Can you walk on water?

He [Jesus] said, “Come ahead.” Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, “Master, save me!” Jesus didn’t hesitate. He reached down and grabbed his hand. Then he said, “Faint-heart, what got into you?” [Matthew 14:29-31 (MSG)]

Instead of keeping his eyes on Jesus, Peter looked down at the turbulent waves surrounding him. Once he focused on his problems, fear overtook Peter; instead of walking on water, he began to sink. If we always keep our thoughts centered on Jesus, however, there will be no room for fear in our hearts!

Thank you, Lord, for reminding us that as long as we keep our eyes on you, all things are possible, even walking on water!

SEE HOW THEY GROW

2013-5-14Look at the wildflowers in the field. See how they grow. They don’t work or make clothes for themselves. But I tell you that even Solomon, the great and rich king, was not dressed as beautifully as one of these flowers. If God makes what grows in the field so beautiful, what do you think he will do for you? It’s just grass—one day it’s alive, and the next day someone throws it into a fire. But God cares enough to make it beautiful. Surely he will do much more for you. Your faith is so small! [Matthew 6:28b-30 (ERV)]

May spring’s abundance of wildflowers remind us of your generosity, O Lord. You not only provide us with all that we need, but you do so with an unparalleled richness, splendor and glory.

WE ALWAYS HAVE EVERYTHING WE NEED

And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. [2 Corinthians 9:8 (NLT)]

Lord, I often protest that I don’t have the time, money or ability to do something you ask of me. Yet, I always seem to have time, money and skills enough to do what I want for me. Why should I hesitate or complain when you ask me to offer financial aid, a helping hand, a listening ear, or even just a smile to one of your people? You’ve not only given me everything I need now but you’ve also promised to provide whatever I need in the future. Thank you.

ON THIS MOTHER’S DAY (2013)

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Grace and beauty can fool you, but a woman who respects the Lord should be praised. Give her the reward she deserves. Praise her in public for what she has done. [Proverbs 31: 30-31 (ERV)]

Lord, we offer thanks today, not just for our mothers, but for all the women who have been positive influences in our lives: grandmothers and mothers-in-law; daughters and daughters-in-law; sisters, cousins, aunts and nieces; teachers, doctors and nurses; business associates and mentors; friends and neighbors. Thank you for these women who loved us when we were unlovable, believed in us even when we didn’t believe in ourselves, gave us confidence when we doubted, encouraged us to learn and grow, respected us enough to let us walk our own paths, showed us how to conduct ourselves by their example, kept us accountable for our behavior, and never gave up praying for us and our happiness. Thank you.

MORNING GREETING

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Give your worries to the Lord, and he will care for you. He will never let those who are good be defeated. [Psalm 55:22 (ERV)]

 

Good morning! This is God.
I will be handling all of your problems today.
I will not need your help.
Relax, and have a great day!
By the way, don’t let worry keep you from sleeping tonight.
I’ve got you covered.
I’m up all night anyway!

MAY OUR LIVES BE PROOF

For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps. He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone. He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly. He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds you are healed. [1 Peter 2:21-24 (NLT)]

Jesus, Savior and Redeemer, your story didn’t end with the crucifixion and resurrection; it just began! Help us be part of its continuation. Teach us; lead us; live within us. May our lives be evidence of your continuing presence in the world today.