September 13

Ephesians 4:22-23

That, regarding your previous way of life, you put off your old self (completely discard your former nature), which is being corrupted through deceitful desires, and be continually renewed in the spirit and your mind (have a fresh, untarnished mental and spiritual attitude.)

Sometimes it feels like we have ups and downs in our relationship with God. When our old self will come out of nowhere, and we regret our actions. However, with God, we can be made new at any moment. We are all a work in progress and growth in learning with God. Don’t give up and keep going and seeking the word for the answers. 

September 12

Romans 12:2

And do not be conformed to this world (any longer with its superficial values and customs), but be transformed and progressively changed (as you mature spiritually) by the renewing of your mind (focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes), so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. 

The mind won’t stay renewed without time spent in the word. Our goal should be stability and a strong foundation based on our knowledge of Jesus. The world is a constantly changing opinion and not necessarily in a Godly direction. We need God’s help, strength, and comfort to lead us daily. 

September 9

1 Corinthians 4:5

So do not go on passing judgment before the appointed time, but wait until the Lord comes, for He will both bring to light things that are hidden in darkness and disclose the motives of the hearts. Then each one’s praises will come from God.

It is hard to understand the real motives behind an action without seeing what is happening in the heart. We don’t know by looking at a book’s cover what the words are written inside. We also don’t know what a person has experienced in this life to get them to this point. Until we understand that story, our judgment will be incomplete. 

September 8

1 Corinthians 13:4

Love endures with patience and serenity, love is kind and thoughtful, and is not jealous or envious; love does not brag and is not proud or arrogant.

Love is a decision more than a feeling; our attitudes change when we decide to walk in love. Feelings come and go, but the decision to love has more endurance. Love is kind and does not get jealous because love provides confidence because of the love of Jesus inside us.

September 7

Psalm 37:11

But the humble will (at last) inherit the land and will delight themselves in abundant prosperity and peace. 

When we are humble before others and God, it makes it easier for God to raise us. Our inheritance with God depends solely on us and our choices. When we are humble, we are more teachable, and God can work through us. 

September 6

Colossians 3:12

So, as God’s own chosen people, who are holy (set apart, sanctified for His purpose) and well-beloved (by God Himself), put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience (which has the power to endure whatever injustice or unpleasantness comes, with a good temper);

Have you noticed that complex things can be easily endured when we have a good attitude? When we set our hearts and minds with a heart of compassion and kindness, it changes our thoughts and reactions. It will be easier to forgive, and we can shake off any offense that may come faster. 

September 5

1 Samuel 20:14

If I am still alive, will you not show me the loving-kindness and faithfulness of the Lord, so that I will not die?

When we are kind to one another, we walk out of God’s will. We represent what is good and helpful to others by being kind, and we will also receive kindness back. Jesus came to this earth representing God and what love for one another should look like, and being kind is a part of it. 

September 2

1 Peter 2:9

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a consecrated nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. 

We are chosen, and our lives have a destiny in the family of Christians. When we proclaim the goodness of the Lord on this earth, we recognize that Jesus saved us from sin. Our praise for our salvation and freedom from death to eternal life is all because God chose to call us. 

September 1

Isaiah 1:16-17

Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; get your evil deeds out of My sight. Stop doing evil, learn to do good. Seek justice, rebuke the ruthless, defend the fatherless, plead for the (rights of the) widow (in court).

God wants us to stand up for what is right in His sight on this earth. We are to rule and reign and stand for justice against evil. That means we should stand for what is right in our homes, communities, and country. We are the light in the darkness and the standard-bearer for God on this earth.

August 31

Psalm 34:14-15

Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous (those with moral courage and spiritual integrity), and His ears are open to their cry. 

We have a safety zone in our lives based on what we believe, what we speak, and how we act. God can provide that safety zone when we turn away from evil and pursue peace. We are righteous, but we also must stay in the safety zone. God will hear us when we keep the line of communication open to Him.