Maybe like me you have wondered in your own heart, is Proverbs 22:6 a promise or just a proverb?

For in You, Christ, I have everything: eternal life, spiritual blessings, and the promise of Your constant presence.

In this season of life filled with graduations and summer vacations, it’s easy to miss opportunities to slow down and be intentional in God’s Word. There is always somewhere to be, something to do, or someone that occupies our attention. But even during these busy chapters of our lives, marked by milestones, celebrations, and exciting transitions, we need the sustaining, life-giving message of the Bible. No matter where you are in your life, whether you’re a seasoned believer or someone new to faith, the Bible is and always will be for you. Daily time with God’s Word is crucial to knowing Him, and one of the best ways to stay engaged amid the hustle of everyday life is simply to take notes as you read. Summarizing, jotting comments, and asking questions in the margins of your Bible are powerful, tangible ways you can grow in biblical literacy and tether your heart to God's Word. Here are five ways that notetaking can help you build consistent reading habits and engage more deeply with God's Word. Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/rachelstrong10

The day started like every other one. Sun illuminates the curtains, letting in the soft glow of morning light. The sound of the house creaking as the rest of the family awakened and started the day. But something was different. As I pulled back the covers, I felt a fluttering in my chest. Panic gripped me, and I dreaded starting yet another cycle of endless tasks that demanded my attention. Tears welled up at the thought of facing the light of another day.  Sometimes the joy of a new morning is apparent; we made it through a challenging night, or the gentle forgetfulness of sleep blessed us with a fresh perspective. Other times, we need a reminder of the joy that can be found in Christ, regardless of our circumstances or feelings. As Psalm 30:5 tells us, “For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” NIVThe comforting aspect of this Psalm is that David was writing from a difficult experience. He had faced death and felt the fear of being surrounded by his enemies. Yet, the Lord had rescued him and healed him. David did not rejoice because events had turned to his favor or because he was assured of a trouble-free life. He found a reason to rejoice because of the Lord’s kindness. As the final verses of this song of praise say, “You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise you forever.” - Psalm 30:11-12 NIV  We, too, can experience this transformative joy in the Lord, whether life is filled with good things right now or we are struggling to get out of bed. The following eight peaceful morning prayers offer practical yet thoughtful ways to turn our attention back to the Lord whose kindness is ever new. To lean against our Savior, as the Apostle John did, and rest in the greatest friendship we can know. Then, we can face the new day, not from a posture of dread, but from a place of gentle refreshment and reassurance that we are not alone.      Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Darren Tierney

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