Some dates, like birthdays, bring us happiness and Joy, while some dates bring heart-wrenching memories of shattered hearts, terrible life-changing events, death, and accidents. I often pray for the emotional strength and comfort that only God can provide for all my loved ones during these times. I once prayed, ”Father, please help all my family and us in these coming days, as I don’t know what to do.” As I said, “I don’t know what to do.” It dawned on me—I was doing it! Nothing is more powerful than God’s help; God can comfort our hearts and minds beyond understanding and place people in our lives who help us overcome despair. His approach may not be simply the love and compassion of good friends, but rather God may be helping by providing us opportunities to help others in need; opportunities that, if we pursue them, focus our minds and time on others, which distract us from the temptation to wallow in sorrow. Look for opportunities to do good; these are blessings to the heart. (Galatians 6:9-10)

Praying is so simple that we might diminish its value and forget just how powerful communicating with our Creator truly is. Scripture tells us: “The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” So, pursue righteousness with all we have to give.

Scripture also states: “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” James 4:8 So, Let’s pursue righteousness and pray often with righteous prayers from loving hearts, then trust God!

Galatians 6:9-10; James 5:16; James 4:8; Mark 11:24; Zechariah 1:3; Philippians 4:6-7; John 15:7; 2 Corinthians 1:3-4; Psalm 34:18; 1 Peter 5:7; Hebrews 4:16; 1 John 5:14-15; Matthew 5:4; Psalm 147:3.

God First!