It can be challenging to rely on God’s wisdom when you don’t fully understand His ways. But when you recognize that your human insight is not as brilliant as God’s, you can release your insecurities and trust His plan.

How do you react when worry enters your mind? What do you do when you can’t seem to ignore or rationalize your fear away? If this happens, take a deep breath and pray. Ask God to fill you with His peace so that you can rest in His presence.

Knowing when to say no or when to ask for help is an important part of life. When your cup runneth over, perhaps it’s time to say no or to look for how you might downsize your responsibilities. When you empty your cup of what you cannot hold, you make room for new blessings.

Spiritual growth is a lifelong process. There is no end to your development. The closer you grow to God, the more you realize how much more there truly is! God’s bounteous gifts are infinite.

Do you have the mistake of thinking that if everything isn’t going your way you can’t possibly feel gratitude for the things that are? Gratitude is in and of itself a form of peace. When you recognize simple blessings, you open your heart to feel God’s presence.

When you feel overwhelmed and burdened by your responsibilities take this verse to heart. Don’t try to handle everything by yourself. God is your protection, your solace, your comfort, and your refuge. Let Him flow in. Loosen your grip on the idea that you have to control everything and put the future into the hands of God.

Set aside time each morning for prayer. Share your plans for the day. If something is on your mind, be still and ask for His direction. Surrender any pressing expectations of the outcome and be open to His plan and His will. Listen for His answer.

Relationships with family and friends are wonderful, but you can be let down if you rely on them to fill and satisfy your soul. The more you grow your relationship with God, the more you recognize that He completely fills your spiritual needs.

Matthew describes a life without Christ as one that is harassed and helpless, a sheep without a shepherd. Christ will lead you down the right path and protect you. When you follow Him, your life will be graced with peace and security.

Paul’s words encourage us to believe that life may be filled with uncertainties, but there is absolutely nothing that can separate you from God’s love. The future might be uncertain, but God’s love is not. You can let go of any fears and anxiety, because God is here with you.

Today as we celebrate Independence Day, reflect on the blessings God has showered on our nation. Give thanks for the many people who have sacrificed in the past and those who are currently serving to protect freedom. Pray for peace among nations and all people.

The above verse shows that God brings His own people into the fire to refine them. He compares you to a precious metal, showing how the “fire of life,” the hot water, the challenges and difficult situations are for refinement. He is teaching and guiding you to think and live by His ways.