The Source of Strength Day 1
“I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit.”
Ephesians 3:16
Paul, the Apostle, is praying for us today! It is sure that this verse was directly written to those alive in Paul’s day living in Ephesus. It is also true that these things were written and preserved for us to know them today. What a great blessing!
The point of his prayer is for us to be empowered by the Holy Spirit. This empowerment is actually “energized.” The power of God Almighty fills us and gives us strength for each day. The Holy Spirit is the person of God sent to live inside of us. He brings us joy, peace and the power to live victoriously.
When you are feeling tired and discouraged on your journey, remember this prayer that Paul prayed for YOU! God’s power is UNLIMITED. Just ask Him to fill you today so you can run on your journey! God bless you with His Strength!
Pastor Paul Pierce
Day 2 Strength in Numbers?
“The LORD said to Gideon, ‘You have too many warriors with you. If I let all of you fight the Midianites, the Israelites will boast to me that they saved themselves by their own strength.’”
Judges 7:2
This verse seems interesting to me. God told Gideon that he had too big of an army. Sometimes we enlist a host of soldiers to fight our battles with us, but God wants us to trust Him and His strength to get us through these battles. We need not ask for an army battalion, when all that is needed is one unified, submitted and totally reliant unit to overcome the obstacle. When it is all over, we can look back and see that it was God who gave us the victory.
Lord Jesus, I pray that You will help me discern the battles I need to fight and to trust solely in You for the victory. AMEN.
Pastor Tim Pierce
Youth is Wasted on the Young! Day 3
“And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
2 Corinthians 12:9-10
Have you ever heard someone say youth is wasted on the young? I know I have often thought God did things backwards. Kids have so much energy…and for what? Then one day God spoke this to me, “As you are getting older I want you to depend more and more on me.” AH HA! I realized when I was younger, I didn’t need to call on God for things that I now need. I was very confident in my own strength and abilities. I now call on Him for strength, energy, healing, wisdom, recollection…and He is so faithful. Yes, when I am weak, then I am strong, because the power of God is working in me. As I grow older I want to depend more and more on Him. I want everything I am and everything I need to be from Him. And I want to know it!
Kathy Rogillio
Day 4 Inner-Strength
“SO YOU, my son, be strong (strengthened inwardly) in the grace (spiritual blessing) that is [to be found only] in Christ Jesus.”
2 Timothy 2:1
There is a difference between being tough and being strong on the inside. Many times this tough exterior covers up our hurts and weaknesses. I know that I can be tough but it is not the kind of strength that the Lord would want us to have. He wants us to allow Him to heal these hurts and to become strong in Him. This tough outer-strength can be a type of strength of our own, a sort of self-protection or self-sufficiency.
Patti Rodgers
He IS Still God Day 5
“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony, and they loved not their lives unto the death.”
Revelation 12:11
Strength is seen in the three Hebrew boys that were thrown in the fiery furnace (Daniel 3). As they were being threatened with their lives, they humbly told the king that their God was well able to deliver them from the furnace, but if He didn’t He was still God and they weren’t about to worship an idol. Wow! How strong is that?
We have brothers and sisters in Christ that live in persecuted lands. They must worship discreetly for fear of retaliation. How blessed we are here in America. Remember those who must hide. Pray for their strength and that God’s word will spread in spite of the persecution.
I have a theory that the Lord gives the courage needed when and if the time is ever upon us. It’s a faith thing. He doesn’t usually waste His provision, but doles it out for the one in need when the circumstance is pressing. Be strong and of good courage. Our God is a mighty God!
Jeannie Sinclair
Day 6 BFF
“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
One of my greatest sources of strength is the relationship I have with my best friend. Without fail, whenever I am going through a trial, she is there to help me see the lies of the enemy or the reward that lies on the other side of my test. If I’m ready to throw in the towel, she reminds me of the promises I have in Jesus Christ. She makes me stronger than I could ever be on my own. I thank God every day that He puts people like her in my life to keep me strong and encouraged.
Marion Horta
The Real Deal Day 7
“There is now therefore no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus…”
Romans 8:1
For many years I struggled with guilt and condemnation. I tried in my own strength to live a godly life and would fall short. You see, I didn’t see myself as being the righteousness of God (1 Corinthians 5:21). Instead I was always trying to obtain God’s favor by praying more, reading my Bible more, working in the church more, etc.
But, praise God, one day He revealed to me that He loved me unconditionally and that I was already the righteousness of God because when I made Jesus my Lord and Savior, I put on His righteousness.
I still make mistakes and fall short, but when I do, I just repent, ask God’s forgiveness and move forward. I forget those things that are behind and press on to the higher call of God (Philippians 3:13-14).
Marion Sturdivant
Day 8 God of the Breakthrough – Part 1
“And David came to Baal-perazim, and he smote them there, and said, ‘The Lord has broken through my enemies before me, like the bursting out of great waters.’ So he called the name of that place Baal-perazim [Lord of breaking through].”
2 Samuel 5:20
Many of us know God as Savior, as Healer and as Lord. But how many of us know Him as the God of the Breakthrough? If you are in a place where you just can’t seem to go on; if you are tired and want to give up; if you’ve done all that you know to do and still you don’t have the results you know God desires for your life; what you need is a visit from the God of the Breakthrough!
What God does for one He will do for another, so ask God to reveal Himself to you as He did for David – as the God of the Breakthrough!
Pastor David Hayes
God of the Breakthrough – Part 2 Day 9
The scripture 1 Kings 17:8-16 contains 3 keys to breakthrough, in particular financial breakthrough.
There must first be a prophetic (rhema) word from God – verse 14. The word may come from the mouth of a prophet; from the mouth of someone of seemingly insignificance; directly to you from God as you meditate on His Word and seek His face.
You must be a willing to obey – verse 15 Scripture teaches us that God desires obedience over sacrifice (Hosea 6:6).
You must sow a significant seed – verses 12 & 13. A significant seed is one that it cost you something to give it (2 Samuel 24:24).
Father, I ask you to give me a prophetic word, a rhema word. I commit now to obey that word before it is given. Now Father, give me the opportunity to sow a significant seed. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Pastor David Hayes
Day 10 Bear Today, Gone Tomorrow
“And David said, ‘The Lord, who kept me safe from the grip of the lion and the bear, will be my saviour from the hands of this Philistine.’ And Saul said to David, ‘Go! and may the Lord be with you.’”
1 Samuel 17:37
Strength to conquer will come from past success. God will train us from victory to victory for His glory. Count it all joy when you face fiery trials. The lion or the bear of today will give you strength to face the Goliath of tomorrow. Notice that David knew who kept him safe, and that God had delivered him. He knew he could call on God and that God would be there again for the next battle. We have the VICTORY!
Pastor Danny Rogillio
Refreshed Day 11
“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
40:31
Teach me Lord, teach me Lord to wait on you. Then we will go forth with strength for the weary and rest for the troubled soul, refreshed and understanding the best way to fulfill all that comes across our path.
I tend to burn the candle at both ends, wear myself out and then don’t have that extra strength when surprises come. This is another reason to arise and seek the Lord early, then we will be ready for the day.
Beverly Oulman
Day 12 Study the Manual
“Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”
Joshua 1:8
When Joshua rose to head the nation of Israel, he had some large shoes to fill. Moses had allowed himself to be used by God and the world saw great and wondrous things take place. Can you imagine what Joshua felt as he was about to lead a nation of people into the next season of their lives?
Our lives are a lot like that today. Whether dealing with smaller situations or God-size challenges, the instructions are always the same: STUDY THE MANUAL (Bible). It is a manual that is filled with instructions for overcoming every situation in life. Meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything in it. As a result, you will be prosperous and successful.
Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon
We All Need Jesus Day 13
“No king is saved by the size of his army:no warrior escapes by his great strength.”
Psalm 33:16
The mightiest, strongest, smartest, most influential person you know can’t save themselves. The saving is only done by Jesus and through Jesus. Many times people don’t want to know our problems or trials but the neat thing is that Jesus cares about our issues and He is practically chomping at the bit wanting to help us with even our most trivial problems. All of these problems have already been defeated by Jesus at the cross and all that is left for us is to believe and receive (in that order) in the Victory. Go ahead…and turn your problem over to Jesus and truly release it and watch Jesus at work. It will bring you great strength.
Trey Hereford
Day 14 Stand By Me
“But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear. And he rescued me from certain death.”
2 Timothy 4:17
I will never forget the first time I was asked to pray for someone. My heart started beating faster, my mouth got dry and my mind went blank. I couldn’t think of a thing to say. I knew that the person on the other end of the phone needed me to say something encouraging but I really had no idea what to say. I remember just starting to talk. I can’t recall what I said but I believe it was just what that person needed to hear.
I believe that God gives us strength for times such as these. He gives us the words to say and the courage to say them. I thank God that He stands by me and strengthens me to do His work because without Him, I could not be successful.
Marion Horta
He is Always There Day 15
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
Psalm 46:1
We may not see God but He is there before we call on Him. He is waiting for us. Don’t wait until you get in trouble to call on Him. When we are weak, He is our strength to help us through the day. God wants us to lean on Him every day. Remember God says He will never leave us nor forsake us.
Pastor Charles Byrd
Day 16 Always!
“…I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Joshua 1:5b
Joshua’s guarantee of success is the presence and help of God. God will not allow him to sink or fail. He will gird him with strength, and make his way safe.
God is no respecter of persons. What He’s done for Joshua He will do for us. He has promised. “I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” (Matthew 28:20b)
So, take courage, for who is God, but the LORD? And who is a rock, except our God? He is the God who girds us with strength, and makes our way safe. (Psalm 18:31-32)
Judy Rogillio
Land Mines of the Mind Day 17
Your success in life depends on the process. What do you think about yourself? What is your plan to improve yourself? Are you going to act upon that plan? The Bible tells us that we should “renew our minds” (Romans 8:12). If our thoughts are renewed, then our plans too, are renewed, which will lead to an expected good outcome. (Jeremiah 29:11). When we read God’s Word, we are reading His thoughts. And if we meditate on them (Joshua 1:8), the plan that He has for us will began to formulate. It’s up to us to carry out that plan.
You can win on the battlefield of your mind by stepping out on the Word of God and exploding into your destiny! Take action today. The plan has been laid out because God has thought it through.
Keith Richard
Day 18 Strong in Him
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
2 Corinthians 12:9
My mama used to say, “God will never put more on us than we can bear.” I say that He will. He doesn’t want us to live the Christian life in our own strength because we will fail. When I realized and learned about the Holy Spirit, who lived within me, I had strength to accomplish any task God called me to do while walkingtrials, suffering and pain. When I cried out, “Lord I cannot bear this!” – in that moment I became strong in Him. When we learn to walk in His strength and power, we are able to move mountains and demons will tremble when we pass them!We can face andall things in and through Him.
Sue Yglesias Neames
Surefooted Day 19
“The LORD God is my strength, and He will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and He will make me to walk upon mine high places.”
Habakkuk 3:19
I find it interesting that a hind is a female deer (a male is a hart or buck). A female deer can place her hind (back) feet exactly where her front feet stepped, not one inch off! She is able to run with abandonment! In times of danger and protecting her young, she is able to run securely and not get off-track!
This scripture is about David being delivered from his enemies after NOT fulfilling his call of being with his army, as well as, falling into adultery with Bathsheba. God sent His prophet to get him “surefooted” once again and along with David’s repentance, allowed him to gain strength for the journey that GOD had for him.
Do we have hind’s feet? Are we “surefooted” and running with abandonment based on our trust in the Father to lead us on our journey or are we taking off without direction? The choice is ours.
Ann Brent
Day 20 House of Bricks
“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
1 Corinthians 3:11
Don’t be like the pigs in the Three Little Pigs story. Build your house inside (the mind) and outside (the body) with a solid foundation (the Word of God). I choose to build my house with the solid foundation of the Word of God. It holds me, keeps me and gives me strength. I have found it to be awesome in my life.
Maria Schexsnayder
Waiting on Him Day 21
“But those who wait for the Lord [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall lift their wings and mount up [close to God] as eagles [mount up to the sun]; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint or become tired.”
Isaiah 40:31
What if God gave us everything right when we thought we needed it or wanted it? Do you think that would cause us to grow or be strengthened in Him? Probably not. His Word says that those that wait on Him shall be changed and their strength renewed. Sometimes when God is showing us new things and when we’re going through trials it can feel like we’re passing through a cloud. As we come through this cloud, it’s as though we are able to soar even higher and closer to Him with renewed strength. He rewards those that diligently seek Him and when we wait and look to Him for all the answers and hope and expect to hear from Him, we will.
”[Most] blessed is the man who believes in, trusts in, and relies on the Lord, and whose hope and confidence the Lord is.” Jeremiah 17:7
Patti Rodgers
Day 22 Faith = Power
“…my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. He is my refuge, my savior, the one who saves me from violence. I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies.”
2 Samuel 22:3-4
In these days of late, we sometimes walk around in FEAR when we really should be operating in faith. Only faith in God is ever going to see you through the rough times. If we cling to our salvation like our life depends on it, we will see such an awesome demonstration of power that anything that happens in the physical realm will pale in comparison to the strength of God. He will protect and He is truly worthy of all praise.
Lord Jesus, help me today to walk in peace and joy knowing that You have my very best interest in hand and when the attack of the enemy comes, it is in You that I have placed my trust and I know it is only through You that I can walk in victory. AMEN
Pastor Tim Pierce
In His Hands Day 23
“The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills.”
Habakkuk 3:19
When Jesus took the boy’s barley loaves and two small fish and fed the 5,000 (John 6), He demonstrated the transformation He works in our lives when we are in touch with Him. Apart from Christ, the bread was merely bread, but in His hands the bread was linked to the divine. No matter how insignificant, weak or lacking in talent we feel, if we bring all that we are – body, soul and spirit – and be joined to Christ we can accomplish great things. We shouldn’t focus on our deficiencies, but rather fill our minds with His Word and our hearts with the love of Christ by faith so that we can sufficiently do whatever He has called us to do. He wants us to know that if we will do what we can do, He will do what we can’t do.
Marta Garcia
Day 24 The Power of Prayer
“It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.”
2 Samuel 22:33
Not long ago I got the revelation that I was not praying enough. The Holy Spirit was convicting me, so I decided to be obedient. I began praying all of the time! I already had my prayer time in the morning but now I just allowed it to spill over into my day by praying in the Spirit. Immediately God blessed me. I got the BEST customer I have ever had. It was truly a miracle. I believe God was proving that He is the One who arms me with strength and He makes my ways perfect.
Pastor Danny Rogillio
When God Smiles Day 25
“…neither be sorry, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Nehemiah 8:10
After many years, the Book of the Law was discovered and read to the people. They realized how far they had strayed and became depressed but God told them that “this was a holy day” and they were to “eat the fat and drink the sweet.” He specifically told them not to be sad, for His joy was their strength.
When our sins are uncovered by the Holy Spirit and we have godly sorrow that leads to repentance, then we cannot allow Satan or our own minds to bring us into condemnation. God desires that once we repent and are restored, we are to move on. What good is a person for the kingdom of God who is constantly depressed because they made a mistake? What does that say to others who are struggling? Now, I am not condoning a loose lifestyle of habitual sin, but we are no better or worse than anyone else and if we have truly repented then it’s time to move on. A joyful Christian speaks volumes about the goodness of God. Joy reveals the strength of reconciliation between you and the Lord.
Jeannie Sinclair
Day 26 Strength in Weakness
“And He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.”
2 Corinthians 12:9
The world has a funny way of thinking about strength and weakness. We are told from the time we are little children, “Be tough!” We are made to believe that to be sensitive and caring is weakness.
I have come to the conclusion that the presence of tears is not weakness, anymore than the absence of tears demonstrates strength. On the day that Jesus arrived at the funeral of his friend, Lazarus, the most powerful statement in scripture is made – “Jesus wept.” Can you imagine the Lord of creation weeping for the loss He felt and those around Him?
I think about all of the things the early Christians endured for the faith. God’s grace was more than enough to help them through every trial. Whatever you are going through at this moment, God knows and has already provided a source of never-ending strength. His grace is sufficient. Selah.
Pastor Paul Pierce
It Does a Body Good! Day 27
“…man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the LORD.”
Deuteronomy 8:3b
It is an indisputable fact that without food, rest and exercise our bodies would fail to function. If we don’t eat properly, rest enough and exercise our bodies end up in poor condition. We would not have the strength to survive let alone to do things that require strength. Just as our physical bodies need to be fed, our spiritual bodies need nourishment as well. If we do not spend time in God’s Word daily our spiritual body would soon weaken and fall into temptation. Spend time in God’s presence every day to guarantee a healthy spiritual body.
Marion Horta
Day 28 Call on Him
“Your statutes have been my songs in the house of my pilgrimage. I remember Your name in the night, O LORD, and I keep Your law. This has become mine, because I kept Your precepts.”
Psalm 119:54-56
I was a baby Christian when I married Danny. I remember that at times he would have bad dreams. It was absolutely amazing to me that he would call out to Jesus in his sleep. He wouldn’t wake up in fear. He would continue sleeping and know nothing about it in the morning. Today as I read this passage in Psalms, it reminded me of that. Now I realize how much strength we receive from the Lord because of His word and following His precepts. It becomes ours! And when it becomes ours it will become part of our spirit man as well. It becomes automatic to call on His Name. We really can’t imagine or know the full benefits of serving such a mighty God! He is AWESOME!!!
Kathy Rogillio
Strength to the Weary Day 29
“He gives strength to the weary and increase the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary and young men stumble and fall.”
Isaiah 40:29-30
Even the strongest soldiers of the cross get tired at times, but God’s power and strength never fails. He is never too tired or too busy to listen and help. His strength is our source of strength when you feel that all of life is crushing you and you cannot go another step. Remember that you can call upon the Lord to renew your strength.
Father, I pray in the name of JESUS, according to your Word…They that wait (hope) upon the Lord, shall renew their strength. Right now Lord, I make my request known to you. I stand in need of renewed strength that I may run and not grow weary, walk and not faint, so that I may glorify You. I thank You, I glorify You and I receive my strength for the journey that I may not stumble nor fall…in the name of Jesus, so be it.
Reverend David W. Alexander
Day 30 Bread of Life
“Our forefathers ate the manna in the desert; as it is written: ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ Jesus said to them, ‘I tell you the truth, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.’
‘Sir,’ they said, ‘from now on give us this bread.’”
John 6:31-34
At this point, Jesus tells them to stop toiling for food that perishes, but strive and work for lasting food which does not decompose, but endures continually unto life eternal. Then He declares to them, “I Am the bread of God.”
Let us also labor for lasting food. For He has promised, ‘he who comes to Me will never go hungry, and he who believes in Me will never be thirsty.’ He is our nourishment for our spiritual journey.
Judy Rogillio
Basic Info Before Leaving Earth Day 31
“This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.”
Deuteronomy 30:19-20
One of the great things about serving God is that He gives us specific laws on how to survive, prosper and maintain strength for our journey through life. The Bible instructs us on how to live, think and enjoy the blessings that are given to us. He literally commands us to choose life and not death. God wants us to succeed.
When we face the challenges of life, always remember that God is constantly giving us instructions on how to walk through the storms that we have to walk through and calm the ones we are destined to squelch. All we have to do is walk, believe and know that we are children of the Creator of heaven and earth.
Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon
Day 32 The Joy
“We ask him to strengthen you by his glorious might with all the power you need to patiently endure everything with joy.”
Colossians 1:11
This is His Word and a prayer we all need. Life on planet earth daily brings across our paths experiences that can cause us in the flesh to cry enough! Help! Jesus will uphold you and me by the strength of His right arm. That help is available when we call on Him. He is our strength to get through the tough times and will give us JOY in the midst of every circumstance.In the natural this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.Oh, to keep our eyes fixed on You, Lord.
Beverly Oulman
Armed and Dangerous Day 33
“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”
1 Corinthians 10:13
God has equipped us with effective weapons to fight and win our battle against temptations. Shortly after I had given my heart to Jesus, He dealt with me concerning my cigarette addiction. I was a 3 pack-a-day smoker and it was taking a toll on my lungs.
Sin may seem pleasant for awhile, but it leads to sickness, disease and death. Whenever I felt the temptation to smoke, I would command the temptation to flee in the name of Jesus and I would start to sing Amazing Grace. Back then, I knew very few Christian songs, but I quickly learned how easy it was to take my mind off the temptation when my focus was on Him. Worship and the name of Jesus are powerful weapons in our spiritual arsenal that are effective in overcoming temptations. Remember, you are not defenseless – fight!
Tim Dean
Day 34 Let Go
“I will go before you and will level the mountains. I will break down gates and cut through bars of iron.”
Isaiah 45:2
When I read this verse I think of all of the times I was tired and didn’t know which way to turn. I think of all of the times I took it to God. I completely gave it over to God and left it with Him. I believed it was going to be taken care of. When Satan would come and try to get me to take it up again, I wouldn’t. The next thing I would see was God at work. He would level that mountain. He broke down that gate. He cut through the bars. Then it was time to praise God for His love for me.
Dear Lord, thank You for Your love. Thank You for coming to my defense. Thank You for all the times You leveled mountains in my life. Thank You for the gates You broke down and the bars You have cut and removed from my life. Please help me to be strong when I feel weak. Also make me remember that nothing is too difficult for You. Amen.
Susan Martin
Work With All Your Strength Day 35
“He said to them, “I see that your father’s attitude toward me is not what it was before, but the God of my father has been with me. You know that I’ve worked for your father with all my strength, yet your father has cheated me by changing my wages ten times. However, God has not allowed him to harm me.”
Genesis 31:5-7
I have had my own business for over 8 years now, starting out was definitely a step of faith. I was getting ready to rely on God entirely, for work and favor. As I started each day not knowing who I would be working for or what I would be doing, I knew one thing, God would not allow harm to come my way. As I read this scripture, I am reminded of the many times God has taken care of me and protected me from situations that may have been dangerous to me physically or even to the business itself. Not everyone we come in contact with has our best interest at heart, but if we work with all of our strength unto the Lord, we can know that He will cover and protect us.
Pastor Danny Rogillio
Day 36 It Ain’t Over…
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.”
Proverbs 3:5
I was distressed with the passing of Ricky’s brother and then only a few short months later, to lose my sister I found almost unbearable. Both came so suddenly, but even if you know, I doubt that you could ever prepare yourself for the overwhelming loss that you experience with the passing of a loved one.
I pity people that don’t have a relationship with the Lord. What hope is there? To what power do you turn to find relief? As painful as this is, I thank God for His presence. I weep; even now I’m fighting back tears to finish this. But God is faithful. I have found strength and peace of mind through trusting that the Word is truth and it reads that death is not the end. Jesus said that He is the Resurrection and the Life. It ain’t over till God says it’s over.
True strength comes from trusting in our Creator, that even though we may not understand nor have the big picture, He does.
Jeannie Sinclair
God is in Control Day 37
“And He saw everything that He made, and behold, it was very good.”
Genesis 1:31
God is so amazing, for He is the creator of heaven and earth and everything within. He is a God of order. God could have spoken the universe into existence instantly, yet He took time in His creation enjoying His masterpiece day by day. It only took six days. GOD is awesome! I sit here in awe just thinking about His creation. The first part of His creation, days one through three, God created the three realms. The last three days He filled those realms with inhabitants. Just think on that for a moment. With every command the universe came to be, right down to the big climax when Adam and Eve were created. God took each day and commanded this empty and without form mass to become something with form and ALIVE! Without hesitation this mass responded immediately and obeyed what God commanded. How much more can we, created in His image, with His breath (Genesis 2:27), be obedient to His commands. I have no worries when I think about who really is in control. Amen.
April Mayers
Day 38 In the Waiting
“I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry.”
Psalm 40:1
While I was waiting on God to help me with my situation, God lifted me out of despair, set my feet on solid ground, steadied me as I walked and gave me a song of praise in my mouth. Often blessings cannot be received unless we go through the trial of waiting. The waiting develops strength in your spirit.
Maria Schexsnayder
Praise Him Day 39
“The LORD is my strength and my song;”
Exodus 15:2
He has become my salvation. We need to be singing God’s praise for He gives us strength day in and day out. When we are weary He is there to strengthen us for the journey. All we have to do is call on His name and He hears our request.
Pastor Charles Byrd
Day 40 Got Workout?
“He will protect his faithful ones, but the wicked will disappear in darkness. No one will succeed by strength alone.”
1 Samuel 2:9
Whose strength did you get up in this morning? What song are you singing? The only way that we can attain or hold on to victory is to let God be our strength. We can build our muscles in the flesh all we want, but if we don’t show our vulnerability and trust Him, our strength will always fail us. Remember that there is nothing impossible for Him.
Father, I ask You today to allow me to be weak so Your strength can shine through. I am not riding on what You have done in the past, but instead looking forward to the strength that You provide. AMEN
Pastor Tim Pierce
Comfort Zone Day 41
“And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.”
2 Corinthians 1:7
As I embark on this journey God has given us called life, I am so thankful for You, Lord Jesus, that You lived your life with the utmost ambition.You did not look for the easy route.When You walked the earth, You constantly lived outside of the “comfort zone.”As I grow to know you, I have realized when I lived outside of Your will, I was always looking for a comfortable place.I was seeking the end of the work so that I could “coast” in a comfort zone.It is as your servant, that I sometimes feel what the world would call “overwhelmed” by the work involved in winning souls, but I no longer am seeking a comfort zone.It is in You that I find my comfort.You have counted me worthy to be an heir to Your ambitious work, and I find my strength knowing we are in this together.
Lori Hartley
Day 42 Call on Him
“But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!”
2 Corinthians 12:9
As a witness of our life in Christ, trusting in the Lord through thick and thin will glorify God. When you are struggling to overcome, pray for God’s grace, it is sufficient for all that you go through. When you make it through, just look back and you will see the supernatural love, peace, joy, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and/or self-control, whichever would fit the circumstance. That is what God and His Spirit will do for you (Galatians 2:22). We know that we do not have these things within ourselves, so His grace is what is needed. When you find yourself in a situation, call on Him, His grace is sufficient to be strong where you are weak. This will glorify God.
Patti Rodgers
The Power of Speech Day 43
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
Psalm 18:21
How many times do we face challenges and find ourselves talking about the circumstances that we are in, to the point that we actually lose the momentum to get out of the unfavorable circumstance? The more we speak about the situation the stronger it becomes. We need to remember that there are certain spiritual laws that govern the words that we speak.
In Genesis, God created the heavens and the earth with the words that He spoke. He created man and woman in His image. That means that we have the power to move and create with the words that we speak.
When we are faced with the challenges of life, we need to always be sure to speak life into our situations (and not death). The Bible teaches us that the words we speak shall bare fruit and we need to have the fruit be the manifestation of life.
Pastor Ashanti Witherspoon
Day 44 It Doesn’t Get Any Better
“And He said to them, ‘I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.’”
Luke 10:18-20
This verse makes me feel invincible…kind of like Superman, only better. Because Christ died on the cross and conquered death, we have been given all power and authority over Satan. We simply have to claim that power by accepting Jesus as Savior and having faith in Him. Only then will we be able to defeat all works of the enemy. That’s not even the best part! We can cast out demons and heal the sick but most importantly we will join our Father in heaven for an eternity. It doesn’t get any better than that!
Marion Horta
Good Morning, LORD! Day 45
“O LORD, be gracious to us; we long for you. Be our strength every morning, our salvation in time of distress.”
Isaiah 33:2
As I grow older these verses become more special to me.After a good night of rest and sleep it is hard for me to get out of bed, straighten up and get moving when morning comes because of back pain.So what do I do?I have breakfast with Jesus!I talk to Him, read a couple of verses from the Bible, anoint myself with oil and take communion.I say that I am prayed up, oiled up and dranked up!I am strengthened and filledHis power knowing that He will carry and sustain me as I serve Him throughout the day, without getting tired.It works for me…try it!
Sue Yglesias Neames
Day 46 Get Going
“The angel of the LORD came again a second time and touched him and said, ‘Arise, eat, because the journey is too great for you.’ So he arose and ate and drank, and went in the strength of that food forty days and forty nights to Horeb, the mountain of God.”
1 Kings 19:7-8
The truth is we can never really run away from the Lord. He always knows where to find us. In those times we want to hide in shame and fear, God speaks to us like Elijah. Many times the Lord has spoken and said, “Get going! I have already spoken to you. I have already strengthened you for the journey.”
Elijah went for forty days in the strength of that food without eating. Sometimes God allows us to walk out His Word for a while before He says anything more. What you get out of God’s Word is more important than how many times you go through God’s Word. Let the Word fill you and then GET GOING!
Pastor Paul Pierce
If It Is Meant To Be… Day 47
“And the prophet came to the king of Israel and said to him, ‘Go, strengthen yourself; take note, and see what you should do, for in the spring of the year the king of Syria will come up against you.’”
1 Kings 20:22
Sometimes we have to strengthen ourselves! When there is something I have to do that I really don’t like, I tend to put it off.
And crazy me, I seem to do better under the pressure of knowing I have to do it NOW! I find my inner strength; I make myself do whatever it is. I take note and see what it is I need to do and I do it.
I believe God wants us to grow up and use the strength He has given us through Jesus. The amazing thing is not only do I feel His strength at the time, I feel so much stronger after I have accomplished my task.
Kathy Rogillio
Day 48 Better Than Mapquest
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
Psalm 119:105
The Word of God is a spiritual road map to guide us as we travel through life. Just as our physical man needs nourishment, our spiritual man requires spiritual food to grow and mature. Jesus is the Word and He is the Bread of Life. As we feed daily on the Word of God, His Word will illuminate those areas of our motives, desires, priorities and personal behavior that do not line up with His will. If we allow the Word of God to change and guide us, we will walk in the light and the revelation of who He is and who we are in Him.
Tim Dean
Get It Done Day 49
“The LORD said to Moses, ‘Take the staff, and you and your brother Aaron gather the assembly together. Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water. You will bring water out of the rock for the community so they and their livestock can drink.’”
Numbers 20:7-8
At God’s command, Moses supernaturally provided water from a rock when the people were thirsty. There are times in our life that God provides for us in supernatural ways.
When it came time for Joshua’s leadership, He told the people. “Dig your own wells.” There are times in our life when God requires us to do what ever it takes to get our need met. In these times we have to remember, God always gives us strength to complete the task before us. We can do everything through Him, who gives us strength.
Judy Rogillio
Day 50 The Parking Anointing
“Still, he did not give up faith in the undertaking of God, but was made strong by faith, giving glory to God…”
Romans 4:20
My mother-in-law taught me something so valuable early in my Christian walk…and that is to Give God Glory!!! Not just in the big things but the everyday small things as well. I know I have a special parking anointing because I always give God glory for that spot right up front! It is true, by acknowledging Him in all things it opens the windows of heaven and His blessings, grace, mercy and favor are poured out on me. My faith has been made stronger because I know my help comes from the Lord.
Kathy Rogillio
All I Need Day 51
“I was pushed back and about to fall, But the LORD helped me. The LORD is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation.”
Psalm 118:13-14
If my way seems rough and long,
In my heart still remains a song.
Deep within my soul a hope still lives
Strength I need Oh Lord please fill.
Till I reach my journey’s end,
Where indeed I’ll see my friend,
Who will answer all my whys
And Who will wipe my tear-stained eyes.
But I’ll praise Him until then
For I see Him near the bend
Encouraging me to continue on
Soon my journey here will end.
Sue Yglesias Neames
Day 52 Growth Within the Church
“They that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God.”
Psalm 92:13
Our vision at MPC is for all people to feel welcome – the rich, the poor, the hurting, the searching, the discouraged and the confused. It is important that we as the Body of Christ break down the barriers and misconceptions that hold people back from committing their lives to the Lord, as well as, joining a church. Fellowship at the local church level gives us relationships with others of like precious faith, helps us to learn the Word of God that in turn brings spiritual growth and maturity. Being involved in a local church also gives us an opportunity to use the God-given gifts and talents that we possess.
A church atmosphere should be full of the presence of God. It should be exciting, full of love, forgiveness, joy, hope and when you leave you should feel encouraged, even if the message was one of discipline. You should leave thinking, “I can do this. God loves me and is able to transform me. There is hope for me.” No greater strength can be found than in the ties of a local church.
Jeannie Sinclair
Be Strong Day 53
“I command you—-be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9
This is actually a command to Joshua to be strong. God wanted Joshua to be strong so I’m sure that could apply to us as well. If we would just remember that God is always with us to give us the grace and strength that we need. We just have to ask. “Up to this time you have not asked a [single] thing in My Name [as presenting all that I AM]; but now ask and keep on asking and you will receive, so that your joy (gladness, delight) may be full and complete (John 16:24).”
Just grab your boot straps and get up. Always remember that God is with you. When you are going through something, practice saying, “God I know that you are with me.” Keep saying it and it will get down into your spirit and become a part of you so that you will be changed and your faith will be strengthened.
Patti Rodgers
Day 54 Push! Push!
“Again I tell you, if two of you on earth agree (harmonize together, make a symphony together) about whatever [anything and everything] they may ask, it will come to pass and be done for them by My Father in heaven.”
Matthew 18:19
Agreement is like pushing a car: unless we push in the same direction, we will not see much result. It is important to understand that our prayers must line up with the Word of God which is His will. If not, we are pushing against God.
Before you pray, search the scripture to find the will of God for your life concerning this matter. Then find a brother or sister in the Lord who will agree (push) with you about it and ask the Father in Jesus’ name. You have the guarantee of Jesus that it will be done for you!
Pastor David Hayes
Mighty Helper Day 55
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.”
Psalm 28:7
Have you ever thought about what we would have to do to look after ourselves the way the Lord looks after us? We would have to stay awake 24/7 and we would be so exhausted from worry that we would be physically sick. There is no way possible. I recently went through a trial at work with an employee. I really struggled with my flesh. I had to constantly remind myself to let the Lord handle this. Even though I had faith God was well able to handle the situation, my flesh wanted to handle it. Not only did the Lord totally handle that situation but He blessed me with the biggest production month that I had had in a long time.
If you are having trials in your life, let the Lord be your strength and your shield. Turn it over to Him completely, for there is none stronger, none more capable and, maybe most importantly, none that wants to help as much as God does. In short, He is well able.
Trey Hereford
Day 56 Victory in Him
“The LORD is my strength and my song; He has become my victory. He is my God, and I will praise him; He is my father’s God, and I will exalt him!”
Exodus 15:2
I think this is one of the most quoted scriptures on strength in the Bible. There is some tremendous insight from God in this verse that we sometimes overlook. It says that the Lord is my strength. These are not just words; this is a faith statement. In Him strength is a character trait. Pose this question to yourself: Am I operating in God’s strength or my own strength? In Him I sing new songs, He has given me victory. Are you operating in God’s victory? The reason He has victory is because ultimately He paid the price. Sum it up like this: when I operate in God’s strength I can surely share in the victory He is proclaiming, simply because He is my God and I CHOOSE to exalt Him.
Lord I choose Your strength today. I am walking in it, I receive it and I choose victory today, because Your strength is perfect.
Pastor Tim Pierce
Let God Strengthen You Day 57
“Look down and have mercy on me. Give your strength to your servant; save me, the son of your servant.”
Psalm 86:16
If we try to fight our battles in our own strength we will fail. King David was a mighty warrior but he received his strength from the Lord. Before he went to battle he would seek the Lord and draw strength from Him. The Word says that David was a man after God’s own heart. Let us learn from King David and seek God and spend time in His presence and He will strengthen us also.
Let us pray as King David did in Psalms 86:16, “Have mercy and be gracious to me; grant strength to Your servant.”
Marion Sturdivant
Day 58 Freedom
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm then and do not let yourself be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
Galatians 5:1
Jesus has set us free. He gave His life and He gave His blood for our freedom. It’s a freedom from Satan, hell and death. When we feel burdened and helpless remember that Jesus paid the price.
Satan wants us to feel defeated and scared. He wants us to feel helpless and hopeless. He wants us in bondage. He wants us to follow him straight to hell and eternal death. Don’t let Satan lie to you. You have power. You have so much power that it really scares Satan. That’s why he tries to make you his slave. We all know that he comes to kill, steal and destroy. When you feel angry, helpless, scared or hopeless, you give Satan power. So I say, stand up! Learn God’s WORD. God’s WORD, along with prayer is your power. Remember, if God is for you who can be against you?
Jesus, thank You for our freedom, thank You for Your cleansing blood. Amen.
Susan Martin
Swallow Your Pride Day 59
“And the LORD said to Gideon, “The people who are with you are too many for Me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel claim glory for itself against Me, saying, ‘My own hand has saved me.’”
Judges 7:2
How many times have you heard a child, just learning to become independent, say, “I can do it myself.” As I parent, I watch my children try to do things on their own. Most times they are successful, but sometimes they really mess things up. It’s at those times that they have to swallow their pride and ask for help.
We are just like children, believing we can do it all on our own. God doesn’t want us to be self-sufficient. He wants us to depend totally on Him and give Him glory for everything we do. No matter how insurmountable a task seems, if God is on our side we are guaranteed a victory.
Marion Horta
Day 60 Where Can We Find Strength?
“Seek the LORD and His strength; Seek His face evermore! Remember His marvelous works which He has done, His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth…”
Psalm 105:4-5
We can find strength in remembering and reminding ourselves that God has and will be there for us! He is faithful and just! Years ago I worked in home health. All of my patients were at least seventy years old. Many times they would worry about things, all kinds of things. I would encourage them by asking them two questions. “How old are you?” and “Hasn’t God taken care of you all of these years?” I would see them immediately reminiscing about all of the things God had brought them through. Then the smile would come, along with the strength of our Lord! Most of the time whatever the problem was would soon be forgotten and we would be rejoicing because God had been so good to them! We have to make the choice to believe God, to think on good things. And what better thing is there to do than to remember His marvelous works?
Kathy Rogillio
