The man who is blessed enough to be married is like a treasure hunter striking it rich! That’s right… the man has an initiative to search. When he puts forth the effort, he will not be disappointed. God’s favor is given to the man who marries!  Father, help us as wives to remember the gift and treasure you give to our husbands through us. We love your wisdom and joy that exudes through marriage. – Teresa

Proverbs 18: 22 (NLT)
22 “The man who finds a wife finds a treasure,

    and he receives favor from the Lord.”

  

Although Jabez was named for the pain he caused his mother at birth, he prayed that God would make his life free of pain. He also asked for bigger borders and a territory that was blessed by God. As leaders in our homes first and in the community and businesses we work, we should also request to expand His good blessing to others. Father, please hear our hearts to draw near to your peace (shalom) and to ultimately  

 share that with others. -Teresa

1 Chronicles 4:10 (NLT)

“Oh, that you would bless me and expand my territory! Please be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain!” And God granted him his request.

If we have abundant harvests of grain (or financial success) along with new wine (enough drink to satiate our thirst for companionship), then it seems we have truly arrived. Amazingly, the Lord gives us greater joy than this type of worldly security! When we simply trust Him, our joy is greater than ever. He gives us safety from things outside of our control. He allows us to sleep well at night (not worrying about scoundrels or trouble makers). He is a fortress around our lives for good. – Teresa

Psalm 4: 6-8 (NLT)

6 ‘Many people say, “Who will show us better times?”

    Let your face smile on us, Lord.

7 You have given me greater joy

    than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine.

8 In peace I will lie down and sleep,

    for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.’

  

While attending the parade in Mount Shasta this weekend, my family and I were struck with small town America and the pride in our flag. Everyone stood for the National Anthem and gazed admirably at the flag held by the color guard. The symbol of American freedom was also displayed on the float with all the Veterans. There were many young people riding the float who have already invested time fighting for freedom against terrorism. Spiritual freedom from sin will come when we experience God’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. Father, may the symbol of your Word, the Bible, be the focus of our gaze. We desire to speak of your kingdom to a needy world through your love gift to us. #thecross. 

Today, this American eagle shared its magnificence with us as we swam at Butterfly Beach. It reminded me of the struggle for survival for rare species and for the rarity of the blessed believer in Yahweh.

Psalm 1 (NLT) states it well: “1 Oh, the joys of those who do not

    follow the advice of the wicked,

or stand around with sinners,

or join in with mockers.

2 But they delight in the law of the Lord,

meditating on it day and night.

3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank,

bearing fruit each season.

Their leaves never wither,

and they prosper in all they do.

4 But not the wicked!

They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind.

5 They will be condemned at the time of judgment.

Sinners will have no place among the godly.

6 For the Lord watches over the path of the godly,

but the path of the wicked leads to destruction.”