Pause

God continues to do amazing things for those who realize how valuable they are and seek first the kingdom of God.

Take time now to seek the place where God reigns, beginning in your own heart. Then watch for the amazing things that God causes all around.

Listen

Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you.” As for the holy ones in the land, they are the noble, in whom is all my delight. Those who choose another god multiply their sorrows; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names upon my lips. The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; I have a goodly heritage.

Psalm 16:1-6

Think

Life is about choices, as Bob Dylan sings, “You’re gonna have to serve somebody. Well it may be the devil or it may be the Lord, but you’re gonna have to serve somebody.”

Who do you hang out with? People know us by our friends, both face-to-face and in social media. The psalmist chooses and delights to hang out with God and the community of believers. They provide a sense of belonging, stability, and perspective. In a world of so many “apps,” there is no substitute for the living, true God, our heritage of Scripture, and the communion of the saints.

Give thanks today for your ancestors in the faith — from Abraham in Genesis to a faithful grandparent or youth director or pastor or mentor who guided you in pleasant places and helped protect you from wrong choices.

Al Masters

Pray

God, thank you for those who have shown and taught me the faith, and for the fellowship of Christian community. Help me to delight in your goodness and blessing this day. Amen.

Go

Give thanks today with a grateful heart, trusting in the God who provides for your needs.

Take account of your blessings and explore the ways you can be a blessing to others.