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In the Strength of the Lord (Psalm 71:16)

One of the advantages of the division of time into cycles is that of enabling us to regard the commencement of each day as a time of new beginning.  The opportunity of a fresh start is made available even to the most disheartened.  Happy is the person who echoes the words of the Psalmist with the resolve to begin each day, “in the strength of the Lord.”  Proverbs 3:5-6 also express what the Psalmist has claimed, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek His will in all you do, and He will direct your paths.”

Someone has said, “Some people know the price of everything but the value of nothing...it’s good to have the things money can buy, provided you don’t lose the things money can’t buy.”  Money can’t buy love, joy, peace, and happiness.  What good is an expensive house if there is not a happy home within it?  Love, happiness, pleasantness, and peace are not the guaranteed by-products of financial success, but they are guaranteed to the person who has a relationship with Christ Jesus and trust Him daily.

A relationship with Him leads to a positive relationship with others, in the home or in the workplace.  Genuine love enables one to live peaceably with others, doing their best to avoid unnecessary disagreements.  True relationships, whether they be friends or family, are based on love, because only love will endure the test as you go through life together.  True love will produce loyalty.  A happy family and encouraging friends are blessings from the Lord.  Be sure you do your part to make these blessings a reality in your life and the lives of others.

The Psalmist says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart . . .” When you receive God’s truth into your heart, God renews your mind and enables you to think wisely.  This helps you to make right decisions and experience His guidance day by day.  King David said, “You will show me the paths of life; in your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” (Psalm 16:11 NKJV)

Dr Charles Stanley states in his devotion, “Your Hopes and Dreams,” “Being open to God’s blessings does not mean just being open to receive something good from Him.  It means being willing to receive whatever He sends your way.  And in some cases, He may send something that you did not wish to receive.  However, you can be sure that every gift is ultimately good and sent from a loving Father who has your best interest in mind.”

You can rest in the assurance that there is no “time” limit to the process of renewing your heart and mind.  One day at a time go, “In the strength of the Lord.”