“Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all of these things shall be added unto you.” 

My late husband Michael and I chose this verse to be our “life verse” many years ago when we were struggling in life; it was a game changer for us! God has been faithful over the years and always provided for our needs.  Our focus shifted from self to service and our hearts became unified to “seek first.” As I reflect back, now I am filled with deep gratitude for all that the Lord has provided. - Nancy

"By their fruits you will know them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?"

This verse reminds us that Christians are not recognized by what they say, but rather, how they act. It is also tells us how to judge decisions by looking at the type of "fruit" it produces. Good fruit always brings life more abundantly and draws us closer to God. - Jake

 

"Jesus looked at them and said, “For human beings this is impossible, but for God all things are possible.”

When Satan comes at me telling me I am a hopeless case that I will never change I can slay the accuser with God’s word that is truth, “Nothing is impossible with God!” - Pat

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."

Lectio Divina has helped me to appreciate patterns in scripture.  “Rejoice” and “joy” are words that jump off the page all throughout the scriptures.  If we are truly Christians, why are we so downcast and grumpy?  What a turn off to those who we are called to serve and evangelize!  In every situation, good and bad, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, we are to present our requests to God.  He allows us to participate in His grace by asking and thanking.  Guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.  His is our rock to cling to when we feel that we are sinking to lift us up and protect us.  Ponder what is good and true and beautiful and your life will be transformed.

 My Prayer Response:
Jesus, I want to be Your disciple. Help me, Holy Spirit to be Your servant to help others learn or receive from me because I have put my faith into practice.  Then, I will receive Your peace, which transcends all (human) understanding, as you promised.  Amen.

P.S.  Join or start a new Lectio Divina group and you will be amazed at what God wants to teach you.

- Barb