We want you to CONNECT with God through His Word, Prayer, & Worship.

Today, call out to Him in prayer. Ask Him to "open your eyes" as you read through the scripture.

As you observe the scripture, we encourage you to take notes.

Notice the emotions, reasons, and context. Make sure to note what God wants you to know or do after reading the scripture.

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

When life gets difficult, our first instinct is often to focus on what's missing. We think about the job we don't have, the relationship that ended, the health we've lost, or the dreams that haven't materialized. This focus on absence breeds discontent and robs us of peace. But biblical gratitude operates differently. Instead of focusing on what Jesus might do for us—which we can never fully predict or control—gratitude focuses on who Jesus is. His character never changes. His love never fails. His presence never leaves us. These truths remain constant whether we're experiencing mountaintop victories or valley struggles. Consider how Jesus responded at Lazarus's tomb. He wept genuine tears of grief while simultaneously thanking the Father. This wasn't contradictory—it was complete. He could grieve the pain of death while maintaining gratitude for who the Father is and what He was about to accomplish. Gratitude and grief can coexist because gratitude isn't about denying reality; it's about anchoring our hearts in eternal truth. When we focus on who Jesus is—His faithfulness, His love, His sovereignty, His grace—we find a foundation that circumstances cannot shake. The storms of life may rage around us, but our gratitude remains steady because it's rooted in His unchanging nature rather than our changing circumstances. This shift in focus transforms everything. Instead of asking, "Why isn't God giving me what I want?" we begin to declare, "God has already given me everything I need that is eternal." Instead of demanding that our circumstances change, we find contentment in the One who never changes.

Explore & examine the areas of your life that God needs to come under the truth. Take a moment to commit & surrender these areas in prayer.

After, tell and share with others what God is teaching you! Try this:

*Share your encouraging takeaways with others on your social media, or share your story with us. We want to celebrate with you!

I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.

-Psalm 119:11

Bible in 3 Years

Most believers have a goal to read the entire Bible, but the goal can seem daunting at first. In this plan, you can read the entire Bible over a 3-year period as you commit to just one or two chapters a day. This plan is located within the YouVersion Bible App, and you can begin at any time.

Start the Bible in 3 Years here.

Download the Bible App:

•iPhone/iPad

•Android

•Kindle Fire