The Daily Dose

Restore the joy

Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and uphold me by Your generous Spirit. ~ Psalms 51:12

 There seems to be a recurring theme throughout the chapters of Psalms—maybe it’s because so many of them were written by King David, a man who experienced the full spectrum of human emotion and struggle. Most Psalms follow a similar rhythm: “I am hurt, so I call out to God for help. I am broken, so I cry out to God for healing.” Psalm 51 fits this pattern but goes deeper, exposing the rawness of David’s heart after his most devastating failure.

In Psalm 51, David is completely crushed under the weight of his sin. He acknowledges it before God and holds nothing back. He is brutally honest with God and with himself. David doesn’t shift the blame or say, “I’ve sinned against this person or that person.” He openly confesses that his sin is against God, “Against You, You only, have I sinned” (Psalm 51:4). This is the heart of true repentance—recognizing that all sin, no matter how it impacts others, is ultimately a rebellion against God.

David’s humility in this Psalm shows us how to approach God when we are broken by our own sin. He lays everything bare, refusing to hide his guilt or shame. He doesn’t minimize his actions. He knows that sin, at its core, separated him from the One who loves him the most. Sin always creates a gap between us and God. And like David, when we realize this, we become desperate for His mercy.

But here’s the key element that deeply gets my attention—David wasn’t just looking for forgiveness. He longed for renewal. He cried out, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10). David didn’t just want the guilt to go away; he wanted to be transformed from the inside out. This shows us that true repentance isn’t about escaping the consequences but about becoming new, about real change.  It’s about stepping back into that right relationship with our heavenly Father.

Think about it.  In any relationship you have in this world, weather with your spouse, your children, your parents or friends, when someone has done something to hurt the other, there is a breach in that relationship.  You can try to go on as if nothing happened, but both sides know that it isn’t the same and cannot be made right until there is repentance.  Then the relationship can be restored and if don’t correctly will be stronger than it was before.

I can relate to this on a personal level. There was a time in my life when I made a decision that I knew wasn’t right. I thought it wouldn’t have any real consequences, but I was wrong. It ended up hurting people very close to me, breaking the trust that there once was in those relationships, and the weight of guilt was unbearable. I apologized to them, but the deeper pain came from realizing that my actions were rebellion against my Father in heaven. Like David, I had to come before God with my brokenness and acknowledge that my sin had created a gap in our relationship. God’s love for me hadn’t changed, but until I was honest with Him, I could not be restored.

When I finally poured my heart out to God, just as David did, it was like a burden lifted. There’s something powerful about admitting our need for God’s grace, His cleansing, and His restoration. God doesn’t just forgive us—He renews us, strengthens us, and empowers us move forward in purpose. No matter how deep we’ve fallen, God is always ready to restore us and get us back on track with His plan.

The bottom line is that sin puts a gap between us and our loving heavenly Father and robs us of the joy He desires to give us. He doesn’t stop loving us, but until we are honest with Him, that connection remains broken. This passage reminds us that God is merciful and compassionate, and He longs to restore us when we come to Him with a humble and contrite heart.

Today, if you find yourself feeling disconnected from God because of something in your life, remember that your Father is just a prayer away. Humble yourself before Him, lay it all out, and turn away from whatever is holding you back. He has promised that when we call on Him, He will restore the joy of our salvation. Don’t wait—step closer to the One who is eager to heal and renew you, because there is always hope and transformation waiting in His presence.

Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 51

1 Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; According to the multitude of Your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions.

2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.

3 For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.

4 Against You, You only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Your sight—That You may be found just when You speak, and blameless when You judge.

5 Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin my mother conceived me.

6 Behold, You desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden part You will make me to know wisdom.

7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

8 Make me hear joy and gladness, that the bones You have broken may rejoice.

9 Hide Your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities.

10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

11 Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.

12 Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me by Your generous Spirit.

13 Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, and sinners shall be converted to You.

14 Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God, The God of my salvation, and my tongue shall sing aloud of Your righteousness.

15 O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall show forth Your praise.

16 For You do not desire sacrifice, or else I would give it; You do not delight in burnt offering.

17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart—These, O God, You will not despise.

18 Do good in Your good pleasure to Zion; Build the walls of Jerusalem.

19 Then You shall be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt offering; Then they shall offer bulls on Your altar.

He has no hidden motives

Offer to God thanksgiving, and pay your vows to the Most High. Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.” ~ Psalms 50:14-15

 This chapter is such a good depiction of the character and love of God.  He has no hidden agenda; He just wants to be with the people He created.  He is not after our money or possessions.  In fact, this passage says that He already owns it all, so all He wants from us is our love and glory!  To lift Him high because He is good and has designed a good plan for us.  Not to control us, but to work with us closely to keep us on track.  The bottom line is God desires to have a close personal relationship with each one of His children.  No limits!

He wants us to come to Him not out of obligation, but out of love and trust. In Psalms 50, He reminds us that He doesn’t need our sacrifices or offerings because everything in the world is already His. What He desires most is our heart—our genuine thankfulness, our reliance on Him in times of trouble, and our willingness to glorify Him for His goodness.

When we face difficulties, God doesn’t expect us to handle them on our own. Instead, He invites us to call upon Him, promising to deliver us and show us His mighty power. Through this, we are reminded of His faithfulness, which draws us closer to Him. When we honor Him with our praise and thanksgiving, it’s not just for His benefit, but mostly for ours. We grow in peace and trust, knowing that God is with us, guiding us, and working everything out for our good.

So, today I want to encourage you to take to heart the message of Psalms 50: Remember that God wants a deep, loving relationship with you personally, built on trust, thanksgiving, and a mutual desire to walk together. When you call upon Him, He responds with grace and love, giving you every reason to glorify His name. It’s not about what you have to give Him; it’s about what He longs to give you—His love, protection, strength and guidance through every season of life.

Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 50

1 The Mighty One, God the Lord, has spoken and called the earth from the rising of the sun to its going down.

2 Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God will shine forth.

3 Our God shall come, and shall not keep silent; A fire shall devour before Him, and it shall be very tempestuous all around Him.

4 He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that He may judge His people:

5 “Gather My saints together to Me, those who have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice.”

6 Let the heavens declare His righteousness, for God Himself is Judge. Selah

7 “Hear, O My people, and I will speak, O Israel, and I will testify against you; I am God, your God!

8 I will not rebuke you for your sacrifices or your burnt offerings, which are continually before Me.

9 I will not take a bull from your house, nor goats out of your folds.

10 For every beast of the forest is Mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills.

11 I know all the birds of the mountains, and the wild beasts of the field are Mine.

12 “If I were hungry, I would not tell you; For the world is Mine, and all its fullness.

13 Will I eat the flesh of bulls, or drink the blood of goats?

14 Offer to God thanksgiving, and pay your vows to the Most High.

15 Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.”

16 But to the wicked God says: “What right have you to declare My statutes, or take My covenant in your mouth,

17 Seeing you hate instruction and cast My words behind you?

18 When you saw a thief, you consented with him, and have been a partaker with adulterers.

19 You give your mouth to evil, and your tongue frames deceit.

20 You sit and speak against your brother; You slander your own mother’s son.

21 These things you have done, and I kept silent; You thought that I was altogether like you; But I will rebuke you, and set them in order before your eyes.

22 “Now consider this, you who forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver:

23 Whoever offers praise glorifies Me; And to him who orders his conduct aright I will show the salvation of God.”

Wealth cannot save you

Those who trust in their wealth and boast in the multitude of their riches, none of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him. ~ Psalms 49:6-7

I’m not saying it isn’t important to have money. It is essential to work a job to provide for your needs and not be a burden on society. These responsibilities are crucial, and indeed, the scriptures encourage us to work diligently. However, there is a significant difference between working out of a sense of responsibility and working solely to accumulate wealth.

Having financial stability is undoubtedly beneficial; it allows us to enjoy life and provide for our families. But when the pursuit of riches becomes our primary focus, we risk losing sight of what truly matters. Wealth is fleeting and relying on it for our sense of worth and security is a dangerous choice. Today’s passage reminds us that wealth cannot save us when it comes to matters of eternity.

Material possessions are gifts for our enjoyment during our time on this earth, yet they hold no lasting value in the grand scheme of life. When we stand before God, it will not be our bank accounts, our worldly possessions or how much money we have in our savings that He is interested in. Instead, He will be looking at our love for others, our faithfulness to God, and the what we have given to impact eternity.

True security comes from knowing our identity in Christ and recognizing that we are loved and valued beyond measure. In a world that defines success by financial gain, we have to remember that our worth is not tied to our wealth. God sees us as His precious children, that have been blessed with His grace and mercy.

Psalms 49 calls us to shift our focus from material wealth to spiritual richness. Instead of striving for possessions that ultimately fade away, let’s seek to cultivate a heart of generosity, compassion, and faith. By doing that, we can invest in relationships and communities that show the love of God to others.

What are you going to leave behind? When you reflect on your life, will you be remembered for your possessions or for the love you shared with others? The Psalmist warns that wealth cannot redeem you or those you care about. Instead, aim to build a legacy rooted in faith and service.

You can choose to use your resources to help those in need, support your community, and spread God’s great gift of salvation through showing His love for all people. In this way, you will be investing in treasures that will last beyond your time here in this world. As you share your blessings with others, you are demonstrating the heart of God. He is generous and compassionate toward all no matter what season of life or circumstances they are in.

As you navigate life’s responsibilities and chase after financial stability, remember to keep your heart anchored in what truly matters. Wealth can provide comfort, but it cannot save you. Only your faith in God, your relationships with the Lord Jesus, and the love you share can bring lasting fulfillment.

Today I want to encourage you to pay attention to the priorities you set in your life. While it’s essential to work and provide, you must also cultivate a spirit of generosity and purpose. When you focus on the eternal and use your resources to uplift and support others, you contribute to a legacy that glorifies God and brings light into the world around you. Remember, true wealth is not found in material possessions but in the richness of your faith and the love you extend to others. In the end, it is this love that will last, and it will lead you through this life with purpose that will count for all eternity.

Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 49

1 Hear this, all peoples; Give ear, all inhabitants of the world,

2 Both low and high, rich and poor together.

3 My mouth shall speak wisdom, and the meditation of my heart shall give understanding.

4 I will incline my ear to a proverb; I will disclose my dark saying on the harp.

5 Why should I fear in the days of evil, when the iniquity at my heels surrounds me?

6 Those who trust in their wealth and boast in the multitude of their riches,

7 None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him—

8 For the redemption of their souls is costly, and it shall cease forever—

9 That he should continue to live eternally, and not see the Pit.

10 For he sees wise men die; Likewise the fool and the senseless person perish, and leave their wealth to others.

11 Their inner thought is that their houses will last forever, their dwelling places to all generations; they call their lands after their own names.

12 Nevertheless man, though in honor, does not remain; He is like the beasts that perish.

13 This is the way of those who are foolish, and of their posterity who approve their sayings. Selah

14 Like sheep they are laid in the grave; Death shall feed on them; The upright shall have dominion over them in the morning; and their beauty shall be consumed in the grave, far from their dwelling.

15 But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave, for He shall receive me. Selah

16 Do not be afraid when one becomes rich, when the glory of his house is increased;

17 For when he dies he shall carry nothing away; His glory shall not descend after him.

18 Though while he lives he blesses himself (For men will praise you when you do well for yourself),

19 He shall go to the generation of his fathers; They shall never see light.

20 A man who is in honor, yet does not understand, is like the beasts that perish.

Stand with Israel     

God is in her palaces; He is known as her refuge. ~ Psalms 48:3

It’s no secret that Israel belongs to God, and His plans for that great city, Jerusalem, are still unfolding. He remains their refuge, protecting the land from the daily terrors it faces. A few weeks ago we read Psalms 24 and were reminded that the earth and everything in it belong to the Lord, but why does this small nation, set in the heart of the world, carry such great importance? What is it about Israel that draws the attention and even the hostility of the world?

Some of these answers are in today’s reading. Israel is not just a piece of land—it’s a land blessed by God, chosen as the birthplace of His divine plan for redemption. God’s favor rests on Israel because through this nation, His Son, Jesus was born. Israel is God’s chosen people, His covenant family. While we, as Christians, are grafted into that family through salvation in Jesus, Israel retains a unique place in God’s heart and plans.

Israel is God’s family, and as believers in Christ Jesus, we, too, are part of this great family of God—not as Americans, but as Christians. We are the bride being prepared for the return of the Lord, ready to spend our eternity with Him. God’s love for Israel is a reflection of His love for all His children. Just as a father desires to protect and provide for his family, so does our Heavenly Father protect His people. He brilliantly ordained the family structure in the beginning so that we could better understand His own loving, protective nature.

Today, He is our heavenly Father and as our Father, we can understand Him better by looking at the position of a father to love and care for His family.  What father in this world doesn’t want the best for his family and always protect them?  That is what a good father does and that is what our heavenly Father does.  Matthew 7: 9-11 says:

Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!

Psalm 48 paints a picture of God’s unwavering protection over Jerusalem. It speaks of nations that look upon this great city, marveling at its divine protection and, in their fear, turning away. Today, though many stand arrogantly against Israel and seek to take hold of God’s land, but He will not allow His people to be destroyed. His plans for Israel are eternal, and His promises remain unshakable.

We are called to stand with Israel, trusting in God’s protective hand. As we witness the ongoing struggles in the world, we can know and remember that the same God who protects Israel protects us. His dominion is eternal, His love unchanging, and His purposes unstoppable. Stand firm, knowing that God’s promises endure, and as His people, we are wrapped in that same protection, ready to witness His glory revealed.

Today I want to encourage you to stand with Israel.  Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.  Pray for the people of that region and God’s protection to be evident to all the nations surrounding them.  Then take time to consider your part in the family of God.  What role did He bring you into the family to fill.  Check in with Him each day and get your assignment and remember to pray for the family of God who are struggling around the world.  Lastly meditate on His great love for you, the love of a Father and be confident in His plan to keep you in all your ways.

Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 48

1 Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in His holy mountain.

2 Beautiful in elevation, the joy of the whole earth, is Mount Zion on the sides of the north, the city of the great King.

3 God is in her palaces He is known as her refuge.

4 For behold, the kings assembled, they passed by together.

5 They saw it, and so they marveled; They were troubled, they hastened away.

6 Fear took hold of them there, and pain, as of a woman in birth pangs,

7 As when You break the ships of Tarshish with an east wind.

8 As we have heard, so we have seen in the city of the Lord of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it forever. Selah

9 We have thought, O God, on Your lovingkindness, in the midst of Your temple.

10 According to Your name, O God, so is Your praise to the ends of the earth; Your right hand is full of righteousness.

11 Let Mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah be glad, because of Your judgments.

12 Walk about Zion, and go all around her. Count her towers;

13 Mark well her bulwarks; Consider her palaces; That you may tell it to the generation following.

14 For this is God, our God forever and ever; He will be our guide even to death.

Well pleased

While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!” Matthew 17:5

It’s very popular in our culture to be proud.  It seems like it is the right thing to do to take pride in your work or be proud of who you are.  Even being proud to be an American.  Certainly, it is important to do a good job and work to the best of your ability in whatever you do.  It is for sure a good thing to like who you are and what you have become.  However, pride is not the right emotion to describe the feelings you should be having.

In today’s scripture, Jesus had been transformed into His glorified body.  Then Moses and Elijah showed up to talk to Him.  When Peter saw what was going on, he was excited and began to tell Jesus how good it was that they were there with Him.  Before Peter could finish his thought or get an answer to his idea, God interrupted from heaven and told all of them to listen to Jesus, His beloved Son because He was very pleased with Him.  This is where I want to point out that God doesn’t say: “This is my Son, and I am very proud of Him.”  The reason is because God hates pride.  All through the scriptures there are warnings about being prideful and the destruction that comes with it.  Below is a short list of verses about how God feels about pride and what you can expect as a result of pride being in your life:

Proverbs 11:2 – Pride brings disgrace; humility brings wisdom.

Isaiah 23:9 – The Lord will humble all who are prideful.

James 5:6 – God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble

Proverbs 8:13 – God hates pride, arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.

Proverbs 16:18 – Pride goes before destruction.

Proverbs 6:16-17 – Pride is an abomination/atrocity to God.

The difference between being proud and being pleased with something is where your focus is being placed.  If you are proud of your child for an accomplishment, the focus is on yourself and the fact that you are responsible for their achievement.  If you are pleased with your child for their accomplishment, it puts the attention on the child and takes it from yourself and off of your part in getting them there.

Our focus should always be on others and how we can encourage and build them up. When you are preoccupied with your life and the things you are going through, that is an open door for pride to come in and trip you up.  I know it seems like a technicality but think about where you are drawing attention to the next time you us the word “proud”.  Don’t be fooled like some are thinking it is right to be proud because we have been given so much.  The truth is that we are blessed, but it has nothing to do with who we are.  It all about Who our God is.

Today I want to encourage you to consider if you have let pride creep into your life.  Take inventory of the feelings you have about the things you have accomplished in life.  Even if you don’t feel good about your abilities, you can still be in pride.  Your focus and preoccupation is on yourself.  The fact is when you are the center of your life, pride has entered in.  Make others your focus today.  Look for those you can bless wherever you are.  Listen to those who are around you and their cries for help and pray for the hurting people that God brings into your life today.  Eliminate pride from your life once and for all by asking the Holy Spirit to expose the hidden corners of your heart where it is lurking. If you guard against pride coming into your life, one day you will hear your Father say about you: “I am well pleased!”

Today’s scripture reading: Matthew 17:1-13

1 Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, led them up on a high mountain by themselves; 

2 and He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. 

3 And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. 

4 Then Peter answered and said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if You wish, let us make here three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”

5 While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!” 

6 And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces and were greatly afraid. 

7 But Jesus came and touched them and said, “Arise, and do not be afraid.” 

8 When they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.

9 Now as they came down from the mountain, Jesus commanded them, saying, “Tell the vision to no one until the Son of Man is risen from the dead.”

10 And His disciples asked Him, saying, “Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?”

11 Jesus answered and said to them, “Indeed, Elijah is coming first and will restore all things. 

12 But I say to you that Elijah has come already, and they did not know him but did to him whatever they wished. Likewise the Son of Man is also about to suffer at their hands.” 

13 Then the disciples understood that He spoke to them of John the Baptist.

He is working good

From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day.  Matthew 16:21

Have you ever been in a situation where someone close to you warned you about something difficult that was about to happen? Or maybe you were the one who had to break the news to your loved ones—perhaps about an upcoming surgery with uncertain outcomes, or a challenging journey ahead?

In today’s reading, that is exactly what Jesus did with His disciples. He plainly told them what was going to happen when they reached Jerusalem. He wanted to prepare them—so they wouldn’t be taken by surprise, so they would know how to respond when the time came. But instead of accepting His words, the disciples went into denial. Peter, in particular, pulled Jesus aside and rebuked Him, insisting that these things wouldn’t happen.

Peter thought he was doing the right thing by protecting Jesus. However, Jesus, recognized the spiritual battle behind Peter’s words and sternly rebuked him. “Get behind Me, Satan!” He said—not to Peter himself, but to the enemy influencing Peter’s thoughts. Jesus knew that the real enemy was Satan, working behind the scenes to disrupt God’s plan.

This enemy still operates in the world today, planting thoughts and suggestions in our minds that go against God’s will. The good news is, just as Jesus did, we too can recognize and reject those deceptive ideas. When the enemy tries to convince you that you’re not enough, or that you’re going to fail, you can stand firm in the truth of God’s Word. For example, when faced with self-doubt, declare: “No, I am more than a conqueror through Jesus who loves me” (Romans 8:37). If you’re tempted to believe that God has abandoned you, remind yourself: “He will never leave me nor forsake me” (Hebrews 13:5).

God has given us powerful promises to keep in our hearts and minds—an arsenal we can use to counter the enemy’s lies and stay in agreement with His plan for our lives.

Today, I want to encourage you to start identifying the enemy’s voice, both in your thoughts and in the words you speak. If you find yourself thinking or saying things filled with doubt, fear, or unbelief, recognize that this is not the path God has for you. These thoughts lead you away from the life and blessings He has in store. Instead, take control by speaking God’s truth over your situation.

For example, rather than saying, “Things look bad, and I’m afraid of what’s going to happen,” declare, “I am thankful that I can call on my Heavenly Father, and He is faithful to carry me through whatever comes my way.” Speaking God’s Word brings life into your circumstances. You’re not ignoring reality, but instead choosing to speak faith into it, trusting that God is working for your good, even when things seem uncertain.

Today’s scripture reading: Matthew 16:21-28

21 From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day.

22 Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, “Far be it from You, Lord; this shall not happen to You!”

23 But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.”

24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. 

25 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. 

26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? 

27 For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works. 

28 “Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.”

Become a fan

Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples! Shout to God with the voice of triumph! – Psalms 47:1

It’s football season, and around here, football is a big deal. Living only 30 minutes from downtown Pittsburgh, we are definitely in Steeler territory. We used to be die-hard Steelers fans, but things have changed over the years. Back then we spent hours watching football each week—not just our team, but every team. It was a top priority. We spent money on Steelers merchandise, wore the gear, and made sure to catch at least one game at the stadium each season. And when the Steelers made the playoffs, everything else in life was put on hold.

Then, over time, we realized something: football wasn’t as important as we once thought. Slowly, our priorities began to shift. We started focusing on things that truly matter in life—things that bring lasting joy, not just momentary excitement. But one thing still stands out to me about being a football fan: the fans themselves. They’re passionate, loud, and proud. During a game, there’s so much noise—cheering, shouting, jumping up, and clapping. There’s almost no limit to what a fan will do to support their team. Even when they’re not at the game, they’ll defend their team to the end, especially if it’s the Steelers. “Here we go Steelers” isn’t just a chant you hear at the stadium. I’ve been at many random events around town where people start chanting, even when it’s not football season.   Steelers fans are absurd, to say the least!

But here’s the thing. As crazy as fans are for football, there’s something far more important that people rarely show the same enthusiasm for. We have a Savior, Jesus, who gave His life to rescue us from an eternity of punishment, and yet, where is the excitement for Him? It’s rare to see anyone shouting for joy over what God has done. In fact, some churches discourage clapping or showing any outward expression of joy during worship, as if being thrilled about our salvation is somehow out of place.

Psalms 47:1 says, “Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy!” We are called to praise God with all our might, with excitement and passion. The same energy and enthusiasm we see at football games should be even greater when we think about what our Lord Jesus has done for us. He didn’t just win a game—He won our eternity. Our destiny was once eternal death, but now, through His salvation, we have eternal life. That is something worth shouting about!

Today I want to encourage you to become a fan of Jesus.  Don’t be shy about your faith. If you can jump, shout, and cheer for a football team, why wouldn’t you be even more willing to do that for your Savior. Your joy and praise should be so contagious that the whole world knows where true victory is found—not on a football field, but in the love and salvation offered by Christ Jesus. So clap your hands, raise your voices, and show the world the joy of being saved and what a true fan looks like!

Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 47

1 Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples! Shout to God with the voice of triumph!

2 For the Lord Most High is awesome; He is a great King over all the earth.

3 He will subdue the peoples under us, and the nations under our feet.

4 He will choose our inheritance for us, the excellence of Jacob whom He loves. Selah

5 God has gone up with a shout, the Lord with the sound of a trumpet.

6 Sing praises to God, sing praises! Sing praises to our King, sing praises!

7 For God is the King of all the earth; Sing praises with understanding.

8 God reigns over the nations; God sits on His holy throne.

9 The princes of the people have gathered together, the people of the God of Abraham. For the shields of the earth belong to God; He is greatly exalted.

Our Refuge

 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; – Psalms 46:1-2

 This scripture is such a great comfort in the world we live in today.  With all the turmoil, uncertainty, and instability we see around us—whether it’s conflicts across the globe, economic and political uncertainty, or personal challenges—this passage reminds us of something crucial to our peace of mind: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

In today’s world, it’s easy to let fear settle in. Every day, news reports bombard us with stories of wars, natural disasters, or looming crises, and the temptation is to think, “You just never know what’s going to happen next.” In the face of such uncertainty, fear can creep into our hearts, causing anxiety about our safety, our future, and even the fate of our loved ones. But the Psalm today speaks directly to this fear and gives us hope.

The chapter starts out declaring, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” It’s more than just words of comfort—it’s a promise. God Himself becomes our shelter from the storms of life. No matter what happens around us, we have an unshakable refuge in Him. The imagery in the psalm is powerful: even if the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, we do not have to be afraid (Psalm 46:2-3).

One of the most beautiful truths we read here is that God is ever-present. He is not far off, waiting for us to figure things out on our own or fix our problems before He steps in. Instead, He is always with us, right in the middle of whatever difficulty we are facing. Whether it’s personal trials or larger global uncertainties, God is not absent or indifferent. His help is immediate and real.

This promise is one we can hold onto every day, no matter what may happen in the world around us. Whether we are dealing with personal struggles—like health challenges, financial difficulties, or relationship issues—or we are simply overwhelmed by the chaos and instability in the world, we can turn to God as our refuge.

The psalmist goes on to say in verse 10, “Be still, and know that I am God.” In a world full of constant noise, movement, and uncertainty, God calls us to a place of stillness and trust. It’s not an invitation to escape or ignore the difficulties around us but rather to shift our focus from the chaos to the One who is in control. When we center our hearts on the unchanging nature of God, fear loses its grip.

Because of this truth, we don’t have to live in fear. We don’t have to be afraid to go out into the world, face our challenges, or deal with the unknowns that come our way. We can hold on to this  assurance that God’s presence and protection surround us like a fortress. No matter how strong the storm, God is stronger.

The message of this Psalm is clear: even in the face of overwhelming trouble, God is our refuge and strength. He is our fortress when everything around us feels unstable, and He is our ever-present help in every crisis. We can rest in the fact that nothing surprises God, and nothing is beyond His control.

In today’s uncertain world, let this psalm be a reminder: you do not have to be afraid. You do not have to live in constant anxiety about what might happen next. You can live with confidence, knowing that God is with you. Whether the trouble you face is global or personal, whether the storm is loud or quiet, God is always present, always willing to help, and always strong enough to carry you through.

Living free from fear in your life involves taking intentional steps to live in the peace and confidence that God offers, no matter what storms or challenges you face. Here are a few ways you can put this into practice:

1. Turn to God as Your Refuge in Daily Challenges

Prayer as Your First Response: When troubles arise—whether big or small—make it a habit to pray immediately. Before trying to fix things on your own or becoming overwhelmed, pause and invite God into the situation. Acknowledge that He is your refuge and strength.

Cast Your Anxieties on Him: Practice giving your worries and fears to God. When you feel anxious about something, whether it’s a personal struggle, a global crisis, or uncertainty about the future, bring those concerns to Him in prayer. Trust that He is present and at work, even when you don’t see an immediate solution.

2. Be Still and Know That He Is God

Take Time to Be Still: In a busy, chaotic world, set aside time each day to be still before God. This could be through meditation on scripture, quiet reflection, or simply sitting in silence, acknowledging God’s presence and faithfulness with thanksgiving. Remind yourself that He is over all things, and this stillness allows you to shift your focus on to His power rather than the problems around you.

Stop Trying to Control Everything: It’s easy to feel like you have to handle every crisis or fix every problem. Let God’s Word remind you to rest in the knowledge that God has this, even when things feel out of control. Learn to release situations to Him rather than carrying them all on your shoulders.

3. Live Without Fear by Trusting God’s Protection

Face Life Confidently: Because God is your refuge, you don’t have to live in constant fear. Step into situations—whether at work, in relationships, or in decisions—knowing that you have God’s protection and guidance. When uncertainty strikes, remind yourself of His promises and declare, “God is my refuge and strength. I will not fear.”

Confront Fears with Faith: When you feel fear rising up, especially in uncertain or difficult circumstances, combat it with faith in God’s promises. Memorize key verses and speak them as a shield over your life when you’re tempted to give in to fear.

4. Trust God in Uncertain Situations

Surrender Control: In order to surrender your need to control outcomes, whether it’s a job uncertainty, financial challenges, or global instability, you must recognize that God is taking care of you in every situation. Practice daily surrender, giving these situations over to God and trusting Him to work in His timing.

Trust God in Delays or Setbacks: When things don’t go as planned, remember that God’s presence is constant, even in the midst of delays or obstacles. Rather than becoming frustrated, remind yourself that God is your help in trouble, and trust that He is working for your good, even if you can’t see it yet.

5. Encourage Others with The Truth

Share God’s Peace with Others: As you experience God’s peace and refuge in your own life, share it with those around you. Encourage friends or family who may be struggling with fear or uncertainty by pointing them to God’s Word. You can remind them that God is their refuge, too, and help them find peace in His promises.

Support Others in Storms: Sometimes, the best way to apply scripture is by living it out. Be a source of strength and support for others going through storms. Whether it’s a kind word, prayer, or practical help, let others see God’s refuge and strength through your actions.

6. Remember God’s Past Faithfulness

Remember God’s Faithfulness in Your Life: Take time to reflect on past situations where God has helped you through a difficult time. Scripture encourages you to remember that God is always with you. Recalling His faithfulness in the past will strengthen your trust in Him for whatever comes next.

Journal Your Journey: Consider keeping a journal where you write down how God has been your refuge and strength through various storms. Writing it down helps you stay anchored in His faithfulness, and you can look back on those moments when you need encouragement.

7. Strengthen Your Faith Through Scripture

Meditate on God’s promises in His Word Regularly: Make it a habit to read and meditate on scripture, especially during times of trouble. Let the truth of God’s promises sink into your heart and mind. Use the words of this psalm as a way to refocus your mind on God’s presence and power whenever life feels overwhelming.

By living in the truth of message, you can face life’s storms with peace, confidence, and trust in God’s unfailing presence. He is with you, and He is your refuge in all circumstances.

So, today I want to encourage when fear tries to settle into your heart, return to this truth: “The Lord is with you; the God of Jacob is your fortress.” God is not just a refuge for someone else—He is your refuge. He is not just strong for others—He is strong for you. In His presence, there is peace that no storm can take away.

Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 46

1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

2 Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

3 Though its waters roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with its swelling. Selah

4 There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High.

5 God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn.

6 The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved; He uttered His voice, the earth melted.

7 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah

8 Come, behold the works of the Lord, who has made desolations in the earth.

9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariot in the fire.

10 Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

11 The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah

A Good Theme

My heart is overflowing with a good theme; I recite my composition concerning the King; My tongue is the pen of a ready writer.    Psalms 45:1 

Wow!  This is such an inspiring message.  It starts out with the overflow of our hearts.  So, what is it?  What is the overflow of your heart?  If you aren’t quite sure what that means, let me explain.  It is the thoughts that your heart is full of.  If you are not sure what you are thinking about the most, listen to what you talk about most.  Your words reflect what you are thinking and dwelling on in your heart.  In fact, it is the very next line in the verse.  I recite/talk about what my heart is filled with.  Of course, in the case of the psalmist, it is the King (that is the King of kings)!  Next the psalmist says my tongue or speech is always ready to tell about it.  “It” being what is in my heart in abundance.

Let’s take some time to honestly look at what is in our hearts to the overflow.  What is the overflow of your heart?  The overflow of your heart can be just about anything, good or bad and as I said, it is easy to know when you talk to others what their “theme” is because it is what they are always talking about.  For some people it is their latest problem or struggle?  For others it’s about what is going on in their life, their current activities, job or family events?  With some people it seems that all they want to talk about is their latest aches and pains in their bodies.  Then there are those who are totally preoccupied with the news, weather and social media.  Not all of these things are wrong, but these topics are not deserving of the focus of our lives? 

The question to ask yourself today is: What is your “good theme”?  What are you filling your heart, thoughts and words with?  If you continue to read this in this passage, you find out exactly what the “good theme” is that writer was referring to.  It is the goodness and blessings of God! 

So, what would life look like if we spent our days filling up our hearts and minds with the goodness of God; all the good promises He has given in His Word?  All the blessings He is currently and has previously given you?  All the prayers He has answered for you in the past and the ones He is working on right now?  The “good theme” is endless, so why is it that we don’t spend more of our time focused on that ”good theme” of God’s wonderful love and grace?  Why do we put so much importance on things that are so temporary and soon fading away? 

One of the main reasons is because it isn’t popular or relatable. I guarantee you if every time you talk to others you tell them how wonderful your loving heavenly Father has been to you, you can shut down gossip, unbelieve and distractions quicker than anything.  Most people are completely distracted by doing and saying things the same way as everyone else around them. 

The good news is that it can all changed today!  Not be being weird or obnoxious when you get around others, but by simply turning your thoughts toward God and His goodness every time your mind is distracted. You don’t have to jump into every conversation and loudly proclaim how good God is. You can merely train your heart to go directly back to thoughts of God’s goodness every chance you get.  You have the power inside of you to become fully preoccupied with God’s love and plan for your life.  This is what it means to feed on His faithfulness.  Then when others ask you what is on your mind, you can smile and tell them how good He is.

Psalms 37:3 says, “Trust in the LORD, and do good; Dwell in the land (this world), but feed on His faithfulness.” 

If we begin to train our minds to meditate the goodness of God and focus on His Word, our heart will begin to fill up with His “good theme” instead of the bad news the world wants to feed us.  Then we will speak out of the goodness that is overflowing in our thoughts and heart because we have been feeding on His faithfulness.

Below are some step you can start today to begin your journey in the overflow of God’s “good theme”:

1. Recognize What Fills Your Heart Now

Reflection: Take a moment to honestly reflect on what occupies your thoughts the most. What do you find yourself talking about or focusing on throughout the day? Is it your problems, worries, or tasks? Or is it God’s goodness, His promises, and His presence?

2. Choose a “Good Theme”

Focus on God’s Character: Decide to focus on something you know about God’s goodness each day. It could be His love, faithfulness, mercy, or provision. Psalm 45 is about overflowing praise for God as the King. Let your “good theme” be something that stirs your heart to worship and gratitude.

Scripture Focus: Pick a verse or passage that reflects the theme you want to dwell on, such as Psalm 45:1 or Psalm 37:3. Meditate on it throughout the day, keeping it at the forefront of your mind.

3. Feed Your Mind and Heart

Daily Meditation: Start each day by reading Scripture or spending time in prayer, focusing on God’s blessings and promises. Even a few minutes can shift your mindset.

Gratitude Practice: Write down things you are grateful for, big and small. Recalling how God has already blessed you helps fill your heart with positive themes.

4. Speak It Out

Positive Confession: As Psalm 45 shows, the psalmist’s tongue is ready to speak what the heart is full of. As you focus on God’s goodness, make a habit of speaking it out. Whether in prayer, conversation, or journaling, verbalizing God’s promises reinforces them in your heart.

Replace Negative Talk: If you catch yourself speaking negatively or focusing on struggles, gently shift your words to reflect God’s faithfulness and truth.  You don’t need to make a big deal or explain why you are shifting, just do it subtly because that is what you are full.

5. Create a Plan for Consistency

Set Reminders: Throughout the day, remind yourself to turn your thoughts back to God. You could use sticky notes with Scripture, phone alerts, or even short breaks to pray or refocus.

Build New Habits: Consistency is key. As you practice meditating on God’s goodness, it will become a natural part of your daily routine, replacing distractions and worries with an overflow of praise and trust.

6. Celebrate Small Victories

Acknowledge Progress: As you see changes in how you think, speak, and experience life, take time to thank God for the growth. Over time, the overflow of your heart will be full of His “good theme.”

Starting small and being intentional with these steps will lead to a life where God’s goodness overflows from your heart. Let it shape your thoughts, words, and interactions!

Today I want to encourage you to decide what your “good theme” will be. You can choose a different attribute of God each day as your “good theme.” Come up with a plan on how to make the focus of your thought life to be a “good theme” and not the world‘s bad news/theme.  Then begin to grow that theme by speaking it and dwelling on it.  When you are tempted to get into conversations about co-workers or office politics, remember that God has been good to you and you have something to be glad about and thankful for.  Don’t fall for the deception that you have to talk like everyone else is and before you know it, you will be living in the overflow of your God theme.

Today’s Scripture reading: Psalms 45

1 My heart is overflowing with a good theme; I recite my composition concerning the King; My tongue is the pen of a ready writer.

2 You are fairer than the sons of men; Grace is poured upon Your lips; Therefore God has blessed You forever.

3 Gird Your sword upon Your thigh, O Mighty One, with Your glory and Your majesty.

4 And in Your majesty ride prosperously because of truth, humility, and righteousness; And Your right hand shall teach You awesome things.

5 Your arrows are sharp in the heart of the King’s enemies; The peoples fall under You.

6 Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom.

7 You love righteousness and hate wickedness; Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions.

8 All Your garments are scented with myrrh and aloes and cassia, out of the ivory palaces, by which they have made You glad.

9 Kings’ daughters are among Your honorable women; At Your right hand stands the queen in gold from Ophir.

10 Listen, O daughter, consider and incline your ear; Forget your own people also, and your father’s house;

11 So the King will greatly desire your beauty; Because He is your Lord, worship Him.

12 And the daughter of Tyre will come with a gift; The rich among the people will seek your favor.

13 The royal daughter is all glorious within the palace; Her clothing is woven with gold.

14 She shall be brought to the King in robes of many colors; The virgins, her companions who follow her, shall be brought to You.

15 With gladness and rejoicing they shall be brought; They shall enter the King’s palace.

16 Instead of Your fathers shall be Your sons, Whom You shall make princes in all the earth.

17 I will make Your name to be remembered in all generations; Therefore the people shall praise You forever and ever.

He did it!

For they did not gain possession of the land by their own sword, nor did their own arm save them; But it was Your right hand, Your arm, and the light of Your countenance, because You favored them. ~ Psalms 44:3

When I take a look at my life and look around at where God has placed me, it can be easy for those who don’t know me to think that somehow, I made it all happen.  I have a beautiful home with a wonderful husband and great children and grandchildren.  From the outside, my life can look like just your ordinary everyday life.  However, I had very little to do with where I am today.  In fact, had my life continued on the downward spiral that it was once on, I would be among all the statics for a single mom struggling to make it all work out.

The truth is that when I stopped going in the direction I was headed and turned around and headed toward my heavenly Father instead, He made beauty out of the ash heap that I was trying to build on. When I surrendered my plans and let go of the struggle to control everything, it became clear that my success wasn’t a result of my own strength. Just like the writer of Psalms 44, I didn’t “gain possession” of anything by my own efforts. It wasn’t my wisdom or ability that rescued me from hardship or led me to the blessings I now enjoy. It was God’s right hand, His strength, and His favor that made all the difference.

Looking back, I can see how His light led me through some of the darkest times. Times when I couldn’t see a way forward, but God was there, shining His light on the path I couldn’t see. He opened doors I never could have opened on my own, and He shut doors that weren’t meant for me. Every step of the way, it was His grace that saved me.

There’s a humbling truth in knowing that what I have today—my family, my home, my peace—is not the result of my own striving, but of God’s favor and mercy. Just as the Israelites didn’t win the Promised Land through their own might, I didn’t reach this place in life by my own hand. It was God who fought for me, who strengthened me, and who blessed me with more than I could have asked for.

So, when others look at my life and think I’ve achieved this on my own, I have to smile and give credit where it’s due. It wasn’t my strength, my plans, or my power. It was the Lord’s arm, His right hand, and the light of His countenance that brought me to where I am today. It was His favor, not my works, that turned my life around.

Now, I live every day grateful, aware that it’s not about what I can do but about what God has done. And if He did it for me, I believe He can do it for anyone. All it takes is turning to Him, letting go of the illusion of control, and trusting in His mighty hand to work things out for our good. Just like Psalms 44 reminds us, our victories come from God’s hand, not our own.

Today I want to encourage you if you feel like your life is spinning out of control, surrender to the Lord Jesus and begin to follow His plan instead.  It isn’t hard, but it is intentional.  Start by acknowledging your need for His salvation.  Recognize that you cannot do it all on your own. Be honest with yourself and God about your need for His help and pray openly about your struggles and fears.  Next let go of control.  Don’t be trying to control every aspect of your life but begin to trust that God has a plan for you.  Then start praying for guidance.  You are not waiting for something to happen; you are watching and listening for the instructions for your next step.  Pray for your heart to be in line with God’s plan and direction and then be willing to step out in faith when He opens a door for you. 

Lastly, remember that God loves you more than anything and is always working on getting His best into your life and trust me, His best is better than any thing you can come up with.  Your life can begin to turn around today as you surrender to the love and goodness that He so desperately wants to lead you to.  Trust Him today and start your new life now.

Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 44

1 We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have told us, the deeds You did in their days, in days of old:

2 You drove out the nations with Your hand, but them You planted; You afflicted the peoples, and cast them out.

3 For they did not gain possession of the land by their own sword, nor did their own arm save them; But it was Your right hand, Your arm, and the light of Your countenance, because You favored them.

4 You are my King, O God; Command victories for Jacob.

5 Through You we will push down our enemies; Through Your name we will trample those who rise up against us.

6 For I will not trust in my bow, nor shall my sword save me.

7 But You have saved us from our enemies, and have put to shame those who hated us.

8 In God we boast all day long, and praise Your name forever. Selah

9 But You have cast us off and put us to shame, and You do not go out with our armies.

10 You make us turn back from the enemy, and those who hate us have taken spoil for themselves.

11 You have given us up like sheep intended for food, and have scattered us among the nations.

12 You sell Your people for next to nothing, and are not enriched by selling them.

13 You make us a reproach to our neighbors, a scorn and a derision to those all around us.

14 You make us a byword among the nations, a shaking of the head among the peoples.

15 My dishonor is continually before me, and the shame of my face has covered me,

16 Because of the voice of him who reproaches and reviles, because of the enemy and the avenger.

17 All this has come upon us; But we have not forgotten You, nor have we dealt falsely with Your covenant.

18 Our heart has not turned back, nor have our steps departed from Your way;

19 But You have severely broken us in the place of jackals, and covered us with the shadow of death.

20 If we had forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a foreign god,

21 Would not God search this out? for He knows the secrets of the heart.

22 Yet for Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

23 Awake! Why do You sleep, O Lord? Arise! Do not cast us off forever.

24 Why do You hide Your face, and forget our affliction and our oppression?

25 For our soul is bowed down to the dust; Our body clings to the ground.

26 Arise for our help, and redeem us for Your mercies’ sake.