cover
Cover
title
Copyright © 2016 Gary Zimak
Published by Beacon Publishing
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without permission except in the case of brief quotations in critical articles or reviews.
Unless otherwise noted, Scripture passages have been taken from the Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition. Copyright 1946, 1952, 1971 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Quotes are taken from the English translation of the Catechism of the Catholic Church for the United States of America (indicated as CCC), 2nd ed. Copyright 1997 by United States Catholic Conference—Libreria Editrice Vaticana.
ISBN: 978-1-942611-65-3 (hardcover)
ISBN: 978-1-942611-66-0 (softcover)
Cover design: Connie Gabbert
Interior: Finer Points Productions
Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data
Names: Zimak, Gary, author.
Title: Stop worrying and start living: 365 reflections / Gary Zimak.
Description: New, Expanded Third Edition. | North Palm Beach: Beacon Publishing, 2016. | Includes bibliographical references and index.
Identifiers: LCCN 2016027346| ISBN 9781942611653 (hardcover: alk. paper) |
ISBN 9781942611660 (softcover: alk. paper) |
ISBN 9781942611677 (ebook: alk. paper)
Subjects: LCSH: Worry—Religious aspects—Catholic Church. | Devotional calendars—Catholic Church. | Catholic Church—Doctrines.
Classification: LCC BV4908.5 .Z567 2016 |
DDC 242/.4—dc23
[1]
Printed in the United States of America
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION
JANUARY 1
JANUARY 2
JANUARY 3
JANUARY 4
JANUARY 5
JANUARY 6
JANUARY 7
JANUARY 8
JANUARY 9
JANUARY 10
JANUARY 11
JANUARY 12
JANUARY 13
JANUARY 14
JANUARY 15
JANUARY 16
JANUARY 17
JANUARY 18
JANUARY 19
JANUARY 20
JANUARY 21
JANUARY 22
JANUARY 23
JANUARY 24
JANUARY 25
JANUARY 26
JANUARY 27
JANUARY 28
JANUARY 29
JANUARY 30
JANUARY 31
FEBRUARY 1
FEBRUARY 2
FEBRUARY 3
FEBRUARY 4
FEBRUARY 5
FEBRUARY 6
FEBRUARY 7
FEBRUARY 8
FEBRUARY 9
FEBRUARY 10
FEBRUARY 11
FEBRUARY 12
FEBRUARY 13
FEBRUARY 14
FEBRUARY 15
FEBRUARY 16
FEBRUARY 17
FEBRUARY 18
FEBRUARY 19
FEBRUARY 20
FEBRUARY 21
FEBRUARY 22
FEBRUARY 23
FEBRUARY 24
FEBRUARY 25
FEBRUARY 26
FEBRUARY 27
FEBRUARY 28
FEBRUARY 29
MARCH 1
MARCH 2
MARCH 3
MARCH 4
MARCH 5
MARCH 6
MARCH 7
MARCH 8
MARCH 9
MARCH 10
MARCH 11
MARCH 12
MARCH 13
MARCH 14
MARCH 15
MARCH 16
MARCH 17
MARCH 18
MARCH 19
MARCH 20
MARCH 21
MARCH 22
MARCH 23
MARCH 24
MARCH 25
MARCH 26
MARCH 27
MARCH 28
MARCH 29
MARCH 30
MARCH 31
APRIL 1
APRIL 2
APRIL 3
APRIL 4
APRIL 5
APRIL 6
APRIL 7
APRIL 8
APRIL 9
APRIL 10
APRIL 11
APRIL 12
APRIL 13
APRIL 14
APRIL 15
APRIL 16
APRIL 17
APRIL 18
APRIL 19
APRIL 20
APRIL 21
APRIL 22
APRIL 23
APRIL 24
APRIL 25
APRIL 26
APRIL 27
APRIL 28
APRIL 29
APRIL 30
MAY 1
MAY 2
MAY 3
MAY 4
MAY 5
MAY 6
MAY 7
MAY 8
MAY 9
MAY 10
MAY 11
MAY 12
MAY 13
MAY 14
MAY 15
MAY 16
MAY 17
MAY 18
MAY 19
MAY 20
MAY 21
MAY 22
MAY 23
MAY 24
MAY 25
MAY 26
MAY 27
MAY 28
MAY 29
MAY 30
MAY 31
JUNE 1
JUNE 2
JUNE 3
JUNE 4
JUNE 5
JUNE 6
JUNE 7
JUNE 8
JUNE 9
JUNE 10
JUNE 11
JUNE 12
JUNE 13
JUNE 14
JUNE 15
JUNE 16
JUNE 17
JUNE 18
JUNE 19
JUNE 20
JUNE 21
JUNE 22
JUNE 23
JUNE 24
JUNE 25
JUNE 26
JUNE 27
JUNE 28
JUNE 29
JUNE 30
JULY 1
JULY 2
JULY 3
JULY 4
JULY 5
JULY 6
JULY 7
JULY 8
JULY 9
JULY 10
JULY 11
JULY 12
JULY 13
JULY 14
JULY 15
JULY 16
JULY 17
JULY 18
JULY 19
JULY 20
JULY 21
JULY 22
JULY 23
JULY 24
JULY 25
JULY 26
JULY 27
JULY 28
JULY 29
JULY 30
JULY 31
AUGUST 1
AUGUST 2
AUGUST 3
AUGUST 4
AUGUST 5
AUGUST 6
AUGUST 7
AUGUST 8
AUGUST 9
AUGUST 10
AUGUST 11
AUGUST 12
AUGUST 13
AUGUST 14
AUGUST 15
AUGUST 16
AUGUST 17
AUGUST 18
AUGUST 19
AUGUST 20
AUGUST 21
AUGUST 22
AUGUST 23
AUGUST 24
AUGUST 25
AUGUST 26
AUGUST 27
AUGUST 28
AUGUST 29
AUGUST 30
AUGUST 31
SEPTEMBER 1
SEPTEMBER 2
SEPTEMBER 3
SEPTEMBER 4
SEPTEMBER 5
SEPTEMBER 6
SEPTEMBER 7
SEPTEMBER 8
SEPTEMBER 9
SEPTEMBER 10
SEPTEMBER 11
SEPTEMBER 12
SEPTEMBER 13
SEPTEMBER 14
SEPTEMBER 15
SEPTEMBER 16
SEPTEMBER 17
SEPTEMBER 18
SEPTEMBER 19
SEPTEMBER 20
SEPTEMBER 21
SEPTEMBER 22
SEPTEMBER 23
SEPTEMBER 24
SEPTEMBER 25
SEPTEMBER 26
SEPTEMBER 27
SEPTEMBER 28
SEPTEMBER 29
SEPTEMBER 30
OCTOBER 1
OCTOBER 2
OCTOBER 3
OCTOBER 4
OCTOBER 5
OCTOBER 6
OCTOBER 7
OCTOBER 8
OCTOBER 9
OCTOBER 10
OCTOBER 11
OCTOBER 12
OCTOBER 13
OCTOBER 14
OCTOBER 15
OCTOBER 16
OCTOBER 17
OCTOBER 18
OCTOBER 19
OCTOBER 20
OCTOBER 21
OCTOBER 22
OCTOBER 23
OCTOBER 24
OCTOBER 25
OCTOBER 26
OCTOBER 27
OCTOBER 28
OCTOBER 29
OCTOBER 30
OCTOBER 31
NOVEMBER 1
NOVEMBER 2
NOVEMBER 3
NOVEMBER 4
NOVEMBER 5
NOVEMBER 6
NOVEMBER 7
NOVEMBER 8
NOVEMBER 9
NOVEMBER 10
NOVEMBER 11
NOVEMBER 12
NOVEMBER 13
NOVEMBER 14
NOVEMBER 15
NOVEMBER 16
NOVEMBER 17
NOVEMBER 18
NOVEMBER 19
NOVEMBER 20
NOVEMBER 21
NOVEMBER 22
NOVEMBER 23
NOVEMBER 24
NOVEMBER 25
NOVEMBER 26
NOVEMBER 27
NOVEMBER 28
NOVEMBER 29
NOVEMBER 30
DECEMBER 1
DECEMBER 2
DECEMBER 3
DECEMBER 4
DECEMBER 5
DECEMBER 6
DECEMBER 7
DECEMBER 8
DECEMBER 9
DECEMBER 10
DECEMBER 11
DECEMBER 12
DECEMBER 13
DECEMBER 14
DECEMBER 15
DECEMBER 16
DECEMBER 17
DECEMBER 18
DECEMBER 19
DECEMBER 20
DECEMBER 21
DECEMBER 22
DECEMBER 23
DECEMBER 24
DECEMBER 25
DECEMBER 26
DECEMBER 27
DECEMBER 28
DECEMBER 29
DECEMBER 30
DECEMBER 31
INTRODUCTION
God doesn’t want you to worry, and he says so many times in the pages of the Bible. He also doesn’t expect you to stop worrying all by yourself. He wants to help you and is willing to hold your hand and walk with you each day if you’ll let him.
As someone who has struggled with anxiety for many years, I know just how painful it can be. After years of panic attacks, digestive problems, heart palpitations, and sleepless nights, I have discovered that a personal relationship with Jesus Christ can keep my worrying under control and allow me to experience peace. If it works for me, it can work for you.
In the following pages, you’ll be able to hear God speak to you each day. Along with a short Bible verse (his inspired words), I have included a meditation that will assist you in living in his presence. Although the daily reading will only take a few minutes of your time, I encourage you to continue to meditate on it as you go about your daily routines. I’m confident that doing so will bring you a greater sense of peace. How can I be so sure? Not because I know you and your abilities. I don’t. But I do know Jesus, and I know what happens when someone enters more deeply into a relationship with him. Reading his words in the Bible, speaking to him in prayer, spending time in his presence, and receiving the sacraments will change your life. You’ll discover for yourself why he is called the Prince of Peace!
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways. (2 Thessalonians 3:16)
(NOTE: Anxiety often has a biological component and sometimes must be treated with therapy and/or medication. Jesus can heal in many ways. If the verses and meditations contained in this book do not bring about a decrease in your anxiety, I strongly urge you to seek professional help. In certain cases, it may be necessary.)
JANUARY 1
And Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38)
Every day you and I have the opportunity to say yes to God. On the other hand we are also able to say no. Sometimes we forget that the Blessed Mother had free will and could have rejected Gabriel’s invitation to become the mother of the Messiah. Mary wasn’t given all the answers up front. She was told what God wanted her to know and that was it. Because of her great trust and her desire to do God’s will, however, she consented to the request. As a result of her obedience, we received our Savior, who opened the gates of heaven for us.
Are you dealing with uncertainty right now? Is it hard to imagine why particular things are happening in your life? Mary understands. Ask her to help you trust in God’s plan for your life and for the grace to say yes to whatever he sends your way.
Mary, please help me to accept whatever happens in my life, and grant me the grace to say yes to God, even when I’m frightened.
JANUARY 2
Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool. (Isaiah 1:18)
One of the greatest sources of anxiety is the overwhelming guilt caused by sin. Fortunately God’s words to the prophet Isaiah remind us that there is no need to despair. Jesus is waiting to meet us in the sacrament of reconciliation.
Are you tired of carrying around the guilt of many sins? There is an answer. Take advantage of this great outpouring of God’s mercy and make the decision to confess your sins, no matter how overwhelming they may be. You will not only feel peace, but you’ll get to experience God’s love and mercy firsthand!
God, I’m sorry for the times I have turned my back on you. I long for the peace of knowing that I’m doing your will. I look forward to meeting you in this great sacrament of healing.
JANUARY 3
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the lands! (Psalm 100:1)
How joyful are you today? No matter how bleak your life looks or what problems you are facing, God has given you another day—and he has big plans for you. He loves you unconditionally; nothing you do will ever change that. Everything that will happen to you today is sent by God as an expression of his love and designed to help you get to heaven. Finally, you have been created by God because he wants to share his joy with you. Feeling better?
While it’s easy to forget facts like these when we’re bombarded with the problems and challenges of daily life, it’s important that we spend some time thinking about the many blessings we have received from God. The problems of this life are temporary, but the kingdom of heaven lasts forever. Rejoice and be glad!
Thank you for blessing me in so many ways, God. Help me to be more grateful!
JANUARY 4
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and for ever. (Hebrews 13:8)
Do you ever get frustrated with your life and wish you had lived during the time when Jesus walked the face of the earth? If you were sick or in need, you could have simply approached him and asked for a healing. If your faith grew weak, it would have been strengthened by witnessing one of his numerous miracles. It’s hard to imagine the security we would feel just by being in his presence.
Jesus Christ is still with us; he has not changed. He continues to speak to us, and we can speak with him. We can visit him at our local adoration chapel and receive him in the Eucharist at Mass. He still can (and does) perform miracles if we give him a chance. Don’t make the mistake of treating Christ as a historical figure. Speak with him daily and get to know him. He is the best friend you’ll ever have.
Help me to remember that you are always with me, Jesus, and allow me to see you through the eyes of faith.
JANUARY 5
“Let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me.” (John 14:1)
Even though we have done nothing to deserve it, Jesus promises that there is a place in heaven reserved for us. Once this temporary life is over, we will be given the opportunity to live with him forever in paradise. It will be a life without sickness, financial problems, or worries of any kind. Best of all, it will last forever.
So why do we allow our hearts to be troubled? Typically it’s because we lose sight of the big picture. While it’s no secret that we will experience problems during our time on earth, none of our problems will last forever. They will either disappear in this life or come to an end when we die. On the other hand, the happiness of heaven will last forever. Spend some time thinking about Christ’s words today. I bet your heart will feel a little less troubled.
Lord, help me to stay focused on the fact that
I was created to live with you in heaven.
May I never forget your words of comfort, especially
when my problems begin to overwhelm me.
JANUARY 6
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. (Genesis 1:1)
Have you ever dealt with a problem so serious that you didn’t think it was fixable? As you explore potential solutions in your head, you become increasingly hopeless and conclude that nothing will turn things around. Sound familiar?
Sometimes we forget just how powerful God is. We spend so much time dwelling on the mountain standing before us that we lose sight of the fact that God is infinitely bigger than the mountain. If he created the heavens and the earth, he can certainly fix any problem you are facing. And while he may take his time or answer your prayer in a way that displeases you, it’s not because he doesn’t care or because he’s weak. It’s because he loves you and knows what’s best. God is all-powerful—he can do anything. Always keep that in mind when you pray.
Help me to remember that you are greater than my problems, God, and allow my trust in you to increase.
JANUARY 7
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any one hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.” (Revelation 3:20)
It never ceases to amaze me how Jesus will not force his way into our lives. As someone who ignored him for many years, I can personally vouch for that fact. What he will do, however, is knock, and knock, and knock again. Once we finally open the door and let him in, we experience peace like we’ve never felt before.
Are you anxious about something or someone in your life? Jesus is knocking on your door. You can choose to worry (which is useless), or you can choose to open the door and invite him into your life. He will not only help you with your problems, but he will share with you the gift of his peace. The choice is yours.
Today I will open the door and invite you into my life, Jesus. Allow me to feel the supernatural peace that only you can give.
JANUARY 8
“And which of you by being anxious can add one cubit to his span of life?” (Matthew 6:27)
Jesus is very clear when he reminds us that worrying is not a productive activity. Giving way to anxiety cannot help us at all. So why do we worry? Many times we do it because it’s become a habit or we’ve lost sight of God’s providence.
Worrying certainly isn’t a good use of our time, but don’t be fooled into thinking that it doesn’t produce results. It does. Unfortunately, those results are not good for you. While none of your problems have killed you yet (thanks be to God!), excessive worrying can. At the very least, it can make you physically or emotionally ill. Let’s turn to the Jesus today and ask him to help us stop worrying.
Jesus, I know that worrying serves no useful purpose, but I am too weak to stop. Please help me to trust in you more and to worry less.
JANUARY 9
But as for me, I will look to the Lord, I will wait for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me. (Micah 7:7)
Are you tired of waiting for God to answer your prayers? Do you sometimes feel that he doesn’t even hear you? The prophet Micah provides us with some wise advice and reminds us that God does indeed hear us…we just need to give him some time.
We live in a fast-paced world, and we have a tendency to be impatient. If we send a text message or an e-mail and don’t receive an immediate reply, we get frustrated and wonder if we’re being heard. That same kind of impatience often spills over into our prayer life as well.
Rest assured that God always hears your prayers. His timing is perfect and he will respond when the time is right. Don’t rush him!
Dear Jesus, I struggle with impatience, and sometimes I get frustrated with your apparent lack of response to my prayers. Please increase my trust in you and help me to wait patiently for your response.
JANUARY 10
The King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst; you shall fear evil no more. (Zephaniah 3:15)
The world can be a scary place. We are surrounded with temptation and we sometimes feel too weak to fight against the power of Satan.
Here’s some good news: The devil can’t force you to do anything. He can lie to you, he can pressure you, he can tempt you with all kinds of thoughts and desires, but he can’t make you sin. On the other hand, the power of almighty God is infinite. As long as you lean on him, you can overcome any temptation that you encounter. Best of all, you don’t have to worry about him not being available. The God of heaven and earth is right in your midst and ready to help you!
Thank you for your constant presence in my life, God. Please keep me from falling into sin today.
JANUARY 11
For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities; for when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:10)
I have always considered myself to be a weak person. Through the years I have given up on many projects, done things I was ashamed of, and failed to do things I should have done. In addition I spent many years trying to overcome my excessive worrying.
In spite of my weakness, St. Paul’s words to the people of Corinth give me a great deal of hope. He assures me that it’s okay to be weak. More important, his statement reminds me just how much I need God in my life. On my own I can’t avoid sin, stop worrying, or persevere in prayer. But with Christ’s help, I can do all things!
May my weakness always remind me how much I need you, Jesus. Help me to be strong today.
JANUARY 12
Then the Lord put forth his hand and touched my mouth; and the Lord said to me, “Behold, I have put my words in your mouth.” (Jeremiah 1:9)
Jeremiah didn’t have a great deal of confidence, which at first glance would seem to be a big problem for a prophet. Proclaiming God’s Word to people who don’t want to hear it isn’t exactly a job for wimps! Trying to convince God that he chose the wrong guy, Jeremiah insisted that he was too young and he wasn’t a good speaker.
God knew better, however. He assured the reluctant prophet that he would be given the words to deliver to the people.
Too many times we fail to recognize that if God calls us to do something, he’ll give us the help we need. Whether it’s stepping out of our comfort zone to help others or simply accepting the suffering that comes our way, he will not desert us. As the old saying goes, “If God brings you to it, he will see you through it!”
God, I’m grateful that you will always provide me with the strength I need to carry out any task you give me.
JANUARY 13
O Lord my God, in you I take refuge; save me from all my pursuers, and deliver me. (Psalm 7:1)
I am embarrassed to admit how many times I have faced problems and failed to ask God for help. While it should be the first thing we do, it’s often the last. Why is that? Could it be that we don’t trust him? Is it because most of the problems we face are worldly in nature and we don’t think that’s his area of expertise?
Whatever the reason, this is something we need to fix. God loves us and wants to be intimately involved in our lives. He is also bigger than any potential problem we could ever face. Yesterday is gone and tomorrow is not guaranteed. Let’s live in the present moment and make today the day that we start turning to him with all of our needs.
As I begin this new day, Lord, I ask for your help with all of my earthly problems and concerns. Thank you for caring enough to want to get involved in my life.
JANUARY 14
The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him. (Nahum 1:7)
I have a difficult time dealing with change and uncertainty. Stability is something that brings me a great deal of comfort, and I suspect that I’m not the only one who feels this way. Dealing with change on a daily basis is a big source of anxiety for many of us.
Here’s something to think about today: God never changes. He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. A relationship with him provides us with a source of stability in a very unstable world. He is not affected by the weather, the stock market, or even our moods. He is always the same. I like that!
Thank you for being an unchanging stronghold for me, God. I’m grateful that I can take refuge in you today.
JANUARY 15
But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but I give you what I have; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise and walk.” (Acts 3:6)
There is no doubt that money is necessary. God understands that we all have bills to pay. But there is something more precious than monetary wealth. In this Bible verse Peter’s response to the beggar teaches us a valuable lesson.
Initially it appears that the apostle was unable to help the man. In reality, however, he was able to help him in a big way. Even if we are living in poverty, you and I have the ability to turn to Jesus in prayer. It costs nothing and can produce incredible results. Never forget that your ability to pray is a greater treasure than all the riches in the world.
Dear Jesus, thank you for always hearing me when I speak to you. Help me to better appreciate the value of prayer.
JANUARY 16
Cast all your anxieties on him, for he cares about you. (1 Peter 5:7)
Isn’t it great to have a friend? When faced with a problem, it’s a blessing to have someone to turn to in your time of need. Even if your friend can’t fix the issue, it’s comforting to know that someone is there for you.
As wonderful as it can be to have a shoulder to cry on, it’s even better to have a friend who can help you solve your problem. Jesus, the Lord of the universe, wants to be your friend. He wants you to hand over all of your problems to him. Why? Not only because he cares about you and doesn’t want you to worry, but because he knows the best way to handle the difficulties in your life. Let’s give him a chance.
Thank you for caring so much about me, Jesus. I give you my anxieties and struggles. Please allow me to experience your supernatural peace.
JANUARY 17
And Moses said to the people, “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will work for you today; for the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall never see again.” (Exodus 14:13)
“Trust me.”
Depending on who is speaking, this is arguably one of the most challenging phrases in the English language. Suppose you meet a complete stranger on the street and he asks to borrow a hundred dollars, promising to repay you in a week. Would you trust him? Chances are you wouldn’t, and with good reason. How about if your spouse or a close friend asked you for the same loan? It would probably be much easier to trust.
Speaking through Moses, God the Father promised the Israelites that they would be delivered from slavery. He assured them that the Egyptians would no longer be a threat. What proof did he offer? None, other than the fact that he was God. Are you willing to trust almighty God with the problems that you are facing? You should—he has a really good record of delivering on his promises!
God, I know that you love me and want what is best for me. Help me to trust you with all of my problems.
JANUARY 18
And I will walk among you, and will be your God, and you shall be my people. (Leviticus 26:12)
I have always been impressed with business executives who are willing to roll up their sleeves, pitch in, and work side by side with their employees. I have seen this play out not only on television, but in real life as well. If done for the right reasons, it demonstrates a certain sense of humility and compassion.
When we stop and think about it, the idea of God walking among us is mind-boggling. But that’s exactly what happened when the Word became flesh. While still retaining his divinity, Jesus Christ literally became one of us. What’s even more astonishing is that he is still with us today. In the Eucharist Christ is fully present and can be encountered at Mass, in tabernacles, and in adoration chapels around the world.
It’s wonderful to know we can visit him in person whenever we want. It definitely beats worrying!
Thank you for being so close to me, Jesus. I can’t wait to see you soon!
JANUARY 19
“Do not be afraid, my son, because we have become poor. You have great wealth if you fear God and refrain from every sin and do what is pleasing in his sight.” (Tobit 4:21)
When I speak at parishes and conferences, I meet many people who are worried about money. In fact, financial anxiety is one of the biggest sources of stress in the world today.
Tobit’s words to his son show great wisdom and indicate that he understands the true meaning of wealth. Having an abundance of money will make us happy only for a while. Furthermore, being rich can even hurt our chances of getting to heaven. No matter how little money you have, the only way you are truly poor is if you don’t have a relationship with God. Even though it may not feel like it when you’re struggling to pay your bills, if you have Jesus in your life, you are very wealthy!
God, I confess—all too often I get distracted by the things of the world. Thank you for your presence in my life; with you by my side, I am truly wealthy.
JANUARY 20
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 1:3)
Because we’re human we sometimes take our blessings for granted. As an example, for many years I woke up every morning and never thanked God for giving me another day. Instead I complained that I was too tired, too hot, or too cold, or that I didn’t feel like going to work. It took a frightening health scare to make me realize just how selfish and ungrateful I was.
In this excerpt from his letter to the Ephesians, St. Paul reminds us that in Christ we have received “every spiritual blessing” imaginable. Thinking about that can make us feel thankful even in the midst of great suffering. We are very blessed, my friends. Let’s be full of joy and gratitude!
Heavenly Father, thank you for blessing me with the gift of your Son. Through him I have been redeemed, and I am very grateful!
JANUARY 21
And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O men of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. (Matthew 8:26)
Before I got my driver’s license, I took a driving class at my high school. One of the topics we were taught was how to handle skidding on ice. Because of this training I knew exactly what to do if I encountered this situation…or so I thought!
One day it happened for real, and I somehow forgot everything I had learned. After I slammed on the brakes and turned the steering wheel like a madman, my car proceeded to spin in circles until safely coming to a stop.
The apostles knew that Jesus could perform miracles, but they panicked when the storm kicked up. We often make the same mistake when unexpected problems arise in our lives. Jesus understands. Continue to turn to him and ask for help. While you’re at it, ask him to strengthen your faith. Eventually you’ll find it easier to trust him.
Jesus, thank you for putting up with me when I begin to panic. Please help me to trust you more.
JANUARY 22
“I beg you, my child, to look at the heaven and the earth and see everything that is in them, and recognize that God did not make them out of things that existed.” (2 Maccabees 7:28)
Sometimes we have a tendency to look at our difficulties and consider them unfixable. If not controlled, this way of thinking can cause us to become hopeless and fall into despair.
With all due respect to those who suffer, there is no such thing as a hopeless situation. Although it may not seem like it at times, every problem can be solved. God is all-powerful and bigger than any issue we could ever face. Need proof? He created the entire universe out of nothing. That’s what I call powerful! Have faith in his abilities and ask him to fix the problems in your life. Be persistent, patient, and willing to accept his answer.
Almighty Father, you created everything out of nothing. Please take my problems and handle them using your infinite wisdom and power.
JANUARY 23
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory. (Isaiah 6:3)
Are you able to see God in everyone you meet, everywhere you go, and everything that happens to you? It can be a challenge to do so, especially with all the distractions we encounter every day. In order to be peaceful, however, we need to come up with a way to constantly live in the presence of God.
Although it doesn’t come naturally to me, I have learned to be thankful for the many blessings in my life: each new day, the warmth of the sun, the gift of rainfall, the intricacy of the human body, and the gift of Jesus’ real presence in the Eucharist. By acknowledging God’s gifts to us each day, we gradually begin to realize that he truly is present in our lives. You might have to work at it in the beginning, but it will gradually become easier. Give it a try, and soon you’ll begin to see God everywhere!
Thank you for filling the earth with your glory, God. Strengthen my inner eyesight so I can see you more clearly in the ordinary events of life.
JANUARY 24
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. (Proverbs 3:5)
Even though God has proven his trustworthiness many times over the years (in salvation history and in our lives), trusting in him “with all your heart” is not an easy thing to do. Do you ever wish that God would give you the details of what lies ahead in your life? We would be so much more peaceful if we knew what was coming…or would we?
Surprisingly, uncertainty can draw us closer to God. Because we don’t know what lies ahead, we have the opportunity to trust in his providence. If you find it difficult to trust, ask God to help you. Over time you’ll see the benefit of trusting your future to your heavenly Father, who loves you more than you could ever imagine.
Even though I think I know what’s best for me, Father, I understand that you know better. I long to trust you with all my heart.
JANUARY 25
For in everything, O Lord, you have exalted and glorified your people; and you have not neglected to help them at all times and in all places. (Wisdom 19:22)
One of the benefits of reading the Bible is that it helps us to understand just how much God has helped his people through the years. Despite the fact that the Israelites disobeyed him many times, he never deserted them. Looking back over my years as a lukewarm Catholic, I can see a similar story. God never gave up on me and was always there to bail me out.
When moving forward, it’s sometimes helpful to look back. I can think of many “hopeless” situations that worked out much better than I could have ever imagined. Even though I don’t know what will happen to me tomorrow, I know that God has always been there for me in the past. If he didn’t desert me then, why would he abandon me now?
Thank you for your constant love and protection, dear God. I can face the future with confidence, knowing that you will always be there with me.
JANUARY 26
“And I tell you, Ask and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” (Luke 11:9)
While this is one of Jesus’ best-known messages, it’s also one of the most misunderstood. We all know what it’s like not to receive something we asked for in prayer. What gives? Didn’t Jesus say that if we ask, we’ll receive?
Yes, he did, but he never said what we will receive! In the often-ignored verses that follow this statement (see Luke 11:11–13), Jesus explains that our heavenly Father will never give us anything harmful. Why? Because he loves us too much! Even though we think we know what we need, we often don’t. Many of the things that appear good to us can get in the way of our relationship with God. If he says no, take comfort in the fact that it’s his way of saying, “I love you.”
Although it’s not easy for me to hear an answer of “no,” Jesus, I understand that it’s necessary. Thank you for loving me too much to give me anything that would harm me.
JANUARY 27
He who has the Son has life; he who has not the Son of God has not life. (1 John 5:12)
Eternity is a difficult concept to grasp. Since everything in this life comes to an end, it’s not easy to understand the idea of forever. On the other hand, we all know what it’s like to enjoy something so much that we don’t want it to end.
While many things in this world can bring us happiness, nothing can come close to the gift given to us by Jesus Christ. He gave his very life so that you and I could live in his Father’s kingdom forever. Even though we can’t fully comprehend it, we should be grateful and rejoice. We will never receive a greater gift.
Thank you, Jesus, for making it possible for me to live forever in heaven.
JANUARY 28
And the Lord came and stood forth, calling as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant hears.” (1 Samuel 3:10)
I have great news for you. God wants to speak to you today. I don’t know what he wants to tell you, but I know with certainty that he has a personal message for you. How can you hear what he has to say? By listening!
Samuel teaches us a great lesson with his openness to hearing God’s voice. Most of us have no problem approaching him when we need something, yet we’re not as willing to ask how we can serve him. Instead of “Speak, for your servant hears,” we often say, “Listen, for your servant is speaking!”
God has something to say to you today. He wants to speak to you in prayer, through the pages of the Bible, through nature, and even through other people. The only way you’re going to hear his message, however, is by listening!
God, I’m listening for your voice today.
JANUARY 29
For we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. (1 Timothy 6:7)
I have always been a collector. Over the years I have collected many different items: comic books, baseball cards, records, newspapers, magazines, and much more. As a result, I’ve accumulated lots of “stuff.”
Eventually I began to question my actions. I spent a great deal of time and money collecting items that were hidden in closets and under beds. What was the point? I rarely looked at my prized collectibles. Furthermore, I was concerned that these fragile items would deteriorate over the years and I would no longer have them.
When we die we won’t be bringing anything with us. All we’ll have is the fruit of our good works. Why is it that accumulating and holding on to our possessions takes up so much time and causes us so much stress?
On this day, God, I ask that you take away my desire to accumulate excessive material goods and replace it with a desire for spiritual treasures.
JANUARY 30
And after a while the brook dried up, because there was no rain in the land. (1 Kings 17:7)
One of the ways that God speaks to us is through the circumstances of ordinary life. Sometimes what seems to be a disaster ends up being a great blessing. My career as a fulltime speaker and author resulted from a job layoff, and my friendship with Jesus Christ blossomed because of a health crisis.
Before you write off an event as a coincidence or bad luck, read about what happened to the prophet Elijah (see 1 Kings 17:1–16). God caused Elijah’s water supply to dry up because he wanted the prophet to move on to Zarephath. Could God be calling you to do something?
Pay attention to what is happening around you. There’s a good chance that God is speaking to you without using words.
Jesus, today I will listen for your voice in the daily events of my life.
JANUARY 31
Is any one among you suffering? Let him pray. Is any cheerful? Let him sing praise. (James 5:13)
For most people of faith, it’s not difficult to pray when suffering. In fact, it’s a great blessing to be able to do so. Even when I was an extremely lukewarm Catholic, I didn’t have to be reminded to pray when I was facing a crisis. As the old saying goes, “There are no atheists in foxholes.”
On the other hand, it’s not quite as intuitive to pray when things are going well. We have a tendency to forget that God is responsible for the good times as well as the bad. What are you thankful for today? The gift of a new day? His unconditional love? Family and friends? Whatever it is, be thankful for it because God made it happen!
You have blessed me in so many ways, God. Thank you for everything!
FEBRUARY 1
“Is anything too hard for the Lord?” (Genesis 18:14)
Good question, isn’t it? Now before you answer with a resounding no, let’s think about it for a minute. How many times have you failed to pray for an “impossible” situation because you thought it would be useless? How about those times when impatience caused you to stop praying because you assumed that God wasn’t listening? Even though we all know that nothing is too hard for him, we constantly forget it.
It doesn’t matter what type of crisis you’re facing; God can fix it. Not only can he cure cancer, mend the most broken relationship, or allow you to find a job after several years of unemployment, but he can help you to stick with your prayer life, give you the grace to overcome your “favorite” sin, or enable you to stop worrying. Nothing, and I mean nothing, is too hard for our God!
When things seem overwhelming to me, remind me that nothing is too hard for you, God. You are amazing!
FEBRUARY 2
And when the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. (Luke 2:22)