‘…happy are those who keep my ways…’ (Proverbs 8:32)

These words of wisdom echo so many that we find in the book of Psalms and point to one simple truth. True happiness can only be found when we walk with the Lord – and there is nothing that can compare with this.

‘My child, keep my words and store up my commandments with you…’ (Proverbs 7:1)

Through the Word of God and the example and teaching of our Lord we have all we need to help us through all that we face every day – and we have His Holy Spirit to help us to do so. So give thanks to the Lord for His continued presence with us and let’s seek to do exactly as the proverb states.

‘Keep straight the path of your feet and all your ways will be sure…’ (Proverbs 4:26)

As we go through life there are many occasions when we have to choose which path to follow. At times we will choose the right path but unfortunately at other times we will choose the wrong one. How can we know though which path is the correct one to choose and how can we apply these words of wisdom from Proverbs? We look to our Lord and we follow the path that He has set before us. It might not always be easy and will not be without troubles or temptations along the way, but if we can follow the path our Lord would have us take, we are on the right path.

‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own insight…’ (Proverbs 3:5)

All too often in life we wonder why ventures we have undertaken don’t always turn out as we had planned or hoped for. But if we can take a step back and then reflect upon what has happened, how often do we find that we have sought to do things in our own way, trusting in our strengths and merits instead of first taking things to the Lord. At all times and in all things, put your trust in the Lord for He will be with you at all times.

‘…Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid…’ (Mark 6:50)

These words were spoken by Jesus to His Disciples when they became afraid when they saw Him walking on the water towards them. However, how comforting and reassuring is it for us to know they are words which our Lord speaks to us every day.

‘I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need.’ (Phil.4:13)

It’s so easy to become anxious and fearful when life throws something completely unexpected our way, when suddenly we can’t see the way ahead clearly. When those times come we need to hold on to our faith in Christ and put our trust in Him to guide us through whatever has come our way. If we can do this, there is no limit to what God can do through us.

‘…we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him…’ (Romans 8:28)

Life is full of ups and downs – we all have good days and we all have bad days. Here Paul reminds us that no matter what kind of day we’re having, God is always with us. Give thanks today for God’s continued presence in your life and for the love He pours upon us every single day.

‘Let God transform you inwardly…’ (Romans 12:2)

By His Spirit the Lord is with us every day, to help and to guide us through all that we face in life’s journey. However, we need to listen for the Word of God and we need to allow His Spirit to move within us – to transform and mould us that we might become more Christ like in all we do. So take time now to pray for the Holy Spirit to come upon you and allow it to lead you through this day.

‘The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.’ (Psalm 116:5)

Just pause for a moment to take in these few words from the Psalmist and consider what this means for us. God knows when we make bad choices and when we act in ways we shouldn’t. Yet such is His grace and compassion that still the Lord loves us and instead of casting us to one side and rejecting us, He welcomes us back into His open arms. Praise be to God for His love for us.

‘The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.’ ( James 5:16)

Prayer is one of the most powerful resources we have in our Christian faith. God not only listens to us when we come before Him in prayer, He also answers. He may not always give us precisely what we ask for but such is His love for us that He knows what is best for us and for those situations that we might bring before Him. Ultimately, prayer helps create that loving bond between us and God and helps us to grow and flourish in our faith and in our love for Him. So why not take time to be with Him now and bring to Him all that is on your heart.