David Grimm's Blog, page 3
March 29, 2025
Watch Your Words (Part 2)
“People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison.”
—James 3:7–8 (NLT)
Words hold tremendous power. They can bring comfort and clarity or tear down and wound. Bob Goff illustrates this truth by sharing a story of his friend who lost a child. At the funeral, a well-intentioned woman tried to show empathy by comparing this man’s loss to the recent passing of her dog. Anyone with family pets knows that a pet is part of the family. Yet, it’s natural to feel appalled at such a comparison—yet the grieving father didn’t react angrily or hurt. Instead, he chose empathy and gently asked, “Tell me your dog’s name.”
This response reminds us that we don’t always have to be “right.” We get to be like Jesus—extending grace and compassion. Sometimes, our best intentions come out all wrong, and sometimes, other people’s words can sting. Yet we’re still called to speak kindly or not at all, refusing to let our words become a weapon that injures those we aim to love.
Why It Matters for YouThink about your own daily interactions. Have you ever said something out of frustration, only to regret it moments later? Maybe you spoke harshly to a coworker under stress or made a sarcastic comment to a friend that landed harder than you intended. James 3:7–8 underscores how difficult it is to truly control our words—they can feel as untamable as wild animals.
Yet God offers a different approach: Instead of letting our tongues run wild, He invites us to surrender our words to Him. The Holy Spirit can guide our speech so that we build others up, especially in sensitive or tense situations. Like Bob’s friend, we can choose a response that prioritizes understanding over our instinct to correct, criticize, or compare.
Practical InsightPause Before Speaking: Give yourself a brief moment—even a single breath—to consider whether what you say is helpful or healing.Listen to Understand: When someone shares something difficult or unexpected, try to put yourself in their shoes before crafting your response.Offer Grace: Recognize that everyone is facing battles you may not see. A gentle or encouraging word can profoundly affect how they perceive themselves and the situation.Challenge & Call to ActionIdentify one area in your life where your words might be causing harm. Perhaps you use gossip, frequent criticism, or sarcastic digs when stressed. This week, ask God to guard your tongue and guide your heart. Commit to pausing before speaking, and if your words won’t help or heal, consider not saying them at all.
After a few days, reflect on any changes you’ve noticed in your conversations and relationships. Have you seen more grace, understanding, or calm? By focusing on empathetic, compassionate communication, you’ll begin to see the ripple effect of speaking life into others rather than tearing them down.
Love In Chaos teaching series
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Check out The Abide Factor and The Abide Factor Student Workbookfor practical tools to help you grow in your walk with God. These resources are designed to guide you toward the abundant life Jesus promises.
If you’re looking for someone to help you grow in your faith journey, consider a monthly mentorship through ProvenResults Mentors. Sign up for a free 30-minute Discovery Call here. Let’s walk this path together!
Tasty Fruit, Not Sour Lemons (Part 1)
“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!”
—Galatians 5:22–23 (NLT)
We live in a world brimming with challenges—whether they’re global crises, interpersonal conflicts, or the everyday stresses that weigh on our hearts. It’s all too easy to get swept up in negativity, letting anger or frustration guide our reactions. However, as we explored in our Sunday School class while studying the teaching series Love in Chaos, Bob Goff shows us a different way: leaning on the Holy Spirit to grow “tasty fruit” in our lives.
SHORT SYNOPSIS OF LOVE IN CHAOSIn Love in Chaos, Bob Goff reminds us that love remains the most powerful force for good, even in the most unpredictable and turbulent moments. Through his signature storytelling and practical insights, Bob illustrates how everyday acts of kindness, patience, and compassion can transform not only our personal outlook but also the world around us. By urging us to see others as God sees them—and to respond with love, especially when it’s inconvenient or messy—Bob challenges us to step beyond our comfort zones. He shows that a simple act of kindness or an unexpected gesture of grace can bring peace and hope where chaos once reigned.
We often overlook how our daily choices and responses leave either a “sweet” or “sour” taste with those we interact with. Galatians 5:22–23 reminds us that the Holy Spirit longs to produce fruit in us—things like love, kindness, and gentleness—that draw people toward hope and healing rather than push them away. Bob illustrates this principle with a personal story about his old pickup truck in San Diego. He never locked the doors, and one day, a stranger decided to make it his temporary shelter. Instead of calling the police or seeking revenge when the truck got trashed, Bob chose kindness. He recognized that this individual simply needed a place to rest.
This example might seem extreme or counterintuitive. After all, who wouldn’t be frustrated if a stranger wrecked their vehicle? But Bob’s decision not to retaliate underlines a powerful truth: the world needs more kindness, not more shouting matches or scare tactics. Sour lemons leave a bitter aftertaste; sweet fruit fosters peace and understanding.
“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.”
—Proverbs 15:1 (NLT)
Take a moment to reflect on your own life. How often do you respond harshly or impatiently—especially when your day isn’t going as planned? Maybe it’s a demanding coworker, a difficult neighbor, or a routine annoyance that pushes your buttons. If you’ve been feeling the weight of negativity or the temptation to fight fire with fire, consider the freedom that comes when you allow the Holy Spirit to shape your responses.
When we choose to respond with kindness, gentleness, and patience, we’re not just avoiding conflict. We’re creating opportunities for grace, healing, and genuine connection. We become a reflection of God’s love in a world that desperately needs a gentle touch.
Challenge & Call to ActionThink of one situation this week where you know you’ll be tempted to respond harshly—maybe a recurring family disagreement or a difficult conversation at work. Instead of choosing bitterness or anger, invite the Holy Spirit to help you produce “tasty fruit” in that moment. Offer empathy, a calm word, or a simple act of kindness.
Afterward, pause and note what happened. Did your kind response diffuse tension? Did it open a new door of understanding or comfort? By being intentional about choosing kindness, you’ll start to see how “tasty fruit” can transform your interactions and your heart.
Love In Chaos teaching series
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Check out The Abide Factor and The Abide Factor Student Workbookfor practical tools to help you grow in your walk with God. These resources are designed to guide you toward the abundant life Jesus promises.
If you’re looking for someone to help you grow in your faith journey, consider a monthly mentorship through ProvenResults Mentors. Sign up for a free 30-minute Discovery Call here. Let’s walk this path together!
When To Pause (Part 2)
In Part 1, we explored the wisdom found in James 1:19–20—being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. We also discussed communication expert Jefferson Fisher and his advice: “Take a pause before responding. Let your first word be your breath.” Now, let’s get into the real-world application of what we’ve called the “pause principle.”
Why the Pause Matters
Pausing before you respond is more than just a neat communication trick; it’s a way to ensure the rational part of your brain stays in control. When you take that moment (or those three moments) to breathe, you’re effectively saying, “My goal is to understand first, then respond with empathy and wisdom.”
Applying the Pause at WorkTeam Meetings: Let others finish speaking before jumping in with a rebuttal or a new idea. You might discover additional points or perspectives that change your approach.Email or Messaging: Step away from the keyboard for a minute if you receive a message that triggers frustration. Use that time to breathe, gather your thoughts, and consider how to respond calmly. Written communications have no tone of voice or facial expressions, so clarity and kindness are crucial. This is also why I love the email function on Apple, which allows you a few seconds to undo sending a message. It lets you correct that moment if you hit “send” in anger.Applying the Pause at HomeConversations with Loved Ones: Whether it’s your spouse, children, or close friends, tensions can run high when disagreements surface. Take a breath before you speak, ensuring your words come from a place of understanding rather than annoyance.Everyday Stressors: Household responsibilities can quickly pile up and create friction. Instead of letting frustration spill over into snappy remarks, pause to gain perspective. Ask yourself: “Is this something I can address calmly, or do I need a moment to refocus?”Applying the Pause in PublicCustomer Service Interactions: Long lines or mix-ups can test your patience. Pausing helps you treat service workers respectfully, remembering they are people doing their best.Traffic Situations: We’ve all felt road rage creeping in. A quick pause reminds you it’s better to arrive a minute later than to let anger ruin your day or endanger others.The Ripple EffectChoosing to pause has a way of diffusing tension. It shows respect for the other person and sets a tone of openness. People around you will notice the difference, and you might find you’re modeling healthy communication for others—at work, in your home, and even among strangers.
Reflecting God’s RighteousnessRemember, human anger rarely produces the righteousness God desires (James 1:20). Pausing paves the way for patience, gentleness, and understanding—the very qualities that reflect God’s love. It’s not about suppressing valid emotions but rather channeling them in a constructive way.
Looking to Strengthen Your Leadership Skills?Pausing doesn’t just improve communication; it builds the kind of character that fosters trust and respect. If you want to develop a solid leadership foundation rooted in strong character and effective communication, check out Proven Results Mentors. They’ll help you create a framework for leadership that honors God and influences others positively.
The ChallengePause Practice: This week, pick one scenario you anticipate might be stressful—a meeting, a tricky conversation, or an everyday stress point. Commit to pausing, breathing, and choosing your words deliberately.Note the Changes: Pay attention to how this affects both your emotions and the responses of those around you. You might be surprised at how quickly a single pause can shift an entire conversation.If this message encouraged you, share it with a friend or coworker who could benefit from a new approach to communication. The ripple effect starts with each of us making the choice to pause, listen well, and speak wisely.
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Check out The Abide Factor and The Abide Factor Student Workbook for practical tools to help you grow in your walk with God. These resources are designed to guide you toward the abundant life Jesus promises.
If you’re looking for someone to help you grow in your faith journey, consider a monthly mentorship through ProvenResults Mentors. Sign up for a free 30-minute Discovery Call here. Let’s walk this path together!
When to Pause (Part 1)
“Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.” – James 1:19–20 NLT
Have you ever noticed how easy it is to respond before we fully process what someone is saying? We often jump in with our own thoughts or defenses without genuinely listening to understand. If what’s being shared is critical, frustrating, or even negative, the conversation can quickly spiral into anger or heated emotions.
I recently attended the Chick-fil-A conference in San Diego and had the privilege of hearing communication expert Jefferson Fisher speak on this topic. He offered a valuable piece of advice: “Take a pause before responding. Let your first word be your breath.” That short pause gives your logical brain time to engage, helping you keep a level head and avoid an overly emotional response. If you’re anything like me, you may need three breaths before you reply!
The Power of a Pause
Pausing may feel counterintuitive, especially when you’re tempted to defend yourself or correct someone immediately. But taking that extra moment can make all the difference between a constructive conversation and one that leaves both parties feeling hurt or misunderstood. Our words hold incredible power, and how we choose them matters.
Coming Up Next…
This is just the beginning. In Part 2, we’ll dive deeper into practical ways to apply the “pause principle” in everyday life—at work, home, and everywhere in between. We’ll also explore how this practice, when consistently applied, can help us reflect God’s righteousness in challenging situations, transforming our interactions and relationships for the better.
Looking to Strengthen Your Leadership Skills?
Building a strong character foundation is essential for effective leadership. If you want to develop better communication strategies and grow as a leader, understanding and applying the ‘pause principle’ is crucial. Check out Proven Results Mentors. They can help you create a solid framework for leadership that honors God and impacts people in positive, lasting ways.
Stay tuned for Part 2! Until then, practice taking that breath—maybe three—before responding, and see how it transforms your interactions.
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Check out The Abide Factor and The Abide Factor Student Workbookfor practical tools to help you grow in your walk with God. These resources are designed to guide you toward the abundant life Jesus promises.
If you’re looking for someone to help you grow in your faith journey, consider a monthly mentorship through ProvenResults Mentors. Sign up for a free 30-minute Discovery Call here. Let’s walk this path together!
Choose Joy, Not Complaints
“Do everything without complaining and arguing,” – Philippians 2:14 NLT
It’s so easy to get caught up in all the negative…. Let’s remember that choosing joy over complaints not only brightens our own outlook but also inspires others. Let’s do it all with a great attitude & encourage one another along the way!
Have you ever found yourself slipping into a cycle of negativity—constantly pointing out flaws, grumbling about the smallest inconveniences, or venting your frustrations at every turn? It happens to the best of us. These complaints and arguments, they don’t just affect us, they create a ripple effect of negativity. Life has its challenges, and our reactions often default to complaining or arguing, especially when things aren’t going our way.
Scripture reminds us there’s a better approach. God challenges us to stay above the fray and maintain a spirit of gratitude. “Do everything without complaining and arguing” goes beyond just watching our words; it’s about the attitude we cultivate in our hearts. Everything shifts when we focus on the good, encourage others, and keep our eyes on what God can do through our challenges.
Imagine the impact if we replaced complaints with thanksgiving and arguments with understanding. We might see more unity in our teams, joy in our homes, and peace in our minds. People around us would sense a difference, too. In a world filled with negativity, choosing not to complain is a bold statement that we trust God to guide us through every situation.
The Challenge
Identify one recurring complaint or argument in your life right now. Instead of giving in to it, make a conscious choice to respond with kindness, prayer, or a word of encouragement. You might be amazed by how much lighter you feel—and how your positive attitude can transform the atmosphere around you.
If this message encouraged you, remember that you’re not alone. Share it with someone who could use a reminder to choose joy over negativity. Let’s stand out in a world that’s all too familiar with complaints. After all, the best way to build a positive culture is to live it out ourselves.
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Check out The Abide Factor and The Abide Factor Student Workbookfor practical tools to help you grow in your walk with God. These resources are designed to guide you toward the abundant life Jesus promises.
If you’re looking for someone to help you grow in your faith journey, consider a monthly mentorship through ProvenResults Mentors. Sign up for a free 30-minute Discovery Call here. Let’s walk this path together!
Broken Equipment, Unbroken Faith
We’ve been through a season these last three months that walloped us. Our restaurant’s grand reopening came in as the second worst in Chick‑fil‑A history—definitely not a trophy I’m proud to claim. On top of that, every piece of equipment seemed to break down multiple times, leading to sky-high repairs. We had to make tough personnel changes while guests told us we’d “gone downhill.” Add sickness sweeping through my home and friends, plus forgoing a paycheck to offset re-investment costs, and you get the perfect storm of discouragement.
Even in the midst of these setbacks, I’m convinced there’s God’s purpose in trials.
The Bible reminds us:
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
—James 1:2–4 (NKJV)
and
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
—Romans 8:28 (NKJV)
These trials refine us and prepare us for what’s coming next. God doesn’t waste pain; He molds our character, tests our faith, and strengthens our patience. This season won’t last forever, but it’s absolutely necessary for the growth He’s orchestrating.
If you’re facing hardships of your own—maybe a challenging job situation, health battles, or a stalled dream—take heart. Keep persevering because the best is yet to come. God’s promise stands firm: in His hands, these trials will serve a greater purpose for your good and His glory. There is always hope, and His promise is our assurance.
A Practical Step
Consider exploring James 1:2–4 at Bible Gateway for more insight on these verses. Let this truth encourage you to push through your current challenges. Remember, this setback is a set-up for what’s coming next!
Write down at least one area of your life where you see God at work, even in the midst of difficulty. Then, share this post with someone who needs encouragement. Let’s remind each other that our trials are temporary, but God’s goodness endures forever!
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Check out The Abide Factor and The Abide Factor Student Workbook for practical tools to help you grow in your walk with God. These resources are designed to guide you toward the abundant life Jesus promises.
If you’re looking for someone to help you grow in your faith journey, consider a monthly mentorship through ProvenResults Mentors. Sign up for a free 30-minute Discovery Call here. Let’s walk this path together!
You Only Need To Ask
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5 NIV
Have you ever felt stuck, unsure of what to do next, or overwhelmed by decisions that seem too big to handle? Maybe you’ve spent hours weighing your options, analyzing every possible outcome, and still come up empty-handed. If you’ve ever been in that place, you’re not alone.
The good news is that you don’t have to figure it out alone. James 1:5 offers a simple yet powerful solution: if you lack wisdom, ask God. That’s it. There are no complicated steps and no prerequisites—just ask.
God’s Invitation to Ask
This verse is an open invitation from God. He doesn’t put conditions on who can come to Him for wisdom. There’s no application process or qualifications you need to meet. If you recognize a need for guidance, He’s ready to give it.
What makes this promise even more incredible is its certainty. God’s wisdom isn’t reserved for the spiritually elite; it’s available to everyone who humbly asks.
Generosity Without Judgment
One of the most reassuring parts of this verse is the reminder that God “gives generously to all without finding fault.”
Have you ever hesitated to ask for help because you felt unworthy or worried someone might judge you? With God, there’s no shame in asking. He doesn’t hold your past mistakes against you or expect you to have it all figured out before coming to Him. Instead, He gives generously, abundantly, and without criticism.
God isn’t looking for reasons to withhold wisdom from you. He’s waiting for you to ask so He can pour out His guidance freely and lovingly.
Why We Hesitate
So why do we hold back from asking for wisdom? For some, it’s pride—the belief that we can figure it out independently. For others, it’s fear or the lie that we’re not good enough for God to care about our problems.
These hesitations couldn’t be further from the truth. God delights in hearing from His children. When we turn to Him for wisdom, we’re not showing weakness; we’re demonstrating trust.
The Power of Divine Wisdom
God’s wisdom goes far beyond human understanding. It’s not just about solving problems; it’s about aligning our hearts with His will.
Think about the story of King Solomon. When God offered him anything he wanted, Solomon asked for wisdom to govern God’s people. His request pleased the Lord, and not only did God grant him extraordinary wisdom, but He also gave him blessings he didn’t ask for.
God’s wisdom has the power to bring clarity in confusion, peace in uncertainty, and direction in chaos. It can guide us through seemingly impossible decisions and lead us to outcomes we never imagined.
Take the First Step
What area of your life feels unclear right now? Is it a career choice, a family decision, or a challenge that feels overwhelming? Whatever it is, take it to God.
Start with a simple prayer: “Lord, I don’t know what to do, but You do. Please give me the wisdom I need to make the right decision and the faith to trust Your guidance.”
The Challenge
This week, I challenge you to identify one area where you need God’s wisdom. Write it down as a reminder to commit it to Him in prayer. Then, boldly ask Him for guidance and watch how He responds. Don’t forget to revisit your request later to see how His wisdom has worked in your life.
If this message encouraged you, share it with someone who needs a reminder of God’s generosity and love. Let’s encourage each other to seek His wisdom, trusting He will always provide.
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Check out The Abide Factor and The Abide Factor Student Workbook for practical tools to help you grow in your walk with God. These resources are designed to guide you toward the abundant life Jesus promises.
If you’re looking for someone to help you grow in your faith journey, consider a monthly mentorship through ProvenResults Mentors. Sign up for a free 30-minute Discovery Call here. Let’s walk this path together!
Trust The Process
“Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass.” – Psalms 37:5 NKJV
Have you ever had a dream or goal that felt so big you weren’t sure how it could possibly happen? Maybe you’ve tried to map out every step, anticipate every hurdle, and strategize your way to success, only to feel overwhelmed. It’s easy to carry the weight of our plans ourselves, thinking we need to have it all figured out. This verse from Psalms offers a different approach rooted in surrender, trust, and Divine assurance.
What Does It Mean to Commit Your Way?
Committing your way to the Lord is more than a one-time prayer or an occasional thought. It’s a daily, intentional act of surrender. It means laying down your plans, dreams, and especially your fears at His feet, trusting that His ways are higher and better than ours.
It’s not always easy. We like to be in control. We want the roadmap, the timeline, and the certainty that everything will work out. Committing to the Lord means releasing that control, knowing He sees the bigger picture and will guide us where we need to go.
Trust Also in Him
Trust is the foundation of committing your way to the Lord. It’s believing in His character and His promises, even when the path seems unclear.
Trusting God means being patient in the waiting seasons and steadfast in the uncertain ones. It means choosing faith over fear and believing He works behind the scenes, even when progress feels slow.
Sometimes, trust looks like taking a step forward in faith, even when you don’t see the whole staircase. Other times, it’s about resting in His peace and waiting for His timing. Either way, trust is an active choice to believe that God is good and faithful.
He Shall Bring It to Pass
The promise in this verse is as beautiful as it is profound: He shall bring it to pass.
God doesn’t call us to carry the burden of making everything happen. Our role is to commit and trust. His role is to fulfill and accomplish. His timeline may look different from ours, and His ways may surprise us, but He is always faithful to complete what He starts.
When we surrender our plans to Him, we allow Him to work in ways we couldn’t have imagined. He has a way of exceeding our expectations and bringing His plans to fruition for His glory and our good.
Take the First Step
What are you holding onto today? Is it a career decision, a relationship, a financial struggle, or a dream that feels out of reach? Whatever it is, I challenge you to commit it to the Lord. Trust Him to guide you every step of the way.
Take a moment to pray and ask Him for the wisdom, strength, and peace to trust Him fully. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. The Holy Spirit is with you, leading and directing your path.
The Challenge
This week, choose one area of your life to commit fully to the Lord. Write it down, pray over it, and release it into His hands. Trust Him to bring it to pass in His perfect timing. Remember to revisit at a future date to see how God answered.
If this message encouraged you, share it with someone who needs to hear it today. Let’s remind each other of the beauty and freedom of surrendering our ways to the Lord.
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Check out The Abide Factor and The Abide Factor Student Workbook for practical tools to help you grow in your walk with God. These resources are designed to guide you toward the abundant life Jesus promises.
If you’re looking for someone to help you grow in your faith journey, consider a monthly mentorship through ProvenResults Mentors. Sign up for a free 30-minute Discovery Call here. Let’s walk this path together!
Seeing His Goodness
Blessed be the Lord, Who daily loads us with benefits, The God of our salvation! Selah.” – Psalms 68:19 NKJV
Have you ever stopped to think about how God’s goodness shows up in your life every single day? Not just on the good days, when everything goes as planned, but even on the hard ones—the ones filled with unexpected challenges like a sudden job loss, heartbreak from a broken relationship, or setbacks in your health or finances?
This verse in Psalms reminds us of a powerful truth: God doesn’t just sprinkle blessings here and there. He loads us with benefits daily. That’s right—daily. Not occasionally, not once in a while, but every single day.
It’s easy to overlook His goodness when life feels heavy. The weight of responsibilities, disappointments, or struggles can make it hard to see the blessings right in front of us. Just as a loving father cares for his children, God faithfully shows His love and provision in every circumstance.
Maybe today, His goodness looks like the roof over your head or the food on your table. Perhaps it’s the strength to face another day or the comfort of a friend who listens when you need it most. Sometimes, it’s the peace that doesn’t make sense or the joy that sneaks up on you in the middle of a storm.
Our God is not distant. He is actively involved in every detail of our lives, loading us daily with benefits we often don’t even recognize. His blessings aren’t always loud or obvious—they can be as simple as a moment of stillness, a warm hug, or a reminder in Scripture that you’re never alone.
What if we started each day looking for His goodness? What if we trained our hearts to see His blessings every moment, no matter how small? Gratitude, with its transformative power, can shift our perspective and open our eyes to the abundance we already have.
So, here’s my challenge: Take a moment today to pause and reflect on how God is showing up in your life. Think of three specific ways He has loaded you with benefits today. Then, thank Him for it.
When we acknowledge His goodness in every circumstance, we grow closer to Him and strengthen our faith and hope for what’s ahead. He is a good Father, and His blessings are always there—even when we must look harder to see them. Take a moment today to pause and reflect on how God is showing up in your life. Write down three specific ways He has loaded you with benefits today, and then spend time in prayer thanking Him for them. You might be surprised by how much you uncover.
If this message encouraged you, share it with someone who needs a reminder of God’s goodness. Let’s spread the joy of knowing we serve a God who blesses us abundantly daily!
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Check out The Abide Factor and The Abide Factor Student Workbook for practical tools to help you grow in your walk with God. These resources are designed to guide you toward the abundant life Jesus promises.
If you’re looking for someone to help you grow in your faith journey, consider a monthly mentorship through ProvenResults Mentors. Sign up for a free 30-minute Discovery Call here. Let’s walk this path together!
Have You Tried His Way?
“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” – John 10:10 NKJV
We’ve all been there—trying to figure out life on our own terms, doing things our way, and hoping for the best. It feels empowering at first, doesn’t it? The thrill of being in control, making decisions, and chasing dreams your way. If you’re like me, you’ve probably hit those moments when your way just… doesn’t work.
It can leave you feeling empty, frustrated, or even defeated. That’s because we’re up against a thief. Jesus tells us plainly in John 10:10: the enemy comes to steal, kill, and destroy. The thief isn’t here to just inconvenience you—he’s here to rob you of your peace, your joy, and your purpose.
Here’s the good news: Jesus didn’t stop there. He said, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
More abundantly. Think about that for a moment. Jesus isn’t talking about a mediocre, just-getting-by kind of life. He’s offering an overflowing, purpose-filled, joy-abundant life—a life you can only experience when you stop trying your way and start living His way.
What does that look like?
Living His way means surrender. It’s letting go of the illusion of control and trusting the One who knows the end from the beginning. It’s trading our limited understanding for His infinite wisdom. It’s admitting that, on our own, we’re like sheep wandering in the wilderness—with Him, we have a Good Shepherd who leads us to green pastures.
Living His way also means following His voice. In the verses leading up to John 10:10, Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd whose sheep know His voice. Are you listening? Or are the noise and distractions of life drowning out the gentle call of the One who wants to guide you?
Living His way means choosing abundance over scarcity. The enemy wants you to believe that surrendering to Jesus means giving up everything good in life. The opposite is true. When you choose His way, you gain a peace that doesn’t make sense in the middle of chaos. You gain a joy that isn’t tied to your circumstances. You gain a purpose that’s bigger than yourself.
Let me ask you this: Have you tried His way?
If you’re tired of running in circles, chasing a life that doesn’t satisfy, maybe it’s time to surrender. Maybe it’s time to listen to His voice. Maybe it’s time to step into the abundant life He’s offering.
The thief will always try to pull you away, and Jesus is standing at the door, inviting you in. The choice is yours.
If this resonates with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. If you’ve experienced the abundant life that comes from living His way, share your story—I’d love to hear how God has transformed your life!
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Are you ready to stop doing it your way? Check out The Abide Factor and The Abide Factor Student Workbook for practical tools to help you grow in your walk with God. These resources are designed to guide you toward the abundant life Jesus promises.
If you’re looking for someone to help you grow in your faith journey, consider a monthly mentorship through ProvenResults Mentors. Sign up for a free 30-minute Discovery Call here. Let’s walk this path together!
