Volume 320

This devotional can be read online at www.ccesonline.com/devotionals/

PSALM 50:15 (NKJV)
Call upon Me in the day of trouble;
I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.

2 CORINTHIANS 1:8-10 (NKJV)
For we do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, of our trouble which came to us in Asia: that we were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life. Yes, we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves but in God who raises the dead, who delivered us from so great a death, and does deliver us; in whom we trust that He will still deliver us . . .

Many times young Christians are led to believe that now that they belong to Christ they will no longer have problems and heartache. Nothing could be farther from the truth! Tragedy comes to every living human being, and Christians are not exempt.

Tragedy may be the very thing that God uses to get our attention and bring us to repentance when we’re living in sin. In contrast, God may allow disaster to fall on a totally dedicated saint who will exhibit His grace and faithfulness even through intense suffering. At other times, calamity is God’s tool to teach us lessons we would never learn in any other way. So whether it comes as a deterrent to sin, a demonstration of God’s power to sustain us, or as a dynamic educational tool, we should not fear nor run from suffering. Tragedy opens the door for God to work in ways that only He can, and becomes an avenue for the world to see Him, His glory, His power and His might against the backdrop of life’s most intense moments.

The words of Psalm 50:15 were written to people experiencing intense and unwanted suffering. In their great sorrow and pain, God gave the promise, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.” That promise is still good today. In your hour of great need, call to Him. Allow Him to work His miracles in your life, and let His glory shine through you.

Almighty Father, glorifying You when things are good is easy. Help me be a faithful instrument though which Your glory can be seen even in the hard times.

By Ann Shorb

Read the previous devotional, “Glorify God”

Copyright Ann Shorb, 2012
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  Used by permission.  All rights reserved.

NEW CLIENT DISCOUNT FOR COUNSELING SERVICES
As part of our 15th anniversary celebration, we’re offering new clients $15 off of the regular fee for each of their first three counseling sessions! This applies to counseling in our office and phone counseling for any clients who have either never had an appointment with us or have not had an appointment within the past 5 years.

To take advantage of this great offer today, please visit www.ccesonline.com/coupon.htm, and then call 717-630-2255 to schedule your first appointment! You can share this message with a friend or loved one who desires to find help, healing and hope in his current situation.

FREE COMPUTER WALLPAPER!
Find beautiful wallpaper with scripture to place on your computer monitor at our wallpaper page. It’s simple to use. Just select a photo, right click on the picture and choose “set as background.” Then enjoy the beauty of nature and the blessing of God’s Word each time you turn on your computer!

Please Tell a Friend

Would you take just a moment to prayerfully consider sending this to two friends who might be blessed by what we’ve shared today? You can simply forward this message or visit our Tell A Friend page to email a friend from our website!  The form can be found at: www.alightformypath.com/tellafriend.htm.    

If you received this issue from a friend, you can join our list at www.ccesonline.com.

Volume 320

This devotional can be read online at www.ccesonline.com/devotionals/

PSALM 50:23 (NKJV)
Whoever offers praise glorifies Me;
And to him who orders his conduct aright
I will show the salvation of God.”

Much of the time, I find that we make Christian living a lot more complex than God intended it to be. For example, we know that we were created to glorify God, but we often fumble and falter wondering, How do I do that? Do I read my Bible more? Sing more hymns? (And do choruses count or must it strictly be the old hymns?) Should I pray more? Witness more often? Eat certain foods? Wear certain clothing? Smile more? Or should I actually smile less because Christians are to be sober minded? What? How? When do I glorify God?

In His Word, God tells us, “Whoever offers praise glorifies Me.” It’s that simple! Giving praise to God for His blessings, His goodness, His character, His provision, His promises . . . is the way to glorify Him and to fulfill the purpose for which we were created.

1 Corinthians 6:20 tells us, “For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.”

1 Peter 2:9 reminds us, “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”

Hebrews 13:15 challenges us, “Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.”

There’s no doubt about it, we are to praise God with our body, soul, and spirit. Truly, it should become a way of life and we should live daily with an attitude of praise and thanksgiving to our blessed Creator.

To help develop this type of mindset, consider keeping a Praise Journal. Every day, record at least three things for which to praise God. Little things, big things—it doesn’t matter. Find the blessings that He sprinkles throughout your day. On the day when nothing is going right or your heart is breaking, read what you’ve previously written. Looking through the lens of past praise will ignite your ability to see God’s goodness and the greatness of His character even in the darkest moments of life.

As you become more and more accustomed to focusing on the positives each day, you’ll find facing the reality of living in a fallen world is actually less stressful. It provides strength for your physical body, clarity of mind, and freshness of spirit.

So I extend this invitation to you, my friend . . . “Oh, magnify the Lord with me, And let us exalt His name together,” (Psalm 34:3, NKJV). Let’s praise the Lord– today!

Great and Mighty God, I praise You for the joy of walking in the light of Your love and blessing each day. Grant me eyes that see Your goodness in every situation, and lips that sing Your praises always.

By Ann Shorb

Read the previous devotional, “Why Were We Created”

From our website you can print a copy of this thought for use in your Bible class or for your personal study. Download Why Were We Created? as a PDF.

Copyright Ann Shorb, 2012
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  Used by permission.  All rights reserved.

NEW CLIENT DISCOUNT FOR COUNSELING SERVICES
As part of our 15th anniversary celebration, we’re offering new clients $15 off of the regular fee for each of their first three counseling sessions! This applies to counseling in our office and phone counseling for any clients who have either never had an appointment with us or have not had an appointment within the past 5 years.

To take advantage of this great offer today, please visit www.ccesonline.com/coupon.htm, and then call 717-630-2255 to schedule your first appointment! You can share this message with a friend or loved one who desires to find help, healing and hope in his current situation.

FREE COMPUTER WALLPAPER!
Find beautiful wallpaper with scripture to place on your computer monitor at our wallpaper page. It’s simple to use. Just select a photo, right click on the picture and choose “set as background.” Then enjoy the beauty of nature and the blessing of God’s Word each time you turn on your computer!

Please Tell a Friend

Would you take just a moment to prayerfully consider sending this to two friends who might be blessed by what we’ve shared today? You can simply forward this message or visit our Tell A Friend page to email a friend from our website!  The form can be found at: www.alightformypath.com/tellafriend.htm.    

If you received this issue from a friend, you can join our list at www.ccesonline.com.

Volume 320

This devotional can be read online at www.ccesonline.com/devotionals/

2 CORINTHIANS 5:14-15 (NKJV)
For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.

Last weekend we celebrated Easter. Perhaps since then you haven’t given the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ much thought. After all, the holiday is over and the new week brought other things to deal with and think about; but let’s never forget that the resurrection of Christ should motivate us to live every day for Him. This is the very heart of our Christian faith and must become our way of life.

The death of Christ was His sacrificial payment for our sin debt; the resurrection was God’s sign of acceptance of that payment. It not only provides for us eternal life in Heaven with God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit after we die, it also assures us of victory over the power of sin in this present life. Christ died and rose again so that we do not have to live bound by the chains of regret, sorrow, isolation, and loneliness that result from living in selfishness and sin. Instead, through surrender of our will and obedience to His direction, we can successfully resist temptation, confidently walk in faith, and joyfully serve others. What wonderful rewards come from living in the power of the resurrection!

Thomas O. Chisholm captured this idea beautifully in his hymn, “Living for Jesus”:

Living for Jesus a life that is true,
Striving to please Him in all that I do;
Yielding allegiance, glad hearted and free,
This is the pathway of blessing for me.

Now, let’s do a mental check . . . What have you done this week to live for the risen Lord? Has your life reflected His victory over death, hell and suffering? Have you reached out to others and touched their lives the way He did both before and after His death? Have your thoughts and words been honoring and pleasing to the loving, living Lord Jesus Christ?

Remember, the victory and joy of the resurrection wasn’t intended to last for just a day or a weekend. God wants us to live in that joy day by day, and we do that by living to please Him. This is not bondage, my friend. This is true joy!

Lord Jesus, let me be constantly aware that You give to me victory and joy as I live for You.

by Ann Shorb
© Ann Shorb, 2012

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  Used by permission.  All rights reserved.

NEW CLIENT DISCOUNT FOR COUNSELING SERVICES
As part of our 15th anniversary celebration, we’re offering new clients $15 off of the regular fee for each of their first three counseling sessions! This applies to counseling in our office and phone counseling for any clients who have either never had an appointment with us or have not had an appointment within the past 5 years.

To take advantage of this great offer today, please visit www.ccesonline.com/coupon.htm, and then call 717-630-2255 to schedule your first appointment! You can share this message with a friend or loved one who desires to find help, healing and hope in his current situation.

FREE COMPUTER WALLPAPER!
Find beautiful wallpaper with scripture to place on your computer monitor at our wallpaper page. It’s simple to use. Just select a photo, right click on the picture and choose “set as background.” Then enjoy the beauty of nature and the blessing of God’s Word each time you turn on your computer!

Please Tell a Friend

Would you take just a moment to prayerfully consider sending this to two friends who might be blessed by what we’ve shared today? You can simply forward this message or visit our Tell A Friend page to email a friend from our website!  The form can be found at: www.alightformypath.com/tellafriend.htm.    

If you received this issue from a friend, you can join our list at www.ccesonline.com.

Volume 320

This devotional can be read online at www.ccesonline.com/devotionals/

Luke 24:1-6 (KJV)
Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments: And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen!

Recently a wonderful story came my way and I’d like to share it with you.

Jeremy was born with a twisted body and a slow mind. At the age of 12 he was still in second grade, seemingly unable to learn. His teacher, Doris Miller, often became exasperated with him. He would squirm in his seat, drool, and make grunting noises. At other times, he spoke clearly and distinctly, as if a spot of light had penetrated the darkness of his brain. Most of the time, however, Jeremy just irritated his teacher.

One day she called his parents and asked them to come in for a consultation. As the Forresters entered the empty classroom, Doris said to them, “Jeremy really belongs in a special school. It isn’t fair to him to be with younger children who don’t have learning problems. Why, there is a five year gap between his age and that of the other students.”

Mrs. Forrester cried softly into a tissue, while her husband spoke. “Miss Miller,” he said, “there is no school of that kind nearby. It would be a terrible shock for Jeremy if we had to take him out of this school. We know he really likes it here.”

Doris sat for a long time after they had left, staring at the snow outside the window. Its coldness seemed to seep into her soul. She wanted to sympathize with the Forresters. After all, their only child had a terminal illness. But it wasn’t fair to keep him in her class. She had 18 other youngsters to teach, and Jeremy was a distraction. Furthermore, he would never learn to read and write. Why waste any more time trying?

As she pondered the situation, guilt washed over her. Here I am complaining when my problems are nothing compared to that poor family, she thought. Lord, please help me to be more patient with Jeremy. From that day on, she tried hard to ignore Jeremy’s noises and his blank stares. Then one day, he limped to her desk, dragging his bad leg behind him.

“I love you, Miss Miller,” he exclaimed, loud enough for the whole class to hear. The other students snickered, and Doris’ face turned red. She stammered, “Wh-why that’s very nice, Jeremy. N-now please take your seat.”

Spring came, and the children talked excitedly about the coming of Easter. Doris told them the story of Jesus, and then to emphasize the idea of new life springing forth, she gave each of the children a large plastic egg. “Now,” she said to them, “I want you to take this home and bring it back tomorrow with something inside that shows new life. Do you understand?”

“Yes, Miss Miller,” the children responded enthusiastically-all except for Jeremy. He listened intently; his eyes never left her face. He did not even make his usual noises. Had he understood what she had said about Jesus’ death and resurrection? Did he understand the assignment? Perhaps she should call his parents and explain the project to them.

That evening, Doris’ kitchen sink stopped up. She called the landlord and waited an hour for him to come by and unclog it. After that, she still had to shop for groceries, iron a blouse, and prepare a vocabulary test for the next day. She completely forgot about phoning Jeremy’s parents.

The next morning, 19 children came to school, laughing and talking as they placed their eggs in the large wicker basket on Miss Miller’s desk. After they completed their math lesson, it was time to open the eggs. In the first egg, Doris found a flower. “Oh yes, a flower is certainly a sign of new life,” she said. “When plants peek through the ground, we know that spring is here.” A small girl in the first row waved her arm. “That’s my egg, Miss Miller,” she called out. The next egg contained a plastic butterfly, which looked very real. Doris held it up. “We all know that a caterpillar changes and grows into a beautiful butterfly. Yes, that’s new life, too.” Little Judy smiled proudly and said, “Miss Miller, that one is mine.” Next, Doris found a rock with moss on it. She explained that moss, too, showed life. Billy spoke up from the back of the classroom, “My daddy helped me,” he beamed.

Then Doris opened the fourth egg. She gasped. The egg was empty. Surely it must be Jeremy’s she thought, and of course, he did not understand her instructions. If only she had not forgotten to phone his parents. Because she did not want to embarrass him, she quietly set the egg aside and reached for another. Suddenly, Jeremy spoke up. “Miss Miller, aren’t you going to talk about my egg?” Flustered, Doris replied, “But Jeremy, your egg is empty.” He looked into her eyes and said softly, “Yes, but Jesus’ tomb was empty, too.”

Time stopped. When she could speak again, Doris asked him, “Do you know why the tomb was empty?” “Oh, yes,” Jeremy said, “Jesus was killed and put in there. Then His Father raised Him up.”

The recess bell rang. While the children excitedly ran out to the school yard, Doris cried. The cold inside her melted completely away.

Three months later, Jeremy died. Those who paid their respects at the mortuary were surprised to see 19 eggs on top of his casket, all of them empty.

– Author Unknown

The truth of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ is so profound that it has baffled scholars and theologians for centuries; yet it is so simple that a child can believe. It’s the truth that “Christ died that we might live . . . abundantly and eternally.” Halleluiah! What a Savior!

Today, Lord Jesus, we bow before you with hearts amazed and full of gratitude for Your victory over death, sin, and hell. We worship You with adoration and praise for the gift of life that we receive because of Your willingness to die.

By Ann Shorb

NEW CLIENT DISCOUNT FOR COUNSELING SERVICES
As part of our 15th anniversary celebration, we’re offering new clients $15 off of the regular fee for each of their first three counseling sessions! This applies to counseling in our office and phone counseling for any clients who have either never had an appointment with us or have not had an appointment within the past 5 years.

To take advantage of this great offer today, please visit www.ccesonline.com/coupon.htm, and then call 717-630-2255 to schedule your first appointment! You can share this message with a friend or loved one who desires to find help, healing and hope in his current situation.

FREE COMPUTER WALLPAPER!
Find beautiful wallpaper with scripture to place on your computer monitor at our wallpaper page. It’s simple to use. Just select a photo, right click on the picture and choose “set as background.” Then enjoy the beauty of nature and the blessing of God’s Word each time you turn on your computer!

Please Tell a Friend

Would you take just a moment to prayerfully consider sending this to two friends who might be blessed by what we’ve shared today? You can simply forward this message or visit our Tell A Friend page to email a friend from our website!  The form can be found at: www.alightformypath.com/tellafriend.htm.    

If you received this issue from a friend, you can join our list at www.ccesonline.com.

Volume 320

This devotional can be read online at www.ccesonline.com/devotionals/

LUKE 22:41 (KJV)
And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and prayed.

One of the most amazing things about the events surrounding the death of the Lord Jesus Christ is His final prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane (John 17). There, in the midst of all His agony over what He knew was coming, Jesus prayed for you.

He prayed for Himself:
Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You.

Then He prayed for His disciples:
Holy Father, keep through Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are . . . that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves . . . that You should keep them from the evil one . . . Sanctify them by Your truth.

And when He had prayed for these disciples, Christ actually prayed for you and for me:

I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me . . . Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me . . . that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them.

In his book, The Angels Were Silent, Max Lucado puts it this way:
“The final prayer of Jesus was about you. His final pain was for you. His final passion was for you. Before He went to the cross, Jesus went to the garden. When he spoke with his Father, you were in his prayers . . . .”

Blessed Father, I am in awe when I think that in the hour of His greatest need, Christ remembered me, spoke of me, and pleaded for me. Let me never doubt His love for me.

By Ann Shorb
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

NEW CLIENT DISCOUNT FOR COUNSELING SERVICES
As part of our 15th anniversary celebration, we’re offering new clients $15 off of the regular fee for each of their first three counseling sessions! This applies to counseling in our office and phone counseling for any clients who have either never had an appointment with us or have not had an appointment within the past 5 years.

To take advantage of this great offer today, please visit www.ccesonline.com/coupon.htm, and then call 717-630-2255 to schedule your first appointment! You can share this message with a friend or loved one who desires to find help, healing and hope in his current situation.

FREE COMPUTER WALLPAPER!
Find beautiful wallpaper with scripture to place on your computer monitor at our wallpaper page. It’s simple to use. Just select a photo, right click on the picture and choose “set as background.” Then enjoy the beauty of nature and the blessing of God’s Word each time you turn on your computer!

Please Tell a Friend

Would you take just a moment to prayerfully consider sending this to two friends who might be blessed by what we’ve shared today? You can simply forward this message or visit our Tell A Friend page to email a friend from our website!  The form can be found at: www.alightformypath.com/tellafriend.htm.    

If you received this issue from a friend, you can join our list at www.ccesonline.com.

Volume 320

This devotional can be read online at www.ccesonline.com/devotionals/

PSALM 51:2 (NKJV)
Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, And cleanse me from my sin.

As I sit here writing this morning, I’m enjoying a cup of Earl Grey tea—my favorite—in my new teacup. When I spotted it on the shelf at the thrift store, it was rather ugly. I debated about buying it because it was ordinary and certainly was not useable at that point. In fact, it was dirty and stained, but since it was only a $1.00, I decided to buy it, take it home and try to clean it up.

Imagine my surprise when I pulled the old cup and saucer from the dishwasher all clean and sparkling. It was beautiful! In a short time, that little teacup went from sitting on the shelf being disgusting and unusable, to being delightful and desirable. The dirt and stain were gone! It was no longer an ugly old piece, but something to be treasured and cherished. It was a clean vessel and very usable.

I couldn’t help think of how God must feel when my life is spotted with sin and bad choices and I’m dirty and unusable for His purposes. Thankfully, He sees beyond my dirt and stain, and when I come to Him for forgiveness, He cleans me up and makes me sparkle again. I’m useable and desirable once more as a vessel fit for the Master’s use to bless and help others, and to bring glory to Him.

There’s an old, old hymn that reflects these thoughts beautifully. Let me share it with you.

CHANNELS ONLY

How I praise Thee, precious Saviour,
That Thy love laid hold of me;
Thou hast saved and cleansed and filled me
That I might Thy channel be.

Chorus:
Channels only, blessed Master,
But with all Thy wondrous pow’r
Flowing thro’ us, Thou canst use us
Ev’ry day and eve’ry hour.

Emptied that Thou shouldest fill me,
A clean vessel in Thy hand;
With no pow’r but as Thou givest
Graciously with each command.

Chorus

Witnessing Thy pow’r to save me,
Setting free from self and sin;
Thou who boughtest to possess me,
In Thy fullness, Lord, come in.

Chorus

Jesus, fill now with Thy Spirit
Hearts that full surrender know;
That the streams of living water
From our inner man may flow.

Chorus

–by Mary E. Maxwell, 20th century

Lord, I daily need Your cleansing to wash away all that will keep me from being useful in Your service. I don’t want to sit on the shelf as an ugly old piece that others pass by. Let me sparkle with the beauty of Your love and serve You well each day.

By Ann Shorb
©Copyright Ann Shorb, 2012

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  Used by permission.  All rights reserved.

NEW CLIENT DISCOUNT FOR COUNSELING SERVICES
As part of our 15th anniversary celebration, we’re offering new clients $15 off of the regular fee for each of their first three counseling sessions! This applies to counseling in our office and phone counseling for any clients who have either never had an appointment with us or have not had an appointment within the past 5 years.

To take advantage of this great offer today, please visit www.ccesonline.com/coupon.htm, and then call 717-630-2255 to schedule your first appointment! You can share this message with a friend or loved one who desires to find help, healing and hope in his current situation.

FREE COMPUTER WALLPAPER!
Find beautiful wallpaper with scripture to place on your computer monitor at our wallpaper page. It’s simple to use. Just select a photo, right click on the picture and choose “set as background.” Then enjoy the beauty of nature and the blessing of God’s Word each time you turn on your computer!

Please Tell a Friend

Would you take just a moment to prayerfully consider sending this to two friends who might be blessed by what we’ve shared today? You can simply forward this message or visit our Tell A Friend page to email a friend from our website!  The form can be found at: www.alightformypath.com/tellafriend.htm.    

If you received this issue from a friend, you can join our list at www.ccesonline.com.

Volume 320

This devotional can be read online at www.ccesonline.com/devotionals/

PSALM 46:10 (KJV)
Be still, and know that I am God.

Ugh! Right now I’m feeling pulled in so many directions. It seems that no matter where I look, there are things that need to be done and each one is labeled “URGENT”. Thankfully I know that this too shall pass and this intensity won’t last forever. Whew! That’s a relief. But how do I get through each day when my list is long and my time is short?

The first step is to make sure that I don’t give up my quiet time with the Lord in the morning. It’s so easy to tell myself, “I don’t have time,” and go on my way, but I need to make the time to center my thoughts and heart on the only One who can truly help and guide me. So I sit down and ask the Lord to calm my mind and body enough to read His Word and allow His Spirit to speak to me in those moments together.

Making a list of things that need to be done helps me to set aside those thoughts so I can concentrate on what God has to say to me. Later, in my prayer time, that list also helps me see and remember what I’m facing that day so I can bring those concerns to the Lord. (Actually, I usually make my list the night before. It helps me sleep better because I don’t keep going over it in my head all night trying to remember everything. If other things come to mind in the morning, I just add them to the list.)

As I conclude my prayer time, I take my list and review it asking God to help me discern what truly needs to be done that day, and what is the most important. Often I number the items and try to estimate how long each one will take. That’s the really hard part because it seems nothing is ever as easy as I think it will be!

Then once more I look over the list and prayerfully turn it all over to the Lord. When I’m finished, I no longer carry the burden for getting it all done. It rests in the hands of my dear Savior, and my day is much lighter. See what I would miss if I failed to take the time to spend with Him first thing in the morning?

Heavenly Father, I need Your help! Thank You that when I feel overwhelmed, I can rely on You to help me discern and set priorities, and help me handle the interruptions that come my way. Give me strength, wisdom, and supplies to accomplish all that You desire to or me to achieve in this day—and let me peacefully lay aside all the unnecessary things on my list.,

For more help with your daily quiet time, download our free helpful resource: Why Have a Daily Quiet Time?

By Ann Shorb
©Copyright Ann Shorb, 2012

NEW CLIENT DISCOUNT FOR COUNSELING SERVICES
As part of our 15th anniversary celebration, we’re offering new clients $15 off of the regular fee for each of their first three counseling sessions! This applies to counseling in our office and phone counseling for any clients who have either never had an appointment with us or have not had an appointment within the past 5 years.

To take advantage of this great offer today, please visit www.ccesonline.com/coupon.htm, and then call 717-630-2255 to schedule your first appointment! You can share this message with a friend or loved one who desires to find help, healing and hope in his current situation.

FREE COMPUTER WALLPAPER!
Find beautiful wallpaper with scripture to place on your computer monitor at our wallpaper page. It’s simple to use. Just select a photo, right click on the picture and choose “set as background.” Then enjoy the beauty of nature and the blessing of God’s Word each time you turn on your computer!

Please Tell a Friend

Would you take just a moment to prayerfully consider sending this to two friends who might be blessed by what we’ve shared today? You can simply forward this message or visit our Tell A Friend page to email a friend from our website!  The form can be found at: www.alightformypath.com/tellafriend.htm.    

If you received this issue from a friend, you can join our list at www.ccesonline.com.

Volume 320

This devotional can be read online at www.ccesonline.com/devotionals/

PSALM 42:8 (NKJV)
The Lord will command His lovingkindness in the daytime,
And in the night His song shall be with me—
A prayer to the God of my life.

In times of worry and fear, remembering that I am a child of God and focusing on His strong and powerful love brings comfort and hope to my weary heart. When I actually quote or read specific passages from His Word, it’s especially reassuring. Along with that, I find that singing about His great love keeps my fears from overwhelming me.

Although I appreciate and enjoy many of the new choruses, for me the old hymns bring a comfort that is unsurpassed. One of my favorites when I’m anxious is “Wonderful Peace.”

WONDERFUL PEACE

Far away in the depths of my spirit tonight
Rolls a melody sweeter than psalm;
In celestial strains it unceasingly falls
O’er my soul like an infinite calm.

Refrain:
Peace! Peace! Wonderful peace,
Coming down from the Father above;
Sweep over my spirit forever, I pray,
In fathomless billows of love.

What a treasure I have in this wonderful peace,
Buried deep in the heart of my soul,
So secure that no power can mine it away,
While the years of eternity roll!

Refrain

I am resting tonight in this wonderful peace,
Resting sweetly in Jesus’ control;
For I’m kept from all danger by night and by day,
And His glory is flooding my soul!

Refrain

And I think when I rise to that city of peace,
Where the Anchor of peace I shall see,
That one strain of the song which the ransomed will sing
In that heavenly kingdom will be:

Refrain

Ah, soul! are you here without comfort and rest,
Marching down the rough pathway of time?
Make Jesus your Friend ere the shadows grow dark;
O accept of this peace so sublime!

Refrain

–W. D. Cornell, 19th Century

If you’re wrestling with fear, anxiety, doubt, or confusion, grab a hymnal or check out the hymns section on our website.
Here are just a few songs about God’s love that are sure to bless you:

• Under His Wings
• It’s Just Like His Great Love
• My Savior’s Love

Start singing and you’ll find your focus shifts from these sad feelings to God’s wonderful love, mercy, compassion and care. Concentrate on how great these are and remember that you are not alone. Keep that song with you all day and into the night. Your burden will be lighter; your cares will seem far away. God’s great love will see you through and give you strength to face each fear.

Loving Father, keep a song in my heart and guard my mind every day and every night.

By Ann Shorb
©Copyright Ann Shorb, 2012

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  Used by permission.  All rights reserved.

NEW CLIENT DISCOUNT FOR COUNSELING SERVICES
As part of our 15th anniversary celebration, we’re offering new clients $15 off of the regular fee for each of their first three counseling sessions! This applies to counseling in our office and phone counseling for any clients who have either never had an appointment with us or have not had an appointment within the past 5 years.

To take advantage of this great offer today, please visit www.ccesonline.com/coupon.htm, and then call 717-630-2255 to schedule your first appointment! You can share this message with a friend or loved one who desires to find help, healing and hope in his current situation.

FREE COMPUTER WALLPAPER!
Find beautiful wallpaper with scripture to place on your computer monitor at our wallpaper page. It’s simple to use. Just select a photo, right click on the picture and choose “set as background.” Then enjoy the beauty of nature and the blessing of God’s Word each time you turn on your computer!

Please Tell a Friend

Would you take just a moment to prayerfully consider sending this to two friends who might be blessed by what we’ve shared today? You can simply forward this message or visit our Tell A Friend page to email a friend from our website!  The form can be found at: www.alightformypath.com/tellafriend.htm.    

If you received this issue from a friend, you can join our list at www.ccesonline.com.

Volume 320

This devotional can be read online at www.ccesonline.com/devotionals/

1 John 4:18 (NKJV)
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.

I hate to admit it but there are days when I get anxious about things. Thinking about the future and “What if . . .” and “How can I . . .” make my head spin! In those moments, I have to step back and ask myself, “Hmmmm . . . What would Dr. Ann Shorb, the counselor, tell her client to do about this?” Then I must follow my own advice!

First, I have to remember that I am a child of the King. The Bible clearly tells me that as God’s child I have nothing to fear, because God loves me and He will take care of me. His love for me is so strong that He will protect me from anything and everything that is not for my good and for His glory; therefore, I am assured that I am safe and I secure. Then it helps to get into the Word and actually read some of the passages that describe His love for me.

Deuteronomy 33:12 (NKJV)
“The beloved of the Lord shall dwell in safety by Him,
Who shelters him all the day long;
And he shall dwell between His shoulders.”

Jeremiah 31:3 (NKJV)
The Lord has appeared of old to me, saying:
“Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love;
Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you.

Zephaniah 3:17 (NKJV)
The Lord your God in your midst,
The Mighty One, will save;
He will rejoice over you with gladness,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing.”

Psalm 42:8 (NKJV)
The Lord will command His lovingkindness in the daytime,
And in the night His song shall be with me—
A prayer to the God of my life.

John 3:16 (NKJV)
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Romans 8:35-39 (NKJV)
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written:

“For Your sake we are killed all day long;
We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”

Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 5:5-8 (NKJV)
Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

1 JOHN 4:10 (NKJV)
In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

I John 4:16 (NKJV)
And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him.

1 John 4:19 (NKJV)
We love Him because He first loved us.

Although I’ve read these verses many times and even memorized most of them, every time I read them again, my heart is simply overwhelmed. How is it that a God so big, so mighty, so infinite cares about me? “I don’t know how He can love me, but I know He does,” is my only answer. So I rest in that fact and I find strength and hope. Knowing that an almighty God loves and watches over me chases away my fears, my doubts and my worries. I hope it will do the same for you.

Holy Father, God of the Universe, Your love amazes and assures me! Keep me anchored always in the safe haven of Your love so that I may fulfill Your will for my life without fear.

By Ann Shorb
©Copyright Ann Shorb, 2012

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  Used by permission.  All rights reserved.

NEW CLIENT DISCOUNT FOR COUNSELING SERVICES
As part of our 15th anniversary celebration, we’re offering new clients $15 off of the regular fee for each of their first three counseling sessions! This applies to counseling in our office and phone counseling for any clients who have either never had an appointment with us or have not had an appointment within the past 5 years.

To take advantage of this great offer today, please visit www.ccesonline.com/coupon.htm, and then call 717-630-2255 to schedule your first appointment! You can share this message with a friend or loved one who desires to find help, healing and hope in his current situation.

FREE COMPUTER WALLPAPER!
Find beautiful wallpaper with scripture to place on your computer monitor at our wallpaper page. It’s simple to use. Just select a photo, right click on the picture and choose “set as background.” Then enjoy the beauty of nature and the blessing of God’s Word each time you turn on your computer!

Please Tell a Friend

Would you take just a moment to prayerfully consider sending this to two friends who might be blessed by what we’ve shared today? You can simply forward this message or visit our Tell A Friend page to email a friend from our website!  The form can be found at: www.alightformypath.com/tellafriend.htm.    

If you received this issue from a friend, you can join our list at www.ccesonline.com.

Volume 320

This devotional can be read online at www.ccesonline.com/devotionals/

PSALM 34:3 (KJV)
O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt His name together.

The inscription engraved in my silver business card holder reads, “Success is making dreams come true. February 3, 1997.” A dear friend placed this wonderful little gift in my hands fifteen years ago on the day when I opened the doors to my own counseling practice. Indeed, that was a dream come true. But fifteen years? Is it really possible that much time has passed since Christian Counseling & Educational Services began? It seems we just celebrated our tenth anniversary!

As I reflect on these years, my heart is overwhelmed and humbled, and I am keenly aware that I do not walk this journey alone. To my family and friends who stand with me, I offer a huge word of appreciation. To the CCES Prayer Board who diligently brings our work and ministry before the Lord faithfully, I am deeply indebted and thankful. For the pastors, friends, and former clients who refer new people to us, I am sincerely grateful. To the thousands of clients who come through our doors, I am thankful for the privilege of walking with you through tough times. And to the many wonderful staff members who are and have been a part of CCES, I extend my praise and gratitude for sharing your time, energy and talents with us. Most of all, to our loving Heavenly Father who makes it all possible, I offer unending praise and adoration. I marvel at all that He has done in my life and the lives of others during these 15 years.

But looking back is never enough. Looking ahead I see great things for CCES because we serve a great God! New opportunities, expanded services, increased staff, exciting programs, and a renovated office are all in view! We’ll carry on our counseling with individuals, couples, families, and groups, as we always have. Our website will still provide abundant informative and helpful resources. In addition, we’ll continue to offer weekly Bible studies and email devotionals, educational workshops and seminars, and our annual tea. These are the things that make CCES unique and different from other counseling organizations, and we delight in doing them for the benefit of others and to the glory of God.

So celebrate with me as I echo the words of David and say, “O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt His name together.” Truly He is our God and He is good!

Almighty God, truly we bless Your name and lift our praise to You in this day! Our hearts rejoice as our minds reflect on the goodness You’ve showered upon us. Thank You for Your faithfulness, love and mercy to us. May our hearts and minds be focused on You and You alone as we seek to serve You all the days of our lives.

Past Devotionals:

• To God Be the Glory (5th Anniversary)
• Celebrating Ten Years

By Ann Shorb
©Copyright Ann Shorb, 2012

NEW CLIENT DISCOUNT FOR COUNSELING SERVICES
As part of our 15th anniversary celebration, we’re offering new clients $15 off of the regular fee for each of their first three counseling sessions! This applies to counseling in our office and phone counseling for any clients who have either never had an appointment with us or have not had an appointment within the past 5 years.

To take advantage of this great offer today, please visit www.ccesonline.com/coupon.htm, and then call 717-630-2255 to schedule your first appointment! You can share this message with a friend or loved one who desires to find help, healing and hope in his current situation.

FREE COMPUTER WALLPAPER!
Find beautiful wallpaper with scripture to place on your computer monitor at our wallpaper page. It’s simple to use. Just select a photo, right click on the picture and choose “set as background.” Then enjoy the beauty of nature and the blessing of God’s Word each time you turn on your computer!

Please Tell a Friend

Would you take just a moment to prayerfully consider sending this to two friends who might be blessed by what we’ve shared today? You can simply forward this message or visit our Tell A Friend page to email a friend from our website!  The form can be found at: www.alightformypath.com/tellafriend.htm.    

If you received this issue from a friend, you can join our list at www.ccesonline.com.