Today's Verse - Isaiah 41:13

For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.

—Isaiah 41:13

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Life crashes in, and we wish we could be children again. Then, maybe, we would have someone to take care of us and protect us from our uncertainties and fears — let us hold their hand and lead us through the mess. Into our confused and chaotic world, God's faithfulness comes to us as a promise. Like a loving parent with a frightened child, God reaches down and takes hold of our hand spiritually. He comforts us with his precious words, "Don't be afraid. I'm here with you. I will help." Even when the LORD may seem distant, the echo of this promise can remind us that we are never alone or forgotten (Hebrews 13:5-6; Romans 8:32-39).

My Prayer...

Abba Father, whose presence and help are always near, please help me have faith that you are there. I believe in this, but at times, dear LORD, I need your help to overcome my doubts and fears. I confess that you have seemed distant at difficult times, and I have felt alone. Please remind me through your Spirit of your nearness and your care. In my moments of struggle and doubt, please make your presence known. I believe, but please help my unbelief.* In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

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* The cry of a father to Jesus as the man struggles to believe Jesus can heal his tormented son — Mark 9:24.All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

Today's Verse - Isaiah 41:10-11

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish.

—Isaiah 41:10-11

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Not only does God's blessing rest on us, but his presence also goes with us. We can never be in a place where he is not with us (Psalms 139:1-24). His presence and power will uphold us and strengthen us. No matter what may happen in our physical bodies or with our physical worlds, God has given us the ultimate triumph over every enemy and all wickedness in Jesus. Even Jesus' doubters and enemies will worship our LORD, kneel at his feet, and recognize that our faith is not only appropriate but it is also victorious (1 Thessalonians 1:1-10, Philippians 2:9-11). Hallelujah!

My Prayer...

Thank you, dear Father! You are not only the God of the heavens but also the God of my heart. You know me inside and out as you care for me through every step I take. You hear my cries for help and mercy. You share my struggles and burdens. You hear my thoughts, songs, and shouts of praise. Please deliver me from every physical and spiritual enemy and give me the boldness to stand firm in my faith in you. In Jesus' name, I ask this. Amen.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

Today's Verse - Numbers 6:24-26

The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.

—Numbers 6:24-26

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

How would you like to place the mighty name of the LORD on people you love?

God promised that this priestly blessing enabled his name — his power and authority — to be placed on his people. What an incredible gift! We can bless and empower others with these faithful words of blessing!

Such blessings are found throughout Scripture. Why not begin looking today for ways to pronounce these blessings of God on others? You can start with this one and then add many others as you find them in Scripture. Send them by personal note, email, mail, or an in-person, hands-on blessing spoken over someone you love!

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Special Note: Download Eldon Degge's "Book of Blessings" for free. This simple text version has hundreds of simple blessings you can say and share with others!

My Prayer...

O LORD of every good and perfect gift, your blessings are too many and more wonderful for me to fully comprehend or count. Please use me to speak your blessings over others today. Give me eyes to see and ears to hear so I can share your blessings with others today! In the name of Jesus, your greatest blessing, I pray. Amen.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.