The color of your skin, where you come from, and other people’s misconceptions about you don’t matter. Jesus died for you; and when you believe this truth, God welcomes you with open arms into His family. You are accepted by God, and you are His child. Read more: http://odb.org/2015/08/06/family-privilege/

Darkness. The world was in darkness. But we knew the Light was coming because God promised His arrival. Suddenly, one night so long ago, He came bursting into our world as a baby. And just like the morning sun, He overcame the dark of night and gave us hope.

Out of nothing, God made something. With mere spoken words, He made something that looked like Him—us! And it was all so good.

We can quench our thirst with a variety of products. They may come in attractive packaging and satisfy us for a while, but we will be thirsty again. So drink from the source of living water—Jesus. You will never thirst again.

Seared in the fire. Crafted into perfection. Ready to be used. Just as the craftsman refines a tool for a select purpose, we were created in Christ Jesus to do good things. God has already given you ambitions and directions. Go fulfill them. Read more: http://odb.org/2015/06/03/something-new/

People or things will try to distract you, but keep going.

It’s humbling, really. When you consider the entire universe, the billions of stars and people, the noise and activity that never end . . . and He chose YOU! The Creator of everything made you, died for you, and wants a relationship with you.

The weight of the darkness can be suffocating. Until the Light of the World reveals Himself, and you believe.

Do you ever feel like you’re drowning? Like there’s an ocean of pain and problems and you can’t breathe? But there is One who saves. Who rescues. Who brings your life out of the deep and into the light. His name is Jesus, and He wants to rescue you. Read more: http://odb.org/2015/02/24/longing-for-rescue/

When the storms of life rage, remember He is with you. When you struggle until you have no energy left to give, He is with you. When you feel alone and think that God doesn’t care, He is with you. So take heart . . . He is with you!