Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord(Psalm 27:14 ESV)!

Do you trust and have confidence in God’s timing?

It’s no coincidence that the word wait is repeated in this verse. David genuinely understood the importance of waiting on the Lord. Overcoming his tribulations was made evident by his reliance on the Lord’s provision and his humble submission, which provided a valuable lesson to the generations that came after him.

Is there something that you are currently waiting for? Perhaps you’re hoping for a new job, a financial breakthrough, physical healing, or a relationship to be restored. To us, it may appear as if he is slow in his response, and we don’t recognize what he is doing in the background. He is always in the details. When we offer God our thoughts and surrender our will for his, we are transformed. As we patiently wait, he gives us a profound sense of peace and courage to persevere.

Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4).

Delighting in the Lord is not only about taking pleasure of being in his presence, but finding joy in his teachings, love, and grace. It goes beyond the surface-level satisfaction derived from worldly things. Spiritual delight is the filling of our hearts in a way that only God can provide. Although this scripture says God will give us the “desires of our hearts,” it doesn’t necessarily mean that he will grant us a luxurious new car or a big house just because we asked. Possessions acquired from the world are temporary and don’t bring satisfaction. Although our hearts may yearn for material things, it's important to remember that worldly desires are fleeting, but the value of delighting in the Lord is everlasting.

Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest” (Matthew 9: 37-38).

When Jesus exhorted his disciples to pray for the harvest, his heart was grieved over the condition of the hearts around them. They were helpless, lost, and unaware of their condition. The “harvest” Jesus referred to then is the exact condition of the people in our world today. There are people who have yet to hear the good news of Jesus and receive healing. There is so much work to be done while we are still here on earth.

Luke 24:1-9 (ESV)

As the women approached the tomb to anoint the body of Jesus, they discovered that the stone was rolled away and Jesus’ body was not there. Before he was crucified, Jesus told his disciples that he would leave Earth and go to prepare a place for them. Did the disciples believe him? Or perhaps their minds could not comprehend how this would occur. After Jesus was crucified, they grieved that he was no longer physically with them. However, the disciples didn’t understand that Jesus’ departure was for our benefit. Jesus died in our place so that we could spend eternity with him. The resurrection is the center of the Gospel message and is a testament to God's immense power and sovereignty. Death had no power over him, and we can share the victory of death through him.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ  reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.

For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 17-18,21).

One of humanity's most sought-after pursuits is discovering their identity. Their identity is what makes them unique and feel significant. People seek their identity in their careers, sexual orientation, on social media, or in their financial status. Many of us look to the world through temporary sources and the approval of others to justify our choices. By doing this, we will only encounter despair and discontentment. Anything we attempt to substitute in place of God will leave us empty and yearning. Apart from Christ, all hope is lost. But the good news is that Jesus came to bore our sins so that, through reconciliation, the wrongs we have done can be made right, before God. When we accept Jesus as our personal Savior, our identity ensures, a greater purpose and hope.

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10 ESV).

Have you ever wondered if God is with you?

Sometimes, it can feel like we are walking alone through life. It may seem like God isn’t present or has abandoned us. The nation of Israel experienced these feelings; amid the pain of their exile, they cried out to God. He responded to them through the prophets, who offered encouragement and hope because of God’s promises. We must always look to God’s promises, especially when we experience life's challenges. We serve a mighty God; no situation is too complicated for him. Just as God used Israel's adversity, for his greater purpose, he will use ours to strengthen our faith and for his glory. In his presence, we will find renewed strength and peace.

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint (Isaiah 40:31 NIV).

In what or who do you place your hope?

Hope implies patience and trust and depends on God’s timing. It also requires genuine faith and confidence in his sovereignty. The Lord is faithful. He will provide supernatural strength when we are weak. We have all faced situations that looked hopeless. Perhaps we felt defeated. But when we turn our eyes to the Lord he lifts us, restores our hope, and offers us peace.

Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray (Proverbs 10:17 NIV).

How do you respond to the correction of the Holy Spirit?

A humble and teachable spirit is demonstratable fruit when we walk with the Lord. When we acknowledge that we are not perfect, and fall short of God’s glory, the sanctification process of the Holy Spirit begins. When Jesus left the earth, he sent the Holy Spirit to be our helper and counselor (John 14:26). His role as sanctifier is to direct and correct us, but we all have a choice to heed his instruction. Our Father in Heaven instructs, corrects, and disciplines us just as a loving parent disciplines their child. He pursues us because he loves us and wants us to live to our fullest potential for his kingdom.

Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the depths of the earth; the heights of the mountains are his also. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land. Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker (Psalm 95:1-6 ESV)!

The Hebrew word “worship” translated means to bow down. Bowing down before the Lord is an act of reverence and submission. True worship demonstrates a posture of our hearts and attitudes. God created us for worship. Sitting quietly enveloped in his presence and offering him our worship is a privilege and an honor.

Matthew 1:18-25 (NIV)

How does the birth of Jesus resonate in your heart?

The story of the birth of Jesus Christ is extraordinary. Above all women, God chose Mary’s womb to carry the Messiah. Though Mary was perplexed by the message of the angel, she responded in faith and submitted herself in obedience. Mary knew that someday she would watch her son suffer an agonizing death for her sins and the sins of the world, yet she willingly carried in her body the means of our salvation. Eternal salvation is a gift; we can’t earn it, and though we don’t deserve it, we are offered it anyway because Jesus loves us and doesn’t want anyone to perish. What a blessed assurance and hope we have in Jesus. It's our choice; it’s a decision we all must make. Will you choose Jesus?

You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV).

How are you being an example of Jesus to others?

When Jesus delivered the sermon on the Mount, he used “light” to describe the godliness we are to display. If we proclaim Christ as our Lord and Savior, our mission is to be a living testimony. Our actions will bring hope and draw them closer to Jesus. He is our only hope to pull us out of the darkness of this world, and guide us on the right path.

Psalm 106:1 (NIV)

Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.

In the United States, the Thanksgiving holiday will be celebrated by families gathering together to count their blessings. It is a time to remember that there is much to be thankful for. God is and has been so good to all who enjoy the liberties of this nation. He ensures we have the provisions necessary to sustain us. Knowing this, may we come to the Lord with a grateful heart and prioritize to thank Him daily. His provisions are evident, as is His abundant love for us. God’s unconditional love can never be taken from us; it's eternal. This truth alone is worthy of all praise! We must never take His love for granted; instead, we are to offer Him the recognition and honor He deserves.

“Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil” (Ephesians 4:26-27 ESV).

Anger is a natural human response to conflict; it can be difficult to maintain self-control in the heat of the moment. We are to react in a manner that pleases God. When we respond in a way that does not honor God, it permits the devil an opportunity to exploit our emotions and lure us into sin. For this reason, the Apostle Paul urged us to forgive quickly. If we end our day in anger, we dwell on negative feelings unnecessarily. God's word encourages us to recognize that this verse is not a suggestion but a command.

I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content, whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need and what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength (Philippians 4:10-13 NIV).

Paul understood that it was his genuine faith that established his satisfaction, not his circumstances. Unlike Paul, many of us think that if things go right, we will be fulfilled; however, that is an unrealistic expectation. When we empty ourselves daily and have an eternal perspective, we will grasp this revelation; we will have peace and be complete. Apart from Christ, we can do nothing, but through him, we will have the strength to accomplish everything.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me- put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8-9) (NIV).

Our minds have tremendous power; our thoughts can weigh us down, or they can lift us. Countless ideas enter our minds throughout the day and are influenced by what we watch on watch on TV and social media, what we listen to, where we go, and who we associate ourselves with. As these thoughts enter our minds, we all have a choice to determine which will take root in our hearts. What we allow into our minds will shape our beliefs and actions; therefore, we must focus on God’s sovereignty and love for us. By pursuing a positive, God-honoring mindset, we will experience the promise of God's peace.

Titus 2:3-5 (NLT)

Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good. These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God.

As women of faith, most of us are familiar with the term “Titus 2 woman.” However, some may not fully comprehend what is meant by a Titus 2 woman. She is a spiritually mature woman who trains younger women in biblical godly living. She is a role spiritual mother that can be emulated.

It is a relational ministry that involves spending time together and assisting her to navigate life while solidifying her relationship with Christ.

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2:3-5) (ESV)

How can you be of service to someone without expecting something in return?

Jesus emphasized that the second greatest commandment is “to love your neighbor as you love yourself.” Fulfilling this command requires a humble heart. When we humble ourselves, it enables us to recognize the needs of others more clearly. Jesus was our example of humble servanthood. His life and death on the cross demonstrated a sacrificial selflessness that is difficult for many of us to comprehend. He gave his life so that we could have eternal life.

“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God” (Romans 8:26-27).

What do you do when you seek God but are uncertain about what to pray for?

We are never alone; the Holy Spirit aids us in times of distress and uncertainty. He intercedes on our behalf according to God’s will and meets us in our vulnerability. Furthermore, he prays for precise life situations to magnify and glorify our Father in Heaven. We can trust Him and rest assured that He will guide and lead us throughout our lifetime.

Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still” (Exodus 14:13-14).

How has the Lord fought on your behalf?

One of the privileges of being a believer is that we have Almighty God on our side. We don't have to walk this earth alone and rely on our own strength. We must submit to a position of faith and rely on His power and timing. He will fight our battles.

“Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised”( Job 1:21).

How do you respond when tragedy occurs in your life?

God allows suffering in our lives; none of us are exempt. Our experiences on this Earth prepare us for our eternal destination, Heaven. Believers can be refreshed by the fact that this is not our permanent home. The suffering we endure now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later (Romans 8:18). If you are in Christ, that is enough to be fortified and hopeful.