Pruning

"Every branch in me (Jesus) that does not bear fruit he (God) takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he (God) prunes, that it may bear more fruit." John 15:2 

Pruning is the act of cutting off parts in order to improve the whole. When plants are pruned, the ugly that was hidden under the fruit and flowers is revealed. Over time, the plant recovers, grows, and is healthier and more fruitful than before. The same goes for us. When we are serious about living for Christ, God may prune us of people, activities, jobs, or anything else that is hindering our growth. Instead of resisting, we should endure that season to reveal our best self. Happy Friday! 

"May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy" Colossians 1:11

Kindness

"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Ephesians 4:32

Kindness is what most people expect from others but are reluctant to demonstrate. This is usually because when kindness is extended it's taken for granted. Like when you hold the door open for a stranger and they don't acknowledge your existence. Rude. But good thing believers don't measure their worth by people's standards, but by the ones The Bible sets. Think of some ways that you can be kind daily...with a smile and a pure heart. (No eye rolling or giant sighs allowed ha)  Happy Thursday!

"A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself." Proverbs 11:17

Worship

"Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you." Psalm 63:3 

The grace, peace, and favor that God extends to is daily is a gift that we don't deserve. Since God is unchanging, we can rely on him unlike the roller coaster ride that we call life. Through everything we are called to worship. How often do you find yourself glorifying God with your speech? Only on Sunday or when prompted? If you're praying for a breakthrough, confirmation, or direction, try increasing your worship and allow the Holy Spirit to work within you. Happy Wednesday! 

"I cling to you; your right hand upholds me." Psalm 63:8 

*I love this song! It's the perfect complement to today's verses*

Tick...Tock...

"But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day." 2 Peter 3:8 

The calendar system, time, and speed were all created and implemented by man. Yes, schedules keep order but they can also created confusion. People began to think that they control time and a plan can fix everything. But according to the scripture, God doesn't operate off of your biological clock or your self imposed timetable.  Life is but a vapor (James 4:14) compared to eternity. Trust God's timing and allow your waiting period to grow and develop patience in you. Honestly, waiting for what's next never ends, so you might as well enjoy it! Happy Tuesday! 

Rest Up

"Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes..." Ecclesiastes 11:9

I don't know about you, but I'm excited about the weekend! I'm guilty of working all week and then over scheduling my weekend in an effort to get the most out of it. This weekend, I vow to to rest and rejuvenate... for at least one day...or one hour :). Regardless of your plans, don't neglect spending quality time with our Lord and Savior. He wants to hang out with you too! Haha Happy Friday!

"A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." Proverbs 17:22

Created to Worship

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." 1 Peter 2:9 

People were created to worship. We were put on this earth to bring glory to God, our creator. Although we were made this way, it may seem awkward to raise our hands in church, sing loudly, or even clap our hands. However, we have no problem loudly singing the lyrics to our favorite song, jumping up in excitement when our team scores, or losing our minds when we see/ meet a celebrity. Just as naturally as those expressions of praise come, we should practice extolling our king in a similar manner. Challenge yourself to increase your praise and to worship like nobodies watching. Happy Thursday! :) 

"Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!" Psalm 95:6

What about your friends?

"Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel." Proverbs 27:9

Take a look at your friends. Can you count on them to give you wise counsel? Do they direct you to God's words versus their own? In the same vein, what kind of friend are you? Are people drained when they finally escape your presence or are they content, feeling better than before? Let's focus on nurturing friendships that cause growth rather than regression. Don't allow bad company to corrupt your morals (1 Corinthians 15:33). Happy Wednesday! :)

"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up..." 1 Thessalonians 5:11