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. ISAIAH 40 : 29 — 31

I will not show you what is on the road ahead, but I will thoroughly equip you for the journey.

WHEN YOU BEGIN THE DAY with a muddled mind, you tend to ask yourself the wrong question—whether you will be able to cope with whatever happens—but the true question is whether you and I together can handle the circumstances you face. Broaden your perspective so you can "see" Me there alongside you—strengthening, guiding, and encouraging you. While you meditate on this joyous focus, the qualms you had about the day will gradually give way to cheerful confidence.

No circumstance is too difficult for Me. Rest in My great Power and Glory, and trust Me.

Trust Me, and don't be afraid; for I am your Strength, Song, and Salvation.

The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.

I am training you to practice Peace that overpowers darkness. Collaborate with Me in this training. Do not grow weary and lose heart.

Do you believe I am able to make you whole? Present your brokenness to Me.

You can feel secure, even in the midst of cataclysmic changes, through awareness of My continual Presence. The One who never leaves you is the same One who never changes: I am the same yesterday, today, and forever. As you release more and more things into My care, remember that I never let go of your hand. Herein lies your security, which no one and no circumstance can take from you.

I AM YOUR STRENGTH AND SHIELD. I plan out each day and have it ready for you, long before you arise from bed. I also provide the strength you need each step of the way. Instead of assessing your energy level and wondering about what's on the road ahead, concentrate on staying in touch with Me. My Power flows freely into you through our open communication. Refuse to waste energy worrying, and you will have strength to spare.

1. Ever have one of those days when everything seems to be off kilter? How do you let those days affect you? 2. Today's reading gives us insight into how a difficult day might shape our outlook: "your tendency upon awakening is to assess the difficulties ahead of you, measuring them against your average strength. This is an exercise in unreality." Why do you think it does no good to imagine how we might overcome the difficulties of the day before we even know what they are?

Though Your continual Presence is guaranteed, simply knowing this truth doesn't automatically change my emotions. When I forget to focus on You, I'm vulnerable to fear, anxiety, loneliness, and other unwanted feelings. Yet I've found that awareness of Your Presence with me can dispel those painful feelings and replace them with Your Peace. Please train me in the discipline of walking attentively with You through each day. In Your calming Name, Amen