God’s Goodness

November 27th – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

1 Thessalonians 5:18

Thanksgiving has a way of slowing us down just long enough to notice the goodness we often rush past. As the table fills and familiar faces gather, we’re reminded that gratitude isn’t just a holiday tradition, it’s a posture God invites us to carry every day. God calls us to give thanks in all circumstances. And not because every moment is easy, but because He is present in every moment. Even in the seasons that feel heavy, there is always some thread of grace to hold on to. Gratitude shifts our focus, softens our hearts, and reminds us that God’s hand is steady even when life is not. Today, as we laugh, cook, and enjoy our loved ones, we are practicing the kind of thanksgiving that reaches deeper than a single day. It’s the kind that sees God’s goodness woven into both the big blessings and the quiet, hidden ones. When we choose to thank Him right where we are, we open our hearts to peace that doesn’t depend on circumstances. So as we celebrate this holiday, may we let its message follow us far beyond the table. May we remember it into tomorrow and every day after, as we live with a spirit that says, “Thank You, Lord, in all things.”

Prayer Prompt:

Father, on this Thanksgiving Day, help me slow down long enough to truly see Your blessings. Show me one specific thing I can thank You for today. Something that reminds me of Your goodness and draws my heart closer to You. Amen

November 27th – 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Read More »

March 31st – Nahum 1:7

Nahum 1:7

Life can feel overwhelming, especially when we’re hurting. The weight of uncertainty, loss, and heartache can leave us wondering if we’ll ever find peace again. But God is good, even in the midst of the storm. He isn’t distant from our pain, He is our safe place and refuge when everything feels like it’s falling apart. When the nights are long and the burdens feel too heavy to carry, He invites us to run to Him. He sees the tears you cry in secret, the prayers you whisper in desperation, and the fears you don’t speak aloud. And He holds you through it all. You are not forgotten. God knows those who take refuge in Him. He sees your faith, even when it feels weak. He is your protector, your sustainer, your steady rock in the chaos. Even if the answers don’t come right away, even if the pain lingers longer than you’d hoped, you can trust that He is working, and He will not fail you.Your suffering does not define you, God’s goodness does. Hold on. Keep trusting. The One who holds your heart will never let you go.

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May 19th – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

1 Thessalonians 5:18

In 1 Thessalonians 5:18 the apostle Paul urges us to, “give thanks in all circumstances.” A challenging call when we witness Israel under attack, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and deep divisions within our own country. Divisions between friends, loved ones, and even the church. All that turmoil can make gratitude seem almost impossible. Yet God calls us to live a life of thankfulness just the same. To recognize the blessings we have, and continue to receive, and the hope we hold in Christ. For amidst the chaos, we are blessed with His unwavering presence and the promise of eternal life. Each day we are given is a gift, and an opportunity to acknowledge the Lord’s goodness and grace. By cultivating a spirit of thanksgiving, we align our hearts with His will, finding peace and strength in His sovereignty. So as we eagerly await His return, let our gratitude be a testament to our faith, illuminating the darkness with the light of His love. In every trial and triumph, may we continuously give thanks, trusting in His perfect plan.

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October 13th – Colossians 3:17

Colossians 3:17

The apostle Paul encourages us to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. This means aligning our thoughts, actions, and decisions with the teachings and example of Christ. Approaching all we do with an attitude of love, humility, and devotion to Him. Every aspect of our existence, from our words and actions to our thoughts and deeds, should be a testament to God’s goodness and blessings. By recognizing His lordship in our lives, we strive to bring honor and glory to Jesus in everything we do. It also means that our actions should reflect His character of compassion, forgiveness, and grace. Ultimately, doing everything in the name of Jesus is an invitation to live a life that emulates His love and reflects His teachings. It’s creating a positive impact on the world and contributing to the advancement of God’s kingdom. Because even in the smallest of actions, we have the opportunity to express gratitude and reflect God’s abundant love.

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June 11th – Matthew 12:31

Matthew 12:31

And so I tell you, every kind of sin and slander can be forgiven, but blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven.”

When my son was little we would talk about sin and God’s forgiveness. Then as children do, he would rattle off a list of transgressions asking if God could forgive each one. Of course the answer to each was a resounding yes. Then he asked if there was anything God couldn’t forgive. And sadly the answer to that was also a resounding yes. Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit of God. As used in Scripture, the word “blasphemy” means expressing something disrespectful or evil about God. And the worst evil is the deliberate and willful rejection of the work of the Holy Spirit or a persistent refusal to accept God’s forgiveness and grace. This signifies a complete and conscious rebellion against our Creator, the ultimate source of love, goodness, and forgiveness. Out of His unending love and mercy, God wishes for none to perish. And so He sacrificed His own begotten Son to offer us eternal life. Only those who receive Christ Jesus as Lord and Savior will receive the precious gift of an eternity spent by the Father’s side.

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June 1st – Psalm 100:5

Psalm 100:5

“For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations.”

I don’t know about you, but I struggle with repentance. Oh I can apologize easy enough. And I do feel sorry for having sinned against others and God. But sadly, I’m a repeat offender. Because for me it’s easier to sin and ask for forgiveness, than to stop the sin in its tracks before happening. And that’s why I’m so thankful for God’s goodness. Because part of that goodness involves His forgiveness. A forgiveness I need second by second, minute by minute, hour by hour, and day by day. And it’s through His forgiveness, which God demonstrates His abundant mercy, compassion, and grace. I have a long way to go, and am definitely a work in progress. But God knows that. And despite how I fail Him, He is always faithful. Faithful in His love, patience, and forgiveness. Are you struggling with shame and guilt? Go to God. Lay all your sins at His feet. Receive His forgiveness and restoration. And know that even though sin may have a temporary hold on us, Jesus has a greater hold. A hold no sin could ever break.

 

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May 19th – Hebrews 4:16

Hebrews 4:16

When it comes to prayer, God isn’t looking for mealymouthed, wish washy, timid followers. He’s looking for strong, bold, prayer warriors. Those who know that because we are loved and accepted by God, we can come before Him anytime, anywhere, asking for anything, without fear or hesitation. But boldly coming before the Lord requires confidence, honesty, surrender, and persistence. Confidence means having unshakable faith and trust in God’s character and promises. Honesty means bringing our true selves before Him, without pretense or hiding. Surrender means knowing the Lord always knows best, seeking His guidance and direction above our own. And persistence means not giving up or being discouraged when we don’t see immediate answers or solutions. Being bold before God isn’t about being disrespectful or demanding. But reverence and humility, combined with confidence and trust in God’s goodness and faithfulness. And an invitation to approach Him with freedom, faith, and love.

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May 7th – Lamentations 3:22-23

Lamentations 3:22-23

It’s hard for me to read the book of Lamentations without a lump in my throat. Because its pages are filled with the pain of the prophet Jeremiah. He grieves over the destruction of Jerusalem at the hands of the Babylonians. Yet even in the midst of desolation and despair, Jeremiah had a heart of gratitude for the goodness of God. Gratitude is a powerful tool in overcoming the feelings that ail us. And knowing God’s compassion and kindness towards us are renewed each morning, helped ease the prophets pain. No matter how bad the circumstances of the day, with each new sunrise comes the opportunity to start fresh. To let go of yesterday and its failures and hurts, and receive God’s grace and forgiveness. Furthermore, when we trust in His unwavering love and faithfulness, and remember God’s faithful goodness, we too will have an overwhelming gratitude that eases our pain. And hearts that look to Him for the strength and hope we need to face each day.

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May 4th – Job 42:10

Job 42:10

The phrase, don’t judge a book by its cover doesn’t just apply to people, but also situations. When Job’s friends saw his misfortune they were sure he deserved it. They assumed, incorrectly, that Job was suffering because he had sinned against God. How many times as Christians do we do the same? How many times have we thought that those struggling must have done something to deserve it? But the truth is there many be a variety of reasons for someone’s troubles. And it isn’t our job to judge. But rather to encourage, help, and love them through the storm. To remind them of God’s great love, goodness and mercy. And that success and growth are not always immediate. We work in God’s timing. Which mean we may encounter setbacks and obstacles along the way. But if we remain steadfast and persevere through these challenges, like He did with Job, God will bless us mightily, repaying us twice what we lost.

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April 17th – 2 Corinthians 4:17

2 Corinthians 4:17

The apostle Paul and his fellow Christians suffered many hardships and difficulties in their ministry. They knew firsthand the cost of following Jesus and spreading the Good News. And although John acknowledges that trials can be painful to endure, he reminds us they only last but a moment. And so he councils us during times of difficulties to focus on the eternal perspective. For these troubles are temporary and are ultimately leading to a greater reward in heaven. Likewise, no matter what we suffer it’s minor compared to the eternal glory awaiting us. So as hard as it may be, Paul urges us to see our sufferings in light of the bigger picture. And to persevere through them knowing that they are not in vain. Most of all Paul wants us to trust that even in the midst of trials and hardships, we can find hope and comfort in the knowledge that God is working all things together for our good and for His glory.

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