Domino Effect

We know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.   ~Romans 5:3-5

Have you ever seen a long row of dominoes set on end? When the first one is bumped it tumbles into the next and that one hits the next one, until they all fall. These verses are the domino effect in reverse. Suffering hurts, but good can come from it. Suffering makes you develop “stick-to-it-iveness”.

Stop and appreciate the fact that you’re making it through difficulties – you’re getting up each morning and putting one foot in front of the other and doing what you have to do. That builds character and that encourages hope, which reminds us of God’s love. Whatever you’re going through, God walks beside you all the way.

(Excerpt from One-Minute Devotions for Women)

Trust God in the Darkness

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff they comfort me.    ~Psalm 23:4 (NKJV)

Every follower of Jesus faces days where his or her spiritual life seems mediocre and their enthusiasm is dampened by indifference.

If this is you, then you need a fresh experience with God to drive the darkness from your life. No matter how your feelings and emotions change, God’s love for you remains steadfast, strong and secure. He loves you with an everlasting, unceasing love, and, even though you feel far from Him, He is always close to you.

One of the benefits of going through dark times in life is to appreciate the light and sunshine of God’s love when we experience it once again. God is able to use even the darkest experiences on your earthly pilgrimage to the benefit and blessing of others.

Please hold my hand, Lord. I know that You will lead me into the future one step at a time. Amen

(Excerpt from One-Minute Devotions Grace for each Moment)