Just as pressure turns coal into a beautiful diamond, adversity can be the catalyst for God’s miraculous work in our lives. Through it, He transforms our hearts, changes our attitudes, teaches us what it means to trust Him, and helps us walk in true victory. However, to make sure we don’t grow embittered or distrustful of the Lord, we must look beyond our present struggles and recognize this: adversity is God’s choice tool for building character, deepening our relationship with…..

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There will always be someone in your life who will irritate you in the most frustrating manner -effectively pushing the buttons that lead to aggravation, fear, and anger. You will be tempted to despise that person and, perhaps, even seek revenge. However, today’s verse should serve as a strong warning for you. Friend, this person is not your foe. Rather, this individual has been allowed into your life so that God can grow godliness within you and strengthen your faith……

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Have you ever made a mistake and been harshly judged by other believers? Experiencing someone’s self-righteous condemnation can be absolutely disheartening, if not downright painful. Many people caught in sin have turned away from Christ as a result of being cruelly attacked by other believers when they could have – and should have – been restored by godly, loving discipline. Sadly, some believers miss the fact that the discipline is always directed toward a specific behavior and is rooted in…..

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Everyone wants the good things in life. But God’s idea of blessings is often much different from our own. Whereas some may pursue material gain or relationships for their happiness and are left disappointed, our heavenly Father understands that real contentment originates elsewhere. In fact, Psalm 34:10 promises, “Those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing.” Those who pursue God daily find a fulfillment that transcends what this world has to offer. The more you understand your…..

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As the year draws to a close and you look at the possibilities ahead of you, what is it that seems impossible? What has the Lord called you do that seems impossible? What has the Lord called you to do that appears far beyond your ability to achieve? You may not see how it could ever work out, but God does. And He will assume full responsibility for your needs as you obey Him. So how can you remain in…..

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Does your heart yearn for peace? The hectic nature of Christmas sometimes inspires more weariness, conflict, loneliness, and feelings of unworthiness than the joy promised by the angels at Christ’s birth. The tumult within your spirit and unfulfilled dreams may leave you longing for rest. But be assured, your Savior desires to give you genuine tranquility in the midst of all the pressures of the season (John 14:27). Friend, you will fee exhausted and overwhelmed when you believe everything depends…..

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Are you afraid of saying no to people because of what they may think? If so, find freedom in this today: Jesus often set boundaries with others, denying their demands. And because He did, you can and should too. Why? Because when your life lacks firm boundaries, you become an easy target for the enemy. He fills your life with so many seemingly “good” activities that you’re too busy to seek the Lord’s will. Eventually you find yourself tired, unfulfilled,…..

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As you ready yourself to face the day, you have a choice: you can either grumble about your troubles or you can turn your mind to the Father in praise. Before you decide, realize this important truth: there is power when you give thanks to the Lord. Not only do you honor God as He deserves, but you also refocus your attention to His positive attributes rather than your negative circumstances – and that sets you up for victory. Of…..

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Today, offer the Father a sacrifice of thanksgiving. Even if everything is awry and you’re feeling discouraged, praise Him anyway. How do you do so? Deliberately look for reasons to be grateful even in the most difficult of your circumstances. Review all the ways He’s helped you in the past. Rejoice in His character, His love for you, and the salvation He’s freely given you. List all the blessings you can think of which are yours in Christ. Personalize the…..

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Unforgiveness can be the source of a great deal of conflict and stress in your personal relationships. Therefore, examine your heart now to see if you need to forgive anyone. Do you secretly hope that someone will get what he or she deserves? Do you talk negatively about anyone to others? Do you indulge in fantasies of revenge – even seemingly harmless ones? Do you spend time mulling over what others have done to you? How do you feel when…..

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