Keep God First

Verse of the Day:   Matthew 6:33      

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.   

Fruit of the Spirit: As the new year approaches, we often set resolutions to improve ourselves. With faith in God, we can anticipate a better year ahead by prioritizing His kingdom and righteousness, trusting that He will provide for our needs. In 2024, let’s draw closer to God through His Word and guidance, keeping our focus on heavenly matters. Make resolutions that prioritize God daily and aim to cultivate the Fruits of the Spirit, like Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-control in our lives.

Strength Renewed

Verse of the Day:  Isaiah 40:31         

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.          

Fruit of the Spirit: As we near the end of 2023, it’s a good time to reflect on what God has helped us overcome this year. Despite challenges, God has been our guiding light. The approaching year signifies a chance for fresh starts, new beginnings, and brighter days. Place your trust in God to renew your strength, and remember, in Christ’s love, you are more than a conqueror. The new year also brings opportunities to embrace Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-control in your life, so let’s make the most of it!

‘Tis the Season to Be Jolly

Verse of the Day:   James 1:19         

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry   

Fruit of the Spirit:  Even though it’s the most wonderful time of the year people are busy, stressed out, in a hurry and not always as polite as they can be. As Christians, don’t forget what the season is really about and let’s try to set an example of how to treat others. Showing Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Gentleness, and Self-control with others will not only reflect a Christ-like character but it will also make the holidays a little jollier.

Blessed are the Meek

Verse of the Day:  Matthew 5:5         

Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth           

Fruit of the Spirit: Do not let the world confuse you. Biblical meekness is not about being weak but having strength under control. Be more like Jesus and less like the world. Be Patient and Kind, obedient and humble. Display your inner strength with Gentleness and Self-control so that you may enjoy the gift of Peace and prosperity.

Be a God Pleaser

Verse of the Day:  Galatians 1:10     

Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.

Fruit of the Spirit: It’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to please people, especially the people we love. Being a people pleaser isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It shows that you are caring and you enjoy making other people happy. But when you seek the approval of people over God it definitely becomes a problem. Seek God first, look to Him for approval over the approval of others. When we strive to please God, the Holy Spirit produces Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-control in our lives, reflecting a Christlike character that transcends human approval and stems from a deeper spiritual connection.

The Golden Rule

Verse of the Day:  Matthew 7:12       

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.       

Fruit of the Spirit: The concept of the “Golden Rule” is a general truth that is found not only in the Holy Bible but appears in many other religions. It’s so basic and fundamental that we teach it to our children. Treat people the way you want them to treat you. Act with Love, Patience, Kindness, Goodness and Gentleness. At times we may fall short, but thank God the Holy Spirit convicts us and moves us to repentance. Do your best to Love each other as Christ has Loved you.

Gentle and Humble

Verse of the Day:  Matthew 11:29     

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Fruit of the Spirit: Jesus was a great example of what it is to be Gentle and humble. Gentleness = kindness, mild in temperament; Humbleness = respectful, showing a modest estimate of one’s own importance. Jesus is encouraging us to learn from Him and to adopt His traits as our own and in return we will experience spiritual rest and Peace.

Harsh Words Stir Anger

Verse of the Day:  Proverbs 15:1      

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.           

Fruit of the Spirit: If you must engage with an angry person let your words be an encouragement and an inspiration. Respond with Kindness, Gentleness, and Love. Let your words direct others to God’s Peace instead of stirring up anger.

What Does the Lord Require?

Verse of the Day:   Micah 6:8

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

Fruit of the Spirit: We all fall short, but God’s grace is bigger than our sins. God has been merciful to you and He wants you to be merciful to others. Showing mercy to others shows Love, Kindness, Gentleness, and Self-control, which are characteristics of the Fruit of the Spirit. 

How Great is Our God!

Verse of the Day:  Psalm 145:8         

The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in mercy.

Fruit of the Spirit: The Lord is gracious and merciful to us and we should live our lives as similar to His nature as we can. We serve a mighty God yet He is slow to anger and Loves us even when we fail Him. We can strive to be Loving, Patient, Kind, and Gentle in our daily lives, this will please the Lord.