with our sin problem. I'm so grateful today for God's love and compassion for setting in motion this perfect redemptive plan. Thank you! Amen.

A Child is Born!

Spiritual Vitamin: "A child is born to us! A Son is given to us! And he will be our ruler. He will be called, "Wonderful Counselor," "Mighty God," "Eternal Father," "Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6)

Challenge: Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah would be a man. A child had to be born! There is nothing more weaker, more helpless, and more dependent than a child. Jesus fully identified with humanity and displayed his life as a servant. Consider the 4 names He would be called. Which name speakers most to your need today?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for Isaiah speaking of your coming in the book of Isaiah. He prophesied that a child would be born to us. It's just amazing to think that before Jesus' birth, many new He would come. Names are so important and I thank you for each of these names and how it represents Jesus. Wonderful Counselor. Mighty God. Eternal Father. Prince of Peace. I pause and meditate on each name and thank you for coming as our Messiah! Amen.

All is Calm, All is Bright

Spiritual Vitamin: "When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, "Get up, " he said, "take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him." Matthew 2:13

Challenge: Consider the words of the Christmas song, "Silent Night" and the words "All is calm, all is bright." It's hard to actually experience those words these days, right? Jesus' birth was anything but clam, with earthly powers being outraged by the birth of the newborn king. Today, remember that peace is not the absence of conflict but the presence of God in the midst of chaos. You are with us in these challenges! May today be a day where you experience His peace and calm.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for navigating through such perilous times to allow your Son, Jesus, to enter this word. So much was going on in the world during those days, yet God made a way for You to come. We're so grateful for sending your Son to this earth so we could experience a Saviour! Help me today to walk in peace and calm. Only You can do that, Lord. So many things occupy my mind. It's only You that can give true peace. Thank you, Lord. Amen.

Great joy!

Spiritual Vitamin: 'And the angel said unto them. Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people." Luke 2:10

Challenge: COVID has the potential to steal our joy this Christmas. The tidings you brought were both wonderful and amazing and needed a "behold" to excite our attention! This is good news. Very good news. This news produces great joy. Can you lift your eyes from the circumstances of today and enjoy the great joy that Jesus came to give?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for this great Christmas message from the angel. Thank you for the good tidings of great joy that you give to all people. Yet, it's up to us to accept the gift of Jesus in our hearts. Thank you for being my Savior. Amen.

Immanuel

Spiritual Vitamin: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel- which means, "God with us." (Matthew 1:23)

Challenge: Jesus was to be called Immanuel, which means God with us. Isaiah, the prophet prophesied this is Isaiah 7:14. Jesus was literally God in the flesh and dwelt among us. Do you understand how far-reaching the meaning of Immanuel is? God is always WITH us. No matter what you are going through today, rejoice that God's loving hand is always there, guiding, caring and comforting you.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for this beautiful time of the year where we celebrate you sending your son to the earth! Immanuel, God with us! I'm so grateful that you are not against us or beyond us or far from us, but with us. Please help me to recognize and live in light of your constant presence. Amen.

Unexpected News

Spiritual Vitamin: "In those days, Mary got up and went hurriedly into the hill country, to a town of Judah, and entered Zechariah's house and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. She exclaimed with a loud voice, "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child in your womb!... For the instant the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that what was spoken to her by the Lord would be fulfilled." Luke 1:39-24, 44-45

Challenge: How do you handle unexpected news? (someone sick, a job loss, a challenge, an accident, etc) Would you be open to accept news that would suddenly and radically change your life? Mary models for us a spirit of submission and obedience. Will you respond like Mary with your unexpected news?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for Mary's response to being chosen as the mother of the long-awaited Messiah, despite the fact she was a virgin. Lord, thank you for her humble and submissive response. Because she said "yes" in her unexpected news, You used her to change the world through sending Jesus to the world. Thank you! Amen.

To Us a Child is Given

Spiritual Vitamin: "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever." Isaiah 6:7

Challenge: Did you notice the words "for to us a child is born, to us a son is given..." God is a personal God and He had a wonderful plan for the sin problem of humans. Can you comprehend his grace to US? Meditate on this verse and pause to be in awe and wonder at the power of Jesus.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for sending your Son Jesus to this earth for US! I'm so grateful for the gift of your Son, Jesus, the greatest gift of all! I stand amazed at what you did! I worship You today and give you praise for sending your son to us! Amen.

Joseph

Spiritual Vitamin: "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." (Matthew 1:20-21)

Challenge: Have you ever placed yourself in Joseph's shoes? What would it have been like to hear this news from God? How would you have responded? Consider the responsibility that Joseph must have felt in this journey, yet He knew that God was with him. Even despite his obvious fears, God told him not to be afraid. What are you afraid of? Allow God to comfort you with his peace. Do not be afraid.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for Joseph and how you used him to be a part of your plan for all eternity! Thank you for reminding him not to be afraid. Here we are during this COVID season and there is a tendency to BE afraid. God, thank you for walking with Mary and Joseph through this season that changed the world. Help me to trust you in those things I can't control. Amen.

How Can I Be Sure?

Spiritual Vitamin: "Zechariah asked the angel, 'How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.'" (Luke 1:18)

Challenge: When told Zechariah would have a son, he doubted the angel. Even though Zechariah and Elizabeth were beyond the childbearing years, God gave them a child. How have you doubted or misunderstood what God wanted to do in your life? Don't confine God's power to your own narrow perspective. God is God! Trust Him for what you don't see.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for this Christmas season. I totally connect with Zechariah with his question for the angel..."How can I be sure of this?" Wow, Lord, how often do I lack faith and fail to trust You for my life. Please use this amazing story of Zechariah to remind me that You are able to do anything. Help me trust You today. Amen.

Making Room

Spiritual Vitamin: "While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them." Luke 2:6-7

Challenge: What will keep you from getting distracted by all the holiday festivities this year? We can get so busy, even with COVID, focusing on everything but the true meaning of Christmas. Today is the first day of December! Make room for Jesus in your heart each day leading to Christmas. You will be blessed!

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for sending your son, Jesus. What a magical time of the year to remember your gift, the greatest gift, Jesus. I picture what it must have been like to be there at your birth with no guest room available for the Christ child. Lord, Please help me make room in my heart for you today and each day. Amen.

God Became Man

Spiritual Vitamin: "The word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." John 1:14

Challenge: God came to earth as a man: Jesus Christ. He did it because He loves us so much. This gives us great reason to celebrate the Advent season. Take time each day leading up to Christmas to reflect on Jesus, and the joys of Christmas. Read and re-read the Christmas story. Ask God to help you keep your focus on Him this Christmas season.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for sending your Son, Jesus Christ, to earth, to become a sacrifice for our sins. Christmas is the most joyous time of the year as we celebrate your amazing gift to us. Lord, help me not get caught up in the craziness of the holiday, but to keep my focus on You. I worship you and celebrate You this Christmas! Amen.

John 3:16

Spiritual Vitamin: "For this is how God loved the world: he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Challenge: Have you ever really considered how much God loves the world? He loved his creation so much that He literally gave up his one and only Son to die and become a sacrifice for our sins! As you live your life this week, consider how valued and loved you are by God. He sent His only Son to die so that you could have life. Christmas was the beginning of something so life changing!

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for the gift of love, Jesus! Thank you for sending your one and only Son to this earth so that we could have life. In Christ, I am free from condemnation. In Christ, I am promised eternal life. Just knowing this realization gives me so much joy, purpose and hope. Thank you so much! Amen.

Immanuel

Spiritual Vitamin: "Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel" (which means, God with us) Matthew 1:23

Challenge: We are officially in the Christmas season! Whether you're shopping for deals today on line or in the stores, we can begin the Christmas frenzy today! Jesus's name was called Immanuel. What difference would it make in your life if you truly lived each day believing that God was with you?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for sending your son, Jesus, to this world. As I begin preparations for Christmas, I ask that You show me what it would be like to live each day with Immanuel. You are with me always, so I ask that I would recognize that and it would change the focus of my life. Lord, I need You. Help me to walk through this Christmas season with You being my Immanuel. Amen.

Peace of God

Spiritual Vitamin:Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

Challenge: Have you ever noticed that there is always something to be anxious about? What causes you anxiety? COVID, Christmas season, work, relationships, conflict? Let's start the Christmas season with a spirit of thankfulness. Instead of being anxious, let's go straight to prayer, presenting every request we have to God. May God's peace be with you.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much that You long for me to give you my anxious spirit. In every situation, You desire me to come to You in prayer, with thanksgiving and share with You my needs.Thank You God, that You give me your peace. I long for your peace. Thank You for the gift of your peace. Amen.

Shout for Joy!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. (Psalm 100)

Challenge: What words do you see that describe gratitude? What words describe the Lord's attributes? Everything about this verse tells us to praise God and give Him our thanksgiving. Have you ever played the Alphabet Game? Walk through the entire alphabet by yourself or with your family and come up with one thing your thankful to God for. A-Z! Go! 

Prayer: Dear God, Thank You so much for this beautiful Psalm that is perfect for Thanksgiving! It's full of such joy and gratitude and praise for who You are! You made us! We are Yours! Thank You that You are good all the time and that Your love endures forever. I'm so grateful that you are faithful. I give you thanks this day! Amen.

God is Personal

Spiritual Vitamin: "The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to Him." (Psalm 28:7) 

Challenge: David declares that You are his strength and he would go to You for your power in his weakness. How are you experiencing personal experience? Choose to depend on God. Have confidence to believe that He always has your best interest in mind. Remember these three encouraging words: I am helped. When your heart trusts in Him, you ARE helped!

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for the Psalmist's words in Psalm 28:7. You are such a personal God to the Psalmist and also to me. You are my strength. My shield. My heart trusts. My heart exults. With my song I give thanks. Everything about You is personal! I'm so grateful that You are my God. My heart exults in You today! Amen.

Give Thanks to the Lord!

Spiritual Vitamin: "You are my God, and I will give you thanks; you are my God, and I will exalt you. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." (Psalm 118: 28-29)

Challenge: The Psalmist declares "You are MY God." Have you ever given much thought to that? God is deeply personal and knows all about you and still loves you perfectly. He created You! Are you deeply personal with God? Do you see the unique oneness you can have with Him? Do you give thanks to God? It's so easy during the Thanksgiving season to list out all the things you're thankful for. But, what about saying "I give thanks to the Lord for all the good things in my life?"

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for the Psalmist here expressing his personal connection with God. To think that I can enjoy You as MY God is simply astounding! Help me to always remember to give thanks to You, the giver of all good gifts. Thank you that your love endures forever. Amen.

Overflowing With Thanksgiving

Spiritual Vitamin: "So, then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith, as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." Colossians 2:6-7

Challenge: The Colossians were under attack from false teachers. They were trying to set aside or minimize Jesus Christ with their clever philosophies. In their minds, Christ alone was not enough. So Paul emphasized that  the full assurance of understanding cannot be had apart form Christ. God wants us to trust Him. Apart from faith, we cannot please God. All our relationships are built on trust, even more so, our relationship to God. Paul uses four participles to say what this walk in Christ looks like: rooted, built up, strengthened in the faith and overflowing with thanksgiving. How can you develop in these four areas of your walk with Christ?

Prayer: Dear God, I'm so grateful to learn about these four participles that say what this walk in Christ looks like! I desire so much to be rooted, built up, strengthened in the faith and overflowing with thanksgiving. Lord, help me to continue to live my life rooted in You. I love this verse and the challenge for my life. Amen.

His Love Endures Forever

Spiritual Vitamin: "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever."  1 Chronicles 16:34

Challenge: It's Thanksgiving week! We have so much to be thankful for! Remember who we give thanks to! Give thanks to the LORD! He is good all the time; all the time, He is good. His love endures forever. He will never ever NOT love you perfectly. His love is unconditional. Take time to consider the goodness of the Lord and take in His love. Give thanks to Him this Thanksgiving.

Prayer: Dear God, So often, I share what I'm thankful for, but I forget to say I'm to YOU for these things. You are the giver of all good gifts so I direct my praise fully to You. You are good and your love endures forever. I'm so grateful to You for so much! Amen.

Great is Thy Faithfulness!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22-23)

Challenge: In the midst of COVID, it's easy to "feel" consumed. But because of the Lord's great love, we do not have to be. There is still hope! Did you know that the God's compassions were new every morning? He has tender affection for you EACH DAY! Each dawning day gives hope in fresh mercies and compassions from our God! No matter how bleak like may look, God's people can look to the new morning with faith and hope. (enduringword.com/commentary)Will you do that today?

Prayer: Dear God, Great is your faithfulness! You never fail in sending Your mercies and compassion. Even in times of challenge and despair, You are faithful. Lord, let me live with my head held high and with a spring in my step as I walk with this certainty. Great is your faithfulness! Amen.

Forget Not God's Benefits

 Spiritual Vitamin: "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's." Psalm 103:2-5

Challenge: Stop, pause and slowly read this scripture through several times. The Lord has many benefits that He pours out on You. Reflect on what you've seen Him do in your own life today.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for your goodness and benefits in my life. Sometimes, I forget to say thank you. The Psalmist here is so right on as He remembers your great promises. Lord, may You give me a grateful spirit today as I reflect on who You are. Amen.

Let us Sing for Joy!

Spiritual Vitamin: "O Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; Let us shout joyfully to the rock of my salvation. Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods."  Psalm 95:1-3

Challenge: Did you notice in this verse there are four "Let us" statements. Let us sing. Let us shout joyfully. Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving. Let us make a joyful noise. What would happen if you actually practiced doing that? How would your attitude change?

Prayer: Dear God, I know that praise and thanksgiving is good for the soul. But it's so much more, Lord. You want us to give YOU praise and give YOU thanksgiving. As I come into your presence with thanksgiving, I find hope, healing, encouragement and joy! Thank you, Lord. Amen.

Give Thanks for He is Good!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!" Psalm 107:1

Challenge: God has done so much for you and you have so much for which to thank Him for. He wants us to tell everyone all that He has done. Will you take a moment and give thanks to God for all He has done in your life? (Life Application Study Bible, NIV)

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for all You have done! I am so grateful for your goodness. Your steadfast love endures forever! As I approach Thanksgiving, let me remember that thanksgiving can be EVERY day! Amen.

For Our Benefit

Spiritual Vitamin: "All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God." 2 Corinthians 4:15

Challenge: Paul is saying that everything is for God's people. God shows his grace (kindness) to them when he brought them into a right relationship with himself. His grace is constantly active in their lives. He uses the circumstances of their lives to bring about his plan for them. So, God is working, and using, all things for their benefit. What is our response? We bring God glory in our lives and thank him for his work! (www.usefulbible.com)

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for your goodness and blessings in our lives. That you that you bestow your grace and kindness to us through sending your Son, Jesus, so that we could have a right relationship with Him. Thank you for your grace! It's so beautiful and gives such meaning to life. I pray that I would be able to have a spirit of thanksgiving that overflows from my heart for your glory. Amen.

Burden Bearer

Spiritual Vitamin: "The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them." Psalm 145:18-19

Challenge: We can sometimes feel that our burdens are more than we can bear. David points us to our great burden bearer. He is near to all who call on him. He hears our cries and saves us. What are the burdens that you are carrying today? God is able to life you up and bear your burden. That is something to give thanks for!

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for this glorious Psalm that is full of amazing attributes of who you are. You are gracious, compassionate, slow to anger and rich in low. You are good to all. I stop and take in the fact that You are near to me as I call on You. Thank you that You fulfill the desires of those who fear Him. I give you praise and thanks for being my Lord. Amen.

The Lord is my Strength

Spiritual Vitamin: "The Lord is my strength and my shield, my heart rests in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.

Challenge:Here we have David's confession of faith from his own personal experience. The Lord was his strength. The Lord infuses strength into him (and us) when he is weak. His heart trust in him and he was helped! Please note that his heart is mentioned twice to show the truth of his faith and his joy. Does your heart leap for joy at the thought of God? When God blesses us, we should also bless Him with all of our heart.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for this beautiful word from King David. His heart loved God and he spoke with such deep conviction that the Lord was his strength and his shield. Father, may my heart rest in You. You help me! May I praise You today with all my heart! Amen.

Our Good Shepherd

Spiritual Vitamin: "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters." Psalm 23:1-2

Challenge: The Lord longs to be your shepherd! Do you fall easily into the same old trap thinking that you need to do and do and that the world depends on your efforts? God wants you to come to Him. To sit with him beside the green pastures. It is there you will rest and be restored. On this day breathe deep and give your stresses and needs to the Great Shepherd. Don't try to do everything! He is a breath away! Thank Him for being your Good Shepherd.

Prayer: Dear God, Lead me, Good Shepherd, and teach me to rest in your green pastures. You know how I need your leadership in my life. Guide me today, Lord. Show me how to rest. Restore my joy. Refresh my spirit. Thank you! Amen.

Magnify God!

Spiritual Vitamin: "I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify him with thanksgiving." Psalm 69:30

Challenge: 1 Corinthians 10:31 says "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." Do everything so that God might be magnified in your life! What a calling! How can Christ be magnified in your life today?

Prayer: Dear God, I confess the weakness of my heart to take time and magnify you. It's so easy to magnify myself or other things more than magnify You! Awaken a longing in me to magnify you in my life! Help me each day to magnify you with thanksgiving. I know when I do, that my attitude will change as well. Thank you! Amen.

Give Thanks!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!" Psalm 107:1

Challenge: We often just give thanks. Period. We need to remember that we give thanks to the Lord. He is the giver of all good gifts. He is good! His steadfast love endures forever. He will never let go of you! He loves you so much. This Thanksgiving, don't just say what you're thankful for. Thank the Lord for each of these things!

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you that You are good all the time. All the time You are good. You're steadfast, never changing, unconditional love endures forever. Nothing I could do could take away your love. Help me give thanks to You. You alone are worthy of my praise. Amen.

No Grumbling

Spiritual Vitamin: "Do all things without grumbling or disputing; that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world." Philippians 2:14-15

Challenge:As we approach Thanksgiving, gratitude is all around us! But, what keeps you from being grateful? What are the things you've grumbled about in the last 24 hours? How can you live with a spirit of gratitude EVERY day? Begin practicing today!

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for this command to do all things without grumbling or disputing. I find that it is so easy to grumble about things during COVID. Please help me stop grumbling and develop a heart of gratitude. May I live each day with a spirit of gratitude that pleases You, changes my heart and effects others! Amen.

Fragrance of Christ

Spiritual Vitamin: "But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere." 2 Corinthians 2:14

Challenge: In the 2nd letter to the Corinthians, Paul had gone through so many challenging circumstances. More than we'll every know! They were tossed about by every possible difficulty and danger. But in this time, Paul learned a valuable lesson. He must trust not in his own abilities, but God. He was able to THANK God. When you're surrounded by many sorts of dangers and difficult circumstances, are you able to thank God? Are you a sweet smelling aroma of the knowledge of Christ in every place?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you that no matter what may come in our life, that in Christ, we are always lead to victory. I pray that by prayer and supplication, I will always be lead in triumph to your praise and glory. I desire my life to be a living sacrifice of the knowledge of Him in every place. Thank you, God! Amen.

Every Good Gift

 Spiritual Vitamin: "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." James 1:17

Challenge:James is encouraging us to remember that God gave you EVERY single good thing in your life. He is the source of all good you have. He does not change, even when our circumstances change. He is always a good God. He never changes. Thank God today for His goodness in your life. Acknowledge that God is good, even amidst some of the challenging circumstances you are going through.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for the reminder that every good and perfect gift is from You. You are good ALL the time. All the time, you are good. Thank you that your character remains the same throughout time and into eternity. God, it is because of your grace that we receive what we don't deserve. Thank you for your amazing love towards us by sending Jesus, your beloved Son to be the sacrifice for our sin. Amen.

Life Overflowing With Praise

Spiritual Vitamin: "I will bless the Lord at all times, his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make its boast in the LORD; The humble shall hear of it and be glad." Psalm 34:1-2

Challenge: Charles Spurgeon said "Not in my heart merely, but in my mouth too. Our thankfulness is not to be a silent thing."  What would it look like if your praise wasn't a silent thing? What would it look like if "thanksgiving" wasn't just one day each year, but every day for you?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for the Psalmist who spoke with such conviction about his gratitude and praise to the Lord. Lord, would you help me to bless You at all times? Could praising you continually be on my mouth? Lord, may it be true of me! Amen.

Giving Thanks!

 Spiritual Vitamin: "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:17

Challenge: What would it look like for you to live like this today? How would this change you? How would it affect others around you? Asking questions like: Is what I say and do honoring God? What would it look like if I live in total dependence upon the Lord? 

Prayer: Dear God, I totally need your help in living out this verse. Living my life, in word or deed, is what I desire. Let my words be right and my my actions be upright. Help me begin with you, and end with you, invoking your name and praying for your support. You tell me to give thanks to You, Lord, in ALL my actions. Lord, I'm so grateful! Amen.

This is the Day!

Spiritual Vitamin: "This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24

Challenge: When things go well, it's really easy to rejoice and be glad. How do we live with this kind of gratitude when days are filled with sadness and disappointment? Practice rejoicing and being glad in Him as you recount the many blessings that the Lord has done for you. 

Prayer: Dear God, Help me to rejoice and be glad in You each day of my life, no matter what the circumstances of life. Even when pain and disappointment enter my life, Lord, it's in these circumstances I find it hard to rejoice. But, help me see that I'm rejoicing in the hope that I have in You throughout eternity. Thank You! Amen. 

Thankful in Everything!

Spiritual Vitamin: "God is in control, and therefore in EVERYTHING I can give thanks-not because of the situation but because of the One who directs and rules over it." Kay Arthur

Challenge: What makes it hard for you to give thanks? Take a moment and give thanks for the "hard stuff" trusting that the One who directs and rules over it is faithful.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for your sovereign control over ALL the universe! How dare we live in fear or remorse when things don't go the way WE want them to. Please, Lord, give me a renewed vision to give you thanks in ALL things. Thank you! Amen.

And be Thankful!

Spiritual Vitamin: "And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful." Colossians 3:15

Challenge: Praise and gratitude naturally flows out of peace in one's heart. Peace comes from our relationship with Christ.  The statement "And be thankful" is present imperative and literally says "keep on becoming thankful." We need to allow this to be our habitual practice? How do you daily experience an attitude of gratitude, even when there are challenges all around you? 

Prayer: Dear Father, Thank you so much for the command "And be thankful." I see how peace in my heart is tied to being grateful. Lord, would your peace reign in my heart today? Thank you that in Psalm 29:11 you say "The LORD will give strength to His people. The LORD will bless His people with peace." I desire to live in that peace each day and be thankful. Amen.

Thanksgiving and Peace

Spiritual Vitamin: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7

Challenge: Maybe your anxious about the election today? Slowly read this verse. Pause and reflect on a word or two that stands out to you. Slowly read this verse again. Pause again and reflect on a word or two that stands out to you. How do you want to live this day? Will the peace of God rule in your heart, no matter what the outcomes of this day bring?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for this verse that is a recipe for me in times of anxiety. You literally tell me not to be anxious about ANYTHING! Instead, You want me to come to you and thank you and tell you what's on my heart. Oh, Lord, thank you for the gift of being in relationship with You. I'm so grateful that you give peace, which I need so much. I trust you for the outcomes of this day. Amen.

Come Into His Presence

Spiritual Vitamin: "Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!" Psalm 95:2

Challenge: On the day before elections, why not try spending a few moments being thankful to God? Maybe that's a simple prayer. Or, maybe offer a worship song to God? Take a walk and look for things in creation to thank Him for. Take your mind of the elections, come into God's presence and be thankful. You will see your anxiety and worries drift away as you experience His peace.

Prayer: Thank you, God, for your word, that invites us to come into Your presence and give thanks! Lord, you have created each one of us and You have the entire world in your hands. When we lift our hearts and minds off what's going on around us and stop and praise you, things DO change. We start this November with a spirit of gratitude, thanking You for the gift of life itself and to live in our great country. Amen.

Gift of Rest

Spiritual Vitamin: Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, He went up on a mountainside by Himself to pray...alone." 

Challenge: Even amidst Jesus' busy schedule, He took time to get away and go be with His Father. He NEEDED time with His Father. If He did, shouldn't we? What keeps you from spending time with Jesus? Are you too busy? Do you feel guilty for taking a break and resting? Challenge yourself to the gift of rest. Spend time with your Father in heaven who loves you so much!

Prayer: Dear God, There is always something vying for my time and attention. Sometimes, it's my phone keeping up with the latest news or twitter post. But, Lord, help me to slow. Help me to be comfortable with getting alone with You. You love hanging out with me! I come to You today and rest at your feet. Amen.

Grieving with Hope

Spiritual Vitamin: "Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope." 1 Thessalonians 4:13

Challenge: In this text, Paul is writing to the Thessalonians to remind them of the good news of the second coming of Christ. They don't have to grieve as those who have no hope. They can grieve with hope! Maybe you're grieving the loss of a loved one today.  How does knowing what happens after death help you in your grief?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for this important verse reminding us of what is true about believers that know you who die. Help me to grieve with hope as I await the day that I will be rejoined with you and them. Amen. 

God is Patient

Spiritual Vitamin: "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance." 2 Peter 3:9

Challenge: The word "patient" or "longsuffering"in this verse demonstrates the idea of a person who is extraordinarily patient and can go for a long time before blowing up in anger. God is so patient that he is not willing that any should perish, so He continues to extend Himself. God is patiently giving the world time to repent. How does this inspire you today in your faith?

Prayer: Dear God, Please help me be patient and longsuffering in my relationships with people. Help me partner with You to share your good news with. I'm so grateful for your patience and love for all humans. Help me never take your patience for granted. Amen.

Trust in the Lord

 Spiritual Vitamin: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

Challenge: To receive God's guidance in life, we must acknowledge God in all our ways. This involves turning ever area of life over to Him. Usually, we'd like to hold on to something. Will you choose to acknowledge God in all your ways?

Prayer: Dear God, I love this verse, but admit it's not always easy to trust you. I also want to lean on my own understanding but forget that You are God and I am not. Help me to turn every area of my life over to You. Show me those parts that I still want to hold on to. Amen.

Loving Well

 Spiritual Vitamin: Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." 1 Corinthians 13:4-6

Challenge: God gives us the ability to love like 1 Corinthians 13:4-6. This kind of love goes against our natural inclinations. We struggle with impatiences, unkindness, envy, boasting and pride. We can be rude and angry and see things for ourself. Where do you most struggle with loving others. Pray for God to help you love well.

Prayer: Dear God, I confess to you today that I fall short each day of loving others with 1 Corinthians 13:4-6 love. Forgive me for my sin. Please help me through your spirit love with this kind of love EACH person I come in contact with today. Lord, help me love well. Amen.

Believing is Seeing

Spiritual Vitamin: "I am still confident of this; I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD." (Psalm 27:13-14)

Challenge: These words were written by David. He had assurance that no matter what dangers or challenges came his way, God would rescue him.  He had to wait confidently in the Lord. It was as if he were speaking to himself! David was confident that God would see him through his trial. Will you believe God will see you through your challenge?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for these confident words from David. Waiting on you is not easy, but I look to this Psalm for a new way of thinking!I must hold to what I know of your goodness and trust what I cannot see. I don't want to live with a "seeing is believing" mindset but instead a "believing is seeing" mindset. Thank you, Lord, for this Psalm. Amen.

Mind on the Spirit

Spiritual Challenges: "For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace."

Challenge:Do you long to experience peace today? Do you long to keep your mind on the spirit? What is hindering your peace? There is a battle for your thoughts every moment. May you find peace today in your thoughts.

Prayer: Dear Father, I desire to place my trust in You. I desire to have a peaceful thought-life. Your word says "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you." (Isaiah 26:3) I ask you, Holy Spirit, to help me renew my mind and place my trust in You, so that I may truly experience your peace. Amen.

Reading of Scripture

 Spiritual Challenge: "Turn my heart toward your statutes...Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long... How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Your statues are m heritage forever; they are the joy of my heart." (Psalm 119:36, 97, 103, 111) 

Challenge: Read the above verses slowly and out loud. If there is a word or phrase that catches your attention. Stop and attend to what God might be saying to you. Listen and hear the word of the Lord.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for your word. Help me prayerfully come before your word, listening to what You have for me. I believe your word is living and active and able to judge the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12-13) Please use your word in my life. I want to become more like You. Amen.

Not to Worry!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." (Philippians 4:6)

Challenge: Try an experiment for tomorrow. Ask God to help you to maintain peace by continually coming to God when you feel anxious throughout the day. Remember, you can bring EVERY concern to God, asking Him for what we want and surrendering to what He wants. 

Prayer: Dear God, I know that prayer will help me keep my heart and mind from racing and stressing out. Thank you for this powerful command to not be anxious. It seems impossible without You. But, with You, all things are possible. I give you ever concern, Lord. Thank you! Amen. 

Showing Honor

Spiritual Vitamin: "Honor one another above yourselves." (Romans 12:10)

Challenge: As a Christian, we are to take the initiative, and show honor or respect to others without waiting for them to do the same to us. We are to love one another and be devoted to one another as a close knit family, because that's what we are as Christians.How do you outdo one another in honor? What would that look like tomorrow?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for Your love. Help me to show concern for others, emulating Christ's love. Help me to demonstrate care for others without counting the cost to me. Lord, forgive me when I want to think only about myself. Help me take delight in honoring others. Amen.

Look to the Interests of Others

Spiritual Vitamin: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility, consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." (Philippians 2:3-4)

Challenge: How are you motivated by selfish ambition or vain conceit? Much of what we do is not out of love for others, but out of our own desire to promote ourselves. When we put away our own selfish ambitions, we will naturally have a greater concern for others. Read Philippians 2: 5-11 to get a picture of Jesus' humility.

Prayer: Dear God, It is my desire to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. With your humility of heart, help me value others above myself. Lord, I can only do this with your help. I look to your example of humility in Philippians 2:5-11. Thank you, Jesus, for living this verse out while on earth. May I imitate You. Amen.

God Will Not Forsake You!

 Spiritual Vitamin: "It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed." Deuteronomy 31:8

Challenge:How have you felt forsaken? Have you experienced rejection by a friend? Betrayal by someone you trusted? Did you know that God will NEVER forsake you or leave you. How does God's covenantal love for you encourage you today? Thank Him for never letting you go!

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for your unchanging love. Lord, you are not like humans, who I so often compare You to. You are an eternal and everlasting God, who is perfect in all your ways. You will never let me down. You are always there and always care. Thank you, God. Amen.

Draw Near

Spiritual Vitamin: "Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings." (Hebrews 10:22)

Challenge: The great desire of the writer of Hebrews is that we learn to draw near to God. That we come to him to find all the help we need. We come to his throne with confidence. Don't settle for a life that is distant from God. Let Him be a near and present reality. Come to Him today. Approach Him. Draw near to Him and He will draw near to you.

Prayer: Dear Father, Thank you so much that we can have a relationship with the God of the universe! I pray that You will help me enjoy a life dedicated to loving and pursuing you. Every day. No matter what happens. Lord, give me a sincere heart and strengthen my faith. Amen. 

Casting Off

 Spiritual Vitamin: "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7)

Challenge: Do you allow stress and anxiety to be a part of your mind? The Bible tells us to actively "cast" all our anxiety on him. How have you felt anxiety and stress? Meditate on these verses: 1 Peter 5:6-11, James 4:7, 2 Peter 5:10) Journal your response and prayers.

Prayer: Dear God, As anxiety and stress come over me, help me quickly remember to cast it off onto you. You are the One who cares for me and You are the One who can actually do something about my stress. Amen.

Call on God

 Spiritual Vitamin: "This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles." (Psalm 34:6)

Challenge: Is it frustrating when you're trying to get a hold of a friend or family member, and you can't? People aren't able to always come through for you, but God does. God hears you. Always! He knows your heart and cares about your concerns. Take the next 24 hours and try to go to God with all of your concerns. Notice how it feels to share your heart with Him instead of becoming anxious. 

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for being a responder and always present in my life. You care about everything I care about. You are always "on call" to hear my prayers and provide the deliverance I need. I'm so grateful for You. Amen.

Abundantly Beyond

Spiritual Vitamin: "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us." Ephesians 3:20

Challenge: Do you believe that God is able to do far more than we can ask or even thing? (Ephesians 3:14-21) What are you worrying about instead of praying about? Will you believe that God is able?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for this encouraging verse. I am so limited in truly seeing what You are able to do. Forgive me for not believing You are able. Strengthen my faith, God. Amen. 

God's Closeness

 Spiritual Vitamin: "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you." (Isaiah 43:1-2)

Challenge: God calls me by name, my name! He tells me not to fear. He redeems me. God will be with me in all my trials. Do I trust that He will do that for me today?

Prayer: Dear Father, Thank you that You know my name and call me by my name. You are a deeply personal God and I'm so grateful for that. I don't go through any challenging circumstance without You right beside me. I have that promise. Thank you for being with me. I trust in You today. Amen.

His Way is Perfect

Spiritual Vitamin: "As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord's word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him." (Psalm 18:30)

Challenge: God's way is perfect! Even though we are in a challenging time in our country with COVID, God doesn't change. Will you seek God for safety and security today? Depend upon Him, not the circumstances around you.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you that your way is perfect! Your word is flawless. It is good to take refuge in You, because You shield us! Lord, remind me today that I'm not in control, but You are! Help me not seek the conveniences of this life, but trust in You. Amen.

Listening Prayer

Spiritual Vitamin: "Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness." Psalm 86:11

Challenge: How do you feel when you talk with someone who isn't listening to you? Have you ever thought about your prayer life? Are your conversations with God one-sided? Get alone with God in a quiet place. Speak to Him but take time to listen to Him. Be willing to say "Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness."

Prayer: Dear Father, Am I talking so much and telling You what I want that I don't hear You? Teach me Your way. Not my way, but Your way. That takes listening, Lord. Sometimes, I'm not so good at listening. Help me to take time to listen to the urgings of the Spirit and Your word. Teach me in the silence as I wait on You. Amen.

Unanswered Prayer

Spiritual Vitamin: "Jesus went away a second time and prayed, "My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done." Matthew 26:42 

Challenge: How do you feel when you're prayers aren't answered the way you want? Prayer isn't just getting God to do what you want Him to do. Prayer is about a relationship with God. It's an expression of our trust in His power, wisdom, and sovereign plan. Will you trust that God has your very best interests in mind?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for the reminder that even your Son, Jesus, prayed and desired for the cup to be taken away. Yet, He wanted first and foremost, your will. Your will was for Him to be a sacrifice for the sins of this world. Lord, even though so painful for Jesus, I can't imagine what life would be like if Jesus didn't trust You! So, Lord, may I trust you for those prayers that "feel" unanswered. I know, they're just not answered the way I want them to be. Amen.

Praying about Everything

Spiritual Vitamin: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

Challenge: Oswald Chambers writes "We tend to use prayer as a last resort, but God wants it to be our first line of defense. We pray when there's nothing else we can do, but God wants us to pray before we do anything at all." Will you pray about those things that you are anxious about?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for your command to not be anxious about ANYTHING. It's truly amazing to me that you give a way of life that works! I don't have to be anxious! Your peace, which is hard to really understand, will guard my heart and mind in Christ. Help me to run to You first. Let prayer not be a last resort. I want to trust you with all those things that concern me today. Amen.

The Good Samaritan

Spiritual Vitamin: But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. (Luke 10:33-34)

Challenge: The priest and the Levite were all too busy to tend to the man along the road. But the Samaritan took pity on him and bandaged his wounds and took him to safety. God's love cares for all human beings! There are people around us who have been beaten up by life. Pray to God and ask Him to show you who needs your care and encouragement today.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for the story of the Good Samaritan. What a model of how You want us to live for our fellow man! Thank you, God, for your perfect love.You are the one who gives me the ability to love and serve others. Give me your compassion and love today. Amen.

Storms of Life

Spiritual Vitamin: "Silence! Be Still" Jesus said when His disciples woke Him up. He spoke to the raging storm and "suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm." (Mark 4:39)

Challenge: When we're going through a crises, we sometimes wonder if God cares that "we're going to drown." We just want the crises to stop! But take heart, God cares when you feel like you're going to drown. Whether or not the crises goes away, God speaks His peace to you today. Trust God's peace today. 

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you that your peace will "guard our hearts and our minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7) So, no matter what comes my way today, God, I will trust you. I give you my fears, my doubts, my anxieties and my stressors. Thank you that You are in the boat with me. Amen.

Job and Trials

Spiritual Vitamin: "I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted. I had heard of You by the hearing of the ear, but now my eyes sees You, therefore I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes." Job 42:2, 5-6

Challenge: Reading the book of Job can be very challenging. He went through so much suffering! But, finally, Job understood. God loved Job! He doesn't allow suffering because he is punishing you. Yet, suffering has the potential to strengthen and transform us! God sustained Job through his suffering and will do so for you. How are you experiencing suffering today? Remember that God loves you and will sustain you through it.

Prayer: Dear Father, Thank you so much for using our suffering to help us see You and Your love for us more clearly. Job said "My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you."(Job 42:5) Lord, please take the challenges of my life and help me walk with You through them. Thank you for sustaining me through the trials. Amen

Throne of Grace

Spiritual Vitamin: "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16)

Challenge: The God of the universe is inviting you to stand before His throne of grace. He loves you so much! Jesus, is our perfect High Priest, and has made a way for us to come to God by becoming the perfect offering for us. What keeps you from accepting this free gift of God? 

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you so much for this invitation to come boldly to the throne of grace. We don't have to cower anxiously before Your presence. Rather, you encourage us to come to You and to keep on coming to Your throne, without fear or doubt. You are not a distant God, but one who has come close by sending your Son Jesus to die for us. I'm so thankful for your goodness and grace. Amen. 

Discernment

Spiritual Vitamin: "So this is my prayer; that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings to that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush." (Philippians 1:9-10 The Message)

Challenge: What would it look like for you to be fully engaged in God's agenda and will for your life? What gets in the way of freely surrendering to God? Are you able to discern what the Holy Spirit is doing in your life currently?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you that taking time to listen to You and recognize your voice is something I can do. Thank you that I can ask you for help, counsel and guidance on anything! Help me attend to the desires that You have placed deeply inside of me. Help me experience your love each and every day. Amen.

Wisdom for the Asking

Spiritual Vitamin: "Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold. She is more precious than jewels, and nothing you desire can compare with her." (Proverbs 3:13-15)

Challenge: God longs to give you wisdom! Did you know that wisdom isn't always equated with age? Ask God for wisdom. "Wisdom is knowledge, with the spiritual insight to judge what really matters. And it's yours for the asking."(66 Ways God Loves You, Jennifer Rothschild)

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you today for loving me so much to give me the very best gifts. Lord, I ask for a discerning heart. Give me your wisdom to make right decisions in every circumstance. Amen.

God Knows Me

Spiritual Vitamin: "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." (Psalm 139:13-14)

Challenge: Slowly read the the Psalm aloud, pausing each each verse. Substitute your own name for the pronouns  me and I.  "For you created ____ inmost being; you knit ____ together in ___ mother's womb. I praise you because ____ am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, ____ knows that full well." (Psalm 139:13-14)

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for this beautiful scripture and reminder that I am known fully by you. Free me from my own self-doubts. Help me take this Psalm personally, because that is it's intent. When I fill my name into this scripture, it touches me deeply. You love me so much and I'm so grateful. Amen.

Encourage One Another

Spiritual Vitamin: "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Challenge: Everywhere you look, people need encouragement. How can you edify or build up other people? Today, make it your goal to look for others to encourage. Ask God to show you! Listen. Wait. Pray. Then, look someone in the eye and build them up! 

Prayer: Dear God, There are so many around us that are discouraged or defeated. Help me to give the warm gift of encouragement to those who need it. Help me get outside myself and my concerns and think more of the other person than myself. Thank you that the word encouragement literally means to give support, confidence or hope to someone. Help me to do just that. Amen.

Live in Harmony

Spiritual Vitamin: ""Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble." (1 Peter 3:8)

Challenge: Do you have compassion for others in your life? Do you empathize in the trials and difficulties that others are going through? We can sometimes be so busy that we don't have time to help, comfort, support and encourage. Ask God to show you how to live in harmony with others and demonstrate compassion.

Prayer: Dear God, Help me to be tender-hearted and to have a humble attitude toward those in my midst. Help me sympathize with those that are hurting and going through difficult trials. Help me notice them and encourage them in their challenge. Thank you, God, for your help in living out this verse! Amen.

Do Not Lie

Spiritual Vitamin: "Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have stripped of the old self with its practices." (Colossians 3:9) "So then, putting away falsehood, let all of us speak the truth to our neighbors, for we are members of one another." (Ephesians 4:25)

Challenge: Think back to the last time you lied about something? What did you hide? Why did you lie? Was it worth compromising your integrity?

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for your commandment not to lie to one another. Forgive me for any time where I have not told the entire truth. Show me when I hide things by giving only half truths. Please give me confidence to believe that I'm worthy of being who I am. I don't have to hide from anyone! Thank you that "you desire truth in the innermost being." Help me to speak the truth at all times. Amen.