When our thoughts become more than we can bear, or when we are weighed down because our eyes are focused on the wrong things, we can humbly come before the Lord, and He will bring clarity and give wisdom. He will gently correct our thinking and teach us through His word.

As believers, we can rest in the truth that God is near to us and will never leave us, and He will faithfully teach us His ways. The psalmist also declares God holds him by his right hand.

What his eyes showed him as he watched the wicked prosper was only a fraction of the picture. It took going into the sanctuary of God to remind him of that truth and dismantle the comparison that was clouding his vision.

The message to me seemed to be, when you see a real need and you feel a personal nudge to respond, do what you can to make a real difference.

It is hard for us to watch those living outside of faith in God stacking up trophies, but remember, those trophies are temporal and will pass away. “Humility and the fear of the LORD bring wealth and honor and life” (Proverbs 22:4).

The things of this world are constantly seeking to draw our attention, but when our hearts and minds are focused on the things of God, we will not be distracted

We join David in saying, “Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom” (Psalm 145:3).

His word tells us, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬-‭18‬ ‭ESV).‬

When we share what God has done for us with others, we testify to His great power and love for those who belong to Him. Through our testimony, may others also seek Him.

Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” There is so much peace and hope in this verse. The Lord works for the good of those who love Him and belong to Him.

When silver is refined in the fire, it becomes reflective. May God’s faithful leading through seasons of refining cause us to reflect the very image of our Creator.

As we battle through each day and unaware of what tomorrow brings, may we desire the supernatural strength to fight. May we grasp the reality of our enemy and vow to pray and fight on our knees. It’s also important to include those we love and those we are called to reach in our prayer's. Our enemy is lurking, but our God is all supreme and not equal to anyone or anything.

Perhaps these men needed a reminder of their calling and that the Lord is the One who fully equips them to do what He has called to do.

One of the incredible truths His word reveals to us is just how intimately the Lord knows us and that the details of our lives matter to Him. His word speaks directly to His deep love and compassion and care for His people.  

Once we have surrendered our lives to Christ, we will willingly desire the things He desires.

Jesus is our perfect example. He has taught us how to obey, as He too obeyed the will of His Father.

The concept of needing an armor suit while we wage war here in the flesh is a very real necessity. It’s our prep, and the more equipped we are, the better we will fare.

We start on this road of life one way, and then undeniably meet Jesus, and we finish the road a very different person.

Reflecting on His goodness and His works in our life are biblical. This action and attention show we take delight in Him and it allows us to give Him praise and recognition for all He has done, yesterday, today and in the future.

As we consider all that a new year brings, let us find rest in Jesus, knowing salvation is in Him. Knowing He is faithful to His word, faithful to lead us, and faithful to teach us His ways.