2 Peter 2:1-3Counterfeits are skilled at deception. Spotting a counterfeit requires discernment. Discernment comes from knowing God’s Word.

Mark 1:40We’ve all experienced times when our prayers for healing go unanswered. But no matter what, God is in control. He heals according to His perfect timing and plan.

Joshua 24:15We can’t change our feelings but we have total control over our behaviour. And our behaviour is linked to our decisions, because those choices are ours. When we choose obedience to God it brings Him favour.

Mark 13:31-33The Bible gives us a preview of future events. It teaches us to be alert because Christ’s return could be tomorrow...it could be today!

Romans 12:15A sermon will not meet our needs—we need someone to hear, someone to feel the blows in our life, someone to help us cushion the heavy weight when it drops down on us. We need to assimilate into the body of Christ.

Ephesians 4:32When you take time to listen to others without criticizing or lecturing you’re providing a safe and honest environment. We all need a place of refuge.

Lamentations 3:22God’s love is not fickle, moody, or conditional. His lovingkindness never ceases. You are loved by God.

Deuteronomy 32:3-4We can’t see the future but God can. We need to trust Him to take care of us. God always proves Himself faithful.

Revelation 2:3-5Life gets complicated over time and it’s easy to lose your way. Maybe it’s time to get back to the basics and remember your First Love.

Deuteronomy 34Tombstones are all the same when it comes to time. It’s always represented by a little small dash and that’s all. That’s life, and then it’s gone.

Proverbs 17:17Friends are essential. They provide comfort, encouragement, and strength.

Romans 5:8Christ proved His love in that while we were still sinners He died for us. Do you know Christ died for you?

2 Chronicles 7:14When you submit your heart in faith to Jesus Christ you move from God’s judgment to God’s grace and mercy. It is here you find peace.

John 11:24-26Maybe you’ve gone to church all your life but have never come to terms with Christ. Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies.” Do you believe this?

Luke 10:25-27It’s easy to stay inside our comfort zones but reaching out to our neighbours is what the Christian life is all about. It’s what we’re called to do.

Matthew 12:36Living in light of Christ’s return changes our perspective. And when we realize we will give an account for every idle word when we stand before Him it also changes our conduct.

Romans 11:34Living happily ever after isn’t usually God’s plan for us, but what He does have in store for us is a great adventure. Walking with God is the most exciting and rewarding of all experiences on earth.

Jeremiah 29:11-13We don’t need to understand God’s will. Our job is to obey.

Philippians 4:13Everyone has weaknesses and flaws, even Bible characters. They were real people just like us. It’s encouraging to know God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.

Proverbs 29:11Rage is the most dangerous form of anger—it can so overcome a person that acts of violence are committed without conscious awareness.

Psalms 27:14No matter how old we are, we never seem to master the art of waiting. The key to waiting well is learning patience. We’re never too old for that.

Ecclesiastes 3:11Waiting for God isn’t easy. It’s because His timing is different than ours. Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “God has made everything beautiful in its time.” This means we must wait for God. He will make everything beautiful in its time.

Psalms 46:1You are important to God, never doubt it. During tough times it’s easy to forget God is with you and knows exactly where you are. Whatever difficulty you’re experiencing, trust God. He is a present help in trouble.

John 16Jesus’ final words were spoken to His disciples but meant for everyone. And they’re life changing.

Psalms 92:12-15It’s one thing to retire from work but it’s quite another to retire from life. While it may be tempting to hid away during the retirement years this is the time to stay active, interested, and involved.

Psalms 37:39-40There are no coincidences. Things don’t just happen—they’re planned. And God uses the events in our lives to get us to stop and pay attention to what He’s saying.

Exodus 3:1-15When God wants us in His service sometimes that means rearranging our priorities and putting our pursuits on hold.

Galatians 5:13Life is all about relating to others in love, forgiveness, and grace. We need each other.

Ephesians 5:15-16Always living in the moment isn’t easy; there are so many distractions. But when you embrace each moment you begin to live life to its fullest.

2 Corinthians 9:15God’s gift of salvation through Jesus Christ is indeed a gift too wonderful for words. And it’s the best gift you’ll ever receive.

Luke 2:29-32Through the months leading to Christmas we are busily about our stuff—doing business, travelling, and engaged in the give and take of life. And then Christmas hits and the zoom lenses of our minds focus on the outstretched arms of the One who saved us.

Galatians 4:4-5God has been at work in human history. Over the passing of time He arranged a set of events that would lead ultimately to the beginning and to the continuation of humanity for as long as He chooses.

Romans 6:23If death came today, would you be ready? God loves you and wants you to live forever with him. There’s only one way to heaven, and that is through Christ. If you’ve never thought about your eternal destiny there no better time than now to believe.

Proverbs 24:3-4Parents only have a short time to raise their children. Approximately 20 years is all we have to accomplish the task of teaching those born in our midst everything we know.

Colossians 3:23-24Whether you’re completing a university degree, harvesting potatoes, or planting a church, anything worth doing takes dedication and a lot of hard work.

2 Timothy 3:14-15Was there someone who mentored you? It’s never too late to let your mentor know what he or she meant to you.

1 Corinthians 7:32-35Are you married? Single? Something else? Whatever your status, acceptance is key. Discontentment can rob you of your enthusiasm for life.

Psalms 92:12-15In our “hurry-up” society a grandparent’s patience, understanding, and unconditional love can make a world of difference to a child.

Acts 2:40Spiritual erosion is subtle, slow, and silent but taking time to reflect and evaluate can stop erosion in your life.

Hebrews 4:15There’s a big difference between empathy and sympathy. To sympathize is to feel for someone. To empathize is to feel with someone.

Job 5:18Pain is a part of life. And it’s in these “crucibles” our identity is shaped. Hard times are a transformative experience.

Proverbs 22:6There are two types of success—outside and inside the home. Success in business never makes up for failure in the home. Children don’t need more stuff—the need lots of time and unconditional love.

Psalms 46:1-3God doesn’t leave us in the tough times. Even when we question His goodness, He stays near. Psalm 46 says God is our refuge and strength—a very present help in trouble. Whatever you’re going through, God is there and He’s in control.

Esther 2An orphan girl who grew up to be a Queen—Esther was an extraordinary person who saved the entire Jewish nation. Though she lived thousands of years ago, her humility, grace, and courage make Esther an inspiring and relevant role model for women today.

Genesis The book of Genesis tells the story of how God created the world—and it also tells us a lot about God Himself. If you’ve never read Genesis, you have a great read awaiting you.

Psalms 27:11We all know what it’s like to get those feelings in the pit of our stomachs when we sense something just isn’t right. In these times it’s important to listen to our intuition and slow down—especially before making a big decision.

Philippians 4:8-9From time to time it’s a good idea to re-examine your priorities. It’s so easy to fill your life with unimportant things, leaving little time for what really matters.

Proverbs 3:5-6God wants you to hold everything loosely, except His hand. You never know what the future will bring—or take away—but whatever happens, God wants you to trust Him completely.

James 5:14-16God can and does heal, Scripture makes that clear. But divine healing is something we cannot control. It happens according to God’s perfect will, in His perfect time.

Colossians 3:23-24Being unknown doesn’t mean a person is unimportant. Without the behind-the-scenes support people, very little would get done. If you’re in the background, never doubt the significant impact you make with your loyalty, commitment, and support.

Hebrews 4:12The Bible has withstood centuries of opposition—and the opposition continues today. There’s a battle against the Word of God because it’s alive, powerful, and changes lives.

Exodus 3:13-17God’s faithfulness is unconditional, unending, and unswerving. Even in the face of death. He is the eternal I AM, the sovereign Lord of the universe. And you can trust Him with your very life.

John 11Death is inevitable, but even death can’t threaten God’s ultimate protection over our lives. We can trust God to protect us from now till the dawning of eternity.

Matthew 28:18-20Jesus said, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel.” But the world has almost seven billion people...where do we start? One person at a time. Our neighbour, our co-worker, our friend—the people we connect with every day are the one’s we’re called to reach.

Ephesians 1:7-8God lavishes his grace on us and there’s nothing we can do to pay Him back. Admit your need for God and claim His free gift of grace today.

Colossians 2:8Legalism is all about rules and regulations, requirements and expectations. But Jesus introduced a revolutionary and different way of life. He taught grace, truth, and freedom.

2 Corinthians 5:7So much of what happens in life is beyond our comprehension. But if we had all the answers we wouldn’t need faith. It’s in the uncertainties and mysteries of life our faith is strengthened.

Ephesians 1:7-8Despite messing up time and time again, God still lavishes His grace on us. And because we’ve been given so much grace we need to pass it on. Every day there are opportunities to show grace—everyone needs grace.

Galatians 5:24On the surface Chuck Colson had everything but underneath his life was empty. It was only when he accepted Christ the emptiness was filled and he truly began to live.

Acts 8:26-35We may not be able to reach millions of people, but we can impact our neighbour...our co-worker...our friend. Reaching the world starts with just one person.

Romans 1:11-12The church is a place like no other. You’ll rarely find such a supportive community elsewhere in life. When you hurt there are people who will stay with you and suffer with you.

Psalms 139:14Type A people are the ones up front. They motivate and inspire others. Type B people work behind the scenes. They’re the thinkers, with an attention to detail. We may each be a personality type but we’re all created by God for a unique purpose.

Isaiah 49:16If you allow it, tragedy can pull you closer to the Lord than you’ve ever been. God doesn’t leave you in hard times, He comes closer and He stays nearer.

Romans 3:23Erosion is a slow and silent process and no one is immune from it. If you don’t stop yourself in a downward spiral, then last week’s wrong choice doesn’t seem so bad this week. And on and on.

Exodus 23:33The world says our main goal should be getting what we want. And if we have to sin in order to do so, that’s OK. But the reality is getting what you want can leave a wake of victims. Sin always has consequences.

Proverbs 23:12It’s probably true that most North Americans have at least six copies of the Bible in their possession—and that doesn’t count digital copies! We’re blessed with the freedom to read and own the Bible, but often we take the Bible for granted. Why not read through the Bible this year?

1 Chronicles 28:9If it were possible to make all the wrongs right, it would be so much easier, wouldn’t it? When you’re misunderstood sometimes there’s nothing you can do but let it go.

Ephesians 5:28Strong marriages don’t just happen. They require nurturing. Doing something as simple as writing a poem or even a note expressing your love can be the first step in rekindling that romantic spark.

Matthew 1:1-17Reading through the Bible can be like taking a road trip. Each book has different scenes and along the way you meet interesting characters.

2 Kings 15:1-5Even though we are forgiven by God’s grace, sin has consequences and sometimes they’re devastating. When our actions harm others they can have lifelong ramifications.

Psalms 119:11The Reformation put Scripture into the hands of the people. God’s Word is resilient. It survives all attempts to destroy it. Don’t take your Bible for granted. Study it, learn it, know it.

Romans 5:1-5Perhaps you’re a skeptic. You don’t believe in miracles, only in science, logic, and absolutes. The good news is Christ doesn’t ask you to check your brains at the door when you come to know Him personally. Just the opposite—you gain insight and knowledge through the Holy Spirit!

Proverbs 22:6Rebellion begins in childhood and continues into adulthood. That’s why it’s so important to teach young children to obey. And they learn best from their parents’ example.

Philippians 1When times are tough it’s easy to get lost in self-pity. But instead of dwelling on your problems, think about others. When you choose to help others even though you’re struggling you are choosing to rise above your situation. You’re choosing victory instead of defeat.

Matthew 5:23-24When you’ve offended someone it’s not enough to make things right with God. You need to face the person you’ve hurt and say, “I’m sorry.” Admitting you’re wrong takes guts and strength of character.

Ecclesiastes 11:6Retirement is a time to try something new, like mentoring. Investing time in a younger person can be a rewarding experience. No matter your age, taking every opportunity that comes your way and using it wisely is a great way to live.

Matthew 5:38-42We’ve all hurt others, and no matter how much time has passed it’s not too late to reconcile and make things right. We all need grace, and we all need to extend grace. Mending broken relationships speaks volumes to those around you.

Matthew 18:21-22You probably know by now life isn’t fair. And it’s easy to become bitter because of what happens—but if you don’t forgive you will be trapped in a prison of your own making. Forgiveness is the key to releasing you from bitterness, hatred, and resentment.

1 Chronicles 16:8Milestones are worth celebrating. They’re wonderful opportunities to reflect on where you’ve been and evaluate where you’re going.

Joshua 1:8Learning is lifelong, and ignorance is not bliss. Just because you don’t have formal education doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. Education comes from all sorts of places. Seek it out, don’t settle for anything less.

Matthew 5:23-24Restoring a relationship takes courage and humility, but it’s the right thing to do. Making things right is always worth it.

Colossians 3:21Just because there isn’t physical violence in your home doesn’t mean there aren’t strained relationships. But hope is not lost! Relationships can be restored and parents, this starts with you.

Philippians 4:12Greed is a desire for more. More power, more pleasure, more money, more stuff. But the more greed in your life the more it robs you of peace, joy, and contentment.

Psalms 10:4Pride stinks! The problem is, the proud person is the only one who doesn’t smell it. You can put pride into perspective by recognizing you’re reliant on God for every breath you take.

2 Corinthians 9:15Everything we have is a gift from God and once you learn to appreciate what you’ve been given, giving back is a natural response. Generosity increases contentment and instead of striving for more, you enjoy what you have.

Isaiah 45:5We meet all sorts of people on our path. Some we meet only briefly, and yet God uses seemingly insignificant events to shape us. The people we meet on our path leave us forever changed, and we do the same for them.

Ephesians 4:25Here’s a principle for life: Relationships are built on trust and trust is built on truth. Tell the truth.

Proverbs 10:12If your home is a battleground it’s not too late to turn things around. Broken relationships can be mended. It starts with love; a steady stream of love that quickly forgives and refuses to take offence.

Psalms 10:2-4Greed is covetousness. It’s an inordinate desire to acquire more and more. Greed is always in a hurry. It knows little of patience or integrity or appropriateness. It is seldom admitted and is often rationalized.

Isaiah 57:2It’s important to live an accountable life because once a man can lie to himself he can lie to anyone.

Galatians 6:7Here is the principle: We reap what we sow, forgiveness notwithstanding. Confessing our sin does not take away the consequences. However, God’s grace means God, in forgiving us, gives us the strength to endure the consequences.

Hebrews 13:5No really, what would you do for 10 million dollars? Although it’s easier for us to trust in money than in God, much of the time it can bring no lasting satisfaction, only a desire for more.

Psalms 9:10Seeing the hand of God in your situation may seem impossible when the bottom drops out from your life, but viewing life from a vertical perspective gives you hope and helps you stand firm. No matter what the crisis.

Daniel 6:1-4If someone went over your life with a fine-tooth comb, what would he find? As Chuck says, the rewards of a life well-lived never end. They continue from generation to generation.

Acts 4There is a big difference between prophets and politicians. Politicians act in a way to please their constituents. Prophets act in a way to please God. In the Bible prophets often stood alone. They spoke God’s truth and risked losing their lives for it.

Genesis 2:23-24Two principles for a happy marriage: severance and permanence. You must leave your old family for your new one, and you must stick with it.

Daniel 4:37Pride wants the best of everything, and insists on recognition. Humility, on the other hand, is the most Christlike attitude you can demonstrate. It means being content when others receive the recognition.

Romans 14:17It’s so easy to focus on the non-essentials. We can become so preoccupied with the details we completely miss the big picture. Relationships become fractured when we only focus on the small stuff.

Proverbs 14:2In Hebrew, the word “integrity” means an unimpaired condition. Another word is “solid.” A person with integrity is not divided or devious.

1 Chronicles 16:29-31Our default is to embrace a horizontal perspective of life, but once we embrace a vertical perspective we acknowledge God’s hand on our lives. God is sovereign, no matter what happens.

Galatians 5:19-23When your life is free of bitterness you have lots of room for kindness. Which would you rather have in your life?

Ephesians 4:29Every time you speak you either build up or tear down. So be careful with your words. Let your speech be the light of Christ.

1 Corinthians 7:10A marriage is sick if there’s a lack of unity. Allow your partner the freedom to be, and to cultivate the gifts and strengths and abilities God has given him or her.

Ephesians 4:32Parents, your children need to know they’re loved unconditionally and that you won’t condemn them when they mess up. Talk straight, get close, and let grace overflow in your home.

Proverbs 24:26Marriage is built on trust and trust is built on truth. Being completely honest is difficult and risky, but it’s critical to a strong and healthy relationship.

1 Corinthians 13:13Love has a language all its own. When love is on display, no words can adequately define or describe it.

1 Peter 3:1-4, 3:7Every marriage needs those gush moments, those moments when you affirm your spouse. Acts of kindness and showing affection are vital to a vibrant marriage.

1 John 3:18All anger is not bad...and all conflicts are not wrong. But disagreements need to be expressed appropriately and at the right time.

Proverbs 4:23Erosion is dangerous because you don’t see it happening when all the while it’s eating away, disintegrating, destroying...slowly, silently, and subtly.

Exodus 20:12You can’t choose your family, but you can choose how you relate to them. It’s never too late to start extending grace.

Ephesians 3:14-19One definition for family is “a museum of memories.” As you think of your family, what pictures hang in the gallery of your mental images? What kind of memories are you creating for your family now?

Ephesians 4:26-32Applying these five principles to your marriage will breathe new life into it. It’s not too late to have a marriage that thrives.

1 Peter 2:17We don’t hear the words, “I love you” enough. And we certainly don’t say it often enough. If you can think of someone who needs to hear this from you, don’t wait.

Psalms 7:17The secret of staying young is within you. It has nothing to do with where you live, how much money you make, who you’re married to, or how your kids turn out. It has everything to do with your attitude.

Proverbs 27:2Proverbs 27:2 says “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; A stranger, and not your own lips.” You do good work and others will find you. They will sing your praises.

Ephesians 4:25-32As important as love is to a marriage, grace is even more so. Grace can transform your marriage and turn your home into a place of security, acceptance, and encouragement.

Ephesians 4:32We’ve all been wronged, but keeping a list of the wrongs only makes things worse. The best way to recover is to forgive.