God has told us in His word the value of health. Jesus healed, He heals still. We honor God’s word when we pray for the health of others, and for ourselves. Jesus told us to ask for daily bread. Isn’t the ability to rise each day, and seek first His kingdom understood in this simple request? Ask Him!
“Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers.”
When I set the tone, the pace, and my direction first thing every morning, I determine the quality of all my interactions that day. Accept God's invitation to join Him in the joys of every morning, and when the sun sets in the evening, we will look back on the day with a satisfied smile.
“Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days." Ps.90.14 “Conversations Within” ts 2/23/
My Christian experience has always been a process. As long as I live in this place I know I will never arrive. I see progress, and that is encouraging, but the process sometimes seems slow. I content myself to be somewhere between worm and winged wonder, yet not content. It is this in-between stage that bugs me, pun intended.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Rom.12 “Conversations Within” ts 2/22/26
So much can be gained or lost by a tiny decision. Who has not relived a single moment, the one that forever changed something, or left something forever unchanged. Life is surely in the details. If there is one thing needed, it would be to recognize, and embrace the grace offered us when making these small decisions.
"For who has despised the day of small things? Zech.4 “Conversations Within” ts 2/20/26
It makes me happy to know that God wants me to be happy. He has enriched the world with simple pleasures. Our Father enjoys us when we enjoy these little gifts with simple faith and gratitude.
A person can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in their own work. This too, I see, is from the hand of God, Ecc.2.24 “Conversations Within” ts 2/19/26
I can choose what I think about. I can choose the way I look at things. What a precious gift that God has given to us. Choose to think only about what is good, then abide there.
“...whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such
I think it is pivotal to know what you believe, and why you believe it, but also gracefully understand that others may see things differently. Remain true to your understanding, but humbly respect that your neighbor wants to live by the same rule. Find agreement in differences.
“One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind.” Rom.14.5 “Conversations Within” ts 2/17/
Ever doubt your value? I am coming to understand that God assigned my value to Him long ago. Is it not found in the price He was willing to pay for our happiness and eternal security? “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
“...you are precious in my eyes, and honored, and I love you…” Is.43 “Conversations Within” ts 2/16/
When you see someone in need, don’t ask how they got there, or if they deserve it, you help them out. Wake to the reality that we are all bad people, and never withhold compassion because you somehow think you are better.
“If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from
I have grown old with many celebrities. When watching them on screen my wife and I will often say, “Look at that young Mel Gibson or Betty White! I am mesmerized at the transformations of growing old. I feel my own lost youth yet in my soul, I feel the promise of Jesus to be forever young.
“He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart.” Ecc.3.11 “Conversations Within” ts 2/14/
In the end, all that will matter is if I have God’s favor. This pretty much means that I seek grace at the beginning of each day. And how do we do this? Keep it humble, and trust Jesus to take care of the rest.
“God is opposed to the proud but gives grace to the humble.” “Conversations Within” ts 2/11/
I realize more and more that nothing of value happens unless God puts His blessing on it. He gives me the assurance that He strongly desires to do this for all who seek Him with a whole heart. Practically speaking, I can only do that, one decision at a time.
“For the eyes of the LORD
It is a graceful skill to overlook gruffness coming from others, and show them a polite gentle heart in return. If someone harshly cuts us down, we can kindly build them up. Deflect negative energy with positive energy.
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Prov.15.1 “Conversations Within” ts 2/9/
It staggers me that God hears not only all I say, but all I think. I find both discomfort and comfort in knowing this. My discomfort is that I am often embarrassed by all that God has witnessed in my thoughts. My comfort comes from His assurance that even though He knows my most private thoughts, He loves me anyway.
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.” Ps19.14 “Conversations Within” ts 2/8/26
There are so many beautiful expressions of love in the world. Many of them are not performed on a stage, but secretly where self denial and service lead to that place where love is its own reward.
“Let your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 2/7/26
It bothers me that I let things bother me. I want to take everything in stride, deliberately choosing to focus on what needs doing, rather than how I might feel about it. A good friend once said to me, "Whatever it is, that’s no hill for a stepper. ”
“Be a doer…” James “Conversations Within” ts 2/6/
Many in our time do not identify with any organized religion yet still see themselves as spiritual. Someone said, “All religions are the same: religion is basically guilt, with different holidays.” This is one of the reasons that Jesus invites us to abandon religion, and begin a relationship with Him.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 2/5/
We are given an incredible privilege to work in partnership with God. This is one of the reasons He invites us to intercede for others. He is not asking us to advise Him with our prayers, but to be like a hose in his hand that He
“For we are God’s partners…” 1Co.3.9 “Conversations Within” ts 2/4/26
Why should I insist that people move at the same pace, or be on the same page where God is concerned? God has done nothing but help me move through my doubts into faith. We must give room for our doubts, and the doubts of others. God certainly and patiently does.
“And have mercy on those who doubt.” Jude “Conversations Within” ts 2/3/
God’s love is far greater than I understand. I cannot touch bottom in the ocean of His grace, mercy, and kindness toward me, even when I take Him for granted. Father, help this prodigal child to love You more.
“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.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 2/2/26
Jesus wants to lead me down the path of lasting joy, but I often choose passing pleasures. I am too easily drawn to scroll the latest gossip on the news, or social media. I can attest that my day is filled with joy when I silence the shallow noise of the world, and listen to snowflakes falling.
“I tell you these things so that you may have my joy and that your joy may be made full.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 2/1/
The direction that we travel on our journey matters greatly. Hopefully we move from darkness to light, not the other way around. Walk towards the light of God’s love, and don’t forget to let your light shine on the path so others can follow.
"For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light."
Looking after the interest of my neighbor is more than just a “feel good” suggestion; it is the best way for everyone to prosper. The law which protects our right to property is a mere shadow of the law, which directs us to share and look out for each other.
“The whole Law is fulfilled in the singular command to love.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 1/28/
If anything is abundantly clear, there is no footing found if we try to pass judgment on God. He offers no explanation for what He does. He answers to no one but Himself, and praise God for that. That the Lord is good, is all I need to know.
“Shall a faultfinder contend with the Almighty? He who argues with God, let him answer it.” Job 40.2 “Conversations Within” ts 1/27/
The energy that a righteous person puts into their prayers will get it done. Praying is not our last resort but our first. When we see a need, we can powerfully address it in partnership with God. At times He will ask us to put it in His hands. At other times, He may use our hands to answer, but it always starts with prayer,
“The effective prayer of a
The fight against evil is first spiritual, fought with spiritual weapons. The most powerful in the arsenal of the child of God is named “All Prayer” in Pilgrim's Progress. Wage war on your knees in the war room of your prayer closet.
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Eph.6.12 “Conversations Within” ts 1/25/
When I am tempted to doubt whether my puny existence matters to God, or the daily concerns I bring to Him, the words of Jesus erase all doubt.
"Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 1/24/26
Listen to people, really listen if you want to help. Rather than giving an answer, perhaps it would be wiser to ask questions. Understand first. Get the facts before giving an answer. The wisdom of God encourages us to be quick to listen and slow to speak.
“If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.” Prov.18.13 “Conversations Within” ts 1/23/
A mature inner life will possess the soul with a patient peace. This is because a well nurtured soul knows who is ultimately in control.
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” “Conversations Within” ts 1/21/
I pray that love will be the governing dynamic of my journey. I want every thought; every single thought; every word; and every action to flow from, and out of love's energy. I covet the love of God expressed in Jesus, the love that blesses everyone with goodness. Here is heaven's song, a song worth singing.
“God is
Jesus often went out to quiet places away from people to pray. His example highlights the value of creating a quiet time in a quiet place, in order to talk and listen to God. I am humbled that every time I have sought God, I have found Him waiting for me. Make an appointment with Him.
“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and
Anxiety can be a good reminder, if we use it this way, that we are trying to carry something that God never intended for us to carry. Put it back in His hands and leave it there,
“Cast all your care on Him because He cares for
If I could wrap my head around the vastness of the Universe I might begin to understand just how much our Father in Heaven loves each of us. We could say that in Heaven’s dictionary next to the words "infinite love" is a picture of Christ, arms spread out on the cross, saying "This is how much I love you!"
“And I pray that you, may… grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ…
I find great encouragement when I think about all the people in Heaven praying for us. Their prayers rise like sweet incense in that place where the rising of the sun is not a measure of time. Heaven sends down blessings everyday, and when we do not know how or what to pray, the host of Heaven prays with and for us.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses,...let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,” Heb.12.1 “Conversations Within” ts 1/16/26
If I become better, the world becomes better. Begin healing the world by first healing your own heart. It always has to begin with oneself.
“Son of man, let all my words sink deep into your own heart first. Listen to them carefully for yourself.” Ez.3.10 “Conversations Within” ts 1/
There is one attitude we can adopt that will help us nurture with ease, the proper attitude in every situation. Nurture a gentle and humble heart. As a horse bows to the will of its rider, so too we gently accept where God leads us each day, knowing that He will provide everything for it.
“Let this attitude be in you that was also in Christ Jesus…” Phil.2 “Conversations Within” ts 1/14/
I received a note from Google telling me some of my reviews were being viewed. I looked to see one I had submitted. In anger I had given a fast food restaurant a really bad review. I wish I could take it back, but I can’t. It serves as a good reminder for me to watch my mouth.
“Those who guard their lips preserve their
I naturally want people to read and find value in what I write. My chances they will, will greatly increase by simply using fewer words. Many good messages are never heard simply because they wear you out in
“A truly wise person uses few words.” Prov.17.27 “Conversations Within” ts 1/18/26
I decided to make a list of everything I don’t like about myself. With God’s help, I want to change for the better. The plan is to make these changes one small choice at a time. I am sure an opportunity will occur several times today. Choose only joy!
“Live wisely, making the most of your time and being careful how you walk, not being foolish.” Eph. 5:
When I make peace with the fact that Christ will never allow me to be at peace with my anger, lust, or pride, it will be one of the steps I can make toward true and lasting peace.
“The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” 1Jo.2.17 Conversations Within” ts 1/11/26
Think of someone you are tempted to hate. Now whisper a prayer for them. Call on God, not to curse them, but to bless them. If possible do something good for them, if it is only to keep them in your prayers every day until absolute goodness overtakes them. Here is the way of love, the way of Jesus. Walk in it.
“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” Jesus Conversations
