The Daily Dose

My Substance

Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them. ~ Psalms 139:16

This Psalm is one of the most personal passages in all of scripture.  It describes the depth and closeness the Lord God desires for each one of us.  David started this message with a conversation with the Lord and offering to be open to whatever He wanted to reveal to David about his life.  Then he expressed that God understands his thoughts like no other being could.  He went on to talk about how God was with Him wherever he went and there was no place on earth where God was not with him.

As David considers these truths, he realized that knowing what he understood about his Lord was so awesome and amazing that he could not possibly fully comprehend it.  But the tone of his writing shows how precious this revelation was to him as he wrote it all out.  This translation puts it this way: “Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is high, I cannot attain it.”

The verse I chose to focus on today is especially meaningful to me.  It says that even when I was unformed substance, God was already writing a story about me.  He wrote all the days He designed for my life before the part of me that my dad carried and the part of me in my mom came together to begin my formation.  He was thinking about me way back then and now He watches over my days leading me through the blessed story He wrote about me before I even took my first breath. He had already set in motion the life He designed for me, carefully crafting every detail.

I don’t know how it all has worked out so wonderfully even after I spent many years never even considering His plan, but I am so thankful that it has.  Even though I spent many years unaware of His plan, He never stopped leading me toward it. His hand was guiding me, even when I couldn’t see it.

But here’s the best part: This promise isn’t just for me. It’s for you, too! Before anyone in this world ever thought about you, your Heavenly Father did. He formed you with intention, wrote out the days He designed for you, and created a path for you to walk in His blessings, too.

You may be wondering, How do I begin to walk in the life God designed for me? How do I know His plan? Here are a few steps to help you line your life up with His purpose:

1. Seek Him First – Spend time with God daily through prayer and reading His Word. Ask Him to reveal His plans for you. “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” – Jeremiah 29:13
2. Trust His Guidance – You may not see the whole picture, but trust that God knows what He’s doing. Even when life takes unexpected turns, He is leading you. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
3. Walk in Obedience – Take small steps of obedience each day. When you feel a nudge to pray for someone, to step out in faith, or to make a change, do it. God blesses obedience. “Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” – Luke 11:28
4. Surround Yourself with Encouragement – Find a faith-filled community that will help you grow and remind you of God’s promises. “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
5. Embrace Your Unique Story – God’s plan for you is not the same as His plan for someone else. Don’t compare your journey to others’. Walk confidently in the purpose He has crafted just for you. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” – Ephesians 2:10

Today I want to encourage you if you’ve ever felt unseen, unworthy, or without purpose, let Psalm 139 remind you of this truth: You are fully known and deeply loved by God. He saw you before the world did. He designed you with care and intention. Your life is not an accident. You were created with purpose, and God has already gone before you, writing a story filled with blessings, hope, and promise.

Get excited today as you consider that your Creator, the One who formed you in the secret place, has a beautiful plan for your life. Trust Him. Seek Him. Walk in the path He has laid out for you. And rest in the assurance that He is always with you, leading you into the fullness of the story He has written just for you.

Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 139

1 O Lord, You have searched me and known me.

2 You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off.

3 You comprehend my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways.

4 For there is not a word on my tongue, but behold, O Lord, You know it altogether.

5 You have hedged me behind and before and laid Your hand upon me.

6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is high, I cannot attain it.

7 Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?

8 If I ascend into heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there.

9 If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,

10 Even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me.

11 If I say, “Surely the darkness shall fall on me,” Even the night shall be light about me;

12 Indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You, but the night shines as the day; The darkness and the light are both alike to You.

13 For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb.

14 I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well.

15 My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.

16 Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. and in Your book, they all were written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them.

17 How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them!

18 If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; When I awake, I am still with You.

19 Oh, that You would slay the wicked, O God! Depart from me, therefore, you bloodthirsty men.

20 For they speak against You wickedly; Your enemies take Your name in vain.

21 Do I not hate them, O Lord, who hate You? And do I not loathe those who rise up against You?

22 I hate them with perfect hatred; I count them my enemies.

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties;

24 And see if there is any wicked way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.

Minister from the overflow

And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.  Acts 2:4

Have you ever been in a situation where you were asked a hard question, something beyond human understanding? Or maybe a friend called on you to pray with and encourage someone, but you weren’t sure what to say when you got there. No matter how much you tried to prepare, in the end, you still needed the Holy Spirit’s help and direction.

In today’s reading, we find the disciples in the upper room, waiting for the Holy Spirit to come. They had many questions. Even though they knew their assignment was to go into all the world, they still wondered about many things. They had difficult questions, like when Jesus would establish His kingdom on earth. But instead of trying to figure out all the answers on their own, they waited, just as Jesus had instructed them.

Then, on the day of Pentecost, a celebration of first fruits, the Holy Spirit entered the room and filled each of them with His power and presence. Immediately, everyone in that room was transformed. They began speaking in the language of heaven and earth, and suddenly, they were filled with boldness to proclaim what was happening. It wasn’t because they had rehearsed answers or strategized the best way to explain things. They were simply in the right place at the right time, in complete agreement, and positioned to receive the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. They obeyed the direction given by Jesus, the head of the Church.

Once filled with the Spirit, they went out into the streets, telling others what was happening and how they, too, could be filled with God’s Spirit.

The Holy Spirit equips us with exactly what we need at the right time. We don’t have to rely on our own knowledge to answer every hard question perfectly. Instead, we need to stay filled with the Spirit by pressing into God, feeding on His Word daily and trusting Him to guide us in truth and wisdom.

Here are a few powerful scriptures about the Holy Spirit:

• He will teach you what to say.
  “For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.” – Luke 12:12
• He will remind you of what you’ve learned.
  “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” – John 14:26
• He will guide you into all truth and show you things to come.
  “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.” – John 16:13
• He gives you power to be His witness.
  “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” – Acts 1:8
• He intercedes for you.
  “Likewise, the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” – Romans 8:26
• He lives inside of you.
  “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?” – 1 Corinthians 6:19
• He anoints you with wisdom.
  “But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things.” – 1 John 2:20

These promises remind us that when we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we don’t have to rely solely on our own understanding. Instead, He gives us exactly what we need at the right moment. We are called to minister and bless others from the overflow of His Spirit within us. As we stay filled, that anointing will naturally flow out of our hearts and into the lives of those around us.

So today, don’t stress or worry about how to encourage someone going through a difficult season. Instead, take time to fill your heart with God’s Word and His promises. Press into Him in prayer, praying in the Spirit, and allowing Him to intercede through you. He knows exactly what that person needs and will give you the right words at the right time.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 2:1-4

1 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come; they were all with one accord in one place.

2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.

3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them.

4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Continue in Prayer

These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers. ~ Acts 1:14

The prayer of agreement is one of the most powerful ways to pray. It is when two or more of God’s people come together and stand in faith, taking hold of God’s will and plan for a situation. In this passage in Acts chapter 1, 120 of Jesus’ followers gathered together in the upper room, waiting for the promise of the Holy Spirit. Jesus had told them that the Holy Spirit would come to empower them to take His message to the world.

They didn’t know when it would happen. They didn’t have a timeline or an agenda. But they remained faithful in prayer and supplication, fully trusting in Jesus’ promise.

Notice what they didn’t do. They didn’t scatter, get distracted with everyday tasks, or return to their former lives and professions. They didn’t allow uncertainty to pull them away from their calling. Instead, they were intentional about gathering together, praying, and seeking God’s direction until they were empowered to complete it.

What if they had given up? What if they had grown impatient and returned to their fishing boats, tax tables, or homes? Would the Holy Spirit still have come? Probably, but it was through their obedience, unity, and perseverance in prayer that they positioned themselves to receive God’s promise of the Holy Spirit when He came on the day of Pentecost.

Their faithfulness changed everything. They ushered in the power of the Holy Spirit, initiating the foundation of the New Testament church.

The same principle holds true for us today. If we want to see God’s power move in our lives, our families, our communities, and our world, we must be willing to continue in prayer.

What are you willing to pray for with perseverance?

• Are you willing to come into agreement with other believers to pray for your loved ones?
• Will you intercede for your city, your nation, and the world?
• Will you pray for missionaries and ministers who are sharing the gospel across the globe?

There is great power when believers unite in prayer. Throughout history, we’ve seen nations turn back to God, people healed, families restored, and strongholds broken because of faithful, persistent prayer.

Below are some things you can do to get started today to step into a greater degree of power of the Holy Spirit in your life.

1. Find a Prayer Partner or Group – Connect with someone who shares your desire to seek God in prayer. Whether it’s a friend, a small group, or your church, make it a habit to pray together regularly.
2. Pray According to God’s Word – Just like the disciples, stood on the promises of Scripture. Pray with confidence, knowing that God’s Word is His will.
3. Be Consistent and Expectant – The disciples didn’t pray just once and stop. They continued until they received what was promised. Stay persistent in prayer, trusting that God is working even when you don’t see immediate results.
4. Listen for God’s Direction – Prayer isn’t just about speaking; it’s also about listening. As you pray, be open to the Holy Spirit’s leading and be ready to obey His guidance. Pay attention to thoughts and ideas that come up when you are praying and ask the Holy Spirit it they are from Him.

Today I want to encourage you to press into prayer and join together with other believers in faith. Even if it’s just one other person, take time to pray for the lost, the sick, the hurting, and those bound by the enemy. Build a spiritual bond through prayer that the enemy cannot break.

Then keep going. Continue in prayer and supplication just as the early church did. Keep believing, keep trusting, and keep standing in agreement until the promise of our Savior’s return is fulfilled.

God is faithful to His Word, and He is still moving through the prayers of His people. Join me in praying with others to see His power released in our lives and in the world today!

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 1:12-26

12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day’s journey.

13 And when they had entered, they went up into the upper room where they were staying: Peter, James, John, and Andrew; Philip and Thomas; Bartholomew and Matthew; James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot; and Judas the son of James.

14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.

15 And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples (altogether the number of names was about a hundred and twenty), and said,

16 “Men and brethren, this Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus;

17 for he was numbered with us and obtained a part in this ministry.”

18 (Now this man purchased a field with the wages of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst open in the middle and all his entrails gushed out.

19 And it became known to all those dwelling in Jerusalem; so that field is called in their own language, Akel Dama, that is, Field of Blood.)

20 “For it is written in the Book of Psalms: ‘Let his dwelling place be desolate, and let no one live in it’; and, ‘Let another take his office.’

21 “Therefore, of these men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,

22 beginning from the baptism of John to that day when He was taken up from us, one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.”

23 And they proposed two: Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.

24 And they prayed and said, “You, O Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which of these two You have chosen

25 to take part in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.”

26 And they cast their lots, and the lot fell on Matthias. And he was numbered with the eleven apostles.

 Make it Bigger

I will worship toward Your holy temple, and praise Your name for Your lovingkindness and Your truth; For You have magnified Your word above all Your name. ~ Psalm 138:2

I think we all know the scriptures that say Jesus is the name above every other name and there is no other name given by which we can be saved, and that name is Jesus.  However, according to the passage today, there is something greater than that name and that is God’s Word.

It makes sense to me because Jesus, is the Word of God in the flesh and God gave us His Word to heal and save us (Psalms 107:20).  So why is it that so many people do not take the time to know God’s Word and make it of greater importance in life?  If God Himself magnifies His Word above His name, wouldn’t it make sense that His power is release through praying and speaking in agreement with what His Word proclaims?

I remember when this truth became real in my life.  Even though I had grown up memorizing scripture and reading God’s Words every day, I didn’t realize the power that was available in it to live victoriously.  I didn’t understand that if I lined my life up with the principles in it, I would make Godly decisions instead of trying to figure life out by trial and error. 

Then, one day, I was watching a program where two people were discussing how to pray and speak God’s words over life’s struggles and circumstances.  When they used words from the scripture that applied to their situation, I thought “I know that verse, but why don’t I see those results in my life?”

The reason was because I was not applying it or living by it.  I wasn’t magnifying God’s Word over the names of my trouble and problems.  I was speaking the problem and making them seem bigger than anything else in the world including what God had to say about the situation.

So what does it mean to magnify God’s Word.  When I think about the word magnify, I think about how I zoom in on my iphone.  When I widen the view on a certain area of a screen, the words or pictures get bigger as I zoom in on them.  In the same way, when we take time reading, meditating and praying God’s Words, they become greater and more important in our lives.  We “zoom in” our focus on what God says about our current condition instead of keeping our view on the problems. Magnifying God’s Word doesn’t change the size of the problems, but it changes your perspective of them instead. The more you magnify something, the bigger and clearer it appears. This is how God’s Word can become bigger than anything else in life. When we focus on it, meditate on it, and declare it over our lives, it becomes the greatest authority in our hearts and minds.

When I began to intentionally magnify God’s Word, everything changed. I stopped speaking defeat and started speaking faith. Instead of saying, I don’t know how I’ll get through this, I declared Philippians 4:13~I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Instead of saying, I’m afraid, I spoke 2 Timothy 1:7~God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.

As I shifted my words to be in agreement with God’s truth, I saw His power released in my life. My faith grew stronger, my decisions became wiser, and my heart found peace even in the middle of life’s challenges.

Here are some practical ways you can magnify God’s Word over the circumstances of your life:

1. Read God’s Word Daily – Set aside special time each day to read and meditate on scripture. Let it shape your thoughts and decisions.
2. Speak His Word Over Your Life – Replace negative, fear-filled words with scripture. Say His promises out loud.  When you speak audibly, your thoughts have to stop and listen to what your mouth is saying.
3. Live According to His Word – When faced with choices, filter them through God’s truth. Ask the Holy Spirit for help with questions such as:  What does the Bible say about this situation? What scripture applies to what I am going through right now? Lead me to the Words that will produce life in my circumstances.

If you are facing trouble in your life right now, below are some steps you can do to get started magnifying God’s Word in your life right now, today.

• Choose one scripture that applies to a struggle you’re facing. Write it down and read it every morning. 
• Each time a negative thought comes, replace it with that scripture.
• Pray using God’s Word and the scripture you are holding on to by thanking Him for His promises and that He is working all these things in your life together for a good purpose.

Today I want to encourage you to remember that God has magnified His Word above all things. If God Himself places such importance on His Word, shouldn’t we? When we choose to magnify His promises over our problems, our faith is strengthened, our perspective shifts, and we begin to walk in victory.

So today, decide to zoom in on God’s Word. Let it become bigger in your heart than any obstacle you face. Trust that His Word is powerful, unchanging, and able to transform your life. Because when we magnify His Word, we magnify His presence in our lives and that changes everything.

Today’s Scripture Reading: Psalm 138

1 I will praise You with my whole heart; Before the gods I will sing praises to You.

2 I will worship toward Your holy temple, and praise Your name for Your lovingkindness and Your truth; For You have magnified Your word above all Your name.

3 In the day when I cried out, You answered me, and made me bold with strength in my soul.

4 All the kings of the earth shall praise You, O Lord, when they hear the words of Your mouth.

5 Yes, they shall sing of the ways of the Lord, for great is the glory of the Lord.

6 Though the Lord is on high, yet He regards the lowly; But the proud He knows from afar.

7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and Your right hand will save me.

8 The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands.

Finding Hope in the Hard Places

_{By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept when we remembered Zion. ~ Psalm 137:1}

Have you ever felt stuck in a place you didn’t want to be? A place of pain, loss, or discouragement? That’s exactly where the people of Israel were when Psalm 137 was written. They had been taken captive to Babylon, far from their home, and all they could do was sit by the rivers and weep for what they had lost.

I remember a time when I felt like I was in my own personal Babylon, so far from where I wanted to be in life. I had made mistakes, faced setbacks, and felt like I had lost my song. I wanted to move forward, but the weight of regret and disappointment kept me sitting by the river of my own sorrow.

But God met me there. He reminded me that even in captivity, He was still God. Even when I couldn’t see a way forward, He had a plan. Even when I had lost my reason for singing and my hope for another day, He could restore my joy.

If you are feeling that way today, here are some practical steps you can take to welcome His presence right in the middle of your captivity.

1. Be Honest with God – The Israelites didn’t hide their pain; they brought it before God. If you’re struggling, don’t suppress it, bring it to Him in prayer. Cast your burdens on Him and He will sustain and lift you up.
2. Remember Who You Are – The Israelites longed for Zion because that was their true home. As believers, our true home is in God’s presence. No matter where life takes us, we belong to Him.
3. Refuse to Settle in the Pain – The enemy wants us to stay stuck in bitterness, but God calls us to move forward in faith. Even when things feel hopeless, keep trusting that God will bring restoration.

Here are some actions you can take today to start getting out of the ruts you are stuck in:

• Talk to God about your disappointments – Tell Him where you feel stuck or discouraged.
• Find a scripture to stand on – Psalm 137 reflects sorrow, but other Psalms remind us of hope. Psalm 126:5 says, “Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy.” Hold onto that promise.
• Worship, even in the hard places – You may not feel like singing, but praising God shifts your focus from captivity to freedom.

Today I want to encourage you that even though you may feel like you are sitting by the rivers of Babylon right now, feeling like you’ve lost your joy, your hope, or your purpose, to remember your story doesn’t end here. God is still writing it. The Israelites’ time in Babylon was temporary, and so is your struggle. Don’t hang up your harp forever. Keep trusting, keep hoping, and keep moving forward. God will restore your joy, and one day, you’ll sing again.

Today’s Scripture Reading: Psalm 137

1 By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept when we remembered Zion.

2 We hung our harps upon the willows in the midst of it.

3 For there those who carried us away captive asked of us a song, and those who plundered us requested mirth, saying, “Sing us one of the songs of Zion!”

4 How shall we sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land?

5 If I forget you, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget its skill!

6 If I do not remember you, let my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth—if I do not exalt Jerusalem above my chief joy.

7 Remember, O Lord, against the sons of Edom the day of Jerusalem, who said, “Raze it, raze it, to its very foundation!”

8 O daughter of Babylon, who are to be destroyed, happy the one who repays you as you have served us!

9 Happy the one who takes and dashes Your little ones against the rock!

The Story of my Life

Who remembered us in our lowly state, for His mercy endures forever; And rescued us from our enemies, for His mercy endures forever; ~ Psalms 136:23-24

Psalm 136 is pretty much the story of my life. It goes something like this:

Lynette was born into this world as a sinner, but because His mercy endures forever, He saved her. Lynette made many mistakes early on, but His mercy endures forever. When she got older, she really messed things up, but His mercy still endures forever. Finally, one day, she made Him her Lord, because His mercy endures forever.

Or, you could just say, His mercy endures no matter what!

No matter where I fell or how bad my decisions were, His mercy and grace were always there to pick me up when I cried out to Him. No matter what trouble came my way, even the times I got myself into trouble, He always rescued me. He even protected me from myself and the bad situations I put myself in.

Psalm 136 starts by declaring that God’s mercy endures forever because of Who He is. He is good. He does great wonders. He created all things. He delivered Israel from Egypt. He preserved their promised land. Then, in verse 23, the message makes a shift to show us that not only does His mercy endure forever because of who He is, but also because of who we are. In our lowly state, He rescued us. He meets our needs. He protects us. Why?

Because His mercy endures forever.

When I read this Psalm, I like to replace the word mercy with love, because God didn’t rescue me all my life because He felt sorry for me and pitied me, (although I’m sure He did). He did it because He loves me. He actively loves me every single day. The good news is He actively loves you too.

Take a moment right now to think about the following points in your life and acknowledge the many ways that His mercy endures personally for you each day.

• Recognize His Mercy in Your Life – Take a moment to reflect on the times God has rescued you, provided for you, or simply been present in your life. Write them down as a reminder of His faithfulness.
• Replace Fear with Praise – When you face difficulties, remind yourself: His mercy endures forever. Instead of focusing on the problem, focus on God’s unfailing love.
• Make Gratitude a Habit – Thank God daily for His mercy and love. It changes your perspective and builds your faith.

Now consider some steps you can take to incorporate these habits into your everyday life:

1. Read Psalm 136 aloud – Let the truth of His enduring mercy and love sink in.
2. Personalize it – Insert your own name and life situations into the verses. See how God has been faithful to you.
3. Speak it over your life – The next time you feel discouraged or unworthy, declare: His mercy endures forever in my life!
4. Share it with someone – Encourage a friend by reminding them of God’s unchanging love and mercy.

Today I want to encourage you to consider how God’s mercy never runs out. There’s no expiration date, no limit, and no mistake too big. He has rescued you before, and He will do it over and over again. His mercy is not just for yesterday, but it is also for today, tomorrow, and every day after that.

So, no matter where you’ve been or what you’ve done, take heart because His mercy endures forever. His love endures forever. And that means He will never stop loving you no matter what!

Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 136

1Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.

2Oh, give thanks to the God of gods! For His mercy endures forever.

3Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords! For His mercy endures forever:

4To Him who alone does great wonders, for His mercy endures forever;

5To Him who by wisdom made the heavens, for His mercy endures forever;

6To Him who laid out the earth above the waters, for His mercy endures forever;

7To Him who made great lights, for His mercy endures forever—

8The sun to rule by day, for His mercy endures forever;

9The moon and stars to rule by night, for His mercy endures forever.

10To Him who struck Egypt in their firstborn, for His mercy endures forever;

11And brought out Israel from among them, for His mercy endures forever;

12With a strong hand, and with an outstretched arm, for His mercy endures forever;

13To Him who divided the Red Sea in two, for His mercy endures forever;

14And made Israel pass through the midst of it, for His mercy endures forever;

15But overthrew Pharaoh and his army in the Red Sea, for His mercy endures forever;

16To Him who led His people through the wilderness, for His mercy endures forever;

17To Him who struck down great kings, for His mercy endures forever;

18And slew famous kings, for His mercy endures forever—

19Sihon king of the Amorites, for His mercy endures forever;

20And Og king of Bashan, for His mercy endures forever—

21And gave their land as a heritage, for His mercy endures forever;

22A heritage to Israel His servant, for His mercy endures forever.

23Who remembered us in our lowly state, for His mercy endures forever;

24And rescued us from our enemies, for His mercy endures forever;

25Who gives food to all flesh, for His mercy endures forever.

26Oh, give thanks to the God of heaven! For His mercy endures forever.

 A Call to Praise: Remembering God’s Mighty Works

Praise the Lord! Praise the name of the Lord; Praise Him, O you servants of the Lord! You who stand in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God. ~ Psalm 135:1-2

Psalm 135 is a powerful reminder of why we praise God.  It’s not just because He commands it, but because He is truly worthy. This Psalm talks about God’s greatness, His power over creation, His faithfulness to His people, and His justice over idols and false gods. It is a call to worship based on remembering who God is and all He has done.

There have been times in my life when I have struggled to find reasons to praise. When circumstances felt overwhelming and fear tried to take hold, praising God was not my first instinct. Many times, it felt more natural to complain or question why things were going the way they were. Now I understand that praise is often the very thing that shifts my perspective and starts things headed in a new direction.

Actually, it wasn’t too long ago when I had been feeling tension about a family situation I was dealing with.  I let myself get caught up in a discussion talking about only what I could see in those natural circumstances.  It didn’t make me feel any better, in fact I felt worse.  The more I had talked about it, the more impossible the situation seemed to be.  It was at that time I realized that I needed to shift my focus and begin thanking my Father for the progress that had been made in the situation.  The next Sunday, we sang a worship song in church about how worthy He is to receive our praise, and I realized that His name is above every circumstance in this world.  Even my struggle which I knew He was with me in.  I began to lift high His name above the name of my troubles and surrender them to the name of Jesus.  My heart overflowed with peace and joy knowing He is at work, and He is working that miracle, and I could see the tides finally begin to turn. 

When I got home that day after service, I opened my Bible and read this passage in Psalm 135. As I meditated on the ways God had been faithful, not just in Scripture but in my own life. My heart was completely turn around and I could see hope again. I could see His hand in my past, in my provision, in my protection. I began to praise, not because my situation had suddenly changed, but because I realized that God never changes. The same God who led His people out of Egypt, who provided for them in the wilderness, who defeated their enemies, He was with me too.

Below is a list of things you can do when you don’t feel like praising and begin to lift high His name above every name of circumstances in your life.

• Make a Praise List – Write down ways God has been faithful in your life. Remember answered prayers, unexpected blessings, and His constant presence.

• Speak His Name – Psalm 135 starts with “Praise the name of the Lord.” Sometimes, just saying His name, the name of Jesus, is enough to shift the atmosphere.
• Reject the Idols – Verses 15-18 remind us that idols are powerless. In today’s world, we may not worship statues, but we can allow worry, control, or distractions to take God’s place in our hearts. Identify anything that is stealing your peace and attention from God and surrender it to Him.
• Praise Before the Breakthrough – Even when you don’t feel like it, praise Him. Worship is an act of faith that opens the door to the Holy Spirit even when circumstances don’t make sense.  He will reach through your open heart right into every area of your life.

Here is how you can get the praising started:

1. Read Psalm 135 aloud – Let the words remind you of God’s greatness.
2. Find a worship song that focuses on God’s power and sing along, even if it’s just a whisper at first.
3. Write down three things you can praise God for today, big or small.
4. Say His name throughout your day: “Jesus, I trust You.”

Today I want to encourage you as your readPsalm 135 to remember that we serve a living, powerful, and faithful God. He is not like the empty idols of the world. He sees, hears, and moves on behalf of His people. No matter what you face today, let praise be your response. Praise Him for what He has done, for what He is doing, and for what He will do.

Take a moment right now to lift your hands, speak His name, and bless the Lord! He is worthy.

Today’s Scripture Reading: Psalm 135

1 Praise the Lord! Praise the name of the Lord; Praise Him, O you servants of the Lord!

2 You who stand in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God,

3 Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; Sing praises to His name, for it is pleasant.

4 For the Lord has chosen Jacob for Himself, Israel for His special treasure.

5 For I know that the Lord is great, and our Lord is above all gods.

6 Whatever the Lord pleases He does, in heaven and in earth, in the seas and in all deep places.

7 He causes the vapors to ascend from the ends of the earth; He makes lightning for the rain; He brings the wind out of His treasuries.

8 He destroyed the firstborn of Egypt, both of man and beast.

9 He sent signs and wonders into the midst of you, O Egypt, upon Pharaoh and all his servants.

10 He defeated many nations and slew mighty kings—

11 Sihon king of the Amorites, Og king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan—

12 And gave their land as a heritage, a heritage to Israel His people.

13 Your name, O Lord, endures forever, Your fame, O Lord, throughout all generations.

14 For the Lord will judge His people, and He will have compassion on His servants.

15 The idols of the nations are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands.

16 They have mouths, but they do not speak; Eyes they have, but they do not see;

17 They have ears, but they do not hear; Nor is there any breath in their mouths.

18 Those who make them are like them; So is everyone who trusts in them.

19 Bless the Lord, O house of Israel! Bless the Lord, O house of Aaron!

20 Bless the Lord, O house of Levi! You who fear the Lord, bless the Lord!

21 Blessed be the Lord out of Zion, Who dwells in Jerusalem! Praise the Lord!

 A Call to Praise: Lifting Your Hands in Worship

Behold, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, who by night stand in the house of the Lord! Lift up your hands in the sanctuary and bless the Lord. —Psalm 134:1-2

Even though this is a very short Psalm, it speaks volumes to me. I grew up in a traditional church where we sang hymns every Sunday morning and choruses in youth group. Those hymns and choruses were deeply meaningful, and their messages still ring true today. But as I look back, I realize that while we sang about God’s goodness and faithfulness, we rarely expressed our worship physically. The songs were beautiful, but they often felt like just looking back on what God had done in the past rather than an active, offering of praise for what He was doing in my own life, and my relationship with Him.

In the congregation where I spent the first 18 years of my life, I never once saw anyone lift their hands in worship. Clapping to the beat of the music was unheard of, and no one so much as tapped a toe, let alone moved to the music. Worship was quiet, reserved, and reverent, but it was missing something. I didn’t realize it then, but my heart longed for the freedom to express my love for God in a way that engaged my whole being.

I don’t remember the first time I raised my hands to praise God in a worship service, but I do know this, now, I don’t even try to stop them from going up. My heart is full of love for my Savior, and I reach for Him in praise and worship every opportunity I get. I can’t help but lift my hands, because worship is no longer just something I do, it’s who I am.

Psalm 134 is a short but powerful reminder of the importance of worship. It calls God’s people to lift their hands in praise, blessing the Lord both day and night. This Psalm speaks to me because it reminds me of that time when worship felt more like an obligation than a joy. I would sing the songs, but my heart wasn’t all in. However, everything changed when I learned to shift my focus from my problems and concerns to God’s presence.

I remember a time when I was going through a difficult season, I was exhausted, anxious, and overwhelmed. One night, I decided to turn on worship music, lift my hands, and praise God, even though I didn’t feel like it. I wasn’t in a church service, and no one else was around. It was just me, alone in my living room, making the choice to worship. As I lifted my hands, something shifted inside me. Peace washed over me. It was as if my heavy burdens lifted as I magnified God instead of my problems. Worship became a weapon, breaking through discouragement and bringing my heart back into harmony with God’s goodness.

Lifting my hands wasn’t just an emotional response, it was a declaration. It was an act of surrender, of faith, of trust. It was me saying, God, I give You my worries. I trust You to carry what I cannot. You are worthy of my praise, no matter what I feel. And as I worshiped, my spirit lifted. My circumstances didn’t change immediately, but my perspective did. Worship reminded me that God was bigger than my anything I was facing in this world.

You don’t have to wait until Sunday morning to worship. Worship is something you can cultivate in your everyday life, no matter where we are or what we’re facing. Here’s how you can start:

• Start Small – Set aside a few minutes each day to worship. Play a song, sing, or simply sit in silence, acknowledging God’s presence. Worship isn’t about performance, it’s about connection.
• Engage Physically – The Psalm encourages lifting hands in worship. This physical act is a sign of surrender, trust, and invitation for God to move. Even if it feels awkward at first, step out in faith and lift your hands in praise.
• Praise in All Seasons – Whether you’re in a high or low place, choose to bless the Lord. Worship is not about our circumstances, Instead, it’s about recognizing who God is. When we worship in the storm, we shift our focus from the waves to the One who walks on water.

How to Get Started

1. Find a worship song that speaks to you and listen to it with an open heart.
2. Take a moment to lift your hands even if it feels unnatural at first and thank God for His faithfulness.
3. Pray Psalm 134 aloud, making it personal: “Lord, I bless You tonight. I lift my hands and trust in Your goodness.”
4. Make it a habit to worship before bed, on a walk, or during your quiet time. The more you practice worship, the more natural it becomes.

Today, I want to encourage you to praise the Lord with everything in you! Worship is not just about singing; it’s about surrender. It’s about lifting your hands, lifting your voice, and lifting your heart in adoration of the One who is worthy of all praise.

No matter what you are facing, choose to bless the Lord. Let your worship be a declaration of trust. Lift your hands as a sign of surrender. Sing out your love for Him and His great salvation. He is faithful. He is good. He is worthy.

And here’s the beautiful promise; when we bless the Lord, He blesses us in return. Psalm 134 ends with these words:

The Lord who made heaven and earth bless you from Zion! —Psalm 134:3

When we lift our hands to Him in worship, He lifts us up in strength, in peace, in joy. So today, will you take a moment to lift your hands and bless the Lord?

Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 134

1 Behold, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, who by night stand in the house of the Lord!

2 Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the Lord.

3 The Lord who made heaven and earth bless you from Zion!

The same way

_{“Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!” Acts 1:11}

 A lot of people argue about if Jesus will come back to the earth someday.  Some say He has already come.  Others believe we will only see Him when we die.  Still, there are those who think Jesus will only come when He comes to set up His Kingdom in the millennial reign.  Then of course there are the ones who have the idea that you just never know what is going to happen.

The truth is, we do know because God has revealed it in His Word. He has given us an entire manual to guide our lives and prepare us for the future. He wants us to understand His plans and what to expect. First, we know that God is good and does good things. Galatians 5 outlines the fruit of the Spirit, giving us a clear picture of His character. We also know that God is love, and He demonstrated that love by sending His only Son to pay the price for sin. Jesus rose from the dead, spent 40 days with His disciples, and then ascended into heaven before their very eyes.

All of these events were prophesied beforehand, yet many did not believe because they didn’t know or understand what God had spoken. God was never trying to hide His plan, and He doesn’t want us to be in the dark about what He is doing now or what is to come.

Before Jesus ascended, His disciples asked if it was time for Israel to be restored. But after receiving the Holy Spirit, there is no account of them asking this question again. Why? Because the Spirit of God gave them wisdom and revelation. They understood their mission and how to fulfill it.

The same is true for us today. As we yield to the Holy Spirit and spend time in God’s Word and presence, we will gain understanding of His plans for our lives. We will also receive revelation about His return. Just as Jesus prepared His disciples, He is preparing us now. But it is up to each of us to press into Him, seek His wisdom, and allow the Spirit to guide our steps.

Below are some ways that you can press into Him:

1. Spend time in God’s Word daily. Start by reading Acts 1:6-11 and other passages about Christ’s return (Matthew 24, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18).
2. Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom and understanding. Pray for revelation about God’s plans for your life and the world.
3. Live with expectation. Bring your life into agreement with God’s purpose, focusing on His eternal plans rather than temporary circumstances.
4. Stay connected to a faith-filled community. Surround yourself with believers who encourage and strengthen your walk with Christ.
5. Be ready to share the hope of Christ’s return. Let your life be a testimony of faith, love, and readiness for His coming.

Today, be encouraged: Jesus will return the same way He left. Fill your heart and life with His Word, listen to the leading of the Holy Spirit, and walk in confidence, knowing that His plans are sure and His promises never fail.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 1:6-11

6 Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?”

7 And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority.

8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

Jesus Ascends to Heaven

9 Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight.

10 And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel,

11 who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”

But first, wait

And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; Acts 1:4

Most of us are familiar with the Great Commission when Jesus’ commanded His disciples to go into all the world and be His witnesses. It’s found in the Gospels and again in this first chapter of the book of Acts.  However, before sending His disciples out, Jesus gave them a critical instruction to do first: Wait.

On the day of His ascension, Jesus told His followers not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Holy Spirit. Only after they were baptized with the Holy Spirit would they receive the power to be effective witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8).

This revelation changed everything for me. Growing up in the church, I often heard the message that we are to be witnesses. Honestly, it always seemed like something hard to do. I had many questions like: How can I share my faith effectively? How would I be able to reach people in a way that transforms lives? When I learned that God had given us the power through the His Holy Spirit, it made all the difference.

Anyone can talk about Jesus, but to truly impact others and to see hearts open, lives changed, and people drawn to God, you have to have the Holy Spirit’s power.

This principle applies not just to witnessing but to every area of our calling. No matter what God has asked you to do, whether in ministry, career, family, or leadership, the first step is to wait for his direction and empowerment. You must press into His presence and receive the power of the Holy Spirit. This is the key to walking in His purpose for your life and doing it effectively.

Once the Holy Spirit empowers you, you will be equipped to reach your home, your neighborhood, your city, your country, and even beyond. His power will propel you forward, guiding your steps and making you effective in everything He calls you to do.

 If you feel like your life is lacking in the Holy Spirit’s power today, here are some things you can do to activate that power in your life, right now:

1. Ask for a Fresh Filling – Just as the early believers needed continual refilling (Acts 4:31), so do we. Each day, ask God to fill you up with His Spirit.
2. Spend Time in His Presence – Worship, pray, and meditate on His Word. Waiting isn’t about inactivity; it’s about preparing your heart to receive His power.
3. Be Aware of His Promptings – Pay attention to the nudges in your spirit throughout the day. The Holy Spirit often speaks through thoughts, ideas, and opportunities to encourage or help someone.
4. Step Out in Faith – When you sense God’s leading, move. Whether it’s sharing your testimony, offering a prayer, or serving someone in need, trust that His power is working in you.
5. Stay Connected – Surround yourself with other Spirit-filled believers. Their encouragement and insight will strengthen you as you walk out God’s purpose.

Today, I want to encourage you to wait on the Lord. Don’t rush ahead in your own strength, instead seek the power of the Holy Spirit first. Just as the early church depended on His presence, we must also be filled daily to walk in boldness, wisdom, and fruitfulness.

When you wait on Him, you will be empowered. When you are empowered, you will be effective. And when you are effective, the world will see Jesus through you.

Today’s scripture reading: Acts 1:4-8

4 And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me;

5 for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

6 Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?”

7 And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority.

8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”