Put Your Hope In God

Posted on June 19, 2023 by Mark Shields

This day with God will be amazing because we can examine our hopes and dreams and let God take them to a level that we never dreamed of. Reading today in 1 Kings 8:22-53, the characteristics of God described in Solomon’s prayer are a God of keeping promises. A God that hears our prayers, who loves us, and is forgiving.

Today’s passage points out that it is necessary to admit mistakes and ask for forgiveness in order to enter into His presence. Today, we know that by accepting Christ as Lord and Savior, we have access to the Holy Spirit for guidance and direction.

Solomon prayed not only for himself, but the people of Israel. In the same way, we should pray for our family, our friends, and associates. We need to keep in mind that our world presents many issues that are difficult to solve. But this day, we maintain hope because out of the blue and unexpectedly, a solution may come.

Keep praying and praising even in the storms because God’s promises are the beginning of hope that will shape the future. By putting our hope in God, every day will be amazing. God will take our hopes and dreams to a higher level beyond what could be imagined.

Lord … sometimes we feel that we are running on empty. We need hope that only You can provide. We face problems and issues that seem impossible to solve but You are God of possible. The fuel of hope pushes us to step ahead towards a new solution and we keep praying and praising with a hope that shapes our future. Amen.

Posted in Bible Study, Hope | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Just A Click Away

Posted on June 18, 2023 by Mark Shields

David was going through a rough time as explained in Psalm 63. What he missed the most while on the run from his enemies was God’s house where he felt God’s power and glory. Because of Jesus in our heart, the power and glory resides inside.

This day with God, stay connected and charged with spiritual pick-me-ups at anytime and anyplace. Just a click away, technology makes it easy to look up Bible verses, be inspired by praise videos, or share with friends.

Index of devotionals

Posted in Bible Study, Budget Time and Money | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Poetry Friday 06-16-2023

Posted on June 16, 2023 by Mark Shields

A poem posted at my other blog Step Ahead is inspired by the “Climbing Higher” which emphasizes the need to spend our time on activities that provide a heart of wisdom. The value of these activities will rise over time as commodities that will be useful forever; providing a living hope and a valuable resource forever.

A great song that also emphasizes spending time on activities that build a heart of wisdom is Cinderella by Steven Curtis Chapman. It’s a song about making the wise choice of appreciating each moment with a daughter before they grow up.

Posted in Bible Study | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Trust in Jesus During Weakness

Posted on June 15, 2023 by Mark Shields

You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast because he trust in You. –  Isaiah 26:3

Studied in “Staying on the Path” is how King Solomon built the temple of God with a plan, with patience, and with persistence. These are the same qualities we need as we build our life by trusting in the path provided.

Our attention is undivided; and thankful for the path provided. It’s a wonderful time for praise for the ways the Spirit has guided. Today’s song is God is in this Story and remember, God’s in the details. Even in the broken parts, He holds your heart. In your moments of weakness, go to Jesus.

Index of devotionals

Posted in Devotionals, Focus | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Staying on the Path

Posted on June 14, 2023 by Mark Shields

When we follow the Way as the Spirit guides, we will get to where we need to go so let us keep focused on the path provided and for ways we are guided. This day with God as we read 1 Kings 8:1-21, our attention is undivided as we step ahead!

King Solomon built the temple of God with a plan, patience, and persistence. After the temple was finished, we read that the arc of the Lord’s covenant was brought to God’s house. It was placed in the inner sanctuary of the temple, the Most Holy Place (v. 6).

We can use the same qualities of having a plan, being patient, and being persistent in how we build our own life so the Spirit sent by Jesus is the inner core of our life. The Spirit dwells inside us to help in all we do to glorify God.

Because of Jesus, know that the Spirit dwells inside and is with us throughout the battles, in times of indifference, and the times of doubt. In every moment of every day, make God’s indwelling Spirit evident by being filled with peace, with purpose, and with faith.

Start each day focused on the ONE who demonstrated these characteristics. The world will distract and try to get us off target but if our aim is on the purposes of God, we will stay on mission. Have faith because all things will be possible when we put Jesus at the center of it all!

Lord, we are gathering the details of Your plan and will follow with persistence. We are focused on your Way and will patiently take one step at a time. In every moment of this day, we will be steadfast because we trust in You. In times of weakness, we pray in Jesus’ name for strength and know that our struggles will last only a short time. We will keep on walking because Your path leads to peace and eternal bliss. Amen!

Posted in Bible Study, Focus | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments