06/12/2026
TODAY'S VERSE
That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. II Corinthians 4:16
TODAY'S THOUGHT
Paul experienced over and over again God's "hope for the helpless." While in prison, while shipwrecked, while being persecuted or barely having enough to eat, he knew God in a deep and personal way and determined to never give up. He writes, "Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day." Though he was weary, exhausted and many times his back was up against the wall, he was not hopeless or disheartened. Instead, through the power of the Holy Spirit, deep in his soul he was emboldened, and encouraged. Christ sustained him. Every day the hope of Jesus Christ's soon return and the love of God caused him to be renewed, strengthened and invigorated. He was full of hope. This is what strengthens me day to day even though I have had extremely difficult circumstances such as death threats, ridicule and abandonment through preaching the gospel, I haven't experienced the depth of what Paul went through. You can be encouraged too. Let the presence of Christ and the awareness of His deep love for you give you all you need for this day. Don't give up; instead, ask God to renew you today.
TODAY'S PRAYER
Dear Father, you know how weary I can become. You know how easily I can let my circumstances influence me. I pray today, help me by Your Spirit become conscious of Your mighty presence and strength that works within me. Renew my heart, renew my mind, fill me with Your strength and courage. In Jesus' name. AMEN