Humbling Yourself

Spiritual Vitamin: "But he made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross." Philippians 2:7-8

Reflect: Our natural inclination is to place ourselves in the center of everything and to think how we are going to be affected  by this and that, before we consider the needs, necessities, or feelings of others- before we consider the desire of God's heart....yet this was not the attitude of the Lord Jesus Who set aside His heavenly glory in order to be made in the likeness of sinful man." (Knowing Jesus Commentary) We are challenged daily to let THIS mind be in us that was in Jesus. How do you set aside yourself? How do you empty yourself and become a servant of all- for His sake?

The Gift

Spiritual Vitamin: "'For God so loved the world that the gave his one and only So, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Reflect: Everyone loves gifts! We begin the gift opening, by consulting the tag to determine who gave the gift. Each gift reflects the love and sacrifice of the one who gave the gift. Such is true for God in sending the ultimate gift, Jesus. Will you accept the gift of God? 

Good News!

Spiritual Vitamin: "This will be a sign for you; you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Luke 2:12

Reflect: Amid all the bad news of our day, we can often feel discouraged and sad. Be encouraged! God has not abandoned us! A Savior has come!

Jesus' Gift to the World

Spiritual Vitamin: "The Spirit of the Lord is on me because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free." Luke 4:18

Reflect: Thank God that He has not abandoned the world. He sent his Son Jesus to take away the sins of the world. Will you receive Him today? 

John the Baptist

Spiritual Vitamin: "A voice is calling, 'Clear the way for the Lord in the wilderness; Make smooth in the desert a highway for our God. Then the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all flesh will see it together." Isaiah 40: 3,5

Reflect: John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus. Will others be drawn to Jesus or away from Him as they observe you?

Suffering Servant

Spiritual Vitamin: "He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain." Isaiah 53:3

Reflect: Consider how this dark description of what the servant would suffer is crucial for us as we walk through Advent. Pray that You would meet Him in your own struggles and suffering.  

What Gift Will I Give Him?

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 and of incense and of myrrh." Matthew 2:10-11

Reflect: When they saw the star, they were overjoyed! Do I have this same anticipation to look for Jesus? Do I seek Him throughout my day? What gift will I give Him this Christmas? 

Jesus

Spiritual Vitamin: "She (Mary) 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 1:21

Reflect: God offers the gift of salvation through His Son, Jesus. No one likes to talk about sin, yet we all sin! All have fallen short of God's glory. Take in the beauty of Christmas and the joy of Jesus' birth. What "gift" can you give Jesus? 

Peace I Leave with You

Spiritual Vitamin: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." John 14:27

Reflect: As we light another Advent candle, pray that God would give you a renewed sense of what Christmas is all about. Pray for God's peace to pervade your life. Pray for joy to abound as you celebrate the true meaning of Christmas! 

The Shepherds Had to See Jesus!

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." Luke 2:15

Reflect: The shepherds couldn't wait to see the baby Jesus! Pray to God, that You would become more and more curious about Jesus. Pray that you would long to get to know Him more this Christmas and He becomes first in your life.

Good News!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that  will cause great joy for all people." Luke 2:10

Reflect: What good news have you received lately? It's always wonderful to hear GOOD NEWS! Jesus' birth was the best news you could ask for! The angels basically said, "Don't be afraid!" Stop. Listen. Revel in the good news that would bring great joy! 

Jesus

Spiritual Vitamin: "She will give birth to a Son and you will name him Jesus because he will save his people from their sins." Matthew 1:21-22

Reflect: He was to be called Jesus because "He"  alone would save his people. In the midst of this busy, stressful, and sometimes challenging season, would you remember what it's really about? 

Nothing is Impossible with God

Spiritual Vitamin: "The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God." Luke 1:35-37

Reflect: The Christmas story teaches us so much about our loving God! The angel spoke to Mary and told her what would happen. He concluded with "For nothing is impossible with God." What do you long to see happen, but have trouble believing God? 

Christmas and Singing

Spiritual Vitamin: "Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth; make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise." Psalm 66:1

Reflect: Christmas season is a great time for singing carols! Find a Christmas station and join in singing as you drive. If you have an instrument, take time to play it. Engage in the spiritual discipline of worship, lifting your heart to the One we worship!

Prince of Peace

Spiritual Vitamin: "For a child has been born fur us, a Son given to us, authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 8:6-7

Reflect: Pray that You would know this kind of peace that Jesus came to bring.

Preparing Your Heart

Spiritual Vitamin: "For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us and the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Reflect: How can you prepare your heart for Christmas? Ask God to give you a heart that looks for His coming on a daily basis. 

Help My Unbelief

Spiritual Vitamin: "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" Mark 9:23-24

Reflect: Pray that God will help you trust Him and place your hope in Him today and in the days ahead.  

Our Great High Priest

Spiritual Vitamin- "Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:14-16

Reflect: Thank God, for being our great High Priest, who took on flesh, the true miracle of Christmas. Draw near to His throne of grace, so that you may receive mercy and find grace to help in your time of need. 

God Takes Thought of You

Spiritual Vitamin: "As for me, I am poor and needy, but the Lord takes thought of me. You are my help and my deliverer; do not delay, O My God!" Psalm 40:17

Reflect: Did you know the Lord takes thought of me? He not only takes thought of you constantly but knows your thoughts. Talk to Him in prayer and allow Him to be your help and your deliverer. 

Peace of Christ

Spiritual Vitamin: "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members on one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." Colossians 3:15

Reflect: Holidays and other circumstances bring out all the "feels". What emotions are you carrying that are challenging? Pray that the God of peace will give you His peace. May Christ's peace rule in your hearts today. 

God Will Carry Our Burdens

Spiritual Vitamin: "Cast your burden on the LORD, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved." Psalm 55:22

Reflect: What burdens do you carry today? Will you give them one by one to our loving God? He will sustain you!

 

Light of God's Love

Spiritual Vitamin: "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness, on them light has shined." Isaiah 9:2

Reflect: We're grateful to celebrate Advent! Pray today that the light of God's love will challenge us to become lights in the lives of those around us.

Distractions

Spiritual Vitamin: "For to us a child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Reflect: What distractions might block you from taking in the beauty of the Advent season. Pray that God will help You live in light of the beauty of Advent. 

Advent

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

Reflect: As we wrap up Thanksgiving, it's time to turn the page to Advent, as we focus on the arrival of Christ. Let's pray that our focus and devotion during Advent can be on Christ and not on the things that can tend to distract us. 

Beyond Thanksgiving

Spiritual Vitamin: "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty." 1 Timothy 2:1-2

Reflect: It is good to pray for our family, our friends, those in authority, and even for those difficult people in our lives. Ask the Lord to give you a spirit of gratitude that lasts beyond just Thanksgiving day!

Give Thanks!

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." Psalm 100: 1-3

Reflect: Give thanks to God for the many blessings He has given you in your life. Become a grateful person not just today, but every day! 

God's Presence in our Busyness

Spiritual Vitamin: "Glory in his holy name, let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice! Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!" 1 Chronicles 16:10-11

Reflect: So many of us are busy preparing for the holidays today. It's in the Lord's presence, we find satisfaction and peace. In the midst of your busy day, remember that God is present and desires to walk with you each moment. 

Good to Give Thanks

Spiritual Vitamin: "Oh give thanks to the LORD, for HE is good, for His steadfast love endures forever! 1 Chronicles 16:34

Reflect: Make a list today of all those things and people you are thankful to God for. It is good to give thanks to God!

Not to Worry!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.....  "The Lord is near." Philippians 4: 6, 5

Reflect: We don't have to worry, fret or be anxious. We really don't! Why? Because the Lord is near." (Philippians 4:5) What are you worried about as Thanksgiving approaches? Give your worries to God...one by one.

What is Best for You

Spiritual Vitamin: "I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go." Isaiah 48:17

Reflect: God is a loving parent, teaching and directing us. He cares and always wants the best for us. Will you allow Him to direct and guide you?

 

A Personal God

Spiritual Vitamin: "The LORD is my strength and my shield. My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart exults, and with my song I shall thank Him." Psalm 28:7

Reflect: God is a personal God. The Psalmist says "MY strength. MY shield. What hinders you from experiencing God's personal connection?

Give Thanks

Spiritual Vitamin: "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever." Psalm 136:1

Reflection: Remember that God is good all the time. It is a good thing to give thanks to Him. Will you thank Him today for the many blessings He's given you? 

Thanks-Living

Spiritual Vitamin: "Do everything without grumbling or arguing." Philippians 2:14

Reflect: How can you enjoy "thanks-living?" Live every day with a grateful heart, not just at Thanksgiving. Practice this way of life today and in the days ahead!  

Contentment

Spiritual Vitamin: "I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:12-13

Reflect: Where do you struggle with discontentment? Choose to give thanks to God today for your many blessings. Pray that God will help you see things from an eternal perspective. 

God is Everywhere

Spiritual Vitamin: "Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, our right hand will hold me fast." Psalm 139:7-10

Reflect: God is omnipresent- he is present everywhere. No matter where you are you can never be far from God. How does that give you comfort today? 

Give Thanks In All Circumstances

Spiritual Vitamin: "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Reflect: Tis the season to give thanks! But God calls us to give thanks in all circumstances! Take a moment and give thanks to God today. 

Give Thanks!

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

Reflect: God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good. Take a moment and give thanks for who He is and all He's done for you! 

Being Grateful

Spiritual Vitamin: "Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:20

Reflect: Are you a grateful person? Not just around Thanksgiving but ALL the time? Gratitude can change the direction of your day. Take time to thank God for the many gifts He's given you! 

Help

Spiritual Vitamin: "I lift up my eyes to the hills- where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121:1

Reflect: Where does your help come from? So often, we seek help from everyone and everything but God. How do you need God's help today? Ask Him. He's listening and longs to help!

Peace

Spiritual Vitamin: "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7

Reflect: Today is Veteran's Day. Would you take a moment and pray for each veteran that you know? Pray that God would bless them and give them His peace. 

God Supplies Our Needs

Spiritual Vitamin: "And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Jesus Christ." Philippians 4:19. "The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want." Psalm 23:1

Reflect: We do not lack ONE thing with God at our side! Will you RUN to Him for EVERY one of your needs?

Ask for Wisdom

Spiritual Vitamin: "If any of you lack wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." James 1:5

Reflect: How do you need God's wisdom today? Pray for wisdom! 

Kind and Compassionate

Spiritual Vitamin: "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32

Reflect: Pray that God helps you be other-centered and prefer others over yourself today. Go out of your way to bless and encourage people today. Everyone needs it! 

Rest and Peace

Spiritual Vitamin: "The disciples went and woke him saying, 'Lord, save us! We're going down to drown!' He replied, 'You of little faith, why are you so afraid? Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm." Matthew 8:25-26

Reflect? When we cast our cares on God, He gives rest and peace. Where do you need His peace today? 

Anxiety

Spiritual Vitamin: "Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7

Reflect: What anxiety do you carry today? Will you give Him every bit of it? He cares for you!

Delight in the Lord

Spiritual Vitamin: Trust in the LORD and do good, dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 34:3-4

Reflect: Do you want the desires of your heart to be fully met? David in this Psalm calls us to delight in the LORD and to commit everything to Him. Will you do that? 

What Do You Do With Your Troubles?

Spiritual Vitamin: "The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him." Nahum 1:7

Reflect: What troubles are you carrying today? Would you give God each one? He is your stronghold and you can take refuge in Him.

 

God's Help

Spiritual Vitamin: "For I, the LORD, your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, 'Fear not, I am the one who helps you, Fear not, I am the One who helps you.'" Isaiah 41:13

Reflect: Where do you need God's help today? Lord, I  need your help today for: ______________________. God is faithful!

When Anxiety Comes

Spiritual Vitamin: "When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy." Psalm 94:19

Reflect: When do you find yourself anxious? If you are struggling with anxious or worries today, would you just take a moment and give them, one by one, to God? 

Satisfy us early!

Spiritual Vitamin: "O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days." Psalm 90:14

Reflect: How do you start your day? Start your day asking that God would satisfy you early with his mercy. What a great way to start your day! 

Encourage others!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Reflect: Who can you encourage today? Pray that God would help you encourage those around you. 

Serve others

Spiritual Vitamin: "Contribute to the needs of God's people and welcome strangers into your home." Romans 12:13

Reflect: How can you contribute to the needs of God's people this week? How can you show hospitality either in your home or work?

Seize the Day

Spiritual Vitamin: "Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12

Reflect: What do I want to see happen in my life before I die? Pray that God would help you seize each day! 

God is Good

Spiritual Vitamin: "For You, Lord are good, and ready to forgive. And abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon You." Psalm 86:5 

"The Lord is good to all, and his mercies are over all his works." Psalm 145:9

Reflect: God is a good God. Do you believe He is good? Pray that You will get to know Him more and more!

Fear of Man

Spiritual Vitamin: "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe." Proverbs 29:25

Reflect: Are you a people pleaser? Pray that God will help you trust In Him. He will keep you safe.

 

A Word Aptly Spoken

Spiritual Vitamin: "A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver." Proverbs 25:11

Reflect: It does matter how we say what we say! Ask God to help you give a proper word at the proper time.  

Favor of the Lord

Spiritual Vitamin: "Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yet, establish the work of our hands." Psalm 90:17

Reflect: It's Monday! Pray that God would give you much favor this week and bless the work of your hands. 

Guidance

Spiritual Vitamin: "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you; Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you." Psalm 32:8-9

Reflect: Where do you need guidance today? Ask God to instruct you and teach you and counsel you. He will!

Contentment

Spiritual Vitamin: "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:11-13

Reflect: Are you content in all things? What keeps you from being content? Pray that God will give you a peaceful and content heart.

Caring

Spiritual Vitamin: "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Galations 6:2

Reflect: God cares for all people. He tells us to bear other peoples' burdens. Who might you show care to today? 

Hope in God

Spiritual Vitamin: "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed, within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God." Psalm 42:5

Reflect: Do you feel downcast or discouraged today? Tell God exactly how you feel. He is there for you and will hear your voice cry out to Him. Take a moment and pray that God will help you put your hope in Him.  

Where is Your Security?

Spiritual Vitamin: "Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God, He is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him for God is our refuge." Psalm 62:5-8

Reflect? What gives you security? We can place our security in people, places or things. But, it's only God, that we can always find rest, hope, and security. Pray that God helps you find your security in Him.

Consciously Thinking about God

Spiritual Vitamin: "I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds. Your ways, O God, are holy. What god is so great as our God?" Psalm 77:12-13

Reflect: The Psalmist made a conscious decision to think about God. Do you take time throughout your day to think about God? 

Love One Another

Spiritual Vitamin: "A new command I give you; love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." John 13:34

Reflect: Pray that God would help you love those that you come in contact with today. Pray that He would teach you to love well. 

Praying for the Sick

Spiritual Vitamin: "Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well." James 5:14-15

Reflect: Who do you know that is sick or hurting? Will you offer a prayer in faith for those people in your life today?

It is God who Gives Strength!

Spiritual Vitamin: "It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to stand on the heights. He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze. You give me your shield of victory and your right hand sustains me; you stoop down to make me great." Psalm 18:32-36

Reflect: It is God who gives us strength! He can do what we can't! Will you trust Him to give you His strength today? 

Look to Others' Interests!

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

Reflect: Paul tells us to walk in humility by considering others as more important than ourselves. How can God help you look to others' interests today? 

Give Thought to Your Ways

Spiritual Vitamin: "The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception." Proverbs 14:8

Reflect: Do you give thought to your ways? One way to do this is to start your day in prayer, praying through your activities, meetings, choices, and relationships. May God help You give thought to your ways! 

Call Upon Him!

Spiritual Vitamin: "He will call upon me and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation." Psalm 91:15-16

Reflect: God gives us constant protection. Where do you need his protection today? Call upon Him!

Overlooking an Insult

Spiritual Vitamin: "A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult." Proverbs12:16

Reflect: It's so easy to show our annoyance at once. Where annoys you most? Pray that God will give you patience and grace in those moments.  

Holding Tongue

Spiritual Vitamin: "When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise." Proverbs 10:19

Reflect: Are your words many? Pray that God would help you be able to hold your tongue when needed. 

God's Powerful Names

Spiritual Vitamin: "I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." Psalm 18:1-2

Reflect: What are the words that depict God in this passage? Meditate on these names. How is He your rock, your fortress, your deliverer, your shield and your horn of your salvation? 

God's Plans for You

Spiritual Vitamin: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me, and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you." Jeremiah 29:11-14

Reflect: Even when God's people were in captivity in Babylon, you did not forget them! You planned to give them a new beginning and purpose. You do the same for us. Will you trust that God has good plans for you? Seek Him. 

Answer Me Quickly

Spiritual Vitamin: "Answer me quickly, LORD; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I entrust my life." Psalm 143:7-8

Reflect: David, the writer of this verse is expressing his fear and depression. He needs God's help quickly! How do you need God's help today? Make this your prayer for guidance today. 

Whom Shall I Be Afraid?

Spiritual Vitamin: "The LORD is my light and my salvation-whom shall I fear? the LORD is the stronghold of my life-of whom shall I be afraid?"Psalm 27:1

Reflect: The Psalmist has three names for his God: My light, my salvation and the stronghold of my life. When he contemplates His God, it causes him not to fear. Meditate on who God is to you. Whom shall you be afraid?

Guard Your Heart

Spiritual Vitamin: "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life." Proverbs 4:23

Reflect: How do you make it a priority to guard your heart? What does that look like? 

Trust

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." 

Reflect: When you lean on something, it has the sense of putting most of your weight on that something. You trust in that person or thing. Who can you trust? Will you trust in God? He is worthy of our trust!

Wisdom

Spiritual Vitamin: My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God." Proverbs 2:1-5

Reflect: Where do you need wisdom today? Turn your ear to God's wisdom.

Seek the LORD

Spiritual Vitamin: "I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame." Psalm 34:4-5

Reflect: When the Psalmist, David, encountered trouble, he sought the Lord. Not only did he seek the Lord, but the Lord didn't let him down. Will you seek the Lord today for all that is on your heart? He will never let you down.

Refreshing others

Spiritual Vitamin: "Generous persons will prosper, those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed." Proverbs 11:25

Reflect: What ways can you be generous today? How can you refresh someone else today? Everyone needs encouragement. Look around and ask God to show you how to bless someone today. 

Fear of Man

Spiritual Vitamin: "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe." Proverbs 29:25

Reflect: What are ways we can fear people? When people are big and God is small, you miss out on the safety of the Lord. Fear God alone. He will keep you safe! 

Teach Me

Spiritual Vitamin: "Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name." Psalm 86:11

Reflect: No matter what age, we still have much to learn. Our Lord, when we're willing, has much to teach us. Would you make this your prayer today? 

Praise the Lord!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him. Praise the LORD with the harp; make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre. Sing to him a new song; Play skillfully, and shout for joy. Psalm 33:1-3

Reflect: How often do you take time to praise the Lord? You may not be gifted at playing the harp or lyre or even have a great voice! But, the LORD loves the praises of His people! Take some time to give Him your praise today! 

God is With You

Spiritual Vitamin: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

Reflect: What a word to live by! How are you cowering in fear today? Where are you lacking courage? Ask God for help to obey this command. Give him every one of your fears! He is with you wherever you go! 

Overlooking an Offense

Spiritual Vitamin: "A man's wisdom gives him patience, it is to his glory to overlook an offense." Proverbs 19:11

Reflection: Do you overlook other's offenses? Or do you want to jump and criticize their mistakes? Consider this proverb. It is wisdom that gives us patience. Let's be patient with each other! 

Consider the Ravens

Spiritual Vitamin: "Consider the ravens; they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds." Luke 12:24

Reflect: Have you considered the ravens? They were considered not very valuable birds in the Bible. Yet, God cares for all of creation and values them! How much more does He value You? How does that change your perceptions? 

All Things are Possible

Spiritual Vitamin: "Jesus looked at them and said 'With Man, this is impossible, but not with God, all things are possible with God.'"

Reflect: God has power and authority over all things. He can do anything! What is the "impossible" in your life? 

Do Not be Anxious

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 4:6-7

Reflect: What are the concerns or worries on your mind today? You don't have to be anxious about anything! Will you give your worries, one by one to God. May His peace encompass your heart today. 

It's Possible!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Reflect:When it comes to setting goals, it's important to get the right balance between what's possible and what's impossible. We may not attempt the impossible, but why not attempt the possible? The possible may still be an immense challenge but we can be inspired to give the possible a go. Will you practice rejoicing always? Praying continually? Giving thanks in all circumstances?(Northern Seminary, Impossible Goals) 

Lord of Peace

Spiritual Vitamin: "Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way." 2 Thessalonians 3:16

Reflect: What are you worried or stressed about? Take a moment and pray that God would give you His peace at all times in every way.  

Watch in Hope

Spiritual Vitamin: "But as for me, I watch in hope for the LORD, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me." Micah 7:7

Reflect: The prophet, Micah resolved to look alone to the Lord and put his trust in him. He placed his confidence in God despite the circumstances. He expected all good things to come from him and yet he had to wait for them. How can Micah's determination be a guide for you in times of challenge? 

Thank God it's Friday!

Spiritual Vitamin: 'The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fail, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalm 37:23-24 NLT

Reflect: It's Friday! I imagine you've had some 'ups' this week as well as some 'downs'. How have you seen God at work? Did you know He cares about every detail of your life? Will you allow Him to walk with You today? 

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 thanksgiving." Colossians 2:6-7

Reflect: Today is Thursday! Are you a person of gratitude? God wants us to overflow with thanksgiving. May that be true of you today!

Be Still

Spiritual Vitamin: "Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10

Reflect: When do you find yourself distracted? Do you have trouble being still? Give time each day to be still before God. He will meet you in those times. 

Believe!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God, believe also in me." John 14:1

Reflect: What stresses you out today? Believe in God's words and take comfort in His promises. Practice trusting Him today. He will see you through. 

September 12 Living

Spiritual Vitamin: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, 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 13:4-7)

Reflect: We pray for another September 12 where we can come together and love one another as we did twenty years ago. Would you meditate on this verse and consider how you might love others?

O God, Our Help in Ages Past

Spiritual Vitamin: "O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come, our shelter from the stormy blast, And our eternal home; 2) under the shadow of your throne your saints have dwelt secure. Sufficient is your arm alone, and our defense is sure. 6)O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come, still be our guard while troubles last, And our eternal home." Isaac Watts, 1719

Reflect: Reflect on these three verses of the song "O God, Our Help in Ages Past." Today is the 20th anniversary of 9/11. Ponder our great God in the midst of such devastation. He is still God. He is still our hope. He is still our shelter from the stormy blast. Whatever you are going through today, trust Him to be enough for you.

A New Thing!

Spiritual Vitamin: "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." Isaiah 43:19

Reflect: In the midst of whatever confusion or clutter you are dealing with, God is there. He can do a new thing. Anticipate that God can do anything in your situation. He is God! 

What do you fear?

Spiritual Vitamin: When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise. In God, I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? Psalm 56:3-4

Reflect: What are you afraid of? Will you give your fears to God and trust in Him? 

God is our Refuge

Spiritual Vitamin: "God is our refuge and strength. A very present and well-proved help in trouble." Psalm 46:1

Reflect: There are so many "rough parts" of life these days. Where are those rough parts for you? Will you take a moment and give God those rough parts of your life? Thank Him that He will meet you as you walk through each one.

This is the Day!

Spiritual Vitamin: "This is the day the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24

Reflect: Each day is a rich and precious gift from God. As you start this new week, what are you thankful for? What new opportunities might God give you today?

Labor Day

Spiritual Vitamin: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men." Colossians 3:23

Reflect: Take a moment to give thanks for all those you regularly come in contact with as they work. Take a moment to thank God for your job as well. Do it with all your heart, serving the Lord. 

Help!

Spiritual Vitamin: "I lift up my eyes to the hills, where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth."

Reflect: Where do you need God's help today? Be assured that he cares about everything you care about and more! 

Rest

Spiritual Vitamin: "Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." Mark 6:31

Reflect: Will you take time for yourself this weekend? Rest, enjoy and savor the gift of life!

Come to Me

Spiritual Vitamin: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30

Reflect: Give God your burdens today, every one of them. He longs to yoke with you through the challenges you face! 

He's Got the Whole World!

Spiritual Vitamin: Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep." Psalm 36:5-6

Reflect: God cares about the concerns of the world as well as our own welfare. He really does have the whole world in his hands. Do you believe and trust our great God?

Wait in Hope

Spiritual Vitamin: "We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield, In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in you." Psalm 22:20-22

Reflect: What are you waiting for today? Have you thought about waiting in HOPE for the LORD? He is your help and shield. He is able to do anything! Put your trust in Him. He will never fail you.

 

Strength and Peace

Spiritual Vitamin: "The LORD gives strength to his people, the LORD blesses his people with peace." Psalm 29:11

Reflect: What does the Lord freely give to His people? How do you need God's strength and/or peace today? 

Pray for Protection

Spiritual Vitamin: "May the LORD answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you." Psalm 20:1

Reflect: May today are suffering around our world. We think of those in and around Hurricane Ida. Take a moment and pray for all who need God's protection today. 

Do Not Fear

Spiritual Vitamin: "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Reflect? How do you handle fear? What promises does God give you in this verse? May God use this verse to come all your fears. 

The Lord is Amazing!

Spiritual Vitamin: "The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made." Psalm 145:8-9

Reflect: What encourages you the most in this verse? How can knowing these character traits about God give you hope and encouragement today?

I Sought the Lord

Spiritual Vitamin: "I sought the Lord, and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears." Psalm 34:4

Reflect: What are your fears today? Will you seek the Lord and talk to Him about each fear? He truly wants to deliver us from our fears! 

No Fear!

Spiritual Vitamin: "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." 2 Timothy 1:7

Reflect: When was the last time you struggled with either fear, anxiety, or discouragement? What caused this struggle and how did you respond?  (2 Timothy 1:1-7 Sermon reflection questions, Grace Bible Church) 

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 submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

Reflect: Do you trust in the Lord with all your heart? Where do you tend to follow your own understanding? May this verse be the reality of your life. 

Dwelling In the Shelter

Spiritual Vitamin: "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." Psalm 91:1-2

Reflect: God will keep you safe! Do you believe it? Dwell in His shelter. He is your refuge, no matter what happens!

Greatness of God

Spiritual Vitamin: "You are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give thanks and praise your glorious name....Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand." 1 Chronicles 29:12-14

Reflect: When was the last time you thought about the greatness of God? He is ruler of all. All strength and power is in his hands. Everything comes from Him! Allow yourself to comprehend the greatness of God. What is your responnse?

The Prodigal Son

Spiritual Vitamin: "So, he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him, he ran to his son, threw his arms around him, and kissed him." Luke 15:20

Reflect: Do you know the story of the Prodigal Son. He left his family and went far, far away and squandered his inheritance, living a life of indulgence. He finally came home and received this response from the father. No matter what you've done in life, remember that God is ready to receive sinners who come to Him in repentant faith.

God's Great Love for You

Spiritual Vitamin: "The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you but will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17

Reflect: God loves you so much! What do you see in this scripture that shows how much He loves you? Reflect on His great love for you today. 

Bearing One Another's Burdens

Spiritual Vitamin: "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Galations 6:2

Reflect: We're living in unusual times. So many are affected by COVID. Everyone needs patience and love these days. How can you love well and be patient with our fellow human beings in this challenging time?

Asking God for Guidance

Spiritual Vitamin: "Let him who walks in darkness and has no light, trust in the name of the Lord and rely on his God." Isaiah 50:10

Reflect: What's on your mind today? Where do you need guidance? Take a moment and ask God to give you the light and guidance you need. Rely on Him today to see you through. 

Remember

Spiritual Vitamin: "Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body." Hebrews 13:3

Reflect: You may not know anyone in Afghanistan or Haiti. But take the next minute and pray for them, as though you're with them too. Pray for God to heal, comfort, protect and care for each person. 

Prayer for Afghanistan and Haiti

Spiritual Vitamin: "But in your great mercy, you did not put an end to them or abandon them, for you are a gracious and merciful God." Nehemiah 9:31

Reflect: We take a moment and pray for God's mercy for the countries of Afghanistan and Haiti. Lord, we pray for the protection and preservation of lives. We pray for hope. Lord, we're so grateful that You are a gracious and merciful God and we can bring You our heartfelt concerns. Amen.

God is in Control

Spiritual Vitamin: "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8

Reflect: Whether it's what's going on all around the world, the COVID crises, school starting or personal worries, God is control today and always. Will you trust Him?  

Quick, Slow, Slow

Spiritual Vitamin: "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." James 1:19

Reflect: So often, we tend to be slow to listen, quick to speak and quick to become angry. Pray that God will help you be able to live out this verse this week!

God is Faithful

Spiritual Vitamin: "If you are suffering in a manner that pleases God, keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who created you, for He will never fail you."  1 Peter 4:9

Reflect: God is such a faithful God. He will never fail you. He will be faithful through anything and everything. Will you trust Him today?

God Knows Everything

Spiritual Vitamin: "He determines the course of world events; He removes kings and sets others on the throne. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the scholars." Daniel 2:21

Reflect: God, the creator of the universe, knows everything and is the source of all true knowledge, wisdom and understanding. (Josh McDowell Ministry) God knows the answers to all of life's questions. He knows everything about you! Whatever is going on today in your life, God truly knows and is able to walk with you through it.  

God Never Changes

Spiritual Vitamin: "The LORD's plans stand firm forever; His intentions can never be shaken." Psalm 33:11

Reflect: God's plan is unchangeable. He doesn't change. He is good all the time. He doesn't lie. His love is never-ending. People change, but God never will. Will you trust Him?

The Grace of God

Spiritual Vitamin: 'May the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you."  Numbers 6:25

Reflect: God's grace is amazing. Yet so often we try to work and earn favor with God. It is God's grace alone that has the power to transform our lives. It is by grace alone we are saved. May you experience God's grace today in abundance.  

God's Love is Unconditional

Spiritual Vitamin: "The LORD is good. His unfailing love continues forever." Psalm 100:5 NLT

Reflect: God's love is unconditional. It is not based on how good you are or what you try to do to please him. (Josh McDowell) What holds you back from his unconditional and perfect love? 

Resting on Sabbath

Spiritual Vitamin: "In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety." Psalm 4:8

Reflect: Take this Sabbath Day and truly rest. Take a nap. Do what you enjoy doing. Don't feel guilty about resting! Rest is a gift from God! 

God is Sovereign

Spiritual Vitamin: "O Sovereign LORD! You have made the heavens and earth by Your great power. Nothing is too hard for You!" Jeremiah 32:17

Reflect: God is sovereign over everything! Do you feel overwhelmed by the circumstances in your life? Your God is still in control and sovereignty directing your life. 

God is Wise

Spiritual Vitamin: "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." James 1:5

Reflect: What do you need wisdom for today? If you lack wisdom, pray and ask God! He delights in giving you wisdom from heaven! 

God is a compassionate God

Spiritual Vitamin: "As a father has compassion on His children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him." Psalm 103:13

Reflect: The One who created us, redeemed us and upholds us moment by moment with his powerful hand is also a God of compassion. Do you grasp God's kindness towards you? His compassion never fail and His mercies are new every morning!

God is our Provider

Spiritual Vitamin: "If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him! (Matthew 7:11)

Reflect: Do you fret or worry about your needs being met? God knows the wants of his children and what is proper for them. God's gracious gifts are just that-gracious. God desires to lovingly supply all the needs of His children. 

Your Father God is Faithful

Spiritual Vitamin: "The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8

Reflect: Do you believe that God will never leave you or forsake you? How do we live without fear or discouragement? Get to know God!

God is our Provider

Spiritual Vitamin: "And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."  Philippians 4:19

Reflect: We humans have a lot of needs such as food, shelter, protection, clothes, jobs, money, rest, enjoyment, relationships, significance, and more! So often, we can be searching to fulfill these needs while we forget the one need that we need most! God! Take a moment and consider: What needs are you worried about? Will you trust that God will meet all your needs?

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

Reflect: Do you trust in the Lord with all your heart? Where do you tend to lean on your own understanding? Pray that God will help you live out this verse today, and every day.

Security

Spiritual Vitamin: "Let the beloved of the Lord rest secure in him, for he shields him all day long, and the one the Lord loves rests between his shoulders." Deuteronomy 33:12

Reflect: God provides a safe, secure environment and promises that He will never leave us. His love is with us every step of the way. Why do we fear? 

God's best

Spiritual Vitamin: "There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord." Proverbs 21:30

Reflect: Why do we try to make our plans without God's help? Why do we tend to fight what He sees as best for us? God is always trustworthy! Will You trust Him for your life's plans? He has His best for you! 

Whom Have I in Heaven But You?

Spiritual Vitamin: "Wet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." Psalm 73:23-26

Reflect: Read through this portion of scripture several times. How does the Psalmist describe God's nearness? How does He describe his attributes? What is most encouraging to you about this? 

Be free!

Spiritual Vitamin: "Be free from pride-filled opinions, for they will only harm your cherished unity. Don't allow self-promotion to hide in your hearts, but in authentic humility put others first and view others as more important than yourselves. Abandon every display of selfishness. Possess a greater concern for what matters to others instead of your own interests." Philippians 2:3-4 (The Passion Bible)

Reflect: Read through this verse slowly and thoughtfully. What does this look like in your life? Ask God to review any pride, self-promotion and selfishness in your own life. 

Peace

Spiritual Vitamin: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." John 14:27

Reflect: Contrast Jesus' peace with the peace that comes from the world. What do you notice? Pray that God would give you a mega-dose of His peace to you this day. 

Safe

Spiritual Vitamin: "One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock." Psalm 27:4-5

Reflect: Do you want to feel safe? I sure do. Re-read David's prayer to the Lord. What is the ONE thing that he asks? How do you think He was so confident that God would keep him safe? What words describe "safety?"

God Has Not Forgotten You

Spiritual Vitamin: "Has God forgotten to be gracious?" Psalm 77:9

Reflect: Sometimes, it feels like God has forgotten you. I often feel like this when I pray about something and wait and wait and don't get an answer. But, God has NOT forgotten us. As we engage daily in relationship with Him, please know He hears the cries of your heart. Tell Him exactly how You feel. Ask God for a greater faith and trust to believe Him! 

Slow to Anger

Spiritual Vitamin: "Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense." Proverbs 19:11

Reflect: When do you find anger to be a "quick response?" Take a moment and think about that situation and picture in your mind what it would be like to be slow to anger. Practice being slow to anger with God's help. Ask God to show you an opportunity to overlook an offense this week. (Yes, that's right, be able to turn the other cheek when someone hurts or upsets you.) With God's help, we can do this!

This is the Day

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

Reflect: The Psalmist who wrote this Psalm had written it in a time where he was facing many challenging situations. The Psalmist called out to God in the challenges. In both the beginning and end of the Psalm, the Psalmist gave thanks. What challenges are you going through today? Can you still thank God for His goodness amidst the hard times?

Rest

Spiritual Vitamin: "I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint." Jeremiah 31:25

Reflect: Are you weary today? Will you allow yourself to take a break and be refreshed by God? He will gently and kindly bring refreshment and satisfaction. Will you rest today? 

I Know the Plans

Spiritual Vitamin: "For I know the plans that I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:11-13

Reflect: What encouraging and promising words found in Jeremiah 20:11-13! God is the only One who knows our future and His plans for us are good and full of hope. That doesn't mean that we won't experience pain, suffering and hardship in life. Can you believe this beautiful promise, even amidst the challenges of your life? Praise God for being so faithful. Seek Him while He may be found.

Lifting My Eyes

 Spiritual Vitamin: "I lift up my eyes to the hills-where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip-he who watches over you will not slumber." Psalm 121:1-3

Reflect: What did you learn from God in this text? We should never trust in a lesser power than God Himself. (Life Application Study Bible, NIV) What lesser powers do you tend to trust in? Pray that God would build your trust in Him alone.

God's Faithfulness

Spiritual Vitamin: "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every moment; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-24

Reflect: What keeps us from being consumed? What never fails? God is always, always faithful. How do you need to see his faithfulness today?

Complaints

Spiritual Vitamin: Evening and morning and at noon I utter my complaint and moan, and He hears my voice...Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved." Psalm 55:17:22

Reflect: Whom do you tend to complain to? Why do you complain? What would it be like if you give your complaints to God? Try it for the next 24 hours. 

Encouraging One Another

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

Reflect: Who doesn't need encouragement? Why not ask God to show you each day who and how you can encourage those in your midst? Watch Him do it! 

Brotherly Love

Spiritual Vitamin: "Let brotherly love continue." Hebrews 13:1

Reflect: There is no expiration date for loving people. We can give up on people way to soon! Whether it's their political views, their judgmental attitude and poor treatment of us, we can just get ugly with people when they get ugly with us. God calls us to a higher love! The word here is a Greek word coming from the word philadelphia, coming from the root philia. It refers to a brotherly friendship and affection. It is the love of deep friendship and partnership. There should be plenty of this kind of love among believers and it should continue. (Enduring Word, Hebrews 13) How well are you demonstrating brotherly love? 

A Way of Humility

Spiritual Vitamin: "Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight." Romans 12:15-16

Reflect: How do you rejoice with those who rejoice? When is it hard for you to do that? What happens when you weep with those who weep? When we humble ourselves, we "count others more significant" than ourselves. We don't just look to our own needs, but the needs of others. By doing this, we emulate the Compassion of Christ. (Paul Tautges, A Small Book for the Hurting Heart, page 164) 

Bringing Refreshment to Others

Spiritual Vitamin: "May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains." 2 Timothy 1:16

Reflect: The apostle Paul had such a great encourager in his life! The name Onesiphorus means "profit bringer." Onesiphorus was one of the faithful few who stood by fall during very difficult times. He often refreshed Paul. Onesiphorus didn't wait to find opportunities to serve, but sought them out. How can you become more like Onesiphorus? Who can you encourage today?

Steadfast in Prayer

Spiritual Vitamin: "Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving." Colossians 4:2

Reflect: There are times that I don't always know how to pray. There are times I pray, but I don't get the answer I want. There are times that I wait and wait for God to answer. There are times that God says "no." What would it look like if you continued steadfastly in prayer? What would it look like for you to be watchful in prayer? How would prayer and thanksgiving work for you? May God help you persevere in prayer, even when God doesn't answer the way you desire.  

Receiving Comfort

Spiritual Vitamin: "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God' I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Reflect: Please read this verse over and over a few times very slowly. How do you receive comfort from this verse in this particular season of your life? 

His Pinions

Spiritual Vitamin: "He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler." Psalm 91:4

Reflect: A pion is the outer part of a bird's wing including the flight feathers. God is the described like a protective mother who feeds, nurtures and protects her young. There is safety and warmth found when we dwell in God. We can look for safety in our homes, with our spouse, in the right car, but there is nowhere safe place to be than in the arms of the Father. Take a moment and consider that You, right now, can find your total and complete safety and refuge in God. Allow that to give You peace and comfort. He is with You!

Jesus Sympathizes

Spiritual Vitamin: "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin." Hebrews 4:15

Reflect: It's a beautiful thing to feel known, understood and heard. It's truly nice as well, when someone sympathizes with our current situation. Did you know that Jesus is the most loving, sympathetic, and compassionate person ever? You can tell Him ANYTHING! He has been tempted in every way, but without sin. Will You come to Him today? 

This is the Day!

Spiritual Vitamin: "This is the day the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24

Reflect: If you're reading this, you are alive! God has given you a new day to live! There are some days, we wake up "on the wrong side of the bed." But be assured, God has given us hope to live, rejoice and be grateful for life itself. Will you stop and give God praise for life itself?

Perfect Love and Fear

 Spiritual Vitamin: "There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love." (1 John 4:18)

Reflect: Fear involves torment. Most of us have experienced what "fear" feels like in our lives. Fear makes us live on edge. Fear makes us anxious. Fear paralyzes our today with worries about tomorrow. With God's steadfast love, we have no need to fear anything. What do you fear today? Will you give God all your fears right now?

The Lord is Near

Spiritual Vitamin: "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18

Reflect: How do you respond to painful news? It's so easy to become disillusioned by the challenges that come to us. But, we must remember, we are never alone. God is always near. Why don't we go to Him? Will you give God those things that break your heart or crush your spirit? He is near and wants to walk with you through your pain. 

Love

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. Loves does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Reflect: God's love is directed toward loving others. This kind of love is not natural. It is utterly unselfish. (Life Application Study Bible, NIV, Zondervan) Take each of these words. Patient. Kind. Not envy. Not boasting. Not proud. Not rude. Not self-seeking, etc. Which character traits are difficult for you? Ask God to help you love like He loves. 

Refuge

 Spiritual Vitamin: "Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge." Psalm 62:8

Reflect: What do you tend to trust in outside of God? What do you try to make your refuge? A refuge is a condition of being safe or sheltered from pursuit, danger or trouble. Will you make God your refuge today? "Trust in Him at all times, __________." (Place your name)

God has not Rejected My Prayer

Spiritual Vitamin: "Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me." Psalm 66:20

Reflect: Have you ever wanted to give up on prayer? Often, we want to give up on prayer when we don't get the answer we want! I remember spending 30 years praying regularly for a spouse and children. After 30 years, God said "yes" to a husband, but "no" to children. Prayer is about a relationship. When we understand the joy of having an unbroken relationship with God, we can pray with perseverance and hope, but we can know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God will answer in what is best for me. Go ahead and pray, asking for what You desire for God to do. Trust Him fully for his best for you.

Humble Yourselves

Spiritual Vitamin: "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time, he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:6-7

Reflect: Our anxieties arise because of our failure to recognize our weakness and utter dependence on God. Note how you feel, what you're thinking, what's going on when the anxiety occurs. Peter, in this text is connecting humility with dealing with our anxieties. How, you say? We need God's divine grace to help us combat the pride in our hearts that say "I can do this or that!" When we humble ourselves, we realize our absolute need for God for everything. We're not in control. God is! Meditate on this passage (1 Peter 5:6-7) and pray for it to be true in your life. 

Grief

Spiritual Vitamin: "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18

Reflect: Loss and grief are unique to each person. We can feel sad, numb, in shock, confused, angry and more! No matter how you experience grief, Jesus is there. He is present. We do not grieve alone. We have hope! Will you give your grief and sadness to God today? He will help you. 

In My Distress

Spiritual Vitamin: "In my distress I called upon the LORD; to my God I called. From his temple he heard my voice, and my cry came to his ears." 2 Samuel 22:7

Reflect: David was in a bunch of high stress situations in his life and he learned to give over his concerns and fears to God. Distress is defined as a "state of being in serious trouble, which includes mental strain or stress." For David, calling on You became a habit. How confident are you that God hears you when you call out to him? Tell God what's on your heart. He will listen!

Waiting

Spiritual Vitamin: "Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD." Psalm 27:14

Reflect: Waiting is never easy! What is hard for you about waiting? Whether it's waiting in a long line, waiting for a cure, waiting for something to change, waiting is never easy. Yet God is always good and uses waiting to refresh, renew and teach us if we would only listen. What are you waiting for? Take a moment and ask God to give you a humble, teachable heart as you wait on Him.

I Will Not Be Shaken

Spiritual Vitamin: "I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken." Psalm 16:7-8

Reflect:What does the Psalmist do in this Psalm? What does God provide? Will you practice praising the Lord who counsels you? Will you set the LORD always before you? Will you trust that He is always at your right hand and you never have to be shaken? 

I Will Trust

Spiritual Vitamin: Surely, God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation." Isaiah 12:2. 

Reflect:  The worshipper is excited about what God has done in his life and invites all to behold the work of the Lord. (Enduring Word Commentary) The worshipper had a peace and security from knowing that God was his salvation. It is hard to trust and not be afraid if things depended on us. But when God is our salvation, we can truly trust and not be afraid. (Enduring Word Commentary) Will You trust the Lord today? 

Peace Like a River

Spiritual Vitamin: "I am the Lord your God, who teaches you to profit, who leads you in the way you should go. Oh that you had paid attention to my commandments! Then your peace would have been like a river, and your righteousness like the waves of the sea." Isaiah 48:17-18

Reflect: God truly is patient with his people. The God who called Israel to be his people still looks out for them. He wants only the best for His people. He is saddened to see the suffering brought on by disobedience. He is pleased that they are about to leave Babylon and return to their land. What is God's promise in these verses? What would it look like for you to experience peace like a river?

Compassionate

Spiritual Vitamin: "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32

"Finally, all of you, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble." 1 Peter 3:8

Reflect: Look at the key words in these scriptures: Kind. Compassionate. Forgiving. Sympathetic. Loving one another. Compassionate. Humble. Pray for each of these godly traits to be a part of who you are. Pray for more compassion. Look for ways to be a compassionate person today.

Possible with God

Spiritual Vitamin: "What is impossible with man is possible with God." Luke 18:27

Reflect: What seems impossible to you today? What could God possibly do in this situation that only God could do? Write down 3-5 requests that come to your mind where you desperately need God to do a miracle. Will you trust Him to do what only He can?

Come to Jesus

Spiritual Vitamin: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28)

Reflect: What keeps you from coming to God? Often times, we put everything else in our lives ahead of God. But, on this Sabbath, Jesus invites you to come to him. Give him your weariness and burdens. He promises to give you rest.  

God's Love

Spiritual Vitamin: ""For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16. "Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us." (1 John 4:12)

Reflect: Read and meditate on these two verses. If God loves you so much that He would allow His son to go to the cross on your behalf, what keeps you from Him? If God loves us this much, we are called to love one another. Here's a challenge to go out and love others well. Love those who love you. Love those who are indifferent towards you. Love your enemies. Love those that are less fortunate. Love others with God's love. 

Peace of God

Spiritual Vitamin: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, 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

Reflect: What worries you today? What are those things that keep you up at night? Take the next few weeks and practice giving your worries to God. Every time a worry comes into your mind, pray! May you enjoy God's peace that transcends all understanding!  

Perfect Peace

Spiritual Vitamin: "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock." Isaiah 26:3-4

Reflect: What keeps a person in perfect peace? One whose mind is stayed on God? How do YOU keep your mind on God? This is a great verse to write down on a 3x5 card and carry with you. Use it as a prayer. Memorize it. May you enjoy God's perfect peace. 

Trust

Spiritual Vitamin: "And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you." Psalm 9:10

Reflect: When it all comes down to it, what keeps you from trusting God for every aspect of your life? Pray that God will help you know His character and faithfulness and respond with trust for your provision, well-being and guidance. He is faithful! 

God is good

Spiritual Vitamin: "The Lord is good to all and His tender mercies are over all His works." Psalm 145:9  "No one is good but One, that is, God." Mark 10:18  "I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living." Psalm 27:13

Reflect: The Bible repeatedly describes "goodness" as a quality of our Lord. Consider the verses above. Do you believe that God is good? What keeps you from believing "God is good all the time; All the time God is good." 

New Thing!

Spiritual Vitamin: "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." Isaiah 43:19

Reflect: Do you believe God can do a new thing in your life? Do you see the endless possibilities and opportunities available to you? Will you trust that God wants to walk with you through every moment that you're alive. He is the God of "new things!" What new thing do you want to see God do in your life? 

Sabbath

 Spiritual Vitamin:"Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker." Psalm 95:6. "For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere." Psalm 84:10

Reflect: Today is the Sabbath.  The root word of Sabbath literally means "to stop, to cease or to rest." What keeps you from worshiping God? What hinders you from enjoying the gift of Sabbath? Take this day and allow God to breathe life into your weary soul. Slow down. Remember the beauty of God's presence.

God Will Not Change

Spiritual Vitamin: "I the Lord do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed." Malachi 3:6

Reflect:God is and will always be faithful through time and eternity.He is an immutable God, who is unchanging and unchangeable. He will never go back on His word. His promises are true. The Lord does not change in His love or His choice towards us. With everything changing around us, how does that make you feel?