A Heart for Christ: October 2024

Monday, October 28, 2024

Loving Those Around You

Love is a really important part of being a child of God, but we don’t talk about it enough. It’s essential that we keep love in our hearts. In 1 John 4:7-8 (NLT), it says,“Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God.” This verse reminds us that love isn’t just a feeling; it’s a commitment to love and care for people the same way that Christ does. It’s something we need to share with everyone because we’re all part of God’s family.

Think about a time when you saw someone struggling, maybe with money or their work. Instead of making fun of them or putting them down, we should lift them up. The right thing to do is to pray for them and offer help if we can.

So, let’s remember to keep love in our hearts for everyone around us, especially when they’re having a tough time. Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, gave his life on the cross as a sacrifice for our sins. He showed us that love always makes a big difference, and it always wins!

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.

Monday, October 21, 2024

Finding Courage in Christ

Courage is something many people struggle with, even in everyday situations like asking a question or sharing an idea. It can feel really tough! But there’s a powerful verse to remember when you’re facing those moments: Philippians 4:13 (NLT), which says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

This verse reminds us that God gives us the strength we need through Jesus Christ, no matter what we’re facing. If you’re feeling nervous about giving a presentation or standing up for yourself, just remember that you’re not alone. When you pray and ask God for courage, He will be there to support you.

Jesus Christ faced a lot of scary situations when he lived here on earth, but he wasn’t afraid because he knew that our Heavenly Father was with him. It’s the same with us. God is always with us as well. So, whenever you feel that flutter of nerves, take a deep breath and say a quick prayer in the name of Jesus Christ. With faith in God, you can find the courage to face any challenge. Keep Philippians 4:13 in your heart and remember that God is always ready and willing to help you!

Monday, October 14, 2024

Thanking God for a Blessing

Sometimes, when we pray for something and God answers us, we forget to say "thank you." I had a moment like that just today! I woke up feeling kind of grumpy and really didn’t want to go to school. I work hard in school, and sometimes, I just need a break. So, I prayed, asking God to help me recharge.

Later that day, my teacher announced that we would be dismissed early because of a problem with the bathrooms. I felt bad about the situation, and I know that God didn’t cause it, but boy, did I need that break! I was so excited to go home that I completely forgot to thank God for my teachers deciding to let us go home early.

I think this happens to a lot of us. When we see how God works through situations to bless us, sometimes we forget to show our gratitude. There’s a verse that really helps remind us to be thankful. It’s 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NLT), which says, “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” This reminds us that it is important to thank God for all things, big and small. I’ll definitely try to remember that next time!

Monday, October 7, 2024

Finding Strength In Tough Times

Hey there! Today, I want to talk about something that a lot of us feel—depression and those tough days when everything just seems hard. Did you know that about 7 out of 10 high school students really dislike going to school? I totally get that! Sometimes, it can feel overwhelming.

On my way home the other day, I pulled out my Bible and came across Isaiah 41:10 (NLT):“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” Wow! Isn’t that a powerful reminder? It’s like God is saying, “Hey, I’m here for you, and you don’t have to go through this alone!”

Another verse I found in Isaiah is Isaiah 40:31 (NLT): “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” This makes me think about how amazing it would feel to soar like an eagle, even when life gets heavy!

So, what does this mean for us? It means that when you’re feeling sad, upset, or just plain tired of everything, you can turn to God. If you ever have negative thoughts swirling around, just take a moment to pray. Talk to God about how you feel and ask Him for strength. Remember, He’s always ready to lift you up and help you through.

Let’s keep trusting in Him, even when things feel dark. He promises to give us the strength we need. You’re not alone in this!

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for being with me when I feel down. Help me to trust in You and find my strength in Your love. When I’m struggling, remind me that I can always come to You for help. Amen.

A Heart for Christ