Good News
Giving Preference
The Bible gives us instruction to put others first in several passages. In this passage we know that our love needs to be genuine, not fake. In this verse, we are told to put others before ourselves. Some translations tell us to try to outdo others in showing love. The point is not to have a contest, but to put others first. I know this can be challenging at times, but God offers help through His Word and the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the help You give. We know we need You. Please help us to remember to go to You frequently for the help You offer.
I pray this in Jesus’ name.
God is so good.
Delight
Planning
My job requires much planning. There is nothing wrong with that. Sometime we fail because we don’t plan. However, we can also fall into the opposite extreme. We sometimes think everything is up to our own planning. This verse reminds us that God’s plans (counsel) is what will stand.
People make plans. God’s plans will stand. If that doesn’t give you comfort then you do not know God. God’s plans only include what is best for all of us. You can find out for yourself if you learn what God has written in the Bible.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for giving direction that sends us down the right path. Please help us to follow Your counsel and share it with others.
I pray this in Jesus’ name.
God is so good.
Wonderful Works
Serving the Lord
We are told in Romans that we need to think of others first. Giving love, preference, being diligent. This passage definitely tells us to put others first, but in the middle of this passage we see the reason. Serving the Lord. While we should definitely put others first. It is ultimately for the sake of Christ.
I have found no better purpose in life than to serve God. I have fulfillment, hope in dark times, and a purpose greater than my desires. Praise the Lord!
Dear Heavenly Father, please help us to put others first for the sake of Christ. Thank You for giving direction about how we serve Christ and love others.
I pray this in Jesus’ name.
God is so good.
Be Blessed
True Wisdom
The book of Proverbs is full of wisdom. These verses follow some of the most famous (trust in the Lord in vs. 5-6). We are told to avoid wisdom according to our own thinking. If we allow God His proper place, we will benefit from it.
It is worth spending time learning God’s wisdom according to the Bible. I hope God’s Word is something that fills your year. You will find this pursuit to be worthwhile.
Dear Heavenly Father, I praise You for the wisdom You have provided through Your Word. Please help us to read and study the Bible in the year to come. We need Your help.
I pray this in Jesus name.
God is so good.
A New Song
Work in the New Year
As we get full swing into 2025, I want to remember that there is work to do. God tells us to be diligent. The Bible tells us how to be “approved to God”. We need to work towards that goal.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the instruction and encouragement You give us in Your Word. Please help us to obey what You have commanded. There is nothing better.
I pray this in Jesus’ name.
God is so good.
Pleading in Prayer 