Exodus 11-12, Job 36, James 5

What God said to me – When times are difficult and you or the people you know are suffering, what is your role?  You are to pray.  When things are going well for you or the people you know, what is your role?  You are to praise.  You should have a word of prayer or praise in your heart and mind at all times – no matter what is happening.  It should be second nature to you – like breathing.  When you spend your life walking with Me moment by moment, prayer and praise become automatic.  That is the essence of this lifelong conversation – understanding that “I AM” always with you and eager to hear from you and respond to you.  As we walk together and I point out a person or situation or even creation itself, your response should always be prayer and praise.

Exodus 9-10, Job 35, James 4

What God said to me – You look at the world – at those in power and you wonder how in the world they cannot see what is happening – how their mandates are causing chaos and the breakdown of society.  Look at the example of Pharaoh.  He caused the total destruction of his country because of his pride and arrogance.  But I also used his pride and arrogance to accomplish My purpose and carry out My plan for My people.  In the same way “I AM” using those in power today to accomplish My purposes and plans.  They in their arrogance think they  have the power to fix everything and yet it is the opposite.  You can take comfort in spite of ungodly leaders and chaos in the world that “I AM” using them to accomplish My will.  Don’t be dismayed by election results or ungodly laws or people with no restraint.  Look to Me and trust that “I AM” at work even now.

Exodus 7-8, Job 34, James 3

What God said to me – Listening very rarely gets anyone into trouble or causes hurt or harm, but speaking is another matter.  It is so easy to blurt out something in anger or trying to be funny or to give an opinion and cause hurt or ill feelings.  That is why I said to you to be quick to hear but slow to speak.  People long for someone who will actually listen to them.  Most of the time they don’t want or expect answers or solutions, they just want the caring and empathy of being heard.  Sometimes the greatest gift you can give someone is to stop talking and just listen.  As you listen, think and pray for wisdom, not just for you, but for them.  Learn to submit your tongue to Me and let Me guide you as to what to say or not to say.  You’ll find your friendships deepening and your faith growing as you trust Me for wisdom.