Acts 1:8 - But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

God commands us to go tell others about Him, but He doesn't leave us powerless. The word for power in this verse is the same word for dynamite. God gives us explosive power to do His will. We, therefore, have no excuse!

1John 3:15 - Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.

I know some people who harbor hate and unforgiveness toward others. That is a scary way to be. If I am interpreting this verse correctly, it seems to be saying that those people are not Christians and have no hope of Heaven. If you feel hatred toward others, search your heart and make sure of your relationship with God.

1John 2:28 - And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.

This is my goal in my life. I want to live my life in such a way that when Jesus returns, I will have nothing for which to feel ashamed. God, help me to abide in You and do Your will always!

1John 1:9 - If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Sin is what separates us from God and keeps us out of Heaven. However, when we confess our sins (ie: agree with God that it IS sin), God will forgive us. The blood of Christ, shed for our sins, cleanses us and makes us fit for Heaven.

Romans 5:8 - But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

So, we are all sinners, headed for an eternity in Hell. What can we do? Nothing. Thankfully, god has already provided a way of escape. despite our sin, god loves us so much that He sent His Son to die for us. All we have to do is accepts Christ's payment for our sins.

Romans 5:12 - Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:

We have all heard about Adam and Eve, the first people ever created, and the story about the apple in the garden is well-known. But, did you know that with that one act, Adam brought the sin nature on all of us who have come after him? Because we are all descendants of Adam, we all have sin in us.

1 John 1:8 - If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

There are a lot of really nice, morally good people in the world who do not see any need of God's Salvation because they are not "bad people". According to this verse, there is sin inside all of us, and we are deceived if we do not recognize that. If you have EVER told a lie, coveted someone else's belongings, used the name of the Lord in vain, stolen even something as small as a pack of gum, you have sinned and need a payment for your sin. Think about this and consider whether you have sinned at any time.

Psalm 1:6 - For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

Even when bad things come into my life, I have the reassurance that God knows exactly what is happening and has everything under control. I pity those who do not have that assurance. It's scary enough going through life with a sovereign God governing all aspects. I surely wouldn't want to do it alone. Thank you, Lord, for caring for me!

Psalms 90:2 - Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.

This verse makes me stand in awe of my God! Not only did He create the world, but He has existed forever. He has no beginning and no end. When compared to the greatness of God's eternality, our existence seems so minuscule. The problems we face are but for a moment, while the good we do will last forever.

Luke 12:5 - But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.

God should be feared. He made man, and He has the power to not only kill man but to cast him into hell. Unfortunately, anyone who does not accept Christ's payment for sin will spend eternity in hell. That is something to fear!

1 Peter 5:7 - Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

Well, this is easier said than done. It is such a comfort to me, though, when my feeble brain can remember it. I have a lot of cares at the moment, and it is great to have someone to hand them over to. Thank you, Jesus, for caring for me!!

Revelation 3:15-16 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.

God does not want half-hearted Christians. When people claim to be Christians while their actions belie their words, they make a mockery of God. If you are going to be a Christian, go all the way. Do all you can for God. After all, this life is short, and we must make the most of the time we have.

Joshua 1:8 - This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Everyone wants to be successful, and many people have found a formula for success in this life. I have noticed, though, that oftentimes those who are successful in the eyes of the world are actually dissatisfied with themselves. With all they have gained, they have not found happiness. When we follow God's law, He will make us truly successful.

Proverbs 23:24 - The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.

I can personally attest to the veracity of this verse. I am so proud of my Sam! He is a good Christian boy who is very polite and thoughtful toward others. He is a hard worker, too. I certainly have joy of him! Thank you, God, for my son.

Luke 11:13 - If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?

Compared to God, we are all evil; yet we parents strive to give our kids the very best that we can. That should teach us that God is just waiting to give to us. His gift of the Holy Spirit wondrously guides us in our daily lives and opens up for us the deeper meaning of His Word. Thank you, Lord, for so freely giving to us the Holy Spirit!!

Luke 17:15 - And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,

Jesus healed ten lepers, but only one turned back to thank Him. Why did the other nine not show any gratitude for the miracle Jesus had performed for them? Jesus has done so many wondrous things for me, not the least of which was giving His own life for my salvation. How shameful if I do not express my gratitude to Him!

Romans 8:37 - Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

It is through Jesus Christ that we gain salvation. Likewise, it is through Jesus that we are victorious over sin and trials in our lives. When we face a situation that appears impossible to overcome, if we simply return to the cross and apply to Jesus for help, He will see us through. Thank you, Lord, for being our help in time of need.

Psalm 150:6 - Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.

The Lord has done so much for each one of us, but have we stopped to praise Him for any of it? We are all breathing, so according to this verse, we should be praising Him. I praise the Lord for all the wondrous things He has done for me!!

Hebrews 2:18 - For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.

There isn't much I need to say about this verse; it speaks for itself. When Jesus was on the earth as a man, He faced every trial and temptation that any of us may be likely to face. Thus, He is a well-qualified guide to lead us through the rough times of life. Thank You, Lord, for caring so much for us!

Zechariah 7:5 - Speak unto all the people of the land, and to the priests, saying, When ye fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh month, even those seventy years, did ye at all fast unto me, even to me?

Why do we do what we do? Do we serve God out of a heart of love or out of habit? In Heaven, our works will be rewarded according to the motives behind them. Those things we do for selfish reasons or for the praise of men will be burned by fire. Only those deeds we do for the glory of God will be rewarded.

Hebrews 2:16 - For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.

This verse brings out a very interesting point. We know that Jesus took on the form of man to atone for the sin of mankind, and this verse reminds us that he did not take on the nature of angels. An underlying truth in this verse is that He did nothing to help fallen angels. They are all doomed with no hope of reconciliation. Yet, God chose man. In His love He chose to redeem mankind by sending His Son as the payment for our sin. Wow! What a Savior!!

Psalm 77:1 - I cried unto God with my voice, even unto God with my voice; and he gave ear unto me.

What a comfort it is to know that when we cry unto God, He listens to us. When we complain to our family and friends, they will often turn a deaf ear. They get tired of hearing our problems, but God delights in hearing every word.

Esther 9:22 - As the days wherein the Jews rested from their enemies, and the month which was turned unto them from sorrow to joy, and from mourning into a good day: that they should make them days of feasting and joy, and of sending portions one to another, and gifts to the poor.

While Memorial Day reminds us of those who have fallen for our country, it is still a joyous day. It is a day to rejoice in the freedom we enjoy as Americans, and to remember and thank God for those who have given all for us to have that freedom.

Psalm 116:15 - Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.

I have lost many friends and loved ones, and it never gets any easier. The most recent was today's homegoing of my dear friend Bill Stacy. He was a huge man with an even bigger heart. I've never known a kinder or more generous man. I know that his home-going was precious in the sight of our Lord, and I look forward to the day when I will see Bill Stacy again in Heaven.

Philippians 4:7 - And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

There is so much in our daily lives that take away our peace of mind. I'm so glad I know Jesus as my personal Savior. When I am troubled or confused, I can go to Him, and He gives me peace, even when it doesn't seem possible to feel peace in the given situation. It's not always logical, but thank God it is always available.

Matthew 24:36 - But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.

One day, Jesus will come back for His people. No one knows when that will be, except for God the Father. Throughout the ages, men have predicted the Lord's coming, but they have always been wrong. Now, someone is saying He will come back tomorrow. I don't know when He is returning, but I do know that it won't be tomorrow, because no one can even guess the right time. Even so, Lord, come quickly!

Proverbs 15:1 - A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

As a mom, I have learned the validity of the verse. Whenever my son does something wrong, if I approach him in wrath, it causes him to become angry and takes away the learning opportunity. When I scold him with a sweet spirit, he is much more likely to accept it with a repentant spirit. I love seeing principles of the Bible become real in real-life situations!

Isaiah 49:15 - Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.

While those of us who are parents, especially mothers, can't imagine someone abandoning their own child, unfortunately it will sometimes happen. However, we have the assurance that God will NEVER turn His back on His children. Though the whole world forsake me, my God will never forsake me!

Haggai 1:5-7 - Now therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways. Ye have sown much, and bring in little; ye eat, but ye have not enough; ye drink, but ye are not filled with drink; ye clothe you, but there is none warm; and he that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways.

Twice in these three verses, God says, "Consider your ways." In between both injunctions, He describes a situation similar to what many are facing these days. Lately, it seems like no matter how hard we work, it's not enough. Prices keep getting higher while wages are shrinking. God's instruction to consider our ways makes me think that obedience to Him must be directly related to my prosperity in this life. Also, He is teaching me, on a daily basis, that He will provide, no matter what disparity there is between my income and my expenses, as long as I live in fellowship with Him.

Proverbs 12:1 - Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.

When we do wrong, and friends and family try to talk sense into us, it is wise to listen to them. If we do not listen, God says we are brutish. A brute is a person who behaves like an animal. Let's all strive to be considerate human beings rather than brutish animal-like people.

Zephaniah 2:11 - The LORD will be terrible unto them: for he will famish all the gods of the earth; and men shall worship him, every one from his place, even all the isles of the heathen.

One day, every person ever born will worship God, but that will happen only after God has punished the wicked. How much better it will be for those who love and worship God without first facing His wrath! I pray that all my friends and family will accept God's gift of salvation and escape the harsh judgment of the Lord.

Zephaniah 1:14 - The great day of the LORD is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly, even the voice of the day of the LORD: the mighty man shall cry there bitterly.

The world around us is full of signs that the Lord's second coming is near. What are we doing about it? How are we preparing for it? We need to guard ourselves against complacency and work hard for the Lord, spreading the good news of the Gospel to everyone we meet.

Proverbs 31:26 - She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

This chapter reminds me of my mother more than any other chapter in the Bible. Every verse talking about a virtuous woman is a description of her, this verse included. She wasn't a loud, outspoken woman, but when she did speak, it was something worth listening to. Also, she was kind in her speech, rarely speaking negatively of anyone. I have so much to learn from this chapter and my mom's godly example.

Proverbs 31:28 - Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

A Godly mother is a gift from God. My mom was a wonderful Christian lady. I thank God so much for blessing me with her. She has been gone over eight years, and I miss her more every day. My prayer is that God will help me to become more like her all the time.

Psalm 115:13,14 - He will bless them that fear the LORD, both small and great. The LORD shall increase you more and more, you and your children.

I have been blessed of God so much I can't write about it all. Sure, I've experienced some tough times and gone through some trials, but I have waited on God just to see how He was going to take care of everything. I have to marvel at how His blessings have come about -- the unlikely sources of blessings. I am eager to see what God is going to continue to do for me and Sam.

James 1:17 - Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

Have you been blessed? I sure have, and I want to be quick to give thanks to God for my blessings. According to this verse, everything good in our lives comes down from God. Have you thanked Him for what He has given to you and done for you?

Ephesians 6:4 - And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

As parents, it is our grave responsibility to train up our children. It is so important to be consistent and practice what we preach. We often wonder why children stray from what their parents taught them. I think sometimes it is because the parents provoked them to wrath by teaching one thing and living the opposite, or by letting things slide one day and blowing up about them the next. Lord, help me to be consistent in teaching and practice.

Habakkuk 3:19 - The LORD God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. To the chief singer on my stringed instruments.

I often feel to weak to accomplish much. It is such a blessing to be reminded that God is my strength. He has plans for all of His children, and He gives us the ability to do what He has for us to do. Without Christ, I can do nothing; but with Him, I can do whatever He calls me to do.

Proverbs 22:8a - He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity:

We know what is right and wrong. When we continually do wrong, no good will come of it. Instead of being helpful and constructive, a life of wrong doing will have nothing to show for it. We need to make certain that things we do are good and will have a positive impact in our lives. Thank God we have His Word to guide us in the right way.

Hebrews 11:6 - But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

It is one thing to believe there is a God, but a total other thing altogether to put your faith in Him. The devil believes and trembles, but he does not have a saving faith. In order to ensure your place in Heaven, you must believe Jesus paid your debt for sin and accept His free gift of salvation. It is my greatest wish that everyone of my friends and family will be with me in Heaven one day.

Prov. 11:29a - He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind:

We need to always be mindful that our actions affect other people. We are not islands unto ourselves, and we often hurt those who should be the most important people in our lives. Parents, we need to be especially careful of what we do because what we do can, and often will, affect our children strongly. It's not worth it to destroy our homes for our own personal pleasure.

Matthew 5:14 - Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

I recently heard that someone referred to me as a "Jesus freak". At first, it was a little upsetting, but as I thought about it, I realized it was a compliment. Jesus said that we are the light of the world. They are supposed to see a difference in us, and they will, if we are doing what we are supposed to be doing. Lord, help me to always be a light for you and point others to the cross.

Psalm 103:12 - As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

We all do wrong things; I've certainly done my share! Sometimes, even when we repent of those things and try to go on doing right, there will be people who just can't forgive and forget our past failures. Thankfully, God, the only One Who has any right to judge us, doesn't treat us that way. When we come before Him and sincerely confess our sins, He forgives us and treats us as if we had never sinned. How awesome is that? Lord, help me to be so forgiving of others around me.

Mark 2:16 - And when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with publicans and sinners, they said unto his disciples, How is it that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners?

As my pastor said in church last night, if Jesus didn't eat with sinners, he would have had to have had a "Reservation for One". We are all sinners! I'm so glad Jesus came to seek and to save sinners like me.

Luke 24:1-3 - Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus.

Jesus Christ not only died for our sins, but He also rose from the grave. Because of that, we know that His children will also have victory over death and enjoy everlasting life in His presence. Thank you, Lord, for laying down Your life and taking it back up again. Hallelujah! What a Savior!

Philippians 4:19 - But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

I learned this verse when I was a little girl. It's a simple verse with such rich promise, but lately it's been hard for me to trust in it. My needs are so great right now, and it seems like it is impossible for them to be met. I have prayed and prayed, yet I am still waiting for God to supply. Lord, please help me to never stop trusting and believing Your Word!

Job 22:21 - Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee.

The whole world is clamoring for peace, yet they have shut God out of every aspect of their lives. They don't realize that is counterproductive. In order to be at peace with anyone else, we must first be at peace with God. Proverbs 16:7 says that when our ways please God, He will make even our enemies be at peace with us. Do you have peace in your life? You can, but first you must make peace with God.

I Timothy 4:12 - Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

Young as he is, my son is often an example to me. Tuesday night, although he was sick, he refused to stay home from church visitation, and he had a great time visiting and inviting people to our church. How often do we, even as adults, find flimsy excuses to miss church, especially when it entails witnessing to others? Lord, help me to be an example of the believer to my son!

I Corinthians 3:6-9a - I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. For we are labourers together with God:

Because of my work schedule, I usually don't get to go on church visitation, but it worked out so that I could go last night. I love it that God makes it so easy for us. All we have to do is share His word, which is equivalent to planting a seed or watering that seed. God's the one that does all the work. If we're willing to go, we don't have to worry about the results, but leave those up to God. We are partners with Him, and He gives us the easy job and takes the hard job for Himself. Hallelujah!

Hebrews 11:25 - Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;

We often justify wrong things we do with the response, "Don't I have the right to be happy?" One of our rights as Americans is the pursuit of happiness, but ultimately, only God has the right to be happy. We have the right, actually the obligation, to make God happy in what we do. When we do what God wants us to do, He will give us joy. When we set about to make ourselves happy with no regard to His Word, we may have happiness for a time, but it will be short-lived.

Ephesians 4:31,32 - Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

I read this verse on a friend's facebook status the other day, and it convicted me. I memorized it as a child, but I haven't practiced it as an adult. I've decided to make it my new life verse and strive to speak always with kindness and to be quick to forgive and uplift others. Lord, help me to say and do only what You would say and do in every situation.

Mark 1:40,41 - And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.

Jesus is the Great Physician. When we ask for healing, He is willing to heal us. Furthermore, He is the only One Who can heal us. I have personally experienced His miraculous healing touch, and I want to praise His Holy name!

Psalm 73:28 - But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all thy works.

Regrettably, I have not always tried to be as close to God as I can be. That really doesn't make sense, either, because I have learned from personal experience that this verse is true. The times in my life when I have been closest to God have been times of the greatest joy in my life. Lord, help me never to forget this truth.

Proverbs 24:16a - For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again:

Am I perfect? Absolutely not! Am I better than anyone else? Nope! I have many faults. I have fallen many times, but I keep getting up. Thank God He forgives me, picks me up, sets me on my feet, and points me in the direction I should go.

Hebrews 13:5 - Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

This verse hit me right between the eyes! I often find it difficult to be content with what I have, but it is a command I need to obey. Lately, I've had it rough financially because my hours have been cut at work while prices (specifically gas prices) have been going steadily up. Still, God is still the same as He was when times were better, and I can be assured that He will provide everything I need.

Proverbs 21:23 - Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.

This is a verse I need to keep in mind. I'm forever saying things before I think, and oh, the trouble I get into because of it! As the saying goes, I eat more shoe leather than I wear out. Lord, take control of my tongue today, and help me to think before I speak.

Acts 1:8 - But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Lately, I've had opportunities to witness to people around me. I tend to feel inadequate and unworthy, but according to this verse, God gives us power. I have found that to be true! Once I start speaking, God steps in and gives me the courage I need and the words to say. I thank God that He equips us to do His will.

Mark 1:35 - And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.

Jesus is supposed to be our example, right? So, if He got up early in the morning to spend time with the Father, then maybe that's what we should do as well. I am not a morning person, but I have found that when I start my day with prayer, the whole day goes better. I thank Jesus for His example.

Nahum 1:7 - The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.

I love the children's chorus "God Is So Good". It is true! When we are experiencing times of trouble, there is no one better to turn to. He is strong and more than capable of taking care of us. I thank God that He is always good!

John 14:6 - Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Jesus is the only way to Heaven. It is a popular belief these days that there are many ways to Heaven, and they are all equally as good. That is against what the Bible teaches. Without coming through Christ, you can not get to Heaven. I pray that everyone I know has come to Jesus and accepted His atonement on Calvary.

Jeremiah 33:3 - Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.

God wants us to pray and give Him our requests. He wants to prove Himself mighty in our lives. Sometimes, we don't get what we want simply because we don't ask. We need to get in the habit of taking our petitions to Him. Thank you, Lord, for answering my prayers!

Proverbs 21:1 - The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.

from time to time, we encounter people who seem to be immovable and are blocking us in what we want to do. If it is something God wants us to do, we can be assured that He can change hears if He needs to, in order to enable us to do His Will. I am thankful for an omnipotent, sovereign God.

Proverbs 25:25 - As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.

Today, I received phone calls from two different friends who live far away from me. I was feeling down, after having a wreck yesterday, and it lifted my spirits immeasurably. I thank God for the friendships He has brought into my life.

Malachi 3:6 - For I am the LORD, I change not;

God still hates sin as He did thousands of years ago, but that's not all. He also loves me just as much today as He did while He was dying on the cross to redeem me. I have sinned and failed Him so many times, but He keeps loving me, and forgiving me as I repent. What a wondrous thought! I thank God that He is the same yesterday, today and forever!

Hosea 4:6 - My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.

Never before in modern history, has the English-speaking world experienced such a lack of knowledge concerning God and the Bible. The worst part is the apathy toward anything religious. My aim is to saturate myself and my son in the Word of God so that we will have the knowledge we need to combat the devil and not be rejected by God. I thank God that we live in a land where we still have the freedom to study His Word.

Proverbs 31:10 - Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.

Today is my mother's birthday. If she were still living, she would be 70 today. This chapter which describes a virtuous woman has always reminded me of Mom. She lived up to the description better than any other woman I've ever known. She's been gone a little over 8 years, and I still miss her terribly. I thank God so much for the Godly mother he blessed me with.

Proverbs 14:12 - There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

We often think we are so smart, when in reality we know nothing. We think we're doing the right thing, but we are really causing havoc for ourselves and others around us. Thank God we can always go to His Word to find the wisdom we need!

Romans 8:28 - And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Even when bad things happen, we can rest in the assurance that they are part of God's plan, and He knows what He is doing in our lives. Sometimes, the only way we can get the best things God has for us is by going through trials. It's hard to see any good in the valleys when we are in the middle of them, but when we get to the other side, we can look back and see how God has used them to get us where He wants us. I thank God for all the situations He allows me to go through.

Romans 8:38-39 - For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Every time I read these verses, my first response is "Wow!" People can be so fickle with wishy-washy affections. I'm so glad God isn't like that. His love is forever, and nothing exists that can change it. When other people disappoint me, I thank God that I can depend on His love for me.

Song of Solomon 5:6b - I sought him, but I could not find him; I called him, but he gave me no answer.

Sometimes, it seems as though God does not hear our prayers. He does hear them, and He will answer in His time. We don't always get the answer we want, when we want it; but if we truly seek God's will, we will get what is best for us at the perfect time. Often, when God makes us wait for an answer, He is trying our faith. Other times, He is moving everything in place so that the answer will perfect. I need to learn that I can trust in God to make everything right as long as I wait on Him.

Romans 5:8 - But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

How do I show my love toward others? God showed His love by sending His only Son to die for us, even though we were undeserving sinners. As a Christian, I should strive to be like Christ, and that would include loving some very unlovable people. At work, I have plenty of opportunity to be kind to those who are distasteful to me. How often am I Christlike? I thank God for loving me and showing me how to love others in return.

Psalm 73:25 - Whom have I in heaven but Thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside Thee.

The Psalmist, Asaph, sounds so much like me in the beginning of this chapter. He is lamenting the prosperity of the wicked. In the end, though, he feels grieved for them when God contrasts their end with his. The wicked will suffer eternal punishment, while the children of God will enjoy eternal blessing. Despite my lack of earthly possessions, I can rest in God's promise of a home in Heaven for all eternity.

Philippians 1:6 - Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.

When I was a young girl, I loved the song "He's Still Working on Me". I just didn't know then how true it would be for the rest of my life. Anyone who knows me will attest to the fact that I am far from perfect. I thank God that He hasn't given up on me, and He will keep working on me all my life.

Psalm 19:14 - Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.

A wise man once said, "As birds are known by their songs, so are men known by their conversation." I've been convicted lately about what I say. I want people to know I'm a Christian when they hear me talk instead of being surprised if someone tells them I am one. I want to be known for encouraging others and praising God with my words. God, please help me to guard my tongue and get rid of any vulgar speaking.

I Corinthians 13:13 - And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

Sam had to memorize this verse for youth group at church. As I helped him, I was reminded of the time my parents made my brother and me memorize the entire chapter, hoping it would instill some brotherly love in us. I did love my brother, but I also loved fighting with him. Nevertheless, this chapter I learned as a little girl has stuck with me all my life. I especially like this last verse. No matter what we try to accomplish for God, it means nothing if it is not done out of love. I am so thankful to God for His love for me and for the wise parents he gave me.

Colossians 1:27 - To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

"Christ in you" - what a concept! I have something big coming up next week, and I feel so unworthy. Right after I had prayed and asked God to help me be a fit vessel for this ministry opportunity, He led me to this verse. In myself, I will never be worthy to be used of God, but I have Christ in me. As long as I yield to Him and let Him work in me, I can do whatever He calls me to do.

Ephesians 6:12 - For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Lately, I've been going through a lot of tough situations. Truthfully, some of them I've brought on myself, but not all of them. The past few months, I've been getting closer to God and opening myself up more to serve Him in my church. Obviously, the Devil doesn't like it when we do that, and he has been doing his best to hinder me. Thank God, the rest of this chapter goes on to tell us how to arm ourselves to withstand the Devil.

Micah 6:8 - He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?

Sometimes, it is hard to know what God's will is for our lives. This verse tells us where to start. When we don't know the direction to take, we can start with the basics. Do what is right, be quick to forgive others, and do not exalt ourselves and our own interests.

Hebrews 12:1 - Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.

It is race weekend in Bristol. I want it to remind me that I am in a spiritual race. In the past couple weeks, I have lain aside weights that were holding me back in my race for God. Although it was painful, now I am more free to serve god and run the race before me.

Job 23:10 - But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

We often wonder why bad things happen to good people. Sometimes, it is so God can purify them. We know that, no matter what, God has a plan for everything that comes into our lives; and if we rely on Him no matter what, we will become more and more like Him. The fire may be hot right now, but I want to come forth as gold in the end.

Psalm 27:10 - When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up.

My son Sam has experienced the first part of this verse, first by his real father, then his grandfather, and finally his step-father. He has also experienced the last part of the verse. God has always been there for him! Although he likes to complain that he doesn't get everything he wants, he has been so blessed and has been able to have more than I had as a child and has had so many rich experiences. I am so thankful for a God who is also a Father to His children!

Psalm 27:13 - I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.

One of my favorite songs lately has been the Whisnants' song entitled "Even in the Valley". It says that when we go through trials, that's when we get closer to the Lord and get to know Him enough to say that even in the valley, God is good. Sometimes, when we're going through tough times, it seems like God is far, far away. However, once we get to the other side, we can look back and see that He was right there with us the whole time, helping us through the darkest hours. What a blessing it is to know that God is always good!

Psalm 27:1 - The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

I don't know why, but I was a scared child. I often had nightmares of people chasing my friends and me in the school playground. (In my dreams, the people after us were either giants or Indians in war paint and feathers.) I also was constantly terrified that something would happen to my parents, leaving my brother and myself all alone.

In second grade, my teacher taught us a song with this verse in it, and it instantly became my favorite verse and has remained so ever since. What a comfort it has been to me to know that I do not need to be afraid because the Lord, who is bigger and stronger than any man, is on my side!