How do you handle change?

Change is something we all have to deal with. Change is inevitable. Change is good…and sometimes not so good. We tend to resist change, even when it’s good for us.

Managing change is a life-skill. It’s the kind of skill that will help you over and over.

In God’s hands, we can continue to be changed to become more like Jesus. This is a good thing! But also a good thing is the fact that Jesus needs no change. We can count on Him. His character, glory, morality, power, love never changes!

We can build our life on HIM!

This weekend we wrap up our series through the book of Hebrews. I’ve loved this series! I hope you have too.

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV)

What do you do when this happens?

As I was reading my Bible yesterday, my reading plan brought me to one of my favorite passages. So what did I do? I used the rest of the day to let it resonate in my heart.

I love all of Isaiah 40, but the ending is the crescendo!

You may be wandering if you have what it takes to make it through your current situation. You may be questioning your strength or determination. I get it. I’ve been there. However, the real power is NOT yours. The real power is HIS…and He has made it available to you.

Don’t try to walk through life alone. Don’t head into your next battle by yourself. Cling to God. Let Jesus be your strength. And remember…you’re never alone!

“He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:29-31 NLT)

Could you use a new approach?

Hebrews 12:1-3 might be the most well-known passage in all of the book of Hebrews. When I come to a very familiar passage I like to look at different translations. As I’ve told you before, I really like The Message. Eugene Petterson translated the Bible into street language. That way, we all can understand it.

Take a look at this unique picture of these powerful verses as we get our week started.

“Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!” (Hebrews 12:1-3 MSG)

Can You Believe It??

While I do 3 blogs a week, I also do my “60 Seconds with PJ” video devotionals on INSTAGRAM and FACEBOOK.

I started 60 Seconds with PJ when the world shut down from Covid back in March of 2020. It’s crazy, but we’re still going. In fact, today is episode 1,100!!

Eleven hundred video devotions! For those of you who watch those, I wanted to say thank you for your support and encouragement. If you haven’t seen them, you can get started today. Click on the links below:

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

This was one of the verses I shared way back near the beginning of this journey. It’s worth reading again!

“They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.” (Psalm 112:7 NIV)

Are you taking full advantage?

Are you taking full advantage of the opportunities this Summer? While many are still working, our evenings or weekends may look a little different during the hot summer months. We might see more friends, go the beach, head for the mountains or just enjoy hanging out with friends in the backyard.

While Summer has its own rhythms, if we keep our eyes open, we might see some pretty special opportunities unfold.

• Who are you hanging out with who may need some extra encouragement?
• Who will you see, you ordinary don’t, who could use a personal invitation to join you at a church service?
• Who could you help, serve, love, or listen to in order to show them you care?

Don’t miss the opportunities God is putting before you. Keep those eyes OPEN!

“Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.” (Colossians 4:5-6 NLT)