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	<title>joy | Thoughts About God</title>
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	<description>Christian Devotionals, Prayer and Biblical Encouragement</description>
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	<title>joy | Thoughts About God</title>
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	<item>
		<title>The Beginning of Joy</title>
		<link>https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/ml_the-beginning-of-joy/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Devotionals]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 22 Aug 2026 07:02:04 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Max Lucado]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Men]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gods victory]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jesus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[triumph]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[truth]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/?p=49721</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Truth will still triumph. Death will still die. The victory is still yours. And delight is one decision away — seize it! Joy begins by breathing deep up there before you go crazy down here!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/ml_the-beginning-of-joy/">The Beginning of Joy</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="300" height="178" src="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/michael_knapek-1-e1442541887537-300x178.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="daily devotional" style="margin-bottom: 10px;" srcset="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/michael_knapek-1-e1442541887537-300x178.jpg 300w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/michael_knapek-1-e1442541887537-768x456.jpg 768w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/michael_knapek-1-e1442541887537.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>In <span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Matthew 11:28</strong></span> Jesus says,</p>
<blockquote><p>“<em><strong>Come to me, all you who are weary and I will give you res</strong></em>t.”</p></blockquote>
<p>You’ve been there. You’re turned your back on the noise and sought his voice. You’ve stepped away from the masses and followed the Master as he led you up the winding path to the summit. His summit. Clean air. Clear view. Crisp breeze. The roar of the marketplace is down there, and the perspective of the peak is up here. Gently he invited you to sit on the rock and look out with him at the ancient peaks that will never erode.</p>
<p>Just remember, he says, you’ll go nowhere tomorrow that I haven’t already been. Truth will still triumph. Death will still die. The victory is still yours. And delight is one decision away — seize it! Joy begins by breathing deep up there before you go crazy down here!</p>
<p>By <strong><span style="color: #003366;">Max Lucado</span></strong><br />
Used by permission</p>

<p>To learn more about Max Lucado visit his website at:  <em>   </em><br />
<a href="https://maxlucado.com/about/">https://maxlucado.com/about/</a></p>
<p>From: <em>The Applause of Heaven</em></p>
<p><strong>FURTHER READING</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/violet-tse_fullness-of-joy/" rel="bookmark">Fullness of Joy</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bethany-hayes_god-gave-joy/" rel="bookmark">What God Already Gave – JOY</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/katherine-kehler_joy/" rel="bookmark">Count it All Joy</a></p>
<p>Feature Photo credit: Michael Knapek https://www.flickr.com/photos/50390668@N04<br />
Some Rights Reserved  https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/ml_the-beginning-of-joy/">The Beginning of Joy</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
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		<title>Thankful for the Unexpected</title>
		<link>https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/doug-lim_thankful-unexpected/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Devotionals]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 20 Aug 2026 07:06:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Doug Lim]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Men]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[comfort]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Depend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[faithful]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God's love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Holy Spirit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hope]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jesus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[peace]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/?p=87326</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>In 1 Thessalonians 5, Paul calls us to offer grateful thanks to our heavenly Father in all things, for he knows this is the will of God concerning each of us.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/doug-lim_thankful-unexpected/">Thankful for the Unexpected</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img decoding="async" width="300" height="155" src="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/1thess5-18-300x155.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="1 Thess. 5:18 “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you”" style="margin-bottom: 10px;" srcset="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/1thess5-18-300x155.jpg 300w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/1thess5-18-768x397.jpg 768w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/1thess5-18.jpg 998w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p style="text-align: left;">“<strong><em>Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus</em>.”  1 Thessalonians 5:18</strong></p>
<hr />
<h3>Trust in the Lord&#8217;s Providence!</h3>
<p>Our daughter alerted us a few weeks in advance whenever she needed us to watch her pups. Since we did not hear from her, my wife and I booked a room for the long 4th of July weekend.</p>
<p>On the night before our out-of-town trip, we received a phone call. “<em>Dad, I need a favor,</em>” said my daughter. “<em>Can you watch the pups over the weekend?</em>” She described the emergency at her house; we cancelled our long-weekend plans.</p>
<p>A blessing in disguise, as the old saying goes, when we received the phone call from her that evening. As it turned out, the news reported the following morning that a brush fire had erupted at the resort we planned to visit. Deaths reported. Authorities ordered visitors to turn back. Those who drove up a day earlier became stranded because of the many road closures.</p>
<p>We enjoyed our time with the pups over the 4th of July weekend. And we were certainly grateful that God stepped in and juggled our weekend plans.</p>
<p>In <strong>1 Thessalonians 5</strong>, Paul calls us to offer grateful thanks to our heavenly Father in all things, for he knows this is the will of God concerning each of us. In other words, trust the Lord’s providence. The unforeseen changes to our plans often reveal the work of the Lord. He works this way sometimes.</p>
<p>With trust and faith, we will come to praise him for putting up those barriers. He sees what we cannot see—the threatening tinder fires ahead. God closes roads for justified reasons and will never reopen them a moment too soon.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>Lord, help me to trust in your providence when unforeseen circumstances force me to change plans. And give me the strength to resist the temptation to push headlong when you signal roads closed ahead. Amen.</em></p></blockquote>
<p>God often disrupts our plans and, sometimes, he allows us to see why. Have you recently given thanks to the Lord for the unexpected?</p>
<p>By <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/authors/about-doug-lim/">Doug Lim</a><br />
Used by Permission</p>

<hr />
<h4>Further Reading</h4>
<p>• <strong> <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/struggles-3/muriel-larson_why-worry-sick/">Why Worry Yourself Sick?</a></strong> – by Muriel Larson</p>
<p>• <strong> <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/katherine-kehler/beauty-out-of-brokenness/">Beauty out of Brokenness</a></strong></p>
<p>•  <strong><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/four-laws/">Salvation Explained</a></strong></p>
<hr />
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/doug-lim_thankful-unexpected/">Thankful for the Unexpected</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
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		<title>Suffering with Dignity</title>
		<link>https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/ml_suffering-with-dignity/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Thoughts_About_God]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 20 Aug 2026 07:03:21 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Max Lucado]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Men]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[comfort]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Depend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[faithful]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God's love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jesus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mercy]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/?p=32149</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>“It breaks my heart to see patients who pray every day for miracles, and still they suffer. What do I tell them?”</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/ml_suffering-with-dignity/">Suffering with Dignity</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img decoding="async" width="300" height="199" src="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/1peter1-6-300x199.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 10px;" srcset="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/1peter1-6-300x199.jpg 300w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/1peter1-6-768x509.jpg 768w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/1peter1-6.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>This question has been asked of me:</p>
<blockquote><p>“<em>It breaks my heart to see patients who pray every day for miracles, and still they suffer. What do I tell them?</em>”</p></blockquote>
<p>The last years of my dad’s life were scarred by A.L.S., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. It took him from a healthy mechanic to a bed-ridden paralytic. He lost his voice and his muscles. But he never lost his faith. It wasn’t so much what he said, but more what he didn’t say. Never outwardly angry or bitter, Jack Lucado suffered with dignity.</p>
<p>After my dad’s funeral, a man told me it was because of my dad’s example that he became a Jesus follower. I’ve wondered, did God orchestrate my father’s illness for that very reason? Knowing the value God places on one soul—I wouldn’t be surprised. And imaging the splendor of heaven, I know my dad is not complaining!</p>
<blockquote><p>“<em><strong>Pure gold put in the fire comes out of it proved pure; genuine faith put through this suffering comes out proved genuine</strong></em>.” <span style="color: #800000;"><strong>1</strong></span><span style="color: #800000;"><strong> Peter 1:6-7</strong></span></p></blockquote>
<p>by <strong>Max Lucado</strong><br />
From: <strong>Max on Life<br />
</strong>used by permission</p>

<p>To learn more about Max Lucado visit his <a href="https://maxlucado.com/about/">website</a>.</p>
<p><strong>FURTHER READING</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/stories/frank-krause-story/" rel="bookmark">Frank’s Story</a>  &#8211; he also had ALS</p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/stories/junes-story-bitter-or-better/">Choosing to be Bitter or Better</a> – Following her husband’s diagnosis with Lou Gehrig’s Disease, June Krause and her husband had a choice as to how they were going to face it.</p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/marilyn-ehle_ready-heaven/" rel="bookmark">Am I Ready for Heaven?</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/m-lucado_death-becomes-birth/" rel="bookmark">When Death Becomes Birth</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/marilyn-ehle-done-yet/" rel="bookmark">Are You Done Yet, Lord?</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/ml_suffering-with-dignity/">Suffering with Dignity</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
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		<title>Have You Let God Love You?</title>
		<link>https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/max-lucado_let-god-love/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Devotionals]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 19 Aug 2026 07:06:33 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Max Lucado]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Men]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[content]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[faithful]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God's love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Holy Spirit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hope]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jesus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Max Lucado]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/?p=74799</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>It is only by receiving our Father’s agape love that we can discover an agape love for others.  Be loved, and then love.  Just as hurt people hurt people, loved people love people.  So let God love you!</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/max-lucado_let-god-love/">Have You Let God Love You?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="199" src="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/JOHN13-34--300x199.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 10px;" srcset="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/JOHN13-34--300x199.jpg 300w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/JOHN13-34--768x509.jpg 768w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/JOHN13-34-.jpg 1000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><hr />
<h3><span style="color: #808080;">“Love one another as I have loved you”</span> <span style="color: #800000;">John 13:34</span></h3>
<p>The Greek word used for love (<em>agape</em>) denotes an unselfish affection.  The final phrase is the essential one: “<em><strong>as I have loved you</strong></em>.” Have you let God love you?  Please don’t hurry past the question.</p>
<p>We don’t love people because people are lovable.  People can be cranky, stubborn, selfish, and cruel.  We love people for this reason: we have come to experience and believe the love that God has for us.  We are beneficiaries of an unexpected, undeserved, yet undeniable gift— the love of God.</p>
<p>It is only by receiving our Father’s <em>agape</em> love that we can discover an <em>agape</em> love for others.  Be loved, and then love.  Just as hurt people hurt people, loved people love people.  So let God love you!</p>
<p>This is how happiness happens.</p>
<p>By <strong>Max Lucado</strong><br />
Used by Permission</p>

<p><em>To learn more about Max Lucado visit his website at:</em><em>     </em><br />
<strong><a href="https://maxlucado.com/about-max/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color: #000080;">https://maxlucado.com/about-max/</span></a></strong></p>
<div><strong>RELATED READING</strong></div>
<div>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/veda-lucas_unrecprocated-love/" rel="bookmark">Unreciprocated Love</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bill-bright_love-proof/" rel="bookmark">Strong Love is the Proof</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/mike-woodard_wisdom-astronaut/" rel="bookmark">Wisdom from an Astronaut</a></p>
</div>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/max-lucado_let-god-love/">Have You Let God Love You?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
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		<title>Like a Sweet Perfume</title>
		<link>https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bill-bright_sweet-perfume/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Thoughts_About_God]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 18 Aug 2026 07:03:25 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Bill Bright]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Men]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[faithful]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God's love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grace]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Holy Spirit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hope]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jesus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[peace]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[refuge]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/?p=36676</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>"...spread the Gospel like a sweet perfume" 2 Corinthians 2:14  We can certainly learn a lesson from the apostle Paul. He frequently begins a chapter or a verse with a note of praise.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bill-bright_sweet-perfume/">Like a Sweet Perfume</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="199" src="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/2cor2-14-1-300x199.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 10px;" srcset="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/2cor2-14-1-300x199.jpg 300w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/2cor2-14-1-768x509.jpg 768w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/2cor2-14-1.jpg 1000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><hr />
<blockquote><p>&#8220;But thanks be to God! For through what Christ has done, He has triumphed over us so that now wherever we go He uses us to tell others about the Lord and to spread the Gospel like a sweet perfume&#8221; 2 Corinthians 2:14</p></blockquote>
<p>We can certainly learn a lesson from the apostle Paul. He frequently begins a chapter or a verse with a note of praise. To say that he had a thankful spirit would be understating the case. That perhaps is the key to victory in every area of our lives, to begin with thanksgiving.</p>
<p>It is God who leads us to triumph over principalities and powers. And in leading us to triumph, He is then able to use us to tell others of His love and forgiveness through the Lord Jesus. As we rest in His victory and in His command, with its promise of &#8220;<em>Lo, I am with you always</em>,&#8221; we spread the gospel like a sweet perfume.</p>
<p>In your own home and in your own neighborhood, perhaps, are those who need the sweet perfume of the gospel, that heavenly aroma that comes first from God, then through us as His servants, and finally in the message itself: the good news of sins forgiven and a heavenly home assured.</p>
<p>Around the world, literally, I personally have seen multitudes of men and women, old and young, become new creatures in Christ. The aroma indeed is one of sweet perfume, for tangled lives have become untangled to the glory of God, and joy abounds in hearts and lives where only sadness and despair had been known.</p>
<p><strong>Bible Reading</strong>: <span style="color: #800000;"><strong>2 Corinthians 2:14-17</strong> </span></p>
<blockquote><p>&#8220;<em>Dear Lord, help me to bear a heavenly aroma as I share the sweet perfume of the gospel with others.&#8221;</em></p></blockquote>
<p>by <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/authors_/bill-bright"><span style="color: #000080;">Dr. Bill Bright</span></a><br />
Used by Permission</p>

<hr />
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<hr />
<p><strong>RELATED READING</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/marilyn-ehle_perfume-god/" rel="bookmark">Perfume to God</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/kristi-huseby_whats-that-smell/" rel="bookmark">What’s that Smell?</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/rod-marshall_the-fragrance/" rel="bookmark">The Fragrance</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bill-bright_sweet-perfume/">Like a Sweet Perfume</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
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		<title>Practicing the Presence of God</title>
		<link>https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bb_practicing-the-presence-of-god/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Thoughts_About_God]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 16 Aug 2026 07:06:31 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Bill Bright]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Men]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Depend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[faithful]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God's love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grace]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jesus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mercy]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/?p=33790</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>It is because of God's love in my heart that I am able to love my sons unconditionally, even as He loves me.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bb_practicing-the-presence-of-god/">Practicing the Presence of God</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="199" src="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Psalm-13917-300x199.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 10px;" srcset="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Psalm-13917-300x199.jpg 300w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Psalm-13917-768x509.jpg 768w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Psalm-13917.jpg 1000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><blockquote><p>&#8220;<em><strong>How precious it is, Lord, to realize that You are thinking about me constantly! I can&#8217;t even count how many times a day Your thoughts turn towards me. And when I waken in the morning, You are still thinking of me</strong></em>!&#8221; <span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Psalm 139:17,18</strong></span></p></blockquote>
<p>Our sons, Zac and Brad, have helped me to understand, in some small measure, the truth of this promise; for in the course of a single day, I will lift them up in prayer many times. I am finite, but God is infinite. My love for our sons is limited, but his love is inexhaustible and unconditional. It is because of God&#8217;s love in my heart that I am able to love my sons unconditionally, even as He loves me.</p>
<p>What a comforting, encouraging thought, that the omnipotent Creator, God, who possesses all power and control of creation, loves me enough that He is constantly thinking about me. When I allow Him to do so &#8212; He talks to me, expressing His love, wisdom and grace from His Word, through divine impressions and the counsel of wise and godly friends. His eyes run to and fro throughout the whole earth to make Himself strong and mighty in my behalf (<span style="color: #800000;"><strong>2 Chronicles 16:9</strong></span>).</p>
<p>Just as He is constantly thinking about me, I have been admonished to pray without ceasing. To talk to Him, to think about Him all the time &#8212; as difficult as it may sound &#8212; is a joyful reality to those who practice the presence of God, is that the kind of relationship you are experiencing day by day? If not, it can be.</p>
<p><strong>Bible Reading:</strong> <span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Psalm 139:1-10</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Today&#8217;s Action Point:</strong> Mindful that God loves, cares and thinks about me constantly, I shall seek to live the supernatural life by practicing His presence, by praying without ceasing and by claiming His supernatural power by faith.</p>
<p>by <a title="about Dr. Bill Bright" href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/authors/bill-bright">Dr. Bill Bright</a><br />
used by permission</p>

<hr />
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<hr />
<p><strong>RELATED READING</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/katherine-kehler_thinking/" rel="bookmark">God is Thinking about You</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/katherine-kehler/lord-is-my-shepherd">The Lord is My Shepherd</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/katherine-kehler/jesus-is-always-there">Jesus is Always There!</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/katherine-kehler/god-demonstrates-his-love">God Demonstrates His Love</a> like this…</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bb_practicing-the-presence-of-god/">Practicing the Presence of God</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
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		<title>Fullness of Joy</title>
		<link>https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/violet-tse_fullness-of-joy/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Thoughts_About_God]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 29 Jul 2026 07:06:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Violet Tse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Women]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[faithful]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fullness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God's love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[psalm16]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/?p=17482</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>“O Lord, may I always look to Christ as my true Treasure, and with Him, in Your presence, find “fullness of joy.”</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/violet-tse_fullness-of-joy/">Fullness of Joy</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="199" src="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/fullnessjoy-300x199.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 10px;" srcset="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/fullnessjoy-300x199.jpg 300w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/fullnessjoy-768x509.jpg 768w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/fullnessjoy.jpg 1000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><article class="devotional-entry">
<div class="devotional-entry__content">
<blockquote class="devotional-entry__scripture" cite="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/"><p>“<em><strong>Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.</strong></em>”<br />
<cite class="devotional-entry__scripture-reference"><br />
<strong>Psalm 16:11 </strong><br />
</cite></p></blockquote>
<p>I was brought up short recently by the phrase “<strong>fullness of joy</strong>” in<br />
<strong>Psalm 16:11</strong>. A series of negative events (from my perspective)<br />
had occurred, leaving any thought of a fragment of joy, let alone fullness,<br />
taunting me as an impossible dream.</p>
<p>As I read the whole psalm, however, I was overwhelmed as I realized it spoke<br />
of my precious Savior and His suffering. He faced everything, no matter how<br />
painful, with joy and complete confidence in His Father to bring Him through<br />
the path from death to life. Ultimately He returned to God’s presence, at His<br />
right hand where “<em>there are pleasures for evermore</em>.” When my eyes turn<br />
to look upon Him, my heart and tongue also rejoice in who He is and what He<br />
has done. Somehow my own personal trials shrank considerably as I meditated<br />
on this psalm.</p>
<blockquote class="devotional-entry__quotation"><p>According to Matthew Henry, “<em>this psalm is entitled Michtam, which<br />
some translate a golden psalm, a very precious one, more to be valued by<br />
us than gold, yea, than much fine gold; because it speaks so plainly of<br />
Christ and His resurrection, Who is the true treasure</em>.”</p></blockquote>
<blockquote class="devotional-entry__prayer"><p>“<em>O Lord, may I always look to Christ as my true Treasure, and with Him,<br />
in Your presence, find “<strong>fullness of joy</strong>.</em>”</p></blockquote>
<footer class="devotional-entry__footer">
<p class="devotional-entry__author">by<br />
<a title="About Violet Tse" href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/authors/about-violet-tse" target="_blank" rel="author noopener noreferrer">Violet Tse</a></p>
<p class="devotional-entry__permission">Used by permission</p>
</footer>
<div class="devotional-entry__form"></div>
<div></div>
<div class="devotional-entry__form"><strong style="color: #100808;">Related Reading</strong></div>
<nav class="devotional-entry__related-reading" aria-labelledby="related-reading-heading">
<ul>
<li><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bill-bright_peace-joy/" rel="bookmark">Peace and Joy</a></li>
<li><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bill-bright_reap-joy/" rel="bookmark">Reap in Joy</a></li>
<li><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bill-bright_joy/" rel="bookmark">JOY!</a></li>
</ul>
</nav>
</div>
</article>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/violet-tse_fullness-of-joy/">Fullness of Joy</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
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		<title>Don’t Hit the Fan</title>
		<link>https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/julie-cosgrove_dont-hit-fan/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Devotionals]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 26 Jul 2026 07:03:13 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Julie Cosgrove]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Women]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Depend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[faithful]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God's love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Holy Spirit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hope]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jesus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[strength]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[trust]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/?p=68712</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Before you think your life is going to hit the fan, seek the Father to give you both the strength in your wings and the knowledge you need to lift you above it all. He is faithful to do so -- if you look to Him and not your situation.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/julie-cosgrove_dont-hit-fan/">Don’t Hit the Fan</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="200" src="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/godspurpose-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 10px;" srcset="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/godspurpose-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/godspurpose-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/godspurpose.jpg 1000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p>In <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+6&amp;version=NIV" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="color: #993300;"><strong>Matthew 6</strong></span>,</a> Jesus talks about how the Father cares for the birds of the air, and how much more He will care for us.</p>
<hr />
<p>I watched through the windows of a friend’s house as several sparrows fluttered back and forth from the ground to lawn furniture on her veranda. They were chirping loudly. Then I saw why. Her dogs were crouched down, watching them.</p>
<p>One little bird flew toward the whirring ceiling fan instead of joining the others in their frantic dance. I held my breath, knowing there was no time to bang on the window and divert the little thing from flying headlong into danger. I watched with my teeth tucked into my lower lip, and yeah, I said a prayer.</p>
<p>But the bird was savvy. It knew how to fly above the turbulence caused by the blades and land securely on top — safe from harm of the fan and from the dogs below. Then I noticed a small tangle of grass and twigs. It was building its nest there!  Smart  critter.</p>
<p>God&#8217;s lesson: In <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+6&amp;version=NIV" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><span style="color: #800000;">Matthew 6</span></strong>,</a> Jesus talks about how the Father cares for the birds of the air, and how much more He will care for us.</p>
<p>We can fret on the ground about things that are beyond our control, hopping around like chirping sparrows. We can sense the danger and feel helpless to do anything about it. It can overwhelm us with worry so much that our judgment is clouded. We may even just freeze, close our eyes, and pray we’ll come out unscathed as our knees crumble and our teeth chatter.</p>
<p>Or we can soar above the turbulence in life and nest safely in our Father’s love. We can ask Him to give us the way to lift ourselves above it all as we follow His voice and trust that He will either lead us out of the peril or armor us with the smarts to get through it by His mercy.</p>
<p>In <span style="color: #800000;"><strong><a style="color: #800000;" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Samuel+17&amp;version=NIV" target="_blank" rel="noopener">I Samuel 17</a></strong></span>, David slung a stone and whacked Goliath smack dab in the one place that would fell him. He used his expertise in scaring off wild animals from his flocks, a talent God had developed in him for such a time as this. Just as God taught that little bird to judge the wind currents so he then could navigate the whooshes of the ceiling fan.</p>
<p><strong>God is preparing you and me for His purpose</strong>. He knows what is going to happen and has our best interests at heart. He will provide the equipment we need to face any challenge or show us a route to safety.</p>
<p>So, before you think your life is going to hit the fan, seek the Father to give you both the strength in your wings and the knowledge you need to lift you above it all. He is faithful to do so &#8212; if you look to Him and not your situation.</p>
<p>By <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/authors_/about-julie-cosgrove">Julie Cosgrove</a><br />
Used by Permission</p>

<hr />
<p><strong>Follow Us On:  <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/devotions/posts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>  • <a href="https://twitter.com/About_God" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&#8216;X&#8217; Twitter </a> •  <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thoughtsaboutgod.daily/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram </a> • <a href="https://www.pinterest.ca/thoughtsabout/daily-devotionals/">Pinterest</a></strong></p>
<hr />
<p><strong>FURTHER READING</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/phil-ware_gods-purpose/">God’s Purpose </a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/helen-lescheid_my-life-has-purpose/">My Life Has Purpose</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/katherien-kehler_god-directs/">We Plan – God Directs</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/julie-cosgrove_dont-hit-fan/">Don’t Hit the Fan</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
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		<title>Five Important Truths I Keep Forgetting</title>
		<link>https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bethany-hayes_five-truths/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Devotionals]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 25 Jul 2026 07:06:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Bethany Hayes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Women]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Depend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[faithful]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God's love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Holy Spirit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hope]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jesus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[peace]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[power]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[refuge]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[strength]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/?p=49453</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>I keep forgetting the important truths of Scripture—truths that should be ready in my hand like a sword in the midst of a raging battle.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bethany-hayes_five-truths/">Five Important Truths I Keep Forgetting</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="200" src="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/phil3-20-300x200.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 10px;" srcset="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/phil3-20-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/phil3-20-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/phil3-20.jpg 1000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><p><strong>&#8220;The Christian life is a battle,” </strong>our pastor reminded us.<strong> “Don’t let anyone tell you differently.”</strong></p>
<hr />
<p>Some days that battle is fierce. Some days growing like wheat among tares is stifling. The world constantly tries to press us into its mold. To enjoy its pleasures. To take our eyes off the invisible God. To give in and stop running the race.</p>
<p>And I keep forgetting the important truths of Scripture—truths that should be ready in my hand like a sword in the midst of a raging battle.</p>
<p><strong>1. </strong>      This world is not my home.</p>
<blockquote><p>“<em><strong>Our citizenship is in heaven, from which we eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.</strong></em>” (<span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Philippians 3:20</strong></span>)</p></blockquote>
<p><strong>2.</strong>       The Maker of heaven and earth loved me before He made heaven and earth.</p>
<blockquote><p>“<em><strong>I have loved you with an everlasting love</strong></em>.” (<strong><span style="color: #800000;">Jeremiah 31:3</span></strong>)</p></blockquote>
<p><strong>3.</strong>       Christ died for me, so my slate is clean.</p>
<blockquote><p>“<em><strong>As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us</strong></em>.” (<span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Psalm 103:12</strong></span>)</p></blockquote>
<p><strong>4.  </strong>     Christ rose again, assuring me eternal life.</p>
<blockquote><p>“<em><strong>Because I live, you will live also</strong></em>.” (<span style="color: #800000;"><strong>John 14:19</strong></span>)</p></blockquote>
<p><strong>5.  </strong>     I might see Him today.</p>
<blockquote><p>“<em><strong>Looking for the blessed hope and the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ</strong></em>.” (<span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Titus 2:13</strong></span>)</p></blockquote>
<p>“Take up the whole armour of God, that you may be able to withstand. . .Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth.” (Ephesians 6:14)</p>
<p>By <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/authors_/about-bethany-hayes">Bethany Hayes</a><br />
Used by Permission</p>

<hr />
<p><strong>Follow Us On:  <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/devotions/posts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a>  • <a href="https://twitter.com/About_God" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&#8216;X&#8217; Twitter </a> •  <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thoughtsaboutgod.daily/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram </a> • <a href="https://www.pinterest.ca/thoughtsabout/daily-devotionals/">Pinterest</a></strong></p>
<hr />
<p><strong>FURTHER READING</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/alec-niemi_battle-within/">The Battle Within</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/max-lucado_forever-home/">A Forever Home</a></p>
<p><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/max-lucado_living-loved/">Living Loved</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bethany-hayes_five-truths/">Five Important Truths I Keep Forgetting</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
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		<title>Peace Like No Other</title>
		<link>https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/gail-rodgers_peace-like-no-other/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Devotionals]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 18 Jul 2026 07:03:27 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Gail Rodgers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Women]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[comfort]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God's love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grace]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Holy Spirit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hope]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jesus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[peace]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/?p=88699</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Be blessed today with the peace of Christ.<br />
Be blessed today with His peace that is beyond understanding.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/gail-rodgers_peace-like-no-other/">Peace Like No Other</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="154" src="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/john14-27-8-1-300x154.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 10px;" srcset="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/john14-27-8-1-300x154.jpg 300w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/john14-27-8-1-768x395.jpg 768w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/john14-27-8-1.jpg 998w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><hr />
<p><strong>Unbelievable peace</strong> is available through Jesus Christ, even when life feels uncertain, troubled, or overwhelming. His peace is not dependent on perfect circumstances. It is a lasting gift that calms the heart, steadies the mind, and reminds us that God remains present in every situation.</p>
<p>Be blessed today with the peace of Christ.</p>
<p>Be blessed with His peace that goes beyond human understanding—a peace that remains when questions are unanswered, circumstances are difficult, and the way forward is unclear.</p>
<p>The peace Jesus gives is not like the temporary peace the world offers. The world often defines peace as the absence of conflict or difficulty. Christ offers something deeper. His peace creates a calm and secure place where you can rest your heart, even while uncertainty continues around you.</p>
<h2>Rest in God’s Unbelievable Peace</h2>
<p>God does not ask you to carry every fear, solve every problem, or understand everything before you can experience His peace. He invites you to bring your concerns to Him and trust that He is still working.</p>
<p>Take a moment today to slow down. Release the thoughts that have been troubling you. Remember that you are held securely in God’s care. His presence is greater than the confusion around you, and His love is stronger than the fear within you.</p>
<p>Be blessed today as you rest in His <strong>unbelievable peace</strong>, untroubled and unafraid. Do not rush away from this place of rest. Linger in God’s presence and allow His truth to quiet your heart.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><em>“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.<br />
I do not give to you as the world gives.<br />
Do not let your hearts be troubled<br />
and do not be afraid.”</em></p>
<p><strong>John 14:27</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<p>Jesus spoke these words to His disciples when they were facing uncertainty. He knew they would experience fear, confusion, and grief. Yet He assured them that His peace would remain with them. That same promise is available to everyone who places their trust in Him today.</p>
<p>You can read <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2014%3A27&amp;version=NIV" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">John 14:27 in its biblical context</a> and reflect on the peace Jesus promised His followers.</p>
<h2>A Prayer for the Peace of Christ</h2>
<p style="color: #777777;"><strong><em>Father God, thank You for the peace that only You can give—a peace that goes beyond understanding, even in the middle of chaos. Help me release my worries into Your hands. Teach me to remain in Your presence and allow Your peace to penetrate my heart and mind. Help me trust You with what I cannot control or understand. May Your peace guard my thoughts and guide me throughout this day. Amen.</em></strong></p>
<p>By <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/authors_/about-gail-rodgers/">Gail Rodgers</a><br />
Used by permission</p>

<hr />
<h2>Further Reading</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/biblestudies/charles-stanley_hearing-gods-voice/">Hearing God’s Voice</a></strong></li>
<li><strong><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/biblestudies/quiet-time/">How to Have a Quiet Time With God</a></strong></li>
<li><strong><a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/four-laws/">Salvation Explained</a></strong></li>
</ul>
<hr />
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/gail-rodgers_peace-like-no-other/">Peace Like No Other</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
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		<title>Authority in an Age of Autonomy</title>
		<link>https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/jason-weimer_authority/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Devotionals]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2026 07:03:24 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Jason Weimer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Men]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Depend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[faithful]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God's love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Holy Spirit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hope]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jesus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mercy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[serve]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/?p=73767</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>“If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15).</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/jason-weimer_authority/">Authority in an Age of Autonomy</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="155" src="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/john14-15-300x155.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 10px;" srcset="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/john14-15-300x155.jpg 300w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/john14-15-768x396.jpg 768w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/john14-15.jpg 994w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><hr />
<h5>“But of the Son he says, ‘Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, the scepter of uprightness is the scepter of your kingdom.’” — Hebrews 1:8</h5>
<h2>Jesus the Forever King</h2>
<p><strong>Jesus is the forever King</strong>, yet surrendering control to him can be difficult in a culture that celebrates personal independence and self-determination.</p>
<p>William Ernest Henley’s famous poem <em>Invictus</em> closes with the lines, “<em>I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.</em>” Though written in 1875, the couplet could serve as a rallying cry for the contemporary Western world. Freedom is often interpreted as doing whatever we please, while personal self-definition is treated as an almost sacred right.</p>
<p>The desire to establish ourselves as our own authority reflects humanity’s sinful nature. Adam and Eve demonstrated this desire when they were tempted to “be like God” in <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+3%3A1-6&amp;version=NIV"><strong>Genesis 3:1-6</strong></a>.</p>
<h3>Yielding Control to Jesus the Forever King</h3>
<p>I feel this pull toward independence in my own life. I do not like being told what to do, how to spend my money, or how to use my time. I want to be free to make my own decisions.</p>
<p>However, today’s verse proclaims that <strong>Jesus is the forever King</strong>. His throne is permanent, his authority is universal, and his kingdom is governed with righteousness. The world belongs to him whether people recognize his authority or not.</p>
<p>Those who do not follow Jesus may understandably disregard his commands. Christians, however, are called to submit to Christ and obey him. Jesus said, <em>“If you love me, you will keep my commandments”</em> (<strong>John 14:15</strong>).</p>
<h3>Living Under the Authority of the Eternal King</h3>
<p>The ministry I serve with, Cru, invites college students to make a countercultural commitment to “<strong>go, do, say,</strong> and <strong>give</strong>” whatever God asks of them.</p>
<p>This commitment means yielding our careers, finances, relationships, time, plans, and possessions to the kingly authority of Christ. Such surrender can feel frightening because it requires us to release the illusion that we are fully in control.</p>
<p>Submitting to Jesus is not merely a one-time decision. It is a daily and willing choice to trust that his wisdom is greater than ours and that his commands are ultimately for our good.</p>
<p>The autonomy of self promises freedom, peace, purpose, and protection, but it cannot reliably provide them. When we acknowledge that <strong>Jesus is the forever King</strong> and live under his loving authority, we discover the peace and purpose that self-rule can never produce.</p>
<h3>A Prayer to Jesus the Forever King</h3>
<blockquote><p><em>Father, thank you that you have set your Son on a permanent and universal throne. I confess my constant inclination to take control of my own life and the actions through which I attempt to usurp your lordship over me. By the power of your Spirit, help me yield every part of my life to Jesus. Teach me to trust his authority and experience the peace, purpose, and joy of living in your good Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.</em></p></blockquote>
<p>By <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/authors_/about-jason-weimer">Jason Weimer</a><br />
Used by Permission</p>

<div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/jason-weimer_authority/">Authority in an Age of Autonomy</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
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		<title>When the Sparkle Goes</title>
		<link>https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/muriel-hanson_sparkle/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Thoughts_About_God]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 07:03:25 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Muriel Hanson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thoughts by Women]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Depend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[friend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[God's love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grace]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jesus]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[joy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[strength]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/?p=39874</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Scripture reminds us that it is also possible to lose our “first love” for the Lord.  In fact, it is more than possible—it’s inevitable—unless one is careful to keep looking to God and His Word rather than to embrace the ceaseless changes that swirl around us.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/muriel-hanson_sparkle/">When the Sparkle Goes</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="154" src="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/forever-300x154.jpg" class="attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image" alt="" style="margin-bottom: 10px;" srcset="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/forever-300x154.jpg 300w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/forever-768x395.jpg 768w, https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/forever.jpg 998w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></div><hr />
<p>While situated temporarily in a house that boasted three bathrooms, it seems so effortless and such sheer joy to keep the sinks sparkling after the rough cement slab we had used in Japan.  I could not imagine that such a task could ever become drudgery!</p>
<p>But now this was another day!  A surplus of sinks and bathtubs was not the source of my satisfaction. It’s just that now beautiful sinks are so commonplace!</p>
<p>Really, when one stops to think about it, this is much the story of life in general in this materialistic world of ours.  It makes little difference whether it is a new hat, a new car, a new house, or a new position.  In and of itself, the newness soon loses its sparkle and its attraction, and the object may in time become “old fashioned.”</p>
<p>Scripture reminds us that it is also possible to lose our “<em><strong>first love</strong></em>” for the Lord.  In fact, it is more than possible—it’s inevitable—unless one is careful to keep looking to God and His Word rather than to embrace the ceaseless changes that swirl around us.</p>
<h5><span style="color: #808080;">“Abide in me, and I in you.  As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself except it abide in the vine, no more can you except you abide in me”</span> <span style="color: #800000;">John 15:4</span></h5>
<p>“<em>Yesterday, today, forever, Jesus is the same.  All may change but Jesus never!  Glory to His name</em>.”</p>
<p>by <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/authors_/about-muriel-hanson"><span style="color: #000080;">Muriel Hanson</span></a><br />
Used by Permission</p>

<hr />
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<hr />
<p><strong>FURTHER READING</strong></p>
<p>“First Love” Intimacy  <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/allan-mitchell_first-love-intimacy/">Read more..</a></p>
<p>Love Works  <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/bethany-hayes_love-works/">Read more..</a></p>
<p>Falling in Love with Jesus  <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/sylvia-gunter_falling-in-love/">Read more..</a></p>
<div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com/blog/muriel-hanson_sparkle/">When the Sparkle Goes</a> appeared first on <a href="https://thoughtsaboutgod.com">Thoughts About God</a>.</p>
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