I Choose Today...

I Choose Today to be Empowered by the Spirit

One of the most amazing things about the Bible—other than it being the very breath and essence of God—is that it is alive and active, working to transform our lives every single moment of every single day. When I read and study God’s Word, I often discover something new or have the Holy Spirit reveal a deeper meaning I hadn’t noticed before. This happened when I was reading Isaiah 11:1-2. The passage begins by describing the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ, as a Branch bearing fruit: “Out of the stump of David’s family will grow a shoot—yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root.” This verse paints a beautiful picture of Jesus’ ministry, growing out of what appeared to be a lifeless stump and producing abundant fruit. The chapter continues by describing how the Holy Spirit would anoint Jesus with seven qualities, empowering Him to complete His mission and purpose on earth: “And the Spirit of the Lord will rest on Him—the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord [awe and reverence].” We see this prophecy fulfilled in John 1:32, where John the Baptist recounts

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I Choose Today to Find God in My Loneliness

I Choose Today to Find God in My Loneliness The other day, I had a conversation with someone I see regularly. As we discussed my upcoming podcast, she shared her thoughts on what people need most in today’s world. Among the things she mentioned, one word stuck with me: loneliness. One such occasion was the psalmist who described himself in this way, “I am like an owl in the desert, like a little owl in a far-off wilderness. I lie awake, lonely as a solitary bird on the roof.” Psalms‬ ‭102‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬ The owl is significant in this passage because it is a bird who lives in isolation. Owls are known for inhabiting deserted or desolate places, such as ruins, wilderness, or abandoned areas. The psalmist refers to the owl in the desert and wilderness to emphasize feelings of being removed from society, surrounded by barrenness, and cut off from the vibrancy of life. I know there are seasons of my life where I feel like the owl: isolated and removed from the vibrancy of life. Especially after the holidays, where the hustle and bustle of activities keep our minds busy, I find myself feeling alone, isolated, in the wilderness

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I Choose Today to Breathe His Praise

Recently, during a worship service at church, we sang a song that truly spoke to my heart: “Great Are You Lord” by All Sons and Daughters. (I’ve added the link at the end so you can listen if you’d like.) The chorus resonates deeply:  “It’s Your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise, pour out our praise… to You only.”   This beautiful truth led me to reflect on the very moment God gave us breath—the moment He brought life into existence. “Then the Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground. He breathed the breath of life into the man’s nostrils, and the man became a living person.”  —Genesis 2:7 (NLT)   This verse reveals three profound truths about our Creator: 1. We Are Created With Intentionality and Purpose God didn’t just make Adam—He formed him. Every detail was intentional, deliberate, and purposeful. Psalm 139:13 reminds us, “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb.” Have you ever watched someone knit? Each stitch is part of a larger plan, crafted with care. That’s how God made you—yes, you! He chose every detail about

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I Choose Today Let God’s Word Fortify My Soul

I love words—maybe that’s one reason I love God’s Word so much! David captures this same love for God’s Word, expressing awe and wonder through his writing. In Psalm 119:175 (MSG), David ends his heartfelt prayer with these powerful words: “Invigorate my soul so I can praise You well; use Your decrees to put iron in my soul.” I love the way this translation puts it: “Invigorate my soul.” To invigorate means to strengthen and give energy. Think about a time you’ve felt invigorated—maybe after spending time at the beach, hearing an inspiring sermon, or listening to a meaningful song. In those moments, you’re energized, ready to take on the world, to fight the good fight, and to step into whatever God is calling you to. David’s prayer is that God’s principles, instructions, and truths would empower him to live with energy and purpose. He’s saying that being invigorated by God’s Word gives him the strength to praise God, face challenges, and do the work God has set before him. “Your decrees to put iron in my soul.” To me, iron reflects both a fortification and steel. One represents preparation, and the other, action. Fortifying is about mental and emotional

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I Choose Today to Prepare for Life’s Rainy Days

Have you ever heard the expression, “saving for a rainy day?” The idea is to set aside resources now so you’re prepared for whatever comes later—whether it’s a challenge or an opportunity. Many financial experts advise saving at least six months of expenses to cover any unexpected circumstances. This principle of intentional saving is wise, don’t you think? But what about your heart bank? What are you storing there? According to Psalm 119, David offers wisdom on living a pure life when he says, “How can a young person live a clean life? By carefully reading the map of your Word” (Psalm 119:9 MSG). David continues, “I have stored up Your Word in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11 ESV). David wasn’t just saving money; he was banking God’s Word in his heart for those inevitable “rainy days.” He knew that unexpected challenges, opportunities, and hardships would come his way. By storing up God’s teachings, promises, and guidance, David ensured that when those moments arrived, he would know how to respond according to God’s will. God gave similar advice to Joshua, saying, “Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so

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