In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

Genesis 1:1

Breaking it Down:

It seems like a simple concept, but as spring turns to summer – as flowers blossom and trees bud – what can you do to keep your mind on your Creator?

Because [Jesus] himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

Hebrews 2:18

Breaking it Down:

What’s tempting to you this month? Do you want to spend a few more minutes instant messaging your friends after your parents asked you to turn off the computer? Would you rather think of ways to get out of doing your chores than simply following through on your responsibilities?

Temptations come in all varieties, but no temptation is too great when we rely on Christ to help us through. Whenever you feel tempted to do something you know is wrong, pray about it and God promises to help you overcome whatever situation is at hand.

Breaking it Down:

It’s so easy to get bogged down with the ins and outs of everyday life. It’s far too simple to waste time worrying about after-school plans, appointments, and practices, about fashion, movies, and what people think about us.

But, God desires that we set our minds on other things. That the things we meditate on reflect His heart. He wants us to spend time thinking about the things that are important to Him. He wants our hearts desires to match His. How are you choosing to set your mind on things above this month?

Breaking it Down:

God is my rock. My rock. Perhaps the word rock is repeated in this Psalm because God knew that we would all need something to hang onto every once in a while. God wants us to know that He is the firm, solid, and everlasting foundation of our lives. No matter what is going on, no matter how down we feel, no matter how much chaos might encase our lives, God is there to guide and protect us, to be our stronghold and our shield. He protects us from harm and delivers us from evil.

Breaking it Down:

God, the Creator of the Universe, takes great delight in you. Take a minute and let that sink in.

And, that’s not all! Not only does God find great joy in you, He rejoices over you with singing. When was the last time you rejoiced about something…and I mean truly rejoiced? Feelings of happiness and joy are likely associated with that time. How much greater, then, is God’s rejoicing? God is constantly by our side, He delights in us, He calms us with His love, but He also stands over us and sings in His incredible love and His unending joy.

Breaking it Down:

Who do you love? Your parents? Your siblings? Your best friend? What do you do to show those people you love them? You spend time with them, right? You do things together and build a relationship.

God wants us to love Him with everything we’ve got. That means we need to spend lots of time with Him (reading our Bibles, praying, etc.) so we can build a relationship and learn to truly love God – with all of our hearts, souls, strength, and minds.

But Jesus also tells us we need to be kind and compassionate to everyone we meet. Not just our friends. Not just our families. Not just people it’s easy to get along with and love. Everyone. That’s what He means when He says love your neighbor as yourself. We are supposed to love other people as much as we love ourselves! What have you done to love others today?

Breaking it Down:
Sometimes it’s really easy to complain. When we don’t get our way or things get hard we can whine, protest, and grumble. But, God reminds us again and again that our words matter. What we say affects other people and it affects us! God cares about our words just as much as He cares about our actions.

Pleasant words are as sweet as honey. They are nourishing, healing, and sweet to hear. Pleasant words benefit everyone who hears them! What sweet words have you said today?