To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: (KJV) ( Ecclesiastes 3:1 )

Sometime’s bad things happen to good people. But how do you make peace with this thought, especially when you are fighting back anger, hurt, betrayal, or loneliness? It’s important to realize God has perfect timing, even when we can’t understand it. Without placing your faith in His timing, you leave room for resentment, despair, and rebellion. When you can’t see the work God is doing through tragedy, remain faithful in knowing God’s timing is perfect. 

And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: (KJV) ( Matthew 7:26 )

The Bible has a lot to say on how we should live our lives. If we know how we are supposed to live and disregard that knowledge it is foolish. As we build our lives, we should strive to build it on a solid foundation that will last forever, the Kingdom of God.  What are you building your house on? 

Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. (KJV) ( 1 Thessalonians 5:11 ) 

While encouraging others is part of following God, how you receive those encouraging words is just as important. Instead of responding with a negative reaction that promotes lack of confidence, accept it gracefully with a simple thank you or one with sincere gratitude. God made you in his image and values your every thought and presence. 

Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake. (KJV) ( John 14:11 ) 

Much of the work Jesus did on earth was miracles he performed. However, in present day we discount the credibility of miracles because we rely heavily on reason and logic but a large portion of believing in miracles is having faith in God. Is there an area in your life where a miracle is needed? Maybe it’s in your relationships, finances or in your heart. Don’t give up on believing. Miracles can and do happen but only through your faith in God. 

He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. (KJV) ( 1 John 2:4 ) 

Having a relationship with Jesus will keep you grounded and leaning into a growing faith. A growing faith is a good sign. In a relationship, truth is spoken, conviction is felt, and confidence in God strengthens. Walk in the truth and obey God’s commandments.  Was there a time in your life when you weren’t living in the truth?  What were the circumstances? 

The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things. (KJV) ( Proverbs 15:28 ) 

Big questions require thoughtful responses.  Better to pause, pray and find the right words when facing a tricky situation. When we rush to reply in haste, we often make matters worse.  God knows sometimes our first inclinations are not our best ones.  Time gives us the chance to find wisdom in difficulty. 

Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied. (KJV) ( Jude 1:2 ) 

We are on a mission to continuously improve in mercy, peace, and love towards others. We can never be fully filled with peace or fully filled with mercy or fully filled with love. We can never say to ourselves, I am an expert in mercy and there is no room for improvement. However, each day we can take one step closer to God, who in turn grants us the ability to love more. 

A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. (KJV) ( Proverbs 12:10 )

Animals are God’s precious creatures. He placed us above them not just to rule over them, but also to care for them. While it is good to help others in need, we should not forget about the animals in need of our nurturing. There are many shelters that need our help, which can be given through volunteering, fostering, and more. Isabella came from a shelter, and I am so glad I adopted her. She is a wonderful companion.

Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. (KJV) ( Matthew 10:16 )

As much as we should desire to be kind and giving, sometimes it can be difficult to do so in our current culture. We want to be good but don’t want to be taken advantage of. Like many things in life, this requires a delicate balance of assertiveness and servitude. If you are heavy on assertiveness, try being a bit more subservient today by allowing others to express themselves more. If you are in need of more assertiveness, try speaking up today, either by asking questions or praising someone.