Doubt and Gratitude

It’s hard to doubt and be thankful at the same time. Gratitude is not the only solution to overcoming doubt, but it is helpful. This is because gratitude helps you see God’s faithfulness and seeing God’s faithfulness strengthens your trust in him.

This week, take some time to make an extensive list of people and things you enjoy in life and thank God for them. For an even deeper sense of gratitude, pick one of the people on your list and send them a short note telling them why you thank God for them. Feel free to use one of the postage paid postcards from our info center.

Practicing Peace

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18 NIV

Some people think that following Jesus is a mystical adventure and are drawn to that, while others think it is mystical and it turns them off from following Jesus. The reality is that following Jesus is more practical than mystical.

When we receive forgiveness from God, we gain peace with God. If you experience this, you will also want to be at peace with those around you. This week, take some time to evaluate your life and consider if there is anyone you are holding a grudge against or if they may be someone who is angry with you. Ask the Lord for help to bring peace to these relationships and do what needs to be done to restore peace with other people in your life. We cannot live in peace with God if we are the cause of conflict with others.

Trusting Jesus as Your Teacher

The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. Mark 1:22 NIV

People were amazed at Jesus’ teaching because his teaching had authority. In other words, his teaching was filled with wisdom and power that could not be denied or refuted. Do you view Jesus as your teacher? Do you see Jesus as the One who can teach you how to live a full and purposeful life?

This week, read Matthew 5-7, the Sermon on the Mount, at least twice. Read it from the view that Jesus is teaching you the best way possible to live life and read it with confidence that Jesus is brilliant, that he truly understands the best way we can live life. Before, after and while you read the chapters, ask Jesus to teach you how to live life the way he, the Father and the Spirit designed it to be lived.

Standing Firm

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
Ephesians 6: 13 NIV

We will face evil and trouble in this life. It is not a matter of “if”, but of “when”. God wants to prepare us so that when we do face evil or some of type of trouble, we will be able to stand our ground, trusting him.

This week, spend some prayer time talking with God about evil or trouble or challenges you are facing. Honestly ask God to strengthen your faith through your battles and struggles. Seek His kingdom and goodness in the middle of your trouble.