Verse from Luke

“我告诉你们，因为一个罪人悔改，神的使者也必这样为他欢乐。””

‭‭路加福音‬ ‭15:10‬ ‭

“In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.””

‭‭Luke‬ ‭15:10‬ ‭

What a gift it would be to become a person who prays as passionately for others as we pray for lost treasures to be found. What a privilege it is to celebrate when someone repents and surrenders their lives to Christ. 

If we’ve placed our trust in Jesus, we can be thankful we’ve experienced the joy of being loved by Someone who never gave up because He thought we were worth finding.

Verse from 1 Samuel

“扫罗非常恼怒，不喜欢这话，就说：“他们给大卫万万，只给我千千，就只剩下王位没给他。””

‭‭撒母耳记上‬ ‭18:8‬ ‭

“Then Saul became very angry, for this lyric displeased him; and he said, “They have given David credit for ten thousands, but to me they have given credit for only thousands! Now what more can he have but the kingdom?””

‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭18:8‬ ‭

After David’s victory over Goliath, the Israelites heartily sing, “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands” (1 Samuel 18:7). The comparison doesn’t sit well with King Saul. Envious of David’s success and afraid of losing his throne (vv. 8–9), Saul begins a prolonged pursuit of David, trying to take his life.

Like Saul with power, we’re usually tempted to envy those with similar but greater gifts than we possess. And whether it’s picking fault with their work or belittling their success, we too can seek to damage our “rivals.”

Saul had been divinely chosen for his task (10:6–7, 24), a status that should’ve fostered security in him rather than envy. Since we each have unique callings too (Ephesians 2:10), maybe the best way to overcome envy is to quit comparing ourselves. Let’s celebrate each other’s successes instead.

Verse from Ephesians

“基督就是我们的和平：他使双方合而为一，拆毁了隔在中间的墙，就是以自己的身体除掉双方的仇恨，”

‭‭以弗所书‬ ‭2:14‬ ‭

“For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall,”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2:14‬ ‭

A monk named Telemachus lived a quiet life, but his death at the end of the fourth century changed the world. Visiting Rome from the East, Telemachus intervened in the blood sport of the gladiatorial arena. He jumped over the stadium wall and tried to stop the gladiators from killing each other. But the outraged crowd stoned the monk to death. The emperor Honorius, however, was moved by Telemachus’ act and decreed the end of the 500-year practice of gladiator games.

When Paul calls Jesus “our peace,” he refers to the end of hostility between Jews and gentiles (Ephesians 2:14). God’s chosen people Israel were distinct from the nations and enjoyed certain privileges. For instance, while gentiles were allowed to worship at the Jerusalem temple, a dividing wall restricted them to the outer court—on punishment of death. Jews regarded gentiles unclean, and they experienced mutual hostility. 

But now, because of Jesus’ death and resurrection for all, both Jew and gentile can worship God freely through faith in Him (vv. 18–22). There’s no dividing wall. There’s no privilege of one group over the other. Both are equal in their standing before God.

Just as Telemachus brought peace to warriors through his death, so Jesus makes peace and reconciliation possible for all who believe in Him through His death and resurrection. So, if Jesus is our peace, let’s not let our differences divide us. He’s made us one by His blood.

Verse from Songs

“求你把我放在你心上如印记，把我带在你臂上如戳印；因为爱情像死亡一般的坚强；嫉妒如阴间一般的坚稳；它的烈焰是火的烈焰，是非常猛烈的火焰。”

‭‭雅歌‬ ‭8:6‬ ‭

“Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame.”

‭‭Song of Songs‬ ‭8:6‬ ‭

In 2020, Alyssa Mendoza received a surprising email from her father in the middle of the night. The message had instructions about what to do for her mother on her parents’ twenty-fifth anniversary. Why was this shocking? Alyssa’s father had passed away ten months earlier. 

She discovered that he’d written and scheduled the email while he was sick, knowing he might not be there. He’d also arranged and paid for flowers to be sent to his wife for upcoming years on her birthday, future anniversaries, and Valentine’s Day.

This story could stand as an example of the kind of love that’s described in detail in Song of Songs. “Love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave” (8:6). Comparing graves and death to love seems odd, but they’re strong because they don’t give up their captives. However, neither will true love give up the loved one. The book reaches its peak in verses 6–7, describing marital love as one so strong that “many waters cannot quench [it]” (v. 7).

Throughout the Bible, the love of a husband and wife is compared to God’s love (Isaiah 54:5; Ephesians 5:25; Revelation 21:2). Jesus is the groom and the church is His bride. God showed His love for us by sending Christ to face death so we wouldn’t have to die for our sins (John 3:16). 

Whether we’re married or single, we can remember that God’s love is stronger than anything we could imagine.

Verse from Proverbs

“心里喜乐就是良药；心灵忧郁使骨头枯干。”

‭‭箴言‬ ‭17:22‬ ‭

“A joyful heart is good medicine, But a broken spirit dries up the bones.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭17:22‬ ‭

Proverbs reminds us that “a cheerful look brings joy to the heart” and “a cheerful heart is good medicine” (15:30 nlt; 17:22). Quite often, the smiles of God’s children stem from the supernatural joy we possess. 

It’s a gift from God that regularly spills out into our lives, as we encourage people who are carrying heavy burdens or share with those who are looking for answers to life’s questions. Even when we experience suffering, our joy can still shine through.

When life seems dark, choose joy. Let your smile be a window of hope reflecting God’s love and the light of His presence in your life.

Verses from Matthew

““你们当进窄门，因为引到灭亡的门是宽的，路是大的，进去的人也多； 但引到生命的门是窄的，路是小的，找着的人也少。”

‭‭马太福音‬ ‭7:13-14‬ ‭

““Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is narrow and the way is constricted that leads to life, and there are few who find it.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7:13-14‬ ‭

"Majority rules!" That's the edict of democracy. This has been a blessed political philosophy for so many people over the course of history. But, "majority rule" doesn't apply to the Kingdom of God. God sets the standard, not us. 

God's holiness is the goal, not just trying to be better than someone else. Most, regretably, will never find the way of the Lord. They want it their way. One crucial problem with wanting things our way: it leads to ultimate disaster. 

God, the Creator and Sustainer of all life, is the only one who can set life's agenda.

Verse from Genesis

“于是领他到外面去，说：“你向天观看，数点众星，看你能不能把它们数得清楚。”又对他说：“你的后裔将要这样众多。””

‭‭创世记‬ ‭15:5‬ ‭

“And He took him outside and said, “Now look toward the heavens and count the stars, if you are able to count them.” And He said to him, “So shall your descendants be.””

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭15:5‬ ‭

Lara and Dave desperately wanted a baby, but their physician told them they were unable to have one. Lara confided to a friend: “I found myself having some very honest talks with God.” But it was after one of those “talks” that she and Dave spoke to their pastor, who told them about an adoption ministry at their church. A year later they were blessed with an adopted baby boy.

In Genesis 15, the Bible tells of another honest conversation—this one between Abram and God. God had told him, “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am . . . your very great reward” (v. 1). But Abram, uncertain of God’s promises about his future, answered candidly: “Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I remain childless?” (v. 2).

Earlier God had promised Abram, “I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth” (13:16). Now Abram—in a very human moment—reminded God of that. But note God’s response: He assured Abram by telling him to look up and “count the stars—if indeed you can,” indicating his descendants would be beyond numbering (15:5).

How good is God, not only to allow such candid prayer but also to gently reassure Abram! Later, God would change his name to Abraham (“father of many”). Like Abraham, you and I can openly share our hearts with Him and know that we can trust Him to do what’s best for us and others.

Verse from Deuteronomy

“并且在旷野里，你们也看见了耶和华你们的神，怎样在你们所行的一切路上，背负你们，好象人背负自己的儿子一样，直到你们来到了这地方。’”

‭‭申命记‬ ‭1:31‬ ‭

“and in the wilderness. There you saw how the Lord your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place.””

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭1:31‬ ‭

In the Old Testament, Moses recalled how God carried His people even as they experienced the danger of faltering faith. He reminded the Israelites of how God had delivered them, providing food and water in the desert, fighting against their enemies, and guiding the Israelites with pillars of cloud and fire. 

The Israelites’ journey through the wilderness wasn’t easy, and their faith waned at times. But it was full of evidence of God’s protection and provision. The image of a father carrying a son—tenderly, courageously, confidently—is a wonderful picture of how God cared for Israel. 

Even when we face challenges that test our faith, we can remember that God’s there carrying us through them.

Verse from 1 Corinthians

 “我们无论是犹太人，是希腊人，是作奴隶的，是自由的，都在那一位圣灵里受了洗，成为一个身体，都饮了那一位圣灵。”

‭‭哥林多前书‬ ‭12:13‬ ‭

“For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭12:13‬ ‭

The Greek word ekklēsia, translated “church,” means “an assembly,” a “called-out people” gathered together. The word is used to describe “a people of God” (1 Peter 2:9–10). Paul used many different metaphors to describe the church, including God’s family (Ephesians 2:19; 3:15; 1 Timothy 3:15), God’s flock (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2), and the bride of Christ (Ephesians 5:22–32). But “the body of Christ” is Paul’s favorite (Romans 12:4–5; 1 Corinthians 6:15; 10:17; Ephesians 1:22–23; 4:4, 12; 5:23, 30; Colossians 1:18, 24).

The church at Corinth was a divided congregation. Some believers elevated certain ecstatic gifts (for example, speaking in unknown tongues) above others, believing that unless one possessed these, one wasn’t part of the church. Paul refuted this error in 1 Corinthians 12–14. He used the body metaphor to promote unity and harmony. The church, like the human body, is diverse, but all parts must function as one.

Verse from 2 Chronicles

“‘如果有灾祸临到我们，无论是刀剑、刑罚、瘟疫、饥荒，我们在急难的时候，站在这殿和你的面前，向你呼求，你必垂听和施行拯救，因为你的名是在这殿内。’”

‭‭历代志下‬ ‭20:9‬ ‭

“‘If disaster comes upon us, the sword, or judgment, or plague, or famine, we will stand before this house and before You (for Your name is in this house), and cry out to You in our distress, and You will hear and save us.’”

‭‭2 Chronicles‬ ‭20:9‬ ‭

For five years in the late 1800s, grasshoppers descended on Minnesota, destroying the crops. Farmers tried trapping the grasshoppers in tar and burning their fields to kill the eggs. Feeling desperate, and on the brink of starvation, many people sought a statewide day of prayer, yearning to seek God’s help together. The governor relented, setting aside April 26 to pray.

In the days after the collective prayer, the weather warmed and the eggs started to come to life. But then four days later a drop in temperature surprised and delighted many, for the freezing temperatures killed the larvae. Minnesotans once again would harvest their crops of corn, wheat, and oats.

Prayer was also behind the saving of God’s people during the reign of King Jehoshaphat. When the king learned that a vast army was coming against him, he called God’s people to pray and fast. The people reminded God how He’d saved them in times past. And Jehoshaphat said that if calamity came upon them, “whether the sword of judgment, or plague or famine,” they would cry out to God knowing that He would hear and save them (2 Chronicles 20:9).

God rescued His people from the invading armies, and He hears us when we cry out to Him in distress. Whatever your concern—whether a relationship issue or something threatening from the natural world—lift it to God in prayer. Nothing is too hard for Him.

Verse from Matthew

“内心清洁的人有福了，因为他们必看见神。”

‭‭马太福音‬ ‭5:8‬ ‭

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5:8‬

Following Jesus can’t be defined by a list of rules. It’s a subtle quality of life that’s difficult to quantify but can best be described as “beautiful.”

The Beatitudes in Matthew 5:3–10 sum up that beauty: Those who are indwelt by and dependent on the Spirit of Jesus are humble and self-effacing. They’re deeply touched by the suffering of others. They’re gentle and kind. They long for goodness in themselves and in others. They’re merciful to those who struggle and fail. They’re single-minded in their love for Jesus. They’re peaceful and leave behind a legacy of peace. They’re kind to those who misuse them, returning good for evil. And they’re blessed, a word that means “happy” in the deepest sense.

This kind of life attracts the attention of others and belongs to those who come to Jesus and ask Him for it.

Verse from Job

“光从哪条路散开，东风从哪里分散在地上？”

‭‭约伯记‬ ‭38:24‬ ‭

“What is the way to the place where the lightning is dispersed, or the place where the east winds are scattered over the earth?”

‭‭Job‬ ‭38:24‬ ‭

Job needed to be reminded of God’s power (vv. 34–41). His life had fallen apart. His children were dead. He was broke. He was sick. His friends offered no empathy. His wife encouraged him to abandon his faith (2:9). Eventually, Job asked God, “Why?” (ch. 24) and He responded out of a storm (ch. 38).

God reminded Job of His control over the physical attributes of the world (ch. 38). This comforted him and he responded, “My ears had heard of you, but now my eyes have seen you” (42:5). In other words, “Now I get it, God! I see that you don’t fit into my box.”

When life falls apart, sometimes the most comforting thing we can do is to lie on the floor and watch the lightning—to be reminded that the God who created the world is big enough and loving enough to take care of us too. We may even start singing our favorite worship songs that tell of the might and greatness of our God.

Verse from Daniel

“于是他们对王说：“王啊，在被掳的犹大人中的但以理不理会你的命令，也不理会你签署的禁令，竟仍一日三次向他的神祈求。””

‭‭但以理书‬ ‭6:13‬ ‭

“Then they responded and spoke before the king, “Daniel, who is one of the exiles from Judah, pays no attention to you, O king, or to the injunction which you signed, but keeps offering his prayer three times a day.””

‭‭Daniel‬ ‭6:13‬ ‭

When the Nazis drafted Franz Jägerstätter during World War II, he completed military basic training but refused to take the required pledge of personal loyalty to Adolf Hitler. Authorities allowed Franz to return to his farm, but they later summoned him to active duty. After seeing Nazi ideology up close and learning of the Jewish genocide, however, Jägerstätter decided his loyalty to God meant he could never fight for the Nazis. He was arrested and sentenced to execution, leaving behind his wife and three daughters.

Over the years, many believers in Jesus—under peril of death—have offered a firm refusal when commanded to disobey God. The story of Daniel is one such story. When a royal edict threatened that anyone “who pray[ed] to any god or human being except [the king]” (Daniel 6:12) would be thrown into the lions’ den, Daniel discarded safety and remained faithful. “Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before” (v. 10). The prophet would bend his knee to God—and only God—no matter the cost.

Sometimes, our choice is clear. Though everyone around us implores us to go along with prevailing opinion—though our own reputation or well-being may be at risk—may we never turn from our obedience to God. Sometimes, even at great cost, all we can offer is a firm refusal.

Verse from Hosea

“他们必再住在他的荫下，使五谷生长。他们必发旺像葡萄树，他们的名声要像黎巴嫩的酒。”

‭‭何西阿书‬ ‭14:7‬ ‭

“Those who live in his shadow Will again raise grain, And they will blossom like the vine. His fame will be like the wine of Lebanon.”

‭‭Hosea‬ ‭14:7‬ ‭

One of the most moving songs in the musical The Greatest Showman is “From Now On.” Sung after the main character comes to some painful self-realizations about the ways he’s wounded family and friends, the song celebrates the joy of coming back home and finding that what we already have is more than enough.

The book of Hosea concludes with a similar tone—one of breathless joy and gratitude at the restoration God makes possible for those who return to Him. Much of the book, which compares the relationship between God and His people to a relationship with an unfaithful spouse, grieves Israel’s failures to love Him and live for Him.

But in chapter 14, Hosea lifts up the promise of God’s boundless love, grace, and restoration—freely available to those who return to Him heartbroken over the ways they’ve abandoned Him (vv. 1–3). “I will heal their waywardness,” God promises, “and love them freely” (v. 4). And what had seemed broken beyond repair will once more find wholeness and abundance, as God’s grace, like dew, causes His people to “blossom like a lily” and “flourish like the grain” (vv. 5–7). 

When we’ve hurt others or taken for granted God’s goodness in our life, it’s easy to assume we’ve forever marred the good gifts we’ve been given. But when we humbly turn to Him, we find His love is always reaching to embrace and restore.

Verse from Acts

“彼得就开口说：“我实在看出神是不偏待人的。”

‭‭使徒行传‬ ‭10:34‬ ‭

“Opening his mouth, Peter said: “I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality,”

‭‭Acts‬ ‭10:34‬ ‭

After hearing a message about correcting injustice, a church member approached the pastor weeping, asking for forgiveness and confessing that he hadn’t voted in favor of calling the black minister to be pastor of their church because of his own prejudice. 

“I really need you to forgive me. I don’t want the junk of prejudice and racism spilling over into my kids’ lives. I didn’t vote for you, and I was wrong.” His tears and confession were met with the tears and forgiveness of the minister. A week later, the entire church rejoiced upon hearing the man’s testimony of how God had worked in his heart.

Even Peter, a disciple of Jesus and a chief leader in the early church, had to be corrected because of his ill-conceived notions about non-Jewish people. Eating and drinking with gentiles (who were considered unclean), was a violation of social and religious protocol. 

Peter said, “You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with or visit a Gentile” (Acts 10:28). It took nothing less than the supernatural activity of God (vv. 9–23) to convince him that he “should not call anyone impure or unclean” (v. 28).

Through the preaching of Scripture, the conviction of the Spirit, and life experiences, God continues to work in human hearts to correct our misguided perspectives about others. He helps us to see that “God does not show favoritism” (v. 34).

Verse from Psalms

“求你发出你的亮光和真理，好引导我，带我到你的圣山，到你的居所。”

‭‭诗篇‬ ‭43:3‬ ‭

“Send out Your light and Your truth, they shall lead me; They shall bring me to Your holy hill And to Your dwelling places.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭43:3‬ ‭

As we navigate life, there are often times when life gets so overwhelming we feel disoriented. A cancer diagnosis, the death of a loved one, a job loss, a betrayal by a friend—life’s unexpected tragedies can easily leave us feeling lost and confused.

When we find ourselves in these kinds of situations, we might try offering the prayer of Psalm 43. In this psalm, the psalmist is overwhelmed and feeling lost because he feels surrounded by evil and injustice. In despair, the psalmist pleads with God to provide His sure guidance to help him safely navigate through the situation to his desired destination, God’s presence (vv. 3–4). In God’s presence the psalmist knows he’ll find renewed hope and joy.  

What are the tools the psalmist requests for guidance? The light of truth and the assurance of God’s presence by His Holy Spirit.

When you’re feeling disoriented and lost, God’s faithful guidance through His Spirit and loving presence can comfort you and light your way.

Verse from Luke

“你们中间作父亲的，哪有儿子求鱼，反拿蛇当作鱼给他呢？”

‭‭路加福音‬ ‭11:11‬ ‭

“Now which one of you fathers will his son ask for a fish, and instead of a fish, he will give him a snake?”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭11:11‬ ‭

In the story, a neighbor (sometimes thought to represent God) only gets out of bed to help the friend because of the friend’s annoying persistence (Luke 11:5–8). Read this way, the parable suggests that God will give us what we need only if we badger Him. And if we don’t pray hard enough, maybe God won’t help us.

But biblical commentators like Klyne Snodgrass believe this misunderstands the parable—its real point being that if neighbors might help us for selfish reasons, how much more will our unselfish Father. 

We can therefore ask confidently (vv. 9–10), knowing that God is greater than flawed human beings (vv. 11–13). He isn’t the neighbor in the parable, but the opposite of him.

Verse from James

“我亲爱的弟兄们，你们要知道，人人都应该快快地听，慢慢地说，慢一点动怒；”

‭‭雅各书‬ ‭1:19‬ ‭

“You know this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Now everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger;”

‭‭James‬ ‭1:19‬ ‭

Too often we stubbornly hold on to our opinions and aren’t willing to consider what others are thinking. Matthew Henry’s Commentary has this to say: “We should be swift to hear reason and truth on all sides, and be slow to speak . . . and, when we do speak, there should be nothing of wrath.”

Someone has said, “Learning requires listening.” The practical words from God in the book of James can only be accomplished if we’re filled with God’s loving Spirit and choose to respect others. He’s willing to help us make changes in our hearts and attitudes. Are we open to listen and learn?

Verse from Nehemiah

但你们若归向我，谨守遵行我的诫命，你们被赶散的人虽在天涯，我也必从那里将他们招聚回来，带到我所选择立为我名的居所。

‭‭尼希米记‬ ‭1:9‬ ‭

“but if you return to Me and keep My commandments and do them, though those of you who have been scattered were in the most remote part of the heavens, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place where I have chosen to have My name dwell.’”

‭‭Nehemiah‬ ‭1:9‬ ‭

Nehemiah served in a prestigious position in the king’s court in Susa, but his heart was elsewhere. He had just heard news of the sad condition of “the city where my ancestors are buried” (Nehemiah 2:3). And so he prayed, “Remember the instruction you gave your servant Moses, . . . ‘if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name’ ” (1:8–9).

In Nehemiah’s case, longing for home was more than being tied to the land. It was communion with God that he most desired. Jerusalem was “the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.”

The dissatisfaction we sense deep down is actually a longing for God. We’re yearning to be home with Him.

Verse from Genesis

耶和华神为亚当和他妻子用皮子做衣服给他们穿。

‭‭创世记‬ ‭3:21‬ ‭

“And the Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife, and clothed them.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭3:21‬ ‭

Although Sam had done nothing wrong, he lost his job on the assembly line. Carelessness in another division led to problems in cars they built. After several crashes made the news, wary customers stopped buying their brand. The company had to downsize, leaving Sam out of work. He’s collateral damage, and it isn’t fair. It never is.

History’s first collateral damage occurred immediately after the first sin. It’s painful to imagine, but one or more animals that had always been safe in the garden were now slaughtered and skinned (Genesis 3:21). 

There was more to come. God told Israel, “Every day you are to provide a year-old lamb without defect for a burnt offering to the Lord; morning by morning you shall provide it” (Ezekiel 46:13). Every. Single. Day. How many thousands of animals have been sacrificed because of human sin?

Their death was necessary to cover our sin until Jesus, the Lamb of God, came to remove it (John 1:29). Call this “collateral repair.” As Adam’s sin kills us, so the Last Adam’s (Christ’s) obedience restores all who believe in Him (Romans 5:17–19). 

Collateral repair isn’t fair—it cost Jesus’ life—but it’s free. Reach out to Jesus in belief and receive the salvation He offers, and His righteous life will count for you.

Verse from Proverbs

“留心听训言的必定得益；倚靠耶和华的是有福的人。”

‭‭箴言‬ ‭16:20‬ ‭

“One who pays attention to the word will find good, And blessed is one who trusts in the Lord.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16:20‬ ‭

Those who seek the instruction of God's wisdom and who trust in God for their life's blessings and values will find joy. 

While this philosophy doesn't play well in the world of commercials, this understanding is the key to a blessed life.

Verse from Proverbs

“神所说的话句句都是炼净的，投靠他的，他就作他们的盾牌。”

‭‭箴言‬ ‭30:5‬ ‭

“Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭30:5‬ ‭

Many of us have experienced the paralyzing power of negative words or opinions others have of us. However, God’s words are “flawless,” perfect and absolutely sound. 

When we’re tempted to believe spirit-crushing ideas about our value or our purpose as God’s children, God’s enduring and infallible truth protects our minds and our hearts. We can echo the psalmist who wrote: “I remember, Lord, your ancient laws, and I find comfort in them” (Psalm 119:52).

Let’s combat lies we’ve accepted about God, ourselves, and others by replacing negative speak with Scripture.

Verses from 2 Peter

“正因这缘故，你们要多多努力：有了信心，又要增添美德；有了美德，又要增添知识； 有了知识，又要增添节制；有了节制，又要增添忍耐；有了忍耐，又要增添敬虔；”

‭‭彼得后书‬ ‭1:5-6‬ ‭

“Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness,”

‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭1:5-6‬ ‭

When we understand all Jesus has done for us, we have the greatest motivation for diligent, faithful living. And we find our strength through the resources God has given us to live for and serve Him. 

God through His Spirit can empower us in our efforts—big and small—to do so.

Verses from James

“你们既然按着使人自由的律法受审判，就应照着这律法说话行事。因为对不行怜悯的人，审判他们的时候就没有怜悯；怜悯胜过审判。”

‭‭雅各书‬ ‭2:12-13‬ ‭

“Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.”

‭‭James‬ ‭2:12-13‬ ‭

James reminds us that instead of showing favoritism to the wealthy, or even to one’s self, God desires that we love others as we love ourselves (v. 8). 

Instead of using others for selfish gain, or disregarding anyone whose position doesn’t benefit us, James instructs us to act as people who know how much we’ve been given and forgiven—and to extend that mercy to others.

God has given generously of His mercy. In all our dealings with others, let’s remember the mercy He’s shown us and extend it to others.

Verse from Proverbs

“敬畏耶和华是知识的开端，但愚妄人藐视智慧和教训。”

‭‭箴言‬ ‭1:7‬ ‭

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭1:7‬ ‭

Ellen opened her mailbox and discovered a bulky envelope with her dear friend’s return address. Just a few days prior, she’d shared a relational struggle with that friend. Curious, she unwrapped the package and found a colorful beaded necklace on a simple jute string. Attached was a card with a company’s slogan, “Say It in Morse Code,” and words translating the necklace’s hidden and wise message, “Seek God’s Ways.” Ellen smiled as she fastened it around her neck.

The book of Proverbs is a compilation of wise sayings—many penned by Solomon, who was acclaimed as the wisest man of his era (1 Kings 10:23). Its thirty-one chapters call the reader to listen to wisdom and avoid folly, starting with the core message of Proverbs 1:7. 

Wisdom—knowing what to do when—comes from honoring God by seeking His ways. In the introductory verses, we read, “Listen when your father corrects you. Don’t neglect your mother’s instruction. What you learn from them will crown you with grace and be a chain of honor around your neck” (vv. 8–9 nlt).

Ellen’s friend had directed her to the Source of the wisdom she needed: Seek God’s ways. Her gift focused Ellen’s attention on where to discover the help she needed.

When we honor God and seek His ways, we’ll receive the wisdom we need for all the matters we face in life. Each and every one.

Verse from Exodus

““除我以外，你不可有别的神。”

‭‭出埃及记‬ ‭20:3‬ ‭

“"You shall have no other gods before Me.”

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭20:3‬ ‭

Some people thought Karen was the best basketball player to ever come from her state. After leading her high-school team to back-to-back appearances in the championship game—once as a winner—she earned a full-ride scholarship to a major college program and capped off her career with a great run in the NCAA women's tournament. 

Drafted by a professional team and offered a startling salary as a rookie, she was set to live her childhood dream. For as long as she could remember, basketball had been the focus of her life. And now it was paying her back. Big time. 

But strangely, just as she was reaching the pinnacle of athletic success, she slipped into an unexpected funk. She felt uncharacteristically empty and purposeless. After all her sacrifice, after all her incredible achievements, she couldn't seem to shake free from whatever was oppressing her. 

Months passed without her being able to draw up enough energy for a single workout. She gorged herself on junk food, and her weight ballooned. The date to report to her pro team came and went. She was literally losing it. 

One afternoon, Karen summoned the strength to pick up a basketball and take a few shots in the gym. Within a mere matter of minutes, discouraged by her lack of precision, she put the ball away for good. The very thing she had once hoped to be her ticket to success had eaten her alive.

Idols can do that, you know. There's nothing wrong with basketball—or business or music or writing or entertainment or decorating—but when something becomes the focus of all your dreams and attention and energy, it becomes an idol in your life. For all intents and purposes, you begin worshiping it instead of God. 

Nothing can satisfy us like God. And nothing should replace Him in our affections.

Verse from 1 Corinthians

“我说的话、讲的道，都不是用智慧的话去说服人，而是用圣灵和能力来证明，”

‭‭哥林多前书‬ ‭2:4‬ ‭

“and my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power,”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭2:4‬ ‭

When we’ve come to know God personally, we’ll want to share about Him with those around us. Yet we sometimes shy away from it because we’re afraid of not presenting it well—with the “right” or eloquent words. 

By focusing instead on the “what”—the truth of who God is and His amazing works—we can, like Paul, trust God to empower our words and share without fear or reluctance. 

Verse from Isaiah

“因为主耶和华以色列的圣者这样说： “你们得救在于悔改和安息，你们得力在于平静和信靠。” 但你们竟不愿意。”

‭‭以赛亚书‬ ‭30:15‬ ‭

“For this is what the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, has said: “In repentance and rest you will be saved, In quietness and trust is your strength.” But you were not willing,”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭30:15‬ ‭

In the early days of the American Revolutionary War, an expedition was launched against British forces in Quebec. When the expedition passed through Newburyport, Massachusetts, on the way to Canada, they visited the tomb of the renowned evangelist George Whitefield. Whitefield’s coffin was opened and his clerical collar and cuffs were removed. The clothing was cut in pieces and distributed in the mistaken belief that it could somehow give the soldiers success.

The expedition failed. But what the soldiers did demonstrates our human tendency to trust in something less than a relationship with God—money or human strength or even religious traditions—for our ultimate well-being. God cautioned His people against this when invasion from Assyria threatened, and they sought Pharaoh’s help instead of turning from their sins and turning personally to Him: “This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: ‘In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it. You said, “No, we will flee on horses.” Therefore you will flee!’ ” (Isaiah 30:15–16).

Their “expedition” failed as well (just as God said it would) and Assyria overwhelmed Judah. But God also told His people, “The Lord longs to be gracious to you.” Even when we have trusted in lesser things, God still holds out His hand to help us return to Him. “Blessed are all who wait for him!” (v. 18).

Verse from Psalms

“如果不是耶和华建造房屋，建造的人就徒然劳苦；如果不是耶和华看守城池，看守的人就徒然警醒。”

‭‭诗篇‬ ‭127:1‬ ‭

“Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭127:1‬ ‭

"It's all up to you!" That's the prevailing mindset for high achievers in our world. But it is wrong. Our efforts to build and be a part of something great are ultimately in vain if the Lord doesn't bless them. 

They may flourish for a time under our intense efforts, but if the plans and the construction of great things is not from the Lord, they will not stand the test of time.

Verse from Psalms

“对慈爱的人，你显出你的慈爱；对完全的人，你显出你的完全；”

‭‭诗篇‬ ‭18:25‬ ‭

“To the faithful you show yourself faithful, to the blameless you show yourself blameless,”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭18:25‬ ‭

In the novella Family Happiness by Leo Tolstoy, main characters Sergey and Masha meet when Masha is young and impressionable. Sergey is an older, well-traveled businessman who understands the world beyond the rural setting where Masha lives. Over time, the two fall in love and marry.

They settle in the countryside, but Masha becomes bored with her surroundings. Sergey, who adores her, arranges a trip to St. Petersburg. There, Masha’s beauty and charm bring her instant popularity. Just as the couple is about to return home, a prince arrives in town, wanting to meet her. Sergey knows he can force Masha to leave with him, but he lets her make the decision. She chooses to stay, and her betrayal breaks his heart.

Like Sergey, God will never force us to be faithful to Him. Because He loves us, He lets us choose for or against Him. Our first choice for Him happens when we receive His Son, Jesus Christ, as the sacrifice for our sin (1 John 4:9–10). After that, we have a lifetime of decisions to make.

Will we choose faithfulness to God as His Spirit guides us or let the world entice us? David’s life wasn’t perfect, but he often wrote about keeping “the ways of the Lord” and the good outcomes that came from doing so (Psalm 18:21–24). When our choices honor God, we can experience the blessing David described: to the faithful, God shows Himself faithful.

Verse from Jeremiah

“耶和华这样说： “你们要站在路上察看， 寻访远古的路径， 看哪一条是美善的路，就走在其中； 这样，你们心里就必得安息。 他们却说：‘我们不走在其中。’”

‭‭耶利米书‬ ‭6:16‬ ‭

“This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.’”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭6:16‬ ‭

Temptation is a choice between the old path (God's will for us) and a new path provided by Satan. So often Satan's path is presented to us as a shortcut to happiness, prosperity, and accomplishment. 

However, this path leads us away from God and the blessings He longs to give us. Let's not be like the people of God in Jeremiah's day who refused God's way and said, "We will not walk in it." The outcome of their choice was their own destruction.