Wednesday, July 30th - I Am Lord God Almighty, And I Am ...

I AM LORD GOD ALMIGHTY, AND I AM holy, holy, holy.  This threefold repetition of My holiness emphasizes My utter separateness from sin.  I want you to enjoy the wonder of My loving Presence with you always, but do not lose sight of My holiness.  Your awareness that I am holy God can bless and protect you. It highlights how very privileged you are to know Me as Savior and Friend.  Also, it protects you from being presumptuous or relating to Me carelessly.  Sometimes your communication with Me will be improper, but remembering My holiness can help you repent quickly.

Even though King David committed some terrible sins, he was a man after My own heart who was very teachable.  When Nathan the prophet rebuked David for having committed adultery and murder, he repented immediately, saying, "I have sinned against the Lord."  So do not despair when you realize you have sinned.  Instead, turn quickly from the offensive way and turn back toward Me.  I will receive you warmly - with no condemnation.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Revelation 4:8; Acts 13:22; 2 Samuel 12:13 and Romans 8:1



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

Tuesday - July 29th - Put Your Hope In My Unfailing ...

PUT YOUR HOPE IN MY UNFAILING LOVE.  You live in a world where failure abounds -- in governments and businesses, schools and churches, friends, families, and you.  Instantaneous worldwide communication makes the failures all the more evident, all the more heart-wrenching.  So the idea of unfailing Love is radical; there is no adequate model for it in this world.  Clearly, such Love can be found only in Me -- in the very essence of who I am.

Even the most devoted parent, friend, or lover will let you down sometimes, but I am the eternal Lover who will never fail you.  This is possible because a Man --- with human understanding and empathy.  In fact, My compassions never fail.  So find hope in Me and in My amazing provision for believers -- salvation and righteousness that will never fail.  This hope strengthens you and pleases Me.  I delight in those who put their hope in My unfailing Love.

- Jesus


Scripture Insight:  Psalm 147:11; Lamentations  3:22; 1 John 4:16 and Isaiah 51:6



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

Monday - July 28th - In Quietness And Confidence I Shall Be Your ...

IN QUIETNESS AND CONFIDENCE I SHALL BE YOUR strength.  When you are in a tough situation, your mind tends to go into overdrive.  You mentally rehearse possible solutions at breakneck speed.  Your brain becomes a flurry of activity!  You scrutinize your own abilities and those of people you might call upon for help.  If you find no immediate solution to your problem, you start to feel anxious.  When you find this happening, return to Me and rest in quietness.  Take time to seek My Face and My will rather than rushing ahead without clear direction.

I want you to have confidence in Me and My ways -- patiently trusting in Me even when you can't see the way forward.  Whereas anxious striving drains you of energy, quiet confidence will give you strength.  You can trust that I will not forsake you in your time of need.  Keep communicating with Me about your situation, and be willing to wait -- without pushing for immediate resolution.  Those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Isaiah 30:15; Deuteronomy 31:6 and Isaiah 40:31



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

Sunday - July 27th - I Am Training You In The Discipline Of ...

I AM TRAINING YOU IN THE DISCIPLINE OF perseverance.  You are on a long uphill journey, and sometimes it seems endless to you. Looking back, you can see some times of ease and refreshment. Looking ahead, however, you see only a continuing ascent.  The top of the mountain you are climbing is nowhere in sight.  I know how hard it is for you to keep going day after day.   So I say to you, "Do not become weary and discouraged in your soul."

You live in a culture dedicated to entertainment and pleasure - seeking.  In such a climate, a life of struggle feels alien.  If you are not careful, you will succumb to self-pity, a sinful snare.  To avoid falling into this trap, remember that I am Sovereign and I am lovingly present with you.  Your ongoing struggle is not a mistake or a punishment.  Try to view it, instead, as a rich opportunity:  Your uphill journey keeps you aware of your neediness, so you look to Me for help.  The difficulties in your life make your heavenly home more precious and real to you.  Even now, as you trustingly whisper My Name, I embrace you in everlasting Love.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Hebrews 12:3; Isaiah 61:1; Philippians 3:20-21; and Jeremiah 31:3



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

Saturday - July 26th - I Want You To Learn The Secret Of ...

I WANT YOU TO LEARN THE SECRET OF being content in any and every situation.  Contentment-training is a challenging process; it is learned through enduring a wide range of difficulties.  You thought you were fairly advanced in this training, but then the circumstances in your life got harder.  On some days you are able to cope well with your hardships.  On other days you just want out!  I am here to help you with your "other days."

Begin by acknowledging how frustrated and upset you are feeling. Pour out your heart to Me!  Simply releasing your pent-up feelings does you a world of good.  Knowing that I hear and understand encourages you even more.  Ask Me also to increase your awareness of My Presence with you.  Continue talking to Me and listening in the depths of your spirit for My response.  Cling to helpful scriptures; bathe your mind and heart in them.  Finally, sing praises to Me.  This will lift your spirits like nothing else.  It is good to sing praises to My Name; to declare My lovingkindness in the morning, and My faithfulness every night.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Philippians 4:12; Psalm 62:8 and Psalm 92:1-2



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young) 

Friday, July 25th -- Rejoice And Exult In Hope - Raise A Shout Of ...

REJOICE AND EXULT IN HOPE - RAISE A SHOUT OF JOY!!  You have good reason to be joyful, because you are on your way to heaven.  I have paid the penalty for your sins and clothed you in My own righteousness.  This is the basis of hope -- for you, for all who truly know Me as Savior.  No matter what is going on in your life at this time, your hope in Me is secure.  No One will be able to snatch you out of My hand.  In Me you have absolute, eternal security!

Be constant in prayer -- at all times, but especially when you are struggling.  During trials, you need close communication with Me more than ever.  However, your ability to concentrate may be hampered by stress and fatigue.  So make full use of the amazing source of strength within you -- My Spirit.  Ask the Holy Spirit to control your mind:  to think through you and pray through you.  Your prayers need not be pretty or proper.  Just let them flow out of your current situation.  As you stay in communication with Me, I help you to be steadfast and patient in suffering.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Romans 12:12; Titus 2:11, 13; John 10:28 and Romans 8:6



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young) 

Come Close To Me, And Rest In My ...

COME CLOSE TO ME, AND REST IN MY PRESENCE.  I am all around you, closer than the very air you breathe.  Trust Me with each breath you take.

Your need for Me is as constant as your need for oxygen.  So don't neglect the discipline of practicing My Presence.  Because your mind is easily distracted, you must keep coming back to Me again and again.  Do not be discouraged by your tendency to wander off in tangents from your true Center in Me.  Simply keep making the needed adjustments to return to Me.  Make these little corrections joyfully -- trusting in My unfailing Love.  

Use My Name, "Jesus," to reconnect with Me.  Whisper it, sing it, shout it -- remembering what it means: "The Lord saves."  Embellish My Name with words of love and trust.  Let your heart overflow with gratitude as you ponder all I am to you, all I have done for you.  These practices draw you close to Me and help you rest in My Presence.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Psalm 62:5-6; Psalm 52:8 and Matthew 1:21



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

Let Him Who Glories Glory In This ...

LET HIM WHO GLORIES GLORY IN THIS, that he understands and knows Me.  The world you inhabit is increasingly complex and confusing .  You have more information at your fingertips than you could process in a lifetime.  There are so many demands on you -- from the world, the church, other people, yourself.  As a result, it is easy to feel lost and perplexed.  To find Peace in this chaotic clutter, you need to set priorities according to My will.  It is crucial to make your relationship with Me the top priority -- nurturing and strengthening your connection with Me.

Nothing is as important as understanding Me: knowing and loving Me as I truly am.  This requires focused time with Me as well as ongoing communication with Me throughout your day.   The clearest, most trustworthy teaching about Me is in the Bible.  The beauty of nature also proclaims Me and reveals My Glory.

Making Me your highest priority gives focus to your thinking.  Other priorities fall into their proper place when I am first and foremost in your life.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Jeremiah 9:24; Psalm 19:1-2 and Matthew 22:37-38



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

I Am Good And My Love Endures ...

I AM GOOD AND MY LOVE ENDURES forever.  So give thanks to Me and praise My name.  The fact that I am good is vitally important for your well-being.  If there were even a speck of badness in Me, you would be in trouble.  My absolute Goodness guarantees that I always do what is best.  You must accept this as a statement of faith though, because you live on a deeply fallen planet.  So it is essential for you to walk by faith, not by sight, as you journey through the wilderness of this world.

One of the best ways to find strength for your journey is to give Me thanks and praise. Thanksgiving and praise lift your perspective from your worries and woes to the glorious Treasure you have in Me. Thankfulness puts you in proper alignment with Me -- your Creator and Savior.  Praise enhances your intimacy with Me because I inhabit the praises of My people.  The more you praise Me, the closer to Me you will grow.  While you are worshiping, remember that My Love endures forever!

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Psalm 100:4-5; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Psalm 32:3 and Psalm 136:1-3



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

A Cheerful Heart Is Good ...

A CHEERFUL HEART IS GOOD medicine.  You have every reason to be cheerful, because I have overcome the world.  I have conquered it and deprived it of power to harm you through My victory on the cross.  Moreover, nothing you will ever encounter along your life path will be able to separate you from My Love.  As you ponder these glorious truths about all I have done for you, let good cheer fill your heart and radiate from your face.

A joyful heart will improve your health --- spiritually, emotionally, and physically.  So fill your mind with thankful thoughts till your heart overflows with Joy.  Take time to praise Me for all that I am -- the One from whom all blessings flow.  Let Me fill you with My Light and Life, for I designed you to be full of heavenly contents.  As these divine nutrients soak into the depths of your being, they strengthen you and enhance your health.  Be of good cheer!

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Proverbs 17:22; John 16:33 and Romans 8:39



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

I Came Into Your Life To Make You ...

I CAME INTO YOUR LIFE TO MAKE YOU free.  The closer you live to Me, the freer you can be. By spending time alone with Me, your awareness of My abiding Presence grows deeper and stronger. There is healing in My wings --- in the intimacy of nearness to Me.  My healing Presence binds up wounds from your past so that they stop bleeding.  The salve of My Spirit enhances the healing process.  In My holy Light you can see things from a new perspective -- freeing you from old unhelpful ways of thinking.  As you lay down baggage from your past, you grow increasingly free.

I make you free through the truth --- about who I am and what I have done for you.  I also help you face the truth about yourself and the people in your life.  If you are involved in hurtful relationships, I will help you change them or break free.  If you are trapped in addictions, I will help you take the first step toward freedom -- honest confession of the truth.  In every situation, the truth will set you free.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  John 8:33; Psalm 31:19-20; Malachi 4:2 and Romans 8:1-2



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

Hope Is An Anchor For Your Soul ...

HOPE IS AN ANCHOR FOR YOUR SOUL --- firm and secure.  A ship in turbulent waters needs to drop anchor in a safe place.  In stormy weather, a large ship may be unable to enter the safety of a harbor because of the wild waves buffeting the boat.  So a smaller boat may be used to carry the ship's anchor through the breakers into the harbor.  When the anchor is dropped there, the ship is secured -- even though it is still in rough waters.

This is a picture of how hope keeps your soul --- the eternal part of you --- safe and secure in the midst of life's storms.  To be effective, your hope must be solidly in Me, the Savior - God who died to pay the penalty for your sins.  After I was crucified, My miraculous resurrection empowered Me to be your living Hope.  In fact, I am more abundantly alive than you can begin to imagine.  When your hope is connected to Me, you share in My vibrant, eternal Life.  Someday you will have a glorified body like Mine!  Meanwhile, be assured that your hope-anchor keeps you secure even if life's fiercest storms.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Hebrews 6:19-20; 1 Peter 1:3 and Hebrews 10:23



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young) 

Whenever You Look For Me, You Will Find ...

WHENEVER YOU LOOK FOR ME, YOU WILL FIND Me.  My promise to be with you always ensures that you never have to face anything alone.  This promise is for everyone who has trusted Me as Savior.  However, to reap the benefits of this amazing blessing, you must look for Me in the midst of your moments.  This sounds like an easy thing to do, but it goes against the grain of the world, the flesh and the devil.

The evil one uses three Ds to keep you from finding Me:  distractions, deception, and discouragement. The world abounds with things to distract you from Me, so don't be upset when you realize your mind has wandered.  Just return to Me with a smile, and whisper My Name in loving contentment. Deception is one of Satan's favorite tactics, from the time of Adam and Eve onward.  The best defense against the devil's deceptions is to study and absorb My Word.  Discouragement knocks at the door of every human heart at times, but you can refuse to let it in.  As you resist these  tricky tactics and look for Me, you will find Me.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  2 Chronicles 15:2; Matthew 28:19-20 and Genesis 3:13



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

July 17th - Let My Peace Rule In Your Heart ...

LET MY PEACE RULE IN YOUR HEART -- and be thankful.  I have called you to a life of Peace and thankfulness.  These two are closely related.  The more grateful you are, the better able you are to receive My Peace.  Conversely, the more peaceful you are, the easier it is to be grateful.  Your calmness helps you to think clearly and to recognize the many blessings I shower upon you.  This calm thankfulness is independent of circumstances; it flows out of your confidence that I always do what is best -- even when you cannot understand My ways.

My Peace can function as an umpire in your heart, settling the questions and doubts that rise up in your thoughts.  Whenever you start to feel anxious, use those feelings as a reminder to communicate with Me.  Talk with Me about whatever is disturbing you.  Bring Me all your requests with thanksgiving. Because you are Mine -- intimately united with Me --- I personally guard your heart and mind with My Peace.  Remember that this is supernatural Peace, which surpasses all understanding.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Colossians 3:15; Psalm 18:30 and Philippians 4:6-7



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

I Am Watching Over You Continually

I AM WATCHING OVER YOU CONTINUALLY.  No matter what you are experiencing or how alone you feel, trust that I am with you -- well aware of your circumstances.  When you are in the throes of adversity, it is easy to feel abandoned.  So it is crucial at such times to tell yourself the truth:  Nothing can separate you from My loving Presence.  When this truth has sunk deeply into your mind and heart, you are ready to commune with Me.  You will find Me tenderly present with you as I enter into your suffering.  The intimacy you share with Me is enhanced by adversity when you invite Me into your experience without bitterness or resentment.

To enjoy these intimate moments with Me, you must trust Me --- refusing to rely on your own understanding.  Trusting Me involves consciously leaning on Me for support, just as leaning on a massive rock helps you keep standing when you are weary.  I am indeed the Rock of your refuge.  Rejoice in the One who supports you so strongly and loves you so tenderly.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Romans 8:38-39; Proverbs 3:5 and Psalm 94:22



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

Beloved, Find Rest In Me ....

BELOVED, FIND REST IN ME alone.  Your hope comes from Me.

Rest and hope make a wonderful combination, and you can find plenty of both in Me. Some people search for the best bed or pillow -- or even sleeping pill -- in their quest for deep sleep, but only I can provide what you really need.  When you rest trustingly in My Presence, I not only refresh you -- I fill you with hope.

Hope can make the difference between life and death.  Prisoners of war who stop hoping are much less likely to survive. The same is true of people who are battling life-threatening illnesses.  So it is important to nurture well your precious hope.  It is also vital to place your hope ultimately in Me. Circumstances change all the time, but I am the same yesterday, today and forever.  Moreover, I love you with perfect, life giving Love.  My unfailing Love rests upon you as you put your hope in Me.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Psalm 62:5-6; Deuteronomy 33:12; Hebrews 13:8 and Psalm 33:22



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

Beware Of Feeling Entitled To My Good ...

BEWARE OF FEELING ENTITLED TO MY GOOD gifts.  Receive blessings from Me thankfully, yet be willing to release them back to Me -- without growing resentful.

When you have lost something precious (your job, your house, your health, a loved one), you may think it is irrational to be joyful.  But this is a worldly way of thinking.  Major losses are very painful, and they do need to be grieved.  Nonetheless, with time and effort you can learn to focus on the good things that remain -- and find Joy in the One who will never leave you.

Remember that it is possible to be sorrowful, yet always rejoicing.  The apostle Paul learned the secret of being joyful in all situations through his experiences of multiple hardships.  The Holy Spirit empowered Paul to find Joy in the midst of adversity, and He can do the same for you.  You must be willing, though, to let go of anything I take from you --- no matter how painful the loss.  Then direct your attention fully to Me, trusting that I will never let go of you.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Deuteronomy 31:6; 2 Corinthians 6:4, 10 and Psalm 73:23-24



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

When You Are Feeling Overwhelmed By ...

WHEN YOU ARE FEELING OVERWHELMED BY your circumstances, take time to listen to Me.  Hear Me saying, "Take courage!  It is I.  Don't be afraid.

Listening to Me when you're feeling stressed requires discipline and trust.  Your racing thoughts make it hard to hear My gentle whisper.  Ask the Holy Spirit to calm your mind so that you can hear My voice.  Remember that I -- the Price of Peace -- am with you at all times.

I am not only with you:  I am also in your circumstances.  Moreover, I am in control of everything that happens to you.  Although I am never the author of evil, I am fully able to use bad things for good. This does not remove your suffering, but it does redeem it -- infusing it with meaning.  So if you are in a storm of difficulties, I say to you, "Take courage.  it is I."  Search for signs of My abiding Presence in your current situation.  You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Matthew 14:27; 1 Kings 19:12; Isaiah 9:6 and Jeremiah 29:13

(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

July 12th --- Your Life Can Be Good Even When ...

YOUR LIFE CAN BE GOOD EVEN WHEN many things are not going as you would like.  You yearn to feel more in control of your life, but this is not My way for you.  I want you to learn to relax more in My sovereignty, receiving each day as a good gift from Me --- no matter what it contains. Remember that you are not responsible for things beyond your control.  Accept the limitations of being a finite person and keep turning toward Me.  Cease striving and know that I am God.  Awareness of My Face shining upon you can instill Joy into the most difficult day.

Let Me guide you step by step through this day.  Because you are My follower, you live in the midst of fierce spiritual battles.  Even  your most routine day will have some minor spiritual skirmishes.  So be on the alert as you follow Me along your life-path.  Use your shield of faith to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.  Recognize and reject the demonic lies that assault you day and night.  Rest in the truth of who you really are:  My beloved child in whom I delight.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Psalm 46:10; Numbers 6:25; 1 Peter 5:8 and Ephesians 6:16



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

Humble Yourself Under My ...

HUMBLE YOURSELF UNDER MY mighty hand.  You are well aware of My powerful hand working in your life experiences.  Sometimes you feel weighed down by My Sovereign will -- trapped by circumstances you cannot change.  The temptation at such times is to grow impatient with Me and My ways.  But this will only frustrate you further, and your negative feelings will pull you down.  Your impatience will also alienate you from Me.

When you are feeling weighed down by your circumstances, change your perspective by looking up to Me.  Muster the courage to say, "Lord, I humble myself under Your mighty hand."  Submit to Me and My ways in your life, even though you long to break free.  This protects you from fighting against Me -- the Creator and Sustainer of the universe.  Instead of engaging in this battle you cannot win, use your energy to cope with the situation and learn from it.  Trust that I will lift you up -- relieve your suffering --- in My perfect, wisely appointed time.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  1 Peter 5:6; Micah 6:8 and James 4:6, 10



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

Be Strong And Courageous. Do Not Be ...

BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS.  DO NOT BE discouraged, for I will be with you wherever you go.  You can choose to be strong and courageous even when you are feeling very weak.  However, the weaker you feel, the more effort it takes to choose to be strong.  It all depends on where you look.  If you gaze at yourself and your problems, your courage will melt away.  The choice to be bold rests on your confidence that I am with you and for you.  Through eyes of faith, see Me on the path before you, beckoning you on, one step at a time.  Looking to Me consistently will increase your strength and valor.

When everything seems to be going wrong, refuse to get discouraged.  Remember that I am a God of surprises:  I am not limited by the way things are or by the paltry possibilities you can see.  I am infinitely creative and powerful.  With Me all things are possible!  The longer you wait for your prayers to be answered, the closer you are to a breakthrough. Meanwhile, waiting for Me -- aware of My loving Presence -- is a blessed way to live.  I am good to those who wait for Me. 

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Joshua 1:9; Matthew 19:26 and Lamentations 3:25-26



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

You Belong To Me. I Have Chosen You ...

YOU BELONG TO ME.  I HAVE CHOSEN YOU and called you out of darkness into My marvelous Light.  The fact that you belong to Me --- now and forever --- provides a firm foundation for your life.  This connection with Me can protect you from feeling cut off or adrift n your ever-changing world.  Many people attach themselves to hurtful people or harmful things because they yearn to escape their aloneness.  But you are never alone, for you are Mine.  I chose you before the creation of the world, and you are a permanent member of My royal family.

You used to walk in spiritual darkness before you trusted Me as Savior.  I personally brought you out of that darkness into My Light --- so that you might proclaim My praises.  This is a delightful privilege and responsibility.  I have entrusted you with the task of telling others about My awesome qualities.  To carry out this assignment effectively, you need to delve into the riches of who I am by studying My Word.  You also need to delight yourself in Me.  Then the Joy of My Presence will shine from your face as you tell others about Me.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  1 Peter 2:9; Ephesians 1:3-4 and Psalm 37:4



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

I Crown You With Lovingkindness And ...

I CROWN YOU WITH LOVINGKINDNESS AND tender mercies.  You need vast quantities of these blessings, and I delight in providing them for you.  Your job is to open your heart fully to Me, acknowledging -- to yourself and to Me -- how needy you are.  Many people are afraid to face their neediness because they doubt that anyone could ever provide all that they lack.  Humanly speaking, this is true.  But I have infinite reservoirs of blessings for My children.  Moreover, My lovingkindness is an eternal gift, for I have loved you with an everlasting Love.  I am committed to you!

All of My children need mercy -- compassionate treatment -- and you are no exception.  I offer you multiple mercies, and I do this tenderly.  So come to Me when you are feeling weak and vulnerable.  Pour out your heart to Me, and rest in My Presence.  Remember that you are redeemed royalty, purchased with My own blood.  Hold still -- with dignity and confidence -- while I crown you with lovingkindness and tender mercies.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Psalm 103:1-4; Jeremiah 31:3 and Psalm 62:8



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

I Am In Your Midst, And I Am ...

I AM IN YOUR MIDST, AND I AM MIGHTY!  Just as the sun is at the center of the solar system, so I am at the center of your entire being -- physical, emotional and spiritual.  I, the Mighty One who created the universe, lives inside you!  Let this amazing truth reverberate in your mind and soak into your innermost being.

Ponder what it means to have so much Power dwelling inside you.  One implication is that you don't need to worry about your lack of strength.  In fact, my Power shows itself most effective in your weakness.

Remind yourself frequently that I live inside you and I am mighty!  Let your awareness of My indwelling Presence drive out discouragement and fill you with great Joy.  As My Life flows into yours, you are strengthened with divine might.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Zephaniah 3:17; 2 Corinthians 12:9 and Jude 24



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

Though I Bring Grief, I Will Show ...

THOUGH I BRING GRIEF, I WILL SHOW compassion.  So do not despair when hard times come your way, and do not try to escape them prematurely.  Timing is My prerogative!  There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under heaven.  Grief is a season and I use it for your good.

Unlike the four seasons of the year, the seasons of your life are not orderly or predictable.  When you are grieving, you may feel as if sorrow will accompany you the rest of your days.  But remember that I have promises to show compassion.  So great is My unfailing Love for you?

When you are suffering, search for signs of My merciful Presence.  Even during your darkest days, streaks of Light break through the storm clouds -- providing hope and comfort. My unfailing Love shines upon you always.  Look up to Me and see My Face shining down upon you. I never run out of compassions.  They are new every morning.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Lamentations 3:32; Ecclesiastes 3:1; Numbers 6:25 and Lamentations 3:22-24



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young 

Christian Hope Is Strongly Linked To ...

CHRISTIAN HOPE IS STRONGLY LINKED TO MY Presence -- which is with you now and throughout eternity.  So the more aware you are of My Presence, the more hopeful you will feel.  Even though you believe that I am with you always, there may be times when you feel distant from Me. This diminishes your hopelessness.

Do not hesitate to ask for My help.  For instance, you can simply pray, "Jesus, keep me aware of you."  This prayer is so short and simple that you can use it as often as needed.  Sometimes you limp through a day feeling empty and alone.  But I say to you at such times, "You do not have because you do not ask."

Hoping in Me is the most realistic way to live because of who I am.  Since I am the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, nothing can thwart My promises.  As you marvel at how great, glorious, and trustworthy I am, your praises will fill you with hope -- and with rich awareness of My Presence.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Psalm 42:5; Matthew 28:19-20 and James 4:2



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

I Will Fight For You ...

I WILL FIGHT FOR YOU.  YOU NEED ONLY TO BE still.  I know how weary you are, My child.  You have been struggling just to keep your head above water, and your strength is running low.  Now is the time for you to stop striving and let Me fight for you.  I know this is not easy for you to do.  You feel as though you must keep struggling in order to survive, but I am calling you to rest in Me.  I am working on your behalf; so be still, and know that I am God.

Quieting your body is somewhat challenging for you, but stilling your mind may often seem downright impossible.  In your striving to feel secure, you have relied too heavily on your own thinking.  This struggle to be in control has elevated your mind to a position of independence.  So you need the intervention of the Holy Spirit.  Ask him to control your mind more and more -- soothing you from the inside out.  Take time to rest in the shadow of the Almighty while I fight for you.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Exodus 14:14; Psalm 46:10; Romans 8:6 and Psalm 91:1



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

I Always Lead You Forward ...

I ALWAYS LEAD YOU FORWARD.  When you are going through hard times, you tend to look back longingly at seasons when your life seemed easier, less complicated.  You daydream about those simpler times -- looking at them through rose-colored lenses.  Even your prayers reflect this yearning to go back to earlier, easier circumstances.  But this is not My way for you!

Because of the nature of time, there is only one direction to travel, and that is forward. Your life on earth is a journey -- beginning at birth and ending at the gates of heaven.  I am your Guide, and your responsibility is to follow Me wherever I lead.  Sometimes I take you to places you would rather not go, but this is My prerogative as your Savior - God.  I am also your Shepherd.  I always lead you along the best possible path -- no matter how painful or confusing it may be.  When your path takes you through a dark valley and you are struggling, look to Me for help.  Follow Me obediently, trusting Me in the midst of darkness and confusion.  I am tenderly present with you each step of your journey.  As you stay close to Me, I show you the way forward.  Little by little, I turn your darkness into Light.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  John 21:19; Psalm 23:1,4 and Psalm 18:28



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

Come To Me When You Are Hurting ...

COME TO ME WHEN YOU ARE HURTING.  Voice your trust in Me, and seek to become aware of My Love all around you.  Breathe in the Peace of My Presence:  Peace that transcends understanding.  Take time, take time with Me.

To experience the Joy of My Presence, you need to sit quietly, focusing your thoughts on Me.  Say no to plans and problems as they try to creep into your mind.  Say yes to Me -- to My Joy and Peace, My unfailing Love.

Living close to Me is all about transcendence.  The world is full of trouble, but I have overcome the world!  I call you to transcend your troubles by looking up to Me.  Assert your confidence in Me, saying, "I trust You, Jesus.  You are my Hope."  Short prayers such as these -- voiced almost continuously -- will help you live transcendently:  seated with Me in heavenly realms.  I am training you to be an overcomer -- unfettered by circumstances.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Philippians 4:6-7; John 16:33 and Ephesians 2:6



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)

Cast Your Burden On Me, And I Will Sustain ...

CAST YOUR BURDEN ON ME, AND I WILL SUSTAIN you.  No matter what your circumstances may be, I can -- and will -- carry you through them.  Sometimes you are weighed down by a situation that seems too heavy for you.  Do not try to cope with this burden alone.  Instead, bring it into My Presence and cast it on Me, releasing it into My care and keeping.  Although your circumstances may not change right away, you can find real relief through this process.

Casting your burden on Me is a spiritual transaction.  You acknowledge that I am in charge of your life and that outcomes are ultimately My domain.  This lightens your load immensely, relieving you from feeling responsible for things beyond your control.

When you come to Me weary and burdened, I have promised that I will give you rest.  Take My yoke upon you -- trusting in My unfailing Love -- and let Me carry your heavy load.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.

- Jesus

Scripture Insight:  Psalm 55:22; Matthew 11:28-30; and Psalm 13:5



(Jesus Today / Sarah Young)