The New Normal

What is the New Normal today,
Is it for something I should pray?
A world uncertain, ever strange,
Shifting, turning—constant change.

Yet in the midst of all that’s new,
I know, dear Lord, I can trust You.
For every season, You have planned,
A steady guide, a holding hand.

So, Lord, help me to embrace,
The New Normal with Your grace.
Though I may not understand,
Help me follow Your command.

Teach me to trust, to walk in peace,
To let my anxious heart release,
And find in each new dawn I see,
Your purpose and serenity.

Lord, help me to accept and pray,
For the New Normal You send each day.
For in Your hands, all things will be
A path toward eternity.

Created by
MarkWaldrop

October 17

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 121:1-2

A Song of Ascents. I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth.

Reflection:
In times of trouble or uncertainty, it's natural to look for help and guidance. The psalmist, in Psalm 121, expresses this universal need by lifting his eyes to the hills and asking, "From where does my help come?" The answer is profound and reassuring: "My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth."

Our Father knows best, and He is our ultimate source of help and strength. The Creator of the universe is not only powerful but also personally invested in our lives. When we face challenges, we can find peace in knowing that the same God who created the heavens and the earth is the One who helps and sustains us.

This passage encourages us to direct our focus and trust toward God. By acknowledging that our help comes from the Lord, we align ourselves with His wisdom and provision. No matter what we face, we can rest assured that God is with us, guiding and supporting us every step of the way.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for being our constant source of help and strength. When we face challenges and uncertainties, remind us to lift our eyes to You, knowing that our help comes from the Maker of heaven and earth. Strengthen our faith and trust in Your wisdom and guidance. Thank You for Your unwavering support and love. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Thought for the Day:
In moments of difficulty, remember to lift your eyes to the Lord. Our Father knows best, and He is always ready to help and sustain you. Trust in His wisdom and provision, knowing that the Creator of the universe is your ultimate source of strength and guidance. Let this truth bring you peace and confidence in every situation.

The Sun is Sinking

The sun is setting fast, the race is almost run,
The shadows long and deep beneath the fading sun.
Each step has been a journey, each breath a fleeting grace,
Now twilight calls me softly toward another place.

I’ve walked through days of sorrow, I’ve danced in moments bright,
I’ve battled through the darkness, I’ve cherished every light.
The road that lies behind me, though winding, steep, and long,
Has taught me strength in silence, has filled my soul with song.

The race is almost over, the finish line in sight,
But even in the waning, I feel the morning’s light.
For death is but a doorway, a passage to the new,
Where every tear is lifted, where skies are always blue.

So as the sun is sinking, my heart begins to soar,
For though this journey’s ending, there waits forevermore.

Created by
MarkWaldrop

Jesus is There

If you are afraid of the devil’s snare,
You haven’t yet found Jesus there.
For in His name, all fear must flee,
And chains are broken, setting free.

The devil may whisper, deceive, and lie,
But Jesus reigns, He is nearby.
With every step, His light will shine,
And darkness fades before the divine.

If you tremble at shadows, unsure of the way,
Seek Jesus, the truth, and never sway.
For in His love, there’s no need for fear,
His power and peace are ever near.

The enemy trembles at His name,
For Christ alone defeats all shame.
So if you fear the devil’s roar,
Know Jesus stands at heaven’s door.

With faith in Christ, you’ll boldly stand,
The devil defeated by God’s hand.
For once you’ve found the Savior true,
There’s nothing left that can undo.

Created by
MarkWaldrop

With Wings

Most people only dream of what pilots have seen,
The skies so vast, a world serene.
They soar through clouds like whispered air,
And touch the heavens with a prayer.

Above the earth, they glide with grace,
Where sunsets paint the endless space.
From dawn’s first light to twilight’s gleam,
They see the world as in a dream.

The cities glow like stars below,
While mountains rise with peaks of snow.
Oceans stretch with sapphire hues,
As endless skies unveil their views.

Most people dream of heights untold,
But pilots see the skies unfold.
With wings of freedom, hearts of fire,
They chase the horizon, ever higher.

In flight, they find a sacred peace,
A quiet where the troubles cease.
For only few, with courage keen,
Live the dreams that others have only seen.

Created by
MarkWaldrop

October 16

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture Reading:
Philippians 4:8

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

Reflection:
In this verse, the Apostle Paul encourages the believers in Philippi to focus their minds on virtuous and praiseworthy things. This instruction is not only about positive thinking but about aligning our thoughts with the values and character of God.

Our Father knows best, and He understands the power of our thoughts in shaping our lives and actions. By directing our minds toward what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy, we cultivate a mindset that reflects His nature and aligns with His will. This focus helps us navigate the challenges of life with a perspective rooted in God's truth and goodness.

In a world filled with negativity and distractions, it is crucial to intentionally direct our thoughts toward what uplifts and glorifies God. This practice not only brings peace to our hearts but also strengthens our relationship with Him and impacts those around us positively.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your wisdom in guiding us to focus on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Help us to align our thoughts with Your values and character. Strengthen our minds to resist negativity and distractions, and fill our hearts with Your peace. May our thoughts and actions reflect Your love and goodness, bringing glory to Your name. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Thought for the Day:
Take a moment today to evaluate your thoughts and intentionally focus on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Remember, our Father knows best, and by aligning our minds with His wisdom, we reflect His nature and bring His light into the world. Let this practice guide you in your daily walk with God.

October 15

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture Reading:
Exodus 33:1

The LORD said to Moses, “Depart; go up from here, you and the people whom you have brought up out of the land of Egypt, to the land of which I swore to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, saying, ‘To your offspring I will give it.’”

Reflection:
In this passage, God instructs Moses to lead the Israelites to the Promised Land, fulfilling the covenant He made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Despite the challenges and uncertainties that lay ahead, God reassures Moses that His promise remains steadfast and will be fulfilled.

This moment highlights the faithfulness and reliability of our Father. He knows the best path for us and has a divine plan that spans generations. Even when the journey seems daunting or unclear, we can trust that God is guiding us towards His promises.

Our Father’s wisdom and plans are perfect, and He calls us to trust Him completely. Just as He led the Israelites out of Egypt and towards the Promised Land, He leads us through our own journeys, assuring us that His promises will be fulfilled. In times of uncertainty, we can find comfort and confidence in knowing that our Father knows best.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unwavering faithfulness and the promises You have made to us. Help us to trust in Your wisdom and guidance, especially when the journey ahead seems uncertain. Strengthen our faith and remind us that You are always leading us towards Your promises. Thank You for being our constant guide and protector. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Thought for the Day:
In moments of uncertainty, remember that our Father knows best. Trust in His guidance and promises, knowing that He is leading you towards His perfect plan. Let His faithfulness be your assurance as you navigate through life's journey.

October 14

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture Reading:
Psalm 46:1-3

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling.

Reflection:
In times of uncertainty and trouble, it is comforting to remember that our Father knows best and remains our steadfast refuge and strength. Psalm 46 beautifully captures this truth, reminding us that God is a very present help in times of trouble. No matter how chaotic or fearful our circumstances may be, we can trust in God's unwavering presence and protection.

The imagery of the earth giving way and mountains falling into the sea depicts extreme turmoil. Yet, the psalmist declares that we will not fear, for God is with us. This assurance encourages us to rely on God's wisdom and strength rather than succumbing to fear and anxiety.

Our Father knows our struggles and challenges, and He promises to be with us through it all. His presence brings peace and confidence, knowing that He holds everything in His hands. By leaning on His wisdom and trusting in His plan, we find the courage to face any situation, assured that He is our refuge.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for being our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble. Help us to trust in Your wisdom and remain confident in Your presence, even when circumstances seem overwhelming. May we find peace in knowing that You are with us, guiding and protecting us through every challenge. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Thought for the Day:
In times like these, remember that God is your refuge and strength. Trust in His wisdom and take comfort in His presence, knowing that He is a very present help in times of trouble. Let this truth bring you peace and courage as you navigate life's challenges.

October 13

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture Reading:
2 Timothy 3:1-5

But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.

Reflection:
The Apostle Paul’s words to Timothy are a sobering reminder of the challenges we face in difficult times. These verses paint a picture of societal decay and moral decline, describing behaviors and attitudes that are prevalent "in the last days." It is in times like these that we must remember our Father knows best.

Despite the troubling circumstances described, this passage also calls us to a higher standard. We are urged to remain steadfast in our faith, avoiding the corrupt influences of the world. God’s wisdom provides us with the discernment needed to navigate these challenges and remain faithful to His teachings.

Our Father’s knowledge and guidance are crucial in helping us discern right from wrong and live lives that honor Him. In the face of moral decline and societal challenges, trusting in God’s wisdom and adhering to His Word becomes our anchor.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, in times like these, we seek Your wisdom and guidance. Help us to remain steadfast in our faith and discern right from wrong amidst the challenges we face. Strengthen us to live lives that honor You and reflect Your love and truth. Thank You for being our constant source of wisdom and strength. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Thought for the Day:
In times like these, remember that our Father knows best. Trust in His wisdom and guidance to navigate through difficulties and remain steadfast in your faith. Let His Word be your anchor and guide, helping you to live a life that honors Him even in challenging times.

My Focus

In the days ahead, when choices loom,
And voices echo in the room,
My focus clear, my heart stays calm—
Not on the donkey or the elephant, but on the Lamb.

For earthly powers rise and fall,
Yet only One can rule them all.
The Lamb who gave His life for me,
Is where my focus needs to be.

The donkey brays, the elephant stands,
But neither holds my heart’s commands.
I follow not their fleeting plans—
My eyes are fixed upon the Lamb.

For in His grace, true hope is found,
In love and mercy, I’m unbound.
No earthly symbol, creed, or brand
Can sway my faith or change my stand.

So as the world debates and roars,
I’ll seek the One who opens doors,
My focus firm, my faith unshaken,
In the Lamb, my heart awakened.

Created by
MarkWaldrop