Through the eyes of faith
Today's Scripture
"Do not cast away your confidence for it will be richly rewarded." (Hebrews 10:35)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God is constantly trying to plant new seeds of victory inside of you! He's trying to increase you and enlarge your vision. He wants to take you to new levels of victory. But in order for this to happen, the seed has to take root in your heart. Before you're ever going to be successful, you've got to see yourself being successful. Before your dreams come to pass, you've got to look through your eyes of faith and see them come to pass.
The enemy doesn't want you to grow and increase, or fulfill your destiny, so he immediately tries to distract your heart and uproot the seed God planted. In order to defeat the enemy in your life, you have to stay focused on God, His Word–and the dream He's promised to you! Constantly meditate on His promises, and thank the Lord for His faithfulness no matter what the circumstances look like. Before long, you'll begin to see the dreams God placed in your heart come to pass.
A Prayer for Today
God, You see me as a victor and a champion. I will remember this and keep my eyes stayed on You as I go about my day. What I achieve on my own is nothing compared to the plans You have in store for my life. I am confident in Your love and in Your vision. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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There's power in unity
Today's Scripture
"By this shall all men know that you're my disciples when you have love for one another." (John 13:35)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
People aren't going to know we're His disciples by how many times we come to church or how many scriptures we can quote. People will know we're His disciples by the love we show one another. The enemy tries to bring division throughout the Body of Christ by keeping us focused on our differences. When we're critical and judgmental, we build walls that separate us. The Bible says in Ephesians 4:13, "We need to come together in the unity of faith." There's great power in unity! We can do a whole lot more together, as born-again believers, than we can do apart. Let's decide to lay down our differences and come together in the unity of our faith in Jesus Christ.
A Prayer for Today
God, I will allow the love of Christ to flow through me and show love to others in thought, word, and deed. Not only because it honors You, but because I am Your disciple to the world. When I am tempted to find fault with people, I will remember that you look on me with love, despite my sin. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Make up your mind for the Lord
Today's Scripture
"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you." (Isaiah 26:3)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God created us as emotional beings. Throughout life, you will have many different types of emotions and feelings–triggered easily by a word, a song, a thought, or a picture. Emotions allow you to give ｅxpression to what's inside your heart. Emotions in themselves are neither good nor bad, but it all depends on how you respond to them.
The enemy knows that if he can convince you to live according to how you feel, then he'll be able to keep you in defeat. Don't fall into his trap by allowing your emotions to affect your daily decisions and rule your life. As you allow the Lord to direct your every step, you will see His hand of blessing, and victory will unfold before you in every area of your life!
A Prayer for Today
God, From the time I wake up until my evening prayers, I will let You direct my thoughts and decisions so I can see past how I feel. I won't let my emotions get in the way of experiencing the blessings in my life. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Faith happens NOW
Today's Scripture
"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." (Hebrews 11:1)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Are you "playing it safe" in life and avoiding uncertainties? Did you know that in order to experience God's supernatural power and favor in your life, you have to be willing to take risks?
The Bible says in Hebrews, "Now faith is..." In other words, faith is always in the now. God is saying, now is the time to get out of the boat. Now is the time to stretch your faith. Now is the time to do whatever it is that God is telling you. You may feel uncomfortable at first. Choosing God's way, instead of your own, will stretch your faith and cause it to grow. In the same way a muscle grows when you work it, your faith grows when you work it. You may not necessarily like how it feels at first, but that is a sign that you're growing. God is taking you to a higher level and if you'll continue exercising your faith, you'll grow stronger and stronger.
If you're in a comfort zone today, we encourage you to step out of your "safe zone" and step into your "faith zone." Be bold, rise up, and be obedient to the voice of the Lord. As you do, you'll discover new strength and freedom like you've never experienced before, and you will discover the champion in you!
A Prayer for Today
God, I will listen to that voice inside me that tells me the risks that You want me to take and find the courage to step into the faith zone. Great things await me if I put my trust in You and really unleash my faith. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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The high price of victory
Today's Scripture
"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." (Hebrews 12:11)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
There is a price to pay to walk in victory. If you want to experience God's best, it's going to take some hard work. In order to live the abundant life God has planned, we must be willing to sacrifice acting on how we feel, so we can act on the Word of God. It's not easy to love people when they're not being nice. It's not easy just to overlook an insult. It's not easy to keep a good attitude and be patient when things aren't going your way. Sometimes it hurts to keep the flesh under, and sometimes it's uncomfortable.
The seeds you sow today will bring a harvest in the future. When you focus on the payoff of doing what is right in the Lord's sight, you will find strength to obey His Word. The Bible tells us that Jesus "focused on the joy that was set before Him" so He could endure the cross. Jesus knew the suffering He endured on your behalf would bring Him the joy of having a personal relationship with you–and you were worth the price!
A Prayer for Today
God, I am so blessed to follow the example of Your son, who loved and forgave unconditionally. When I find the strength today to turn the other cheek, overlook an insult, or keep a good attitude, I will harvest the rewards tomorrow. I have the strength to obey. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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God rewards a mature faith
Today's Scripture
"All things are yours, whether the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours, and you are of Christ, and Christ is of God." (1 Corinthians 3: 21-23)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Are you ready to receive the full blessing the Lord has waiting for you? The Bible says in Galatians 4:1 that we must be mature in order to receive the inheritance of the Lord. We show maturity by ruling over our emotions and choosing to make decisions based on what is right, instead of how we feel. The Bible says in I Corinthians 3 that we are unspiritual when we are under the control of ordinary impulses.
God wants you to excel. He wants you to live in victory. But you must do your part to mature in Christ. The more you mature, the more God will pour out His blessings in your life. Determine in your heart today that you're going to rule over your emotions. Learn to say no to your flesh and watch the Lord promote and increase you in every area of your life!
A Prayer for Today
God, I have the power to exercise self-control. When I am tempted to overreact and do something I know I shouldn't, I will appeal to You and refrain from entering into the trap of temptation. I will do what's right, not what feels right. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Make peace a priority
Today's Scripture
"Where there is strife, there is confusion and every kind of evil." (James 3:16)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Strife is a powerfully destructive force that the enemy uses to try to bring confusion and turmoil into our lives. Marriages are torn apart, businesses are destroyed, and lifelong friends are divided by strife. Satan will make sure that you have plenty of opportunity each day to get upset with those whom you care about the most. Things often happen on a daily basis that can aggravate you and make you want to be rude or angry toward your family and those around you.
We encourage you to make peace a priority in your life. Don't give the enemy a foothold. If you will do your part and honor God by being a maker and maintainer of peace, God will honor you. He will fight your battles for you. He will pour out His blessings in your life and you will live the overcoming life of victory that He has in store just for you.
A Prayer for Today
God, I choose to pursue peace. I refuse to argue, to be sarcastic or disrespectful. I am going to keep peace in my home and my life, even if it means I have to swallow my pride. As a peacemaker, I realize that sometimes I have to release my "right to be right." In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Common sense for Christians
Today's Scripture
"For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding." (Proverbs 2:6)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
The Lord grants wisdom. He gives good sense to the godly. He shows how to distinguish right from wrong and how to make the right decision every time. Friend, you can make the right decision in life, every single time, when you listen to the wisdom of God and make the choice to obey it. one definition of the word "wisdom" is simply "common sense." I believe many of the challenges we face in life can be turned around by using the common sense God has given us.
If you are facing a challenge today–perhaps in your business, in your home, in your finances, or relationships, ask the Lord for His wisdom. Ask Him to show you if there is anything that you may be doing to cause the problem, or should be doing to resolve it. When He reveals the answer to your heart, be quick to act on it and you will experience the victory!
A Prayer for Today
God, It is amazing that I can tap into Your infinite wisdom. All of my decisions are best made by consulting You first and listening to Your response in my heart. I will remember that today and every day. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Choose God!
Today's Scripture
"If you live by the Spirit, you'll not fulfill the lusts of the flesh." (Galatians 5:16)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Did you know that we make over 2,500 choices everyday? Because of that, choosing to live according to the Spirit is the most important decision you can make. one way God speaks to you is through your spirit, or conscience. The quality of your life is determined by the quality of your decisions. When you choose to obey God's leading, that "inner prompting," you will always make the right choice!
It says in I John 3:21 that a guilty conscience hinders communication with our Heavenly Father. That's why it is so important to stay true to your conscience and quickly repent if you've made a mistake. Remember, Jeremiah 29:11 says that God has great plans in store for you and when you choose to follow His leading, He'll guide you on a path of victory in every area of life! You really were born to win!
A Prayer for Today
God, When I listen to my inner voice, the one that tells me right from wrong, and make the right choice I know it pleases You. May my choices today honor You and demonstrate my commitment to being Your disciple in this world. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Claim victory over your weight!
There's nothing like a good self-image based on healthy lifestyle choices and the confidence that comes from knowing you are accepted by the most important person of all, God! For many people, eating right, exercising, and avoiding the impulse to snack is a real challenge. If you're one of those people – or have a friend or family member who has that struggle – God wants you to have victory over your diet just like He wants you to succeed in every area of life. He will help you! Stay focused on the rewards: When you are at your ideal weight – not supermodel thin, but a weight that's realistically right for you – you will live healthier, stronger, and happier, with a better attitude. That's the life that God intended for you!
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Trust God with your dreams
Today's Scripture
"The vision is for an appointed time. Though it tarry, wait earnestly for it, for it will surely come." (Habakkuk 2:3)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
We know God has put dreams and desires in your heart—things you are hoping, praying, and believing for. The Bible says "if we'll pray in faith, according to God's Word, then God will hear us and He will answer those prayers."
When you have a dream from God in your heart, you don't have to struggle and try to force it to happen. You don't have to be worried or frustrated, wondering if it's ever going to come to pass. When you have the promises of God deep in your heart, the Bible says you will "enter into the rest of God." That's a place of total trust. A place where you know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that God is going to see you through. It's a place of faith, knowing that God is in complete control, and at the exact right time, He will bring your dream to pass!
A Prayer for Today
God, You know the dreams of my heart. I rely on You to bring them to fruition and trust in Your perfect plan and perfect timing. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Wait on your blessings
Today's Scripture
"In due season, you shall reap if you faint not." (Galatians 6:9)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God has a due season in store for all of you! The Bible doesn't say you might reap, it says "you shall reap"–if you don't give up. In order to reach your due season or harvest of blessing, you must continue to believe God's Word and confess His promises daily. You are the only one who knows what God has placed in your heart, and the evidence of that is what comes out of your mouth. It's as if you are in a courtroom and the enemy is your accuser but the Holy Spirit is your advocate. Your testimony will prove that you are standing strong on God's Word!
We love you and declare that it's time for your due season!
A Prayer for Today
God, I won't give up! I will patiently wait for the blessings that You have in store for me. I trust that Your timing is perfect. Meanwhile, I will honor You with the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Faith to overcome the world
Today's Scripture
"...for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world even our faith." (I John 5:4)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
As a child of God, you have the power of faith within you to overcome the world. That includes everything in the world, and everything the world brings your way! The Bible says that faith comes by hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17). As you hear the Word of God and store it in your heart, your faith in God grows stronger. When the enemy tries to attack you through sickness, fear, worry, or financial mishaps, just use your faith by declaring the Word of God. Declare that by His stripes, you are healed! Declare that perfect love casts out all fear! Declare that God shall supply all your needs! Declare that because you are born of God, you have faith to overcome the world!
We love you and believe in victory for every area of your life!
A Prayer for Today
God, With You by my side, I can overcome anything this world throws at me. Every day that I read my Bible and memorize scripture, I grow closer to You and arm myself against the enemy. I live in this world, but I am not of this world. I am Yours and I have the power to overcome anything! In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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God loves a giver!
Today's Scripture
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
One of the greatest challenges facing our society today is the tendency to live self-centered and selfish lives. But did you know that God created us to be givers?
He created us to be vessels of His selfless and compassionate love. John 3:16 tells us that God showed His love to us by giving His Son, and we also show our love to others by our giving. You can experience a new level of God's joy, blessing, and favor in your life when you step out and begin giving of yourself to others in a greater capacity.
Learn to walk in love and prefer others above yourself. I Thessalonians 5:15 says, "See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always aim to show kindness and seek to do good to everybody." Learn how to better follow the leading of the Holy Spirit to meet the needs of those around you. When you do, you will experience the supernatural joy of giving, and God will honor your efforts and pour out his abundant blessing on you.
A Prayer for Today
God, You gave me the ultimate example of self-sacrificial giving. There are so many opportunities to show Your love to others. Every day, I will seek out ways to show kindness and compassion. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Put on the breastplate of God's approval
God wants you to feel good about yourself! He wants you to be secure and to have a healthy self-image. Dwell on the fact that you've been chosen, you've been set apart, you've been approved, you've been accepted. Put on your robe of righteousness and let God work on you — and like yourself in the process. The scriptures confirm that God has already approved and accepted you. And if God approves you, why don't you start approving yourself and feeling good about who you are! Put on the breastplate of God's approval each morning and boldly declare: I am a chosen child of God almighty — forgiven, adored, and approved.
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The power of words
Today's Scripture
"Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flows the springs of life. Put away from you a deceitful mouth, and put devious lips far from you." (Proverbs 4:23-24)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
I want to encourage you today to watch what you are saying. Your words have creative power and you use them as a destructive force or as an instrument of blessing. If you continually speak negative words over your life, then eventual defeat will be the result. In the same way, if you speak words of faith and victory, you will see a harvest of blessing not only in your own life, but also in the lives of those around you.
We challenge you to watch over the words you speak. When you find yourself in a difficult situation, don't say the first thing that pops into your head. Learn to control your emotions and take those thoughts captive. When you use words of faith and victory, God will fight your battles for you. You'll overcome every challenge that you face and you will live the abundant life that God has in store for you.
A Prayer for Today
God, I believe I can change my world by changing my words. I will speak of my visions, my dreams, and my hopes. I will declare, this day, that I can do all things through Christ and that I am more than a conqueror! I can do all these things because You first believed in me. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Living on purpose
Today's Scripture
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith." (II Timothy 4:7)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
While he was imprisoned in Rome prior to his execution, the Apostle Paul wrote to his young protégé, Timothy. Paul knew that his death was near, but he had lived his life with such passion and dedication to Jesus Christ that he had no regrets. Paul did not store up treasure here on earth, but fixed his eyes on heaven. He had given his all to further the cause of the Gospel, and he had used every ounce of talent and potential that God had given him. Since he had used his gifts to the fullest, he had no regrets. In fact, Paul was fulfilling his God-given destiny right up until his death.
We encourage and challenge you to live like Paul. Live a life of no regret. Find your purpose. Pursue it. Give it everything you've got. When you do that, God will lead you, guide you, and prosper everything you put your hand to. He'll pour out His favor and blessings, and you, too, will fulfill your divine destiny.
A Prayer for Today
God, When I take my last breath, I want to come to You with no regrets. There is a purpose for my life, Lord. Help me to discover it, embrace it, and fulfill it for Your glory. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Your best days are ahead!
Today's Scripture
"No man has ever seen, heard or even imagined the wonderful things God has in store for those who love the Lord." (I Corinthians 2:9)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
No matter where you are in life right now, God has much more in store for you. God wants to increase you–He wants to give you more wisdom so you can make better decisions. He wants you to prosper so that you can be a blessing to others. He wants to give you more money so you can be a blessing to others. Don't get stuck in that old rut where you just get up and go to work, come home, go to bed, and then do it all again. That's not all there is to life. God has new frontiers for you to explore and higher mountains to climb!
Proverbs says, "The path of the righteous gets brighter and brighter and brighter." If you're going to start experiencing these new victories, you must do your part and start thinking the way God thinks. Think big! Think expansive! Think increase! Start expecting the unexpected!
A Prayer for Today
God, You created the heavens and the earth and breathed life into the universe—Your plans for me are big! There is nothing I have accomplished that is as great as what you have in store for me. I believe there are great things to come. I believe in You. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Have faith in God's vision
Today's Scripture
"Do not cast away your confidence for it will be richly rewarded." (Hebrews 10:35)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Before you're ever going to be successful, you've got to see yourself being successful. Before your dreams come to pass, you've got to look through your eyes of faith and see them come to pass.
The enemy doesn't want you to grow and increase, or fulfill your destiny. Instead he immediately tries to distract your heart and uproot the seed God planted. In order to defeat the enemy in your life, you have to stay focused on God, His Word–and the dream He's promised to you! Constantly meditate on His promises, live a life that is pleasing and honoring to God, and thank the Lord for His faithfulness no matter what the circumstances. Before long, you'll begin to see the dreams God placed in your heart come to pass.
A Prayer for Today
God, I want to please You by living the life You planned for me. As I grow in my faith, I know that I will see you bless every area of my life. Thank you for planting seeds of greatness in me and having confidence that I will fulfill my dreams. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Take time for you
Today's Scripture
"...they have made me a keeper of vineyards, but my own vineyard I have not kept." (Song of Solomon 1:6)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Solomon was good at taking care of everyone else–his family, his friends, his work. He made sure everyone else was happy, but in doing that, he neglected to take care of himself. Are you living like that today? Do you spend all your time on other people, but not any on yourself? Eventually you will burn out and you won't be able to reach out to others. Decide today to begin investing in yourself. Take time to relax and rejuvenate yourself. When you are refreshed emotionally, physically, and spiritually, you are able to give to others more effectively. As you bring balance to your life, you will begin to enjoy life to the fullest and you will discover the champion in you!
A Prayer for Today
God, You tell me to lie down beside still waters...I will make time for quiet moments with You. Serving You is a priority in my life. I will make it a habit to relax and rejuvenate so I can better serve You. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Be fruitful, not busy
Today's Scripture
"...then God blessed them, and said to them, 'be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it...'" (Genesis 1:28)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Are you missing out on the joys of life because you are too busy? Are you over-committed? God called you to be fruitful – He never called you to be busy. Don't get activity mixed up with productivity. Just because you are on the go, and always doing things–even godly things–doesn't necessarily mean that you're fulfilling God's best plan for your life.
We encourage you to prayerfully take inventory of the different activities in your life. Ask the Lord to show you which areas need to be pruned, and which areas need more focus. Ask Him to show which relationships to move away from, and which relationships to cultivate in your life. Stop allowing the unfruitful areas of your life to consume all of your time, focus, and energy. As you make adjustments to bring balance to your schedule, invest in the activities and relationships that bring you joy and peace. As you do, you will experience God's abundant blessing in every area of life!
A Prayer for Today
God, I will find time every day to pray. I will order my steps and make time for the things that really matter. There are areas in my life that need to be pruned so I can live a more purposeful life. Thank you for your perfect plan for my life. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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God bless America
Today's Scripture
"I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." (Psalm 121:1-2).
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
We worship the God of Restoration! His whole mission and purpose is to heal, build, restore, and prosper! (Isaiah 61:1-3) As you reflect on the challenges we face as a nation, we encourage you to lift up your eyes and keep your focus on Jesus. He promises that He will never leave us nor forsake us, and that He is near to all those who call upon His name.
Continue to stay in prayer for our country's leaders and officials...that they will operate in the wisdom of God in all they do. Also take the time today to pray for peace, strength, and comfort for the families of those who died five years ago today. God's Word promises that all things work together for good; so we believe God's best days are ahead! We love you and pray for God's richest blessing on you and upon our nation!
A Prayer for Today
God, Today I pray for the families of those who lost loved ones on 9/11. They are gone but not forgotten, and I lift up those they left behind. May I be an instrument of peace as we continue to heal and move forward as one nation under God. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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You can be a deliberate Christian!
Today's Scripture
"Keep your eyes fixed straight ahead. Don't look to the left and don't look to the right." (Proverbs 4:25)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
In order to fulfill your destiny, you have to know your purpose. You need a plan and then you must live according to that plan. You should wake up each day knowing where you're headed, which direction you're taking, and what you are going to accomplish – and then stick with it! Don't allow the distractions and busyness of life to steer you off course. Don't be distracted and spend your time and energy on things that are not helping you fulfill your destiny.
If you need direction for your life today, ask the Holy Spirit to show you how to order your time and arrange your schedule to accomplish God's will. Remember, as you walk in His plan for your life, you will experience His abundant blessing on everything you set your hand to! We love you and believe that God orders your every step!
A Prayer for Today
God, I have inside me seeds of greatness and a calling to move toward my destiny. I know that I need to be focused, and not just busy, to live out my purpose in life. I will order my steps for Your glory. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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The divine stamp of approval
Today's Scripture
"Before you were ever formed in your mother's womb, God saw you and He approved you." (Jeremiah 1:5)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
You are approved by Almighty God! You are created in His image and you're the apple of His eye. You did not choose God, but He chose you and He is pleased with you–His most precious creation.
Notice that verse doesn't say that God approves you as long as you don't have any faults, or as long as you don't make any mistakes. No, God approves you unconditionally. No matter how many weaknesses you may think you have today, no matter how many times you fall in your walk with God, you've got to get right back up again and hold your head up high. Don't allow the enemy to bring strife into your life by deceiving you into thinking that you are not "good enough" for the plan of God. Stand strong in your thoughts about yourself knowing that not only have you been chosen, but you are approved by Almighty God.
A Prayer for Today
God, Thank you for your unconditional acceptance. I was made in Your image and born with your approval...and that makes me good enough for any challenge I face in this life. I will hold my head up high and look for opportunities to share this message with my brothers and sisters in Christ. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Overcoming obstacles to victory
Today's Scripture
"A wide door has been open to me and with it are many adversaries." (I Corinthians 16:9)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God is always giving you opportunities to move forward in life. It is God's desire that you grow and reach your full potential. Anytime you take a step forward, the enemy will try to bring opposition and adversity against you. But God also promises that through Him, you can overcome any opposition the enemy brings your way.
When you step out in faith and the opposition comes, stand your ground and keep doing what you know to do. Keep on praying. Keep reading the Word. Keep going to church. Keep walking in love and forgiveness, and keep your heart tender. When the enemy sees that you are more determined than he is, he'll back down and you will move forward to new levels of victory! Stay focused and full of joy no matter what comes against you. As you do, you will overcome opposition and discover the champion in you!
A Prayer for Today
God, I will be the steadfast Christian You called me to be with the help of prayer, Bible study, and Christian fellowship. I have faith that I will overcome whatever comes my way. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Dare to step out of your comfort zone
You and God are a majority! Instead of looking at what you cannot do, begin to look at what God can do. All Moses had was a rod and God used it to part the Red Sea. All David had was a slingshot and God used it to defeat Goliath. All one little boy had was a fish and a few loaves of bread and God used it to feed thousands. When we come to the end of our natural ability, that’s when God’s supernatural ability kicks in. Take your eyes of your circumstances and focus on the one that can turn everything around. If you want to see God take you to places you’ve never dreamed of and if you want to see him work supernaturally in your life, then you need to step out of your comfort zone. Dare to take a step of faith today and follow God where He is leading you.
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Live to give
Today's Scripture
"I will bless you with an abundant increase of favors. And I will make your name famous and distinguished and you shall be a blessing." (Genesis 12:2)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God wants you to learn to be a giver. Instead of trying to figure out what everybody can do for you, begin to figure out what you can do for other people. When you reach out to other people in need, God will make sure that your own needs are met. When you learn the simple secret of how to "live to give," you will truly be fulfilled and happy, and experience the abundance God has for you.
You may think you don't have anything to give, but you can give a hug, or a smile. You can give your time and encourage those around you. You can make a difference in somebody's life today. As you develop your lifestyle of giving, you will discover the champion in you!
A Prayer for Today
God, You ask that I learn to be a giver and I know that I will be fulfilled and rewarded when I do. Thank you for giving me opportunities to serve You by serving others. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Fight the good fight
Today's Scripture
"Test me, O Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind; for your love is ever before me, and I walk continually in your truth." (Psalms 26:2)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Anyone can be obedient, keep a good attitude and stay full of joy when things are going well. But what kind of attitude do you have when times get tough and things don't go your way? Will you stay faithful and keep pressing on even when it seems you're making no progress?
Sometimes God allows trials to test us, to refine and purify our faith. Remember – anyone can quit. Anyone can complain. But God is looking for people who will persevere until the very end. Stand strong and fight the good fight of faith. When you do you live a life of abundance and you will be a champion in life!
A Prayer for Today
God, I have what it takes to overcome adversity and arise victorious! I know You will never disappoint me and will be present in troubled times. I am determined to have an attitude of gratitude no matter what I face. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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God's peace is in you!
Today's Scripture
"Cast your burdens on the Lord, releasing the weight of them and He will sustain you." (Psalm 55:22)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Jesus said in John 14:27, "I'm leaving you My peace. I'm giving it unto you." The Amplified version says, "Now stop allowing yourself to be agitated and disturbed. And do not permit yourselves to become unsettled." God has done His part to give you His peace. As a child of God, His peace is on the inside of you right now. You've got to do your part and make the decision to live in peace.
When negative circumstances arise, and you make the choice to stay calm and live in peace, you are showing that you have faith and trust in God. You are saying, "God, I know that You are in control, I know that You're going to see me through. I know that no weapon formed against me is going to prosper." Today, choose to keep peace in your life. When you cast your burdens on Him, He promises to sustain you–that's a place of true peace, a place of lasting power!
A Prayer for Today
God, what an amazing discovery to find that Your perfect peace is within me! I trust You and will tap into that peace when life tries to steal it away. Thank you for giving me power over negative attitudes! In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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God honors those who persevere
Today's Scripture
"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." (Hebrews 10:36)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
We all face challenges, difficulties, and times when things don't go as planned. Have you ever noticed that it's in times of difficulty that we grow and develop? Those times are opportunities to allow God's Word to come alive in your life and see you through to victory. God will use your challenges to stretch you, and enlarge your vision.
We encourage you to be faithful during your adversity. Make up your mind to serve God no matter what comes against you, and God will honor you. Hold your head up high knowing that no matter what the situation looks like today, God will reward your faithfulness. Fight the good fight of faith. You are being prepared for promotion. And if you'll simply remain faithful and fight through life, then in due season, God will promote you to new levels of victory and you'll live that abundant life that He has promised you!
A Prayer for Today
God, I can face the challenges in my life with my head held high, knowing You have confidence in me. Open my eyes to the good that will come from it. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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You are favored
Today's Scripture
"And the angel said, 'Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.'" (Luke 1:28)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Did you know that as a child of God, you are highly favored? No matter what you may have done in the past, as soon as you make Jesus Christ your Lord and Savior, you have favor with God! Mary didn't understand how or why she had God's favor, or what that favor was for. At that moment, she didn't know that she was chosen as a pure and holy vessel to bring Christ to the world. Friend, you have God's favor for the very same reason as Mary–because God chose you and made you a pure and holy vessel to bring Christ to your home, workplace, and even the world.
A Prayer for Today
God, I am blessed to be highly favored! There are friends, co-workers, even family members who need to hear Your message. God, You can count on me to share Your Word with the world. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Stretch into the next level
God never performs His greatest feats in your yesterdays. He may have done a lot in your past, but the best is still yet to come. The Bible says, “No person has ever seen, heard, or imagined the wonderful things God has in store for those that love Him.” Remember, you are a child of the Most High God. He has breathed His very life in you and planted seeds of greatness on the inside. You have so many gifts and talents! Begin to tap in to the talent, creativity, discipline, wisdom and determination inside of you. Choose to shake off the mindset of complacency and stretch into your full God-given potential. Then, God will take you to new heights that you cannot even imagine today.
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Double your blessings
Today's Scripture
"Return to the stronghold, O prisoners who have hope. This very day I am declaring that I will restore double to you." (Zechariah 9:12)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
We love to take our children to get ice cream. once when they were little, our daughter was bumped by one of her friends; down went her cone and out came the tears. We usually only buy her a single scoop, but something made us say, "Alexandra, this time I'm going to get you a triple scoop."
Do you know that when God restores what you have lost, He doesn't just give you a single scoop . . . He promises to give you more than you have lost! No matter what has been taken away from you, no matter what you've lost or experienced in the past, if you give it over to the Lord, He will return to you more than you could ask or imagine. He'll make things right and give you more than what was lost or stolen. He'll restore double what was lost!
A Prayer for Today
God, I believe my better days are still to come. The pain in my life prepares me to receive twice what I have lost, so I will face whatever comes with steadfast faith. Thank you for giving me this hope. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Let go of the past
Today's Scripture
"Fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:18)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
The first step in moving forward into a fresh future is forgetting the disappointments of yesterday. No matter what people have done to you, or how unfair life has been, God is able to bring you out stronger than before. God wants the rest of your life to be more blessed than the first part—greater, in fact, than anything you could ever imagine. Unfortunately, too many people quit believing for more when they face tough times. They quit expecting anything good to happen. The truth is, our hardships and trials are really opportunities for us to go higher.
Whatever struggles you're going through right now, no matter how large or small . . . they are subject to change. Nothing may look right in your life today, but it's all subject
to change. God is working behind the scenes on your behalf!
A Prayer for Today
God, I feel at peace with my situation knowing You are behind the scenes, preparing a fantastic future for me. I am going to let go of the past and believe for more blessing and abundance in the days to come. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Don't let the past poison your future
Today's Scripture
"He has sent me . . . to comfort all who mourn . . . to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes." (Isaiah 61:1-3)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Too many people today spend their days looking in the rearview mirror of their lives. You don't have to deny that painful things have happened to you. If you have lost a job, been mistreated, or had a loved one die, those are real hurts.
What we are saying is that you need to leave those things in the past and move on. If you carry those disappointments around with you, you are going to start each day telling yourself, "God couldn't possibly have anything good for me today because of what happened yesterday."
You have to let go of any shattered dreams, quit dwelling on any disappointments, and forgive the people who have hurt you. Release all that bitterness – God promises to give you a new beginning!
A Prayer for Today
God, I am ready to trade the ashes of the past for the beauty in my future. There are painful things in my past, hurts that I have been hanging on to, but it's joy that I want instead. I embrace Your promise for a fresh future! In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Be future focused!
Today's Scripture
"The Lord's compassions never fail. They are new every morning." (Lamentations 3:22-23)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God promises you new mercies each morning. That means even though you may have done something last week that you're not proud of, you don't have to carry that around with you. You simply need to receive God's mercy and forgiveness today and go on.
Dream a new dream. God still has great things in store for you. But you have to do your part and keep pursuing it. Keep believing for God's best. Don't settle for second best, not good enough, or barely getting by. God wants to give you the very best for the brightest future you could possibly imagine!
A Prayer for Today
God, I thank You for burying my past in the sea of Your forgetfulness and forgiveness. I'm asking for Your fresh mercies today. I'm asking You to pour out Your favor and blessings on my life. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Let hope fill your heart
Today's Scripture
"I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten." (Joel 2:25)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Do you want to be set free from bitterness and resentment? All you need to do is keep your heart pure and start each day by letting go of the baggage of the past. Don't try to collect a debt from others that only God can pay. If you'll leave it up to Him, God will return to you more than what you have lost.
God is on your side! He wants you to feel good about yourself and have a positive vision for your life. After all, God knows when you have a heart to please Him. And as you continue to please Him, you'll experience that life of victory He has in store for you.
A Prayer for Today
God, This is going to be a great day! I thank You that I'm going to do what I need to do to let go of the past, that I have discipline and self-control, and that I can make good decisions. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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God has big plans for you
Today's Scripture
"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" (Jeremiah 29:11)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it! He could have lived anywhere in the universe, but He chose to live in your heart. You are His most prized possession, and He has an unbelievable future planned for you.
God wants you to be free today. He is asking you to forget the past and start fresh with Him today. Stop beating yourself up over your past mistakes. Quit thinking that you don't deserve anything good. You are a child of the Most High God. So start living today, and begin seeing yourself the way God sees you, like the champion He created you to be.
A Prayer for Today
God, I imagine You smiling down on me. I confess with boldness that I am Your child and that You have a future filled with joy, hope, and blessings planned for me. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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See yourself as God sees you
Did you know that you talk to yourself more than you talk with anyone else? In fact, you’ve been doing it so long that your thoughts are like a recording playing over and over in your mind. Depending on what you think to yourself, this can be good or bad. Think about what you mediate on. Are they positive, empowering, motivating, and affirming thoughts? Don't dwell on thoughts that bring you down, see yourself the way God sees you. You are a child of the most high God! You are talented, creative, strong in the Lord and fully equipped to do what He has called you to do. When you shake off the defeating voices, your faith is energized. If you begin to talk to yourself in the right way, you’ll begin to enjoy life more, rise to a new level of confidence, and become all that God’s created you to be.
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Seize the joy!
Today's Scripture
"I have come that you may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance to the full, until it overflows." (John 10:10)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Imagine what you would do if someone told you that there was a special gift waiting for you at the top of the stairs and all you had to do is walk up a few steps and you could have it. It would not take you very long to get up those steps, would it?
At the top of those stairs are all of God's promises and plans for your life. All you have to do is walk up the stairs and you can possess all that He has in store for you. But you have to do your part. You have to take the steps necessary in order to take hold of the promises that are waiting for you. God wants us to slow down, be ourselves, lighten up and laugh more, stay positive (no matter what happens), refuse to worry and live to give. As you step out in faith, God will move on your behalf and you will begin to experience that abundant overflowing joy!
A Prayer for Today
God, Today I step toward the joy you offer me. I will live a life that glorifies You and begin to see myself as You see me—full
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The power of the resurrection
Today's Scripture
"And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you." (Romans 8:11)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
As Christians we worship the one who once was dead, but is now alive. We are continually amazed at the power that was displayed at the resurrection. Christ's resurrection, and the hope it brings, is what separates our faith from all others. When you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, that same power lives in your heart. The same power of the Holy Spirit, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And we know that with God living in us, all things are possible. Let me encourage you to tap into that source of power so that you may experience the abundant life God has in store for you.
A Prayer for Today
God, Thank you for your precious son. I know that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives inside of me. Because of that, I know that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
Read another Word with Joel & Victoria
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Tap into God's power
Today's Scripture
"And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ..." (Ephesians 3: 17-18)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
Are you in a relationship that you feel is over, a relationship that seems "dead?" Jesus would say to you that He has power over death. The love of God will bring life into that relationship and take it to an entirely new level. God's love can bring back to life what may seem dead to you.
Maybe you feel that you have a "dead end job," or maybe you think your life is going nowhere and you have no purpose. We want to encourage you today! The same power that raised Jesus from the dead can revitalize your career and put you on a path of success. We know that God's plan for you is good, full of hope and purpose. His love for you will never run out. Your faith—no matter how small—can ignite His power in every one of your situations.
A Prayer for Today
God, today I will be surrounded by Your favor and no weapon formed against me will prosper. You have power over death and I believe that transformative power can bring hope, peace, joy, and fulfillment to my life. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Revive your joy
Today's Scripture
"Shout with joy to God, all the earth!" (Psalms 66:1)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
We want to share with you three simple things you can do each day that will breathe new life into everything you do. First you have to declare your faith and use your words to change your situation. You should declare with a greater determination: "God is turning things around for my good and His glory!"
Next, write down the good things that God does for you each day. Begin to focus on the victories and blessings in your life. When you make an account of His goodness, you will quickly discover that He is working in you "to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think" (Ephesians 3:20).
Finally, be thankful. Take a moment every day to thank the Lord for all He has done for you. When you develop a thankful heart, you are changing your focus from how big your problems are to how big your God is!
A Prayer for Today
God, I praise You for your life-changing power and unconditional love. I want to give new life to my relationship with You by keeping a record of blessings and answered prayers and giving thanks for Your work in my life. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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Stop listening to the accusing voices
Too many people go around feeling bad because they are listening to the wrong voices. The enemy is called the accuser of the brethren and there is nothing he would like more than for you to live your life feeling guilty and condemned. Don't make the mistake of receiving these accusations. The Apostle Paul said, "The things I know I should do, I don't. The things I know I shouldn't do, I end up doing." Even he struggled in this area and he wrote more than half of the New Testament! God is not displeased with you just because you don't perform perfectly one hundred percent of the time. When you go through setbacks in life, choose to receive God's mercy. Let go of the past and press forward with joy, confidence, and purpose.
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Three simple steps to a joy-filled life
Today's Scripture
"I have come that you may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance to the full, till it overflows." (John 10:10)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
God wants you to have joy in your life — an abundance of joy! Real joy is knowing you are right where God wants you to be, sometimes regardless of your circumstances. Joy comes from seeing yourself the way God sees you — full of potential, with a divine destiny. You can begin today to experience a life filled with joy if you'll take a few simple steps. First, to really enjoy life slow down and appreciate the journey! one of Satan's tricks is to get us so focused on the future that we can't enjoy the present. Second, lighten up. Learn to laugh. It's a wonderful gift from God to help us more fully enjoy life. Third, be positive. The Bible says in Isaiah 61:3 to put on "a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair." You can choose to praise even in life's difficult situations. Reach for the joy God has waiting for you!
A Prayer for Today
God, I know that You want me to enjoy the abundant life You have provided for me through Jesus. Help me to slow down and enjoy the journey, and not get caught in the fast pace of life. I want to enjoy the stage of life I'm in, even if things aren't going well. Today, with Your help I will put on the garment of praise and look for the good in life. Thank You for putting Your supernatural joy inside of me. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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How to improve any relationship in your life
Today's Scripture
"In humility consider others better than yourselves." (Philippians 2:3)
Today's Word from Joel and Victoria
You can improve your relationship with anyone, a child, neighbor or even your boss! It starts with creating an atmosphere of peace in your relationships. Sometimes we feel we just can't get along with certain people. But God puts us with people who are different from us on purpose. They have a lot to give us if we'll just seek to understand them. We have to focus on meeting their needs, filling their "emotional tank," instead of just looking for what they can do for us. If you do these things, your life will be much richer. You'll resolve conflict quicker. You'll be able to more easily overlook each other's faults and be more forgiving. You'll be content and satisfied in life.
And don't worry, God hasn't forgotten about your own needs. Because God is faithful, He will pour out His favor and abundance into your own life even while you are focused on blessing others!
A Prayer for Today
God, thank You for giving me my family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and all of the people You have put in my life. Help me to appreciate each one as a unique person with something valuable to teach me and share with me. Help me to learn from them, and make it a priority to do whatever I can to meet their needs. Thank You for Your promise that as I focus on others, I will also be blessed and grow in my relationship with them and with You. In Jesus' Name – Amen.
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