Gold Jewelry

As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear. (KJV) ( Proverbs 25:12 ) 

Criticism can be tough to swallow.  What if criticism were viewed as a prized possession that's wrapped with great care, presented with honor, and accepted with gratitude?  The verse above points out that valid criticism only becomes precious to anyone who listens.  When you listen to criticism are you listening for negativity or constructive gold?

Your Mess

Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God: (KJV) (Psalm 146:5) 

Where do you turn when your life turns into a mess?  How do you pick up the pieces?  A mess is always easier to clean when you have someone helping you.  God is just waiting for you to invite Him into your mess.

My Shield

"The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower." —Psalm 18:2

A rock provides firm footing and a solid foundation. When it's easy to just give up and we face tough times, who or what do you turn to when you have a tough day? Seek shelter and put your feet on firm footing. Ask God to be the power that saves you.

A Spirit Of...

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. (KJV) (2 Timothy 1:7) 

Do you have a lot of worries over circumstances you cannot control?  Dear friend, one ounce of worry doesn't do an ounce of good.  Letting worry creep in means you are giving control of the situation over to a spirit of fear.  If you find yourself worrying about something, stop and occupy your mind in a way that solves the problem.  Better yet, get your hands busy and put on a spirit of love by serving others.

Many Will Say

Most men will proclaim every one his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find? (KJV) (Proverbs 20:6) 

Words are easy to say, it only takes a breath to utter them.  But it's much more difficult to be a reliable friend.  It requires consistent communication, thoughtful awareness of feelings, and opening yourself up in vulnerable times.  Don't be too quick to say you are a loyal friend who is without any reliable friends. Have you been supporting your friends in a way that shows them you are reliable?  If not, do you have a valued friend who needs you right now?

Without Faith

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (KJV) (Hebrews 11:6) 

When something bad happens to you, and you have faith in God, your attitude changes.  You begin to figure out why God wants you to go through tough times and what He wants you to learn from it.  When you see that bad situation happened for a reason, you begin to trust God even more.  Eventually, you want to allow Him into more areas of your life.  Sincerely seek the Lord today in prayer.

A lamp

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. (KJV) (Matthew 5:15) 

You have a light inside of yourself. You have the capability to spread light to many people. Do you hide your talents, gifts, and abilities? Put your light on a stand and let everyone benefit from the light you give off. You sure can make a difference in the world by lighting up for everyone else.