BibleGateway.com: The 100 most-read Bible verses

I thought is would something fun to add to the Mighty Messiah blog! Enjoy!

What are the most popular Bible verses on BibleGateway.com?

We thought it would be interesting to find out, so we crunched some numbers from a (relatively) small sample of 25 million Bible passage searches from March and April.

This list isn’t actually based on a straight popularity count; simply tallying the most-read verses results in a top 100 list that consists almost entirely of John 3:16 and verses from 1 Corinthians 13, Genesis 1, Romans 8, and Psalm 23. Our list instead considers instances in which BibleGateway.com users looked at three or fewer verses at one time.

If you’re curious to know what the least popular Bible passage is, it’s 1 Chronicles 23-27, which details the organization of the priests and officials under King David.

Here are the top 100 most-read Bible verses on BibleGateway.com (all verses quoted from the NIV):

1. John 3:16: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
2. Jer 29:11: For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
3. Rom 8:28: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
4. Phil 4:13: I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
5. Gen 1:1: In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
6. Prov 3:5: Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.
7. Prov 3:6: in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
8. Rom 12:2: Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
9. Phil 4:6: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
10. Matt 28:19: Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
11. Eph 2:8: For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—
12. Gal 5:22: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
13. Rom 12:1: Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.
14. John 10:10: The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
15. Acts 18:10: For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.”
16. Acts 18:9: One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent.
17. Acts 18:11: So Paul stayed for a year and a half, teaching them the word of God.
18. Gal 2:20: I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
19. 1 John 1:9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
20. Rom 3:23: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
21. John 14:6: Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
22. Matt 28:20: and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
23. Rom 5:8: But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
24. Phil 4:8: Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
25. Phil 4:7: And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
26. Josh 1:9: Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
27. Isa 40:31: but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
28. Eph 2:9: not by works, so that no one can boast.
29. Rom 6:23: For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
30. Gal 5:23: gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
31. Isa 53:5: But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.
32. 1 Pet 3:15: But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
33. 2 Tim 3:16: All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
34. Matt 6:33: But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
35. Heb 12:2: Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
36. 1 Pet 5:7: Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
37. Eph 2:10: For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
38. 1 Cor 10:13: No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
39. Matt 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
40. Heb 11:1: Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
41. 2 Cor 5:17: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
42. Heb 13:5: Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
43. 2 Cor 12:9: But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
44. Rom 10:9: That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
45. Isa 41:10: So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
46. Gen 1:26: Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”
47. Matt 11:29: Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
48. John 16:33: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
49. Acts 1:8: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
50. 2 Tim 1:7: For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
51. Isa 53:4: Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted.
52. 2 Cor 5:21: God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
53. Rom 15:13: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
54. John 11:25: Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies;
55. Heb 11:6: And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
56. John 5:24: “I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.
57. Jas 1:2: Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds,
58. Isa 53:6: We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.
59. Acts 2:38: Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
60. Eph 3:20: Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,
61. Matt 11:30: For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
62. Gen 1:27: So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
63. Col 3:12: Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
64. Heb 12:1: Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
65. Jas 5:16: Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
66. Acts 17:11: Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.
67. Phil 4:19: And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
68. John 1:1: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
69. 1 Cor 6:19: Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;
70. 1 John 3:16: This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.
71. Ps 133:1: How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!
72. John 14:27: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
73. Heb 4:12: For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
74. John 15:13: Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
75. Mic 6:8: He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
76. Rom 10:17: Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
77. John 1:12: Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—
78. Jas 1:12: Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
79. Jas 1:3: because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
80. Rom 8:38: For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,
81. Rom 8:39: neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
82. Heb 10:25: Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
83. 2 Pet 1:4: Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
84. Phil 1:6: being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
85. Ps 133:3: It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the LORD bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.
86. Heb 4:16: Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
87. Ps 37:4: Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.
88. John 3:17: For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
89. Acts 4:12: Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”
90. Isa 26:3: You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.
91. 1 Pet 2:24: He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.
92. Josh 1:8: Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
93. Matt 28:18: Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
94. Col 3:23: Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men,
95. Matt 22:37: Jesus replied: ” ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
96. Ps 133:2: It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down upon the collar of his robes.
97. Matt 5:16: In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
98. Isa 55:8: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD.
99. Heb 4:15: For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin.
100. John 13:35: By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Boyd Bailey: Pay Attention…

“Pay attention and listen to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach.” Proverbs 22:17

Pay attention to the wise people around you. It may be a child, a co-worker, a corporate executive, a custodian, a critic or a caregiver. The Lord places people in our lives who are full of truth and insight, but we have to be looking and listening to benefit. You may not like their tone of voice, but don’t lose the truth of their words. Wisdom is waiting for an entrance into your ears, so listen expectantly and invite it into your understanding.

Pay attention to the current circumstances surrounding you. What is the Almighty saying in the middle of adversity and trials? Is His will to give up or to go on? How can you be creative since past strategies have lost their momentum? If something is not working, wisdom says to try something else. Attention to raw reality is enough reason to evaluate and become better. Perhaps you enroll in graduate school, or sell a high maintenance asset. It’s during downturns when we are more determined to be the most effective.

Pay attention to your limitations, focus on less and learn to accept nothing less than excellence. As you grow older and your energy level decreases, your wisdom level should increase. Thus, it’s imperative that wisdom moves from your head to your heart. Truth is the most freeing when it is transformative. The transition of truth from your head to your heart brings change. How is Christ changing you? Have you learned to become better?

Lastly, pay attention to the opportunities around you. Opportunities to serve, give, pray, encourage, rebuke, listen, learn, love, steward, invest, spend and save. Normally you find what you are looking for and you receive what you expect. Therefore, pray for the Holy Spirit to make you keenly aware of His leadership and work. Pay attention to the still small voice of Providence and obey, “And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice” (1 Kings 19:12, KJV). In what environments do I best hear the voice and wisdom of God? How often will I go there?

Related Readings: Psalm 49:3; Proverbs 2:2-5; Isaiah 55:3; Matthew 17:5

Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey

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My thoughts!
Wow, this is a chuck to chew on! I love these thoughts:

1. Wisdom is waiting for an entrance into your ears, so listen expectantly and invite it into your understanding.
2. If something is not working, wisdom says to try something else. Attention to raw reality is enough reason to evaluate and become better.
3. Pay attention to your limitations, focus on less and learn to accept nothing less than excellence. As you grow older and your energy level decreases, your wisdom level should increase. Thus, it’s imperative that wisdom moves from your head to your heart. Truth is the most freeing when it is transformative. The transition of truth from your head to your heart brings change. How is Christ changing you? Have you learned to become better?
4. Pay attention to the opportunities around you.
5. Pray for the Holy Spirit to make you keenly aware of His leadership and work. Pay attention to the still small voice of Providence and obey, “And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice” (1 Kings 19:12, KJV).

The Daily Verse: Colossians 4:6

Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person. Colossians 4:6

What you say and how you say it is important.

Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis

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My thoughts!
Thank you GOD for this reminder!!!

The Daily Verse: Hebrews 5:13-14

...for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. Hebrews 5:13-14

When you're transitioning from drinking milk to eating solid foods, sometimes it is uncomfortable. Be patient with yourself, and be kind to yourself. The maturing process is not an easy one, but a necessary to grow you into an example for those who take the journey after you.

Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis

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My thoughts!
I'm making the transition from milk to solids in so many areas of my life I truly need to remember this: Be patient with yourself, and be kind to yourself.

Boyd Bailey: Remove Troublemakers…

“Drive out the mocker and out goes strife; quarrels and insults are ended.” Proverbs 22:10

Some people are set on setting others on edge with their uncaring actions. Whether it’s for affect, or from a malicious heart their goal is to get under the skin of their victims and gain control. You know they are in charge when they are able to manipulate your emotions. They prey on good people. Chronic troublemakers only listen to what they want to hear, and will not reason. They mock authority and use gossip to facilitate fear.

Their approach may be passive or active, but either way the result is the same: strife, quarrels and insults. There is relational wreckage after they inflict their influence into a situation. Why doesn’t someone stand up to their intimidation tactics? Perhaps people are afraid of conflict, or are not confident to challenge such a persuasive persona. Left alone a mocker will scoff and scorn until they get their way. They are ungracious and abusive.

So what is the leader to do? How do you respond to an attitude that sows discord within your organization? Ignoring is not an option, because their intensity of words will only increase. It’s up to the leader to lead, and in this case to clearly define expectations with verbal and written communication. Perhaps there is another party prodding on the mocker. If so, make sure to include them in the cessation of unacceptable actions.

Make clear if their shenanigans do not cease then they will need to transition out of the business or ministry. It is imperative you do not allow one or two people to spoil the spirit of an entire team or company. "A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough” (Galatians 5:9). The Lord does not tolerate troublemakers, “No one who has a haughty look and an arrogant heart will I endure” (Psalm 101:5b, NASB). Will I be bold and confront pride and arrogance? Am I willing to make the hard decision for the team’s sake?

Related Readings: Nehemiah 4:1-3; Proverbs 26:20-21; Matthew 18:17; 1 Corinthians 5:5-6

Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey

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My thoughts!
This is just a good topic to think about!

Boyd Bailey: Effective Fathers Instruct…

“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord”. Ephesians 6:4

Men, it is not enough to just live right in front of your children. You must explain to them what’s right. They need to know the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ behind what you do. Your words work wonders in their tender and teachable hearts. Your instruction means you care to coach and train them in truth. It's Dad’s tutoring of his tribe that empowers his little ones for life. They may not act like they’re listening, but they are. Teaching truth transforms.

Truth leaves your lips and lodges in their hearts. When you take the time to transfer truth to your children you are setting them up for success. Truth is transformational and freeing. It gives confidence, direction and discernment. As they move into maturity you will be missing at times, but truth will see them through. “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ” (Ephesians 4:15).

Instruct them in how to balance a check book, change a flat tire, mow the lawn, dress appropriately, carry on a conversation, swim, fly a kite, book a plane ticket online, memorize poetry, journal, pray, study the Bible, grill burgers and make homemade ice cream. Children crave being with their dad and learning his lessons from life. Tell them when you messed up, what you learned, and what you did right. Explain that their best motivations are love of God, and love for people. Teach lovingly and patiently.

Above all, teach them to know, understand, love and fear Jesus. He is the truth, “I am the way and the truth and the life…” (John 14:6a). The more they go to Jesus the more they will be educated in what matters most. He will reveal to them wisdom and understanding. Instruct your child in intimacy with the Almighty, and they will be inspired with a heart of humility, and they will aspire to know the mind of Christ. Lead them to sit at the feet of their Savior and learn from Him, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me…” (Matthew 11:29a). What type of instruction does my child respond to the best?

Related Readings: Joshua 4:6-7; Proverbs 13:1; 1 Corinthians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:15;

Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey

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My thoughts!
Once again! Being a dad ROCKS! I love my boys so much and I can already see how my actions influence what they think and do. GOD, please help me to be the best dad I can be!

The Daily Verse: Matthew 19:26

But Jesus looked at them and said, With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.
Matthew 19:26

Whatever uphill battle you're facing, be encouraged. Surrender the journey, and the outcome. Rest in the peace of knowing God has your situation taken care of.

Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis

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My thoughts!
This is awesome! Surrender the journey, and the outcome.

The Daily Verse: 1 Peter 5:8,9

Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.
1 Peter 5:8,9

The devil is out to get you and thwart your efforts toward furthering the Kingdom. Be aware of it and fight back by being firm in your faith. Keep in mind that you're not alone in the fight - technically, the battle has already been won!

Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis

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My thoughts!
The devil is real and so too is the Holy Spirit! Thank you GOD for loving us!

Daily Verse: Luke 21:19

By your endurance you will gain your lives.
Luke 21:19

We don't always get what we want in the very instant that we want it. In some circumstances, we have to endure...and for a long time before dreams come to fruition. Hang in there - the end result of your perseverance and endurance will bear fruit well worth the wait.

Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis

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My thoughts!
I can't even tell you how timely this email was and it felt like GOD personally handed it to me! Thank you, GOD!

Boyd Bailey: Faithful Fathers…

“The living, the living—they praise you, as I am doing today; fathers tell their children about your faithfulness”. Isaiah 38:19

Where are the faithful fathers? Where can they be found? They can be found in church, on the little league ball fields, building sandcastles at the beach and on their knees in prayer for their child’s future spouse. They camp in the woods, buy ice cream, go shopping; teach the Bible to middle school youth and coach high school athletes. They can be found in stable societies and in cultures that love Christ. Faithful fathers matter.

Faithful fathers are not a fantasy, but a reality rooted in the fear of the Lord, and they care for their children. They are compelled by their Heavenly Father to provide a home that nurtures, disciplines, accepts and loves. “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). They research and discover creative ways to win over their child’s heart for Christ.

Faithful fathers are friends with Jesus. They see Him as a model of unselfish service, generous giving, radical responsibility and the ability to put the needs of others before His own needs. “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10). Dedicated dads find strength to carry on from Christ’s affirmation and accolades. They father for the audience of their Heavenly Father.

Lastly, faithful fathers lead their children to know, love and obey their Heavenly Father. This is your most vital role as a dad. Children learn from your life how to live, but they need to hear from your lips how to believe. “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). Tell them the scriptural stories of salvation, sin, forgiveness and faith. Joseph’s perseverance, Esther’s courage, Moses’ leadership, David’s repentance and Ruth’s encouragement are role models for them to emulate. Ask God for wisdom and grace to be a faithful father. How does my Heavenly Father love me? How does He want me to love my children?

Related Readings: Psalm 44:1-2; Malachi 4:6; Luke 1:7; 1 Corinthians 4:15

Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey

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My thoughts!
I love being a Dad and I love by boys so much!

Boyd Bailey: God Blessed Success…

“There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord.” Proverbs 21:30

You can be wise, discerning and have a clever plan, but if the Lord does not bless your efforts you will not be successful. On the other hand you can be an inexperienced leader, with an unproven plan and God can choose to bless you with success. It is His sovereign choice to determine who is successful and who is not. God’s will works. Is the Lord blessing your efforts? If not, what needs to change in your motives, beliefs and behavior?

I struggle with this, because I can set an objective and the goals to get there, but I don’t always see God bless my work with success. Why? One reason is I become infatuated with the plan, and lose my intimacy with the Almighty. Prayer drifts into a shallow ritual, instead of deep dependency on my Lord. He doesn’t need my skills, gifts and sacrifice. What He needs is my surrender, submission and obedience. I am learning in prayer to define success, as God defines success.

How does your Savior Jesus define success? This is the starting point in procuring His blessing. “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked… But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night” (Psalm 1:1a-2). God’s blessing comes from embracing godly counsel and from learning the law of the Lord. Listen to those whose success God blessed, and search His Word daily for direction.

Lastly, God blesses those who persevere, “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12). Do not give up; stay focused on faith in Him. If He is blessing you, thank Him. If He is not blessing you, ask how you and your business and home can become bless-able. Lord how do I need to change, so I am in a position to be blessed by you? How can I get aligned with your pre-ordained plan for success? “If it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them; or else you may even be found fighting against God” (Acts 5:39, NASB).

Related Readings: Job 5:17; Psalm 40:4; Jeremiah 17:7; Acts 4:27-28

Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey

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My thoughts!
This is such a big thing to chew on 7:30am, but this is what really stood out to me:

• You can be wise, discerning and have a clever plan, but if the Lord does not bless your efforts you will not be successful.
• “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12)

The Daily Verse: Mark 3:25

And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand.
Mark 3:25

Consider the ares of life where you have division. Do your part to mend the things that are broken, but don't be hard on yourself if there are elements of division that are outside of your control. Ask God to mend the things that only His touch can heal and rest in the peace of His will and timing.

Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis

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My thoughts!
God, please prop up the roof of my family's house.

The Daily Verse: Ecclesiastes 4:12

And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him; a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
Ecclesiastes 4:12

Consider the closest relationships in your life. Evaluate how they offer you balanced perspective from various viewpoints. When making important decisions, rely on trustworthy counsel, but make sure that the core of your discernment comes from the Spirit of the Lord. Those who share His heart will encourage you in the same direction.

Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis

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My thoughts!
God, thank you for the Holy Spirit and my wife!

Boyd Bailey: Pursuit of Pleasure…

“He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich.” Proverbs 21:17

The pursuit of pleasure leads to poverty. The logical conclusion of pleasure, void of eternal influence, is a man or woman poorly principled, poor with people, poor in soul and a poor manager of God’s provision. Pleasure, without a greater purpose, produces a lame life. However, earthly enjoyments, wed within God’s will, open up the windows of heaven. “And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ…” (Ephesians 1:9). His pleasure is good.

Pleasure in and of itself is not evil, but when it becomes competition with our devotion to Christ it is down right dangerous. Paul said in the last days we will live with this tension. “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power” (2 Timothy 3:1-5).

The Lord is not suggesting a ‘both/and’ proposition to loving Him and pleasure, but rather an ‘either/or’. We choose to love Christ or amuse ourselves to death. Luxurious living without the Lord is vain and unfulfilling. When you make pleasure subservient to serving your Savior, you will find fulfillment and peace. Thus retreat to the beach or mountains to find pleasure in God’s creation, while enjoying Him and those you love. Enjoyment of life on earth is an outcome of obedience to eternal expectations in heaven.

Lastly, find pleasure where your Heavenly Father finds pleasure. “His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of a man; the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love” (Psalm 147:10-11). His pleasure is for us to do His good pleasure, which is humble trust and submission to Him (Matthew 11:25-27). Therefore, take pleasure in Him. How can I pursue the Lord’s pleasures?

Related Readings: Proverbs 10:23; Ephesians 1:5; 1 Timothy 5:6; Hebrews 11:25

Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey

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My thoughts!
It's amazing how this sounds like the world we live in today!

Paul said in the last days we will live with this tension. “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power” (2 Timothy 3:1-5).

The Daily Verse: John 16:13

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.
John 16:13

The Holy Spirit guides us into the truth. Be intentional to listen.

Source: The Daily Verse by Kat Davis

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My thoughts!
I just joined the website listed above that sends a daily bible verse (ESV) and a really short commentary about the verse. This is such a beauty idea!
Now my thoughts! I love the idea of the Holy Spirit! This is definitely something that's been on my radar as of late. Understanding & embracing Him is a personal spiritual goal that will allow me to get even closer to GOD!

Boyd Bailey: Divinely Directed…

“The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases.” Proverbs 21:1

Like the curvy course of a river, the Lord’s hand directs the heart of a man or woman. The ride may seem rough at times and even feel dangerous, but Providence leads wherever He pleases. Enjoy the ride and do not be overwhelmed by circumstances out of your control. The Lord’s leadership in your life is a great adventure full of faith and uncertainty. The Holy Spirit is your guide, so go with Him and you will travel well.

It may be you are depending on someone else to facilitate an opportunity for advancement. You do not have to fret, because God has their heart in the palm of His hand. Just like the King who ask Nehemiah what he needed, and the Lord provided through this faithless, but powerful and resourceful leader. “And because the gracious hand of my God was upon me, the king granted my requests” (Nehemiah 2:8b).

You can be at peace with God’s provision. It may not originate where you expect, but you can be certain nothing can cease the supply of Christ’s endless endowment. Your eternal resources never run their course. When you traffic in the will of God, you will receive everything you need to carry out His assignment. Pray for favor from an influencer over the area in which you need assistance. Show up when ask, and then speak boldly on behalf of God. “They were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness (Acts 4:31 NKJV)”.

Lastly, look to the Lord who can change men’s minds to serve His purposes. In your own strength you feel powerless to affect much needed outcomes, but in His power the results are staggering. It is better to wait on God’s directive than to strive without Him. “Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!” (Isaiah 30:8). For whom can I pray for the Lord to direct their heart? What does God want to place in my heart for His purposes?

Related Readings: Ezra 7:27; Proverbs 20:24; Acts 7:10; Revelation 17:17

Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey

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My thoughts!
Enjoy the ride and do not be overwhelmed by circumstances out of your control. These are by far the best words of wisdom I've every heard!

Boyd Bailey: Marvelously Made…

“Ears that hear and eyes that see—the Lord has made them both. Proverbs 20:12

Our bodies are marvelously made, which means we have a marvelous Maker. How could there be such precision and complexity, without a supreme Creator in Christ? The human body is grand evidence for Almighty God. We are created by God, and we are created for God. The Almighty is the architect of our flesh, so our actions reflect Him. “Does he who implanted the ear not hear? Does he who formed the eye not see?” (Psalm 94:9).

Our feet are designed to walk by faith down familiar and unfamiliar paths of righteousness. Our eyes keep an eye on eternity, always aware of the Almighty’s accountability. Our ears listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit and obey His commands. Our hands are quick to serve others in the name of Jesus Christ. Your body is a billboard for belief in the Lord, so take care to present Christ with correct and consistent conduct.

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalm 139:14). Every muscle, nerve and fiber of our being is bold to proclaim praise to its Creator for His creation. It is in wonder and awe that a child of God worships in thanks for His grand plan, the body. You witness the gestation of life in the womb of a loved one, and your instincts feel instructed by God. He originates life and determines death. All parts of my frame my Heavenly Father has fashioned and formed.

Therefore, exclaim with adoration and thanksgiving to God for the beauty of His beings. Your body is a testament to the truth of His existence. Use it to point others to Jesus. Abuse it, and you poorly manage your Makers physical phenomena. Your body is a bold exclamation of eternal consequences. Thus, how can I use my body, so others better understand Christ? Does my body take me to places and people pleasing to Him? “But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear” (Matthew 13:6).

Related Readings: Psalm 119:18; Proverbs 18:15; Acts 26:18; Ephesians 1:17-18

Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey

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My thoughts!
I've never thought of my body in this way!

Boyd Bailey: Words of Worth…

“Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel.” Proverbs 20:15

Words of worth are a rare jewel, waiting to be discovered by prayerful souls. There are people in your life whose language is laced with the Lord’s instructions. These trusting, tried and true servants of Christ are whom you need to hear from often. Your parents, grand parents, teachers, clergy, sibling, spouse, child or mentors may represent those whose insights and understanding are at your disposal. Do you take the time to mine truth from their mind?

Avoid those whose trivial pursuit is primarily shallow conversations around current events. Instead, hang out with insightful saints who have a hold of heaven. Your mind and heart become rich in the resources of God when you obtain knowledge from His humble and wise followers. They do not pronounce their presence with fanfare, but you know they have been in the presence of the Father because their words are rich and robust.

Carriers of knowledge are rich and poor, young and old, minority and majority, city and country, educated and uneducated. However, valuable speech is more than just transferring information, it is transformational truth from a humble heart to a teachable mind. Words grow in their worth with those who remain a student. So seek out learners, who lean on the Lord and not their own understanding. The Holy Spirit instructs hungry hearts.

Lastly, use your words as encouragement, instruction, correction and rebuke with those you influence. Pray daily for a seeking soul to whom you can generously give a gold nugget of wisdom, a ruby of reality or a pearl of perception. Words are not to be wasted in worry. They are an investment from intimacy with God, and instruction with man. What can I learn from their wise words? Who today can I extend kindness and knowledge? “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen” (Ephesians 4:29).

Related Readings: Job 28:12-19; Proverbs 25:12; Ecclesiastes 12:9-11; Romans 10:17-18

Source: Seeking Daily the Heart of God Boyd Bailey

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My thoughts!
WOW!