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/
