Don't be afraid of obscurity.

Being backstage and known by God is more important than being center stage and celebrated by people.

God's opinion of us is the one that matters the most.

And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran, embraced, and kissed him.' Luke 15:20 (Read the entire story - Luke 15:11-32)

I am not sure where you are on your spiritual journey—not a follower of

Human anger does not lead to the righteousness that God desires. In fits of rage, we say and do unkind things.

If we can't interact with others without losing our temper, choosing silence is the kindest response.

Lord, we humbly ask you to make us quick to listen, slow to

The truth is, people don’t have to be kind to us. When they are, gratitude (preferably tangible, if you are able)) is the appropriate response.

By listening to Jesus' words, we may feel impressed, astonished, and sentimental. But it's critical to remember that merely feeling moved by his teachings is not enough.

To truly follow Jesus, we must strive not just to hear his teachings but also to put them into practice.

To

Remember this: Walk with the wise, and you will become wise; associate with fools, and you will invite trouble.' - Proverbs 13:20

Wisdom is a priceless gift, and there are several ways to attain it:

1. Ask God for wisdom.
2. Surround yourself with wise people.
3. Learn from

Did you know that snack companies spend millions of dollars each year hiring “crave consultants?” These consultants determine our bliss point, the perfect combination of sugar, salt, and fat that makes us crave more of a certain food. They do this to exploit our food cravings.

Please, let's refrain from using the simplistic platitude and false reasoning, 'Everything happens for a reason,' to address and comfort complex concerns about evil in our world.

No! Not everything evil happens for a reason. The truth is that sometimes evil has no reason. Evil

For one to be accounted faithful one must keep one's promises.
~ Thomas Aquinas

'I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid.' John 14:27

Since 'they' aren't the source of our peace, let's refuse to let 'them' be the thief of our peace.

Jesus, by faith we

This was his testimony...when the Jewish leaders asked John, “Who are you?” He came right out and said, “I am not the Messiah.”” John 1:19-20

One of the best ways to know who we are is to embrace who we are not.

We are NOT in control.
We are NOT perfect.
We DON’T have all the

The power of our words is immense and can have a profound impact on others.

With one step of faith and the influence of the Spirit, we can move from using our words to PREY ON people to using them to PRAY FOR people. I'm convinced we can't genuinely do both at the same time.

One of the most beautiful & mysterious aspects of God's movements is that he loves to surprise us with reversals.

Servants are great.
The weak are strong.
The nameless are known.
The last becomes first.
The poor are rich.
The humble are exalted.

Yes, you are the

Some days...

We forget the good things God has done
We refuse to wait for God's counsel
We let our desires run wild
We test God's patience
We want what we want

Today, Lord help us to...

Remember your kindness
Wait for your counsel
Submit our desires
Trust your timing

Lord, please forgive us for all the times our reactions were larger than the situation warranted, causing harm to others and ruining precious moments.

By the power of your Spirit, grant us the gift of self-control so we can react appropriately in every situation today.

Sometimes, we have to grieve the fantasies and dreams of what we hoped people (family, friends, spouses, etc.) would become and ask God for the grace to acknowledge, accept, and appreciate the reality of who they are.

The Lord is mightier.

Mightier than our internal fears
Mightier than our external chaos
Mightier than our present complexities
Mightier than our future uncertainties
Mightier than yesterday's failures
Mightier than today's guilt and shame

Friends, today, let's approach each

Experiencing God's power is not just about miraculous protection from pain and suffering. It's also about him giving us the strength to remain faithful to Him amid adversity.

We can and should pray for him to deliver us, but I wonder if the more significant and courageous

Wordle 1,048 2/6

My smarticums were working today.

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The Portal takes, and the Portal gives. Welcome back to Michigan State Football, young man. Let's go to work!