Your best interests

But can anyone know what they’ve accidentally done wrong? Clear me of any unknown sin... ~ Psalm 19:12 (CEB)

Jesus says, ‘I will never turn away anyone who comes to me.’ ~ John 6:37 (GW)

KEY IDEA:

Expect that Jesus is looking out for your best interests.

PRAYER:

Thank you, Lord, for looking out for me. Sometimes I let my circumstances foster doubt. And I think that I am the only person who can look out for my interests. Help me to recognize how it is that you always have my best interests in mind. I am going to trust you. Amen.

Relief!

I stretch out my hands to you; my whole being is like dry dirt, thirsting for you. ~ Psalm 143:6 (CEB)

If you are tired from carrying heavy burdens, come to me and I will give you rest. ~ Matthew 11:28 (CEV)

KEY IDEA:

Reach out to Jesus for relief.

PRAYER:

Jesus, thank you for being here for us. You never fail to respond to those who turn to you. I confess, though, that there are times when I fail to reach out to you. I am dumb enough to try and get through my problems without turning to you. Forgive me and keep reminding me of your faithful presence. I am going to let you carry my burdens. Amen.

Hope and obedience

I long for you to rescue me! Your word is my only hope. ~ Psalm 119:81 (CEV)

Jesus told the people who had faith in him, "If you keep on obeying what I have said, you truly are my disciples." ~ John 8:31 (CEV)

KEY IDEA:

We realize hope through obedience.

PRAYER:

Thank you, Lord, that you satisfy my longings and fill the void with hope. Forgive me for continuing in my word and will. Help me to see that through service comes the satisfaction of being called your disciple. In Jesus' name. Amen. (Daily Texts, Mount Carmel Ministries edition)

God cares

He may cause injury and pain, but he will bandage and heal your cuts and bruises. ~ Job 5:18 (CEV)

Therefore, humble yourselves under God’s power so that he may raise you up in the last day. Throw all your anxiety onto him, because he cares about you. ~ 1 Peter 5:6-7 (CEB)

KEY IDEA:

God cares deeply for you.

PRAYER:

Lord, it is so easy to blame you for all the difficulties, while ignoring the ways that you heal us. Forgive me for focusing on only the small picture. Refresh my image of the big picture so that I can throw my anxieties on you. I'm going to trust in your healing touch. Amen.