“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified…for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”  Deuteronomy 31:6
 
 
I was dreading it. Oh, not the trip itself. Thankful to be able to travel for two months to Italy and France, I was finalizing my plans. During my time in France, I would be attending a two-week French language immersion school. But at the last minute, I was informed that the train I had planned to take from Paris to the school was not operational. As I researched other options, traveling by a different train would not only take more than twice as long, it would involve a transfer to a bus. The thought of spending so much time on the train and then having to schlepp my very heavy bag from the train station to who-knows-where the bus station was located, was a bit daunting. My only other option was to rent a car and drive the two hours from Paris.
 
Even stateside, I’m not a fan of renting a car. Driving someone else’s vehicle makes me nervous, especially with all the knobs, buttons, and switches that are different from my own car. A plethora of terrifying thoughts ran through my head. What if I get lost? What if I have a wreck because I’m distracted just trying to figure out how everything in the car works? What if I get a speeding ticket? What if I don’t get to the school on time because of any of the above and I miss being able to check in and end up with no place to stay that night? “What-ifs” commandeered by overwhelmed brain. Fear had set in.
 
To take control back from these fearful thoughts, I did several things. First, I prayed. Asking the Lord for wisdom on whether I should rent a car or not, my head took a back seat while my heart conversed with God. My desire to learn French was on my “bucket” list. So was visiting the very grand and beautiful chateaux which happened to be located not far from the school. How could I go to the school and not visit the chateaux when I was so close? Unfortunately, the only way for me to get to the chateaux was to drive. As I wrestled in prayer over what to do, my desire to see the chateaux won out over my fear of renting a car. Making the decision to rent a car, I experienced God’s peace. I wasn’t sure how I would do it, but I trusted God would be with me.
 
The second thing I did was to ask friends and family to pray for me while I was gone, particularly for the day I would be renting the car and driving solo to the school. James 5:16 says “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” I had no doubt their prayers would be heard.
 
Thirdly, knowing I’m somewhat directionally-challenged, I selected a rental car with a GPS which, upon pick up, I requested it to be programmed in English with the school’s address typed in as the destination. In the meantime, I ensured my phone was working and I could access Google maps. (My phone’s French SIM card wasn’t working at first and that’s a story for another time!) Last but not least, I brought a paper map with me, just in case. I was armed and ready for my adventure!
 
Being prepared helped, but I wondered how anxious I would be as the day approached. I continued to pray, relying upon the truth found in Philippians 4:6-7 that says when we pray with thanksgiving and present our requests to God, His peace, which is beyond our understanding, especially when we consider the circumstances, fills our hearts and our minds. Although I did have “butterflies” in my stomach beforehand, when I sat in the driver’s seat, I experienced a supernatural sense of calmness and peace. Fear was gone and I knew, as the key verse today says, God would go with me. He would never leave me and I didn’t need to be afraid.
 
As they say, “God can’t steer a parked car”, so I put it in gear and off I went! I’d like to say I didn’t get lost, but I did get turned around a couple of times. Pulling up at the school, though, filled me with a sense of gratitude and a confidence that I didn’t need to be intimidated by a foreign rental car, speed limits that changed constantly, and signs in foreign languages. My God goes before me, preparing the way for me, and also goes with me. I don’t have to fear. Faith triumphs over fear!
 
 
Lord, I thank You for going with me wherever I go, especially when the journey is out of my comfort zone. Fill me with Your supernatural peace that overcomes the feeling of fear as I trust in You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
 
 
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Text and photograph copyright © 2017 by Dawn Dailey. All rights reserved. Photo of Sancerre, France, as seen from the 14th century Tower of the Fiefs.
 
 
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™

“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.”  Isaiah 41:10
 
 
It was a chance meeting. Quite unexpectedly. I was worried about several things as I entered the line to check my heavy bag. Was I supposed to go to the kiosk first? I did anyway, but that took time and now more people were ahead of me to check their luggage with the airline. The line wasn’t moving quickly. Would I have enough time to get to the gate?
 
On my way from Bari to Pisa, connecting in Rome, I was in the second week of a two-month trip. Although some of the time I would be traveling with family, friends, and groups, there would be times, like this, where I was on my own. The prospect felt at best a bit daunting, and at worst, downright scary.

Cutting across my apprehensive thoughts, I heard her voice behind me. In her lilting accent, she voiced some of my own thoughts about the slow-moving line. Quickly, the conversation turned to politics and then to other topics. Finally checking our bags, we said good-bye and headed toward Security. God wasn’t done with us yet. Seeing her again on the way to the gate, we picked up our conversation as we waited, first at the gate, and then on the tarmac as the bus took us to the plane. In the course of thirty or so minutes, I realized we had both suffered similar losses:  losing both parents, a brother, and marriages that ended in divorce.
 
Perhaps surviving similar rough times makes for kindred spirits. At any rate, I’m sure she had no idea how profound her words were to me. Words that had echoed in my own heart for some time now found audible expression. Her succinct words, “You only have one life to live”, captured my thoughts perfectly as I embarked on a new adventure, one that would take me down paths I never would have gone before. “You can’t be afraid to leave your comfort zone” resonated with me as I realized I would have to step out and do many activities afraid because, as she pointed out, “you can’t let fear stop you from doing what you need to do”.
 
My two-month adventure in Italy and France is about being brave, not letting fear stop me, and stepping out of the shackles of comfort zones. Living a life free of fear does require courage, but we don’t have to be completely brave first. Doing those intimidating activities while feeling afraid makes us braver and gives us the confidence we need to be brave again the next time.
 
We do only have one life to live on this earth. I refuse to live my life in fear anymore. Thankfully, I don’t have to. I know that Jesus walks with me no matter where I go and reveals Himself in unexpected encounters along the way. As our key verse today says, I don’t have to be afraid because God is my God. He promises to give me the strength and help I need. He promises to uphold me. His grasp is firm and sure. I can relax and not be afraid. God’s promise to be with me is a promise I can stand on, no matter how much my legs are trembling. Fear cannot stop me when Jesus is walking with me.
 
 
Lord, I thank You for always being with me. Though fear and anxiety try to keep me from living life freely, I trust You to strengthen me and give me the courage to overcome. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
 
 
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Text and photograph copyright © 2017 by Dawn Dailey. All rights reserved. Photo of Polignano a Mare Beach in Puglia, Italy.
 
 
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching.  Hebrews 10:24
 
 
As the facilitator, I carefully chose the discussion questions for our small group that day. Choosing to lead by example, I mustered my courage and shared my struggle. Sitting directly across from me, she mouthed, “Me too”. Then she shared her story. And then another shared hers. Seeking connection, we found it that day.
 
We were created for connection. The God of the universe designed humankind for fellowship with Him and with each other. Connection is built into our DNA. Yet for many of us, we feel disconnected, disjointed, and out of step with the people in our lives. The key to unlocking true engagement and real connection is vulnerability. When we risk being vulnerable, we will be blessed with deeper, more meaningful relationships with God and with each other.
 
Why do we shy away from meaningful relationships? Why are we willing to settle for less? Perhaps living the mediocre is easier. It takes less emotional energy to stay shallow in our relationships. Are we afraid to be vulnerable? Does the fear of rejection paralyze us in our efforts to connect? We can bravely risk rejection knowing the God of the universe sees us, hears us, and loves us. Just as we are.
 
Vulnerability is not a word typically used to define strength. The concept is simply counterintuitive. There is, however, tremendous strength in being open with God, ourselves, and others. Vulnerability strips away all pretense. Deep touches deep as we drop the masks. While this may feel uncomfortable, the unexpected blessings are immeasurable.
 
Sometimes we have to risk being vulnerable first. By dropping our mask and being real, others can feel comfortable doing the same. Opening up to others does not mean that we turn on the fire hydrant of all our woes and gush forth all our deep, dark secrets. Vulnerability demands discretion. Praying for God’s wisdom in knowing how to share with someone and what to share is key. Sometimes is means knowing when to just listen.
 
Our key verse says “let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds”. When we are in authentic community with one another, we can not only love each other better, we can encourage each other to be the best we can be, to be who God intended us to be. Risking vulnerability to create community forges true relationships and encourages us to use our gifts to serve each other. It spurs us on to do those good works we were created to do. The whole body of believers benefits from being real with each other when we generously use our talents and gifts. In the process, we discover the connection and encouragement we need.
 
Finding the courage to be vulnerable in relationships unleashes the Holy Spirit to work in our hearts and in the hearts of others. The best example of strength and courage in vulnerability is seen in Jesus’ death on the cross. Jesus, who was fully human and fully God, had the power to circumvent the crucifixion. Instead, He exhibited great strength in restraining His human inclinations. His holy restraint allowed Himself to be vulnerable even unto death. His death, by relinquishing Himself during the crucifixion, made the resurrection and its eternal saving power possible.
 
Let Jesus be our guide. Risking rejection and stepping out into vulnerability, we, too, can connect with our Savior and with each other in very real and intense ways. We can love and encourage others as they love and encourage us. The strength and power of connection is too good to let it pass us by. Like my small group that day, you will be blessed by profound relationships and connections so intense and powerful you’ll wonder why you waited so long to go deep.
 
 
Dear Jesus, thank You for Your example on the cross of being vulnerable, yet strong. Guide me to deeper and more meaningful relationships that encourage me and others and spur us on to do the good works You would have us do. In Your Precious Name, Amen.
 
                                                                                                    
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Text and photograph copyright © 2017 by Dawn Dailey. All rights reserved. Photo of Moraine Lake, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada.
 
 
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™

Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.  Psalm 42:5
 
 
Sometimes life happens. In spades. We’re reeling with events beyond our control and feeling powerless to control the chaos swirling around us. Perhaps you or a loved one has received an upsetting medical diagnosis. Perhaps you’ve been “downsized” at work once again or hit yet another rocky phase in an exhausting marriage or parenthood.
 
How do you allow those events to shape you? Yes, that’s right. “Allow”. Even when we feel helpless, we still have choices. We may not be able to control a raging disease, a devastating financial situation, or a gut-wrenching relationship, but there is one thing we can control. We are not as powerless as it seems.
 
Years ago, I remember reading a book by author and pastor Chuck Swindoll. This phrase has stuck with me over the years. He says that our lives are impacted by 10% of what actually happens to us and by 90% of how we react to it. We have more power than we realize. Our attitude impacts us more than we think. I would even rephrase Swindoll’s thought to say our attitudes impact us even more than our life-events.
 
There are many facets to our attitude and the choices we can make. We can choose to find joy even in the midst of sorrow. We can decide to muster our courage and face the issue head on or wallow in our misery. We can even allow whatever has happened to define us, to shape our identity, so that this life-event permeates the rest of our life, sucking the energy out of us while this circumstance controls us. Or, we can choose differently. One of the biggest choices we have is to decide whether we are going to be a victim of what has happened or whether we are going to be the victor.
 
The dictionary defines being a victim as one who suffers from a destructive or injurious action or agent. While we may be physically or emotionally suffering, we can choose to not let it define us. If we give in to that destruction or injury, we are giving up our power. This life-event can then control us, including our thoughts, our actions, and what we talk about. We can play the victim, but if we do, we will rob ourselves of life, of the very joy of living. We will quench the Holy Spirit working in us and will not experience the fruits of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. We will lose hope.
 
Victor, on the other hand, is defined by overcoming or defeating an adversary. Yes, we can choose to be the victor. We don’t have to allow our circumstances to rule our minds and our hearts. We can choose to operate with a hopeful attitude, knowing that our hope is from God. Romans 5:5 says, in reference to suffering, “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” While it may sound “Pollyanna-ish”, we can decide how something will impact us internally.  We can choose to be victorious and overcome. We can choose to be resilient and not wallow in defeat. We can choose to be hopeful because our hope is in God, in His mighty power and strength, and His great love for us.
 
Jesus said in John 16:33 that in this life we WILL have trouble. We’re not protected from suffering or trials. But what we do with them is what really matters. We each have a choice – to be a victim or to be a victor. Which will you choose today?
 
 
Heavenly Father, even when life’s circumstances are painful, help me choose to overcome with an attitude based on Your power, strength, and love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
 
 
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Text and photograph copyright © 2017 by Dawn Dailey. All rights reserved. Photo of snow-capped Andes towering over high desert topography, Uco Valley, near Mendoza, Argentina.
 
 
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™

​The wise in heart are called discerning, and gracious words promote instruction.  Proverbs 16:21
 
 
King Solomon was given the chance to ask for anything he wanted. He could have asked for riches, power, or fame. Instead, he asked for wisdom. God not only made Solomon a very wise king, sought after by other heads of state for his vast wealth of wisdom, He also gave Solomon wealth, honor, and a long life. (See 1 Kings 3:4-15) I have to believe that Solomon was just a wee bit wise in the first place to request wisdom above all else!
 
Using his God-given wisdom, Solomon ruled the nation of Israel, often acting as judge to solve disputes among his people. The story of two women who fought over a child they each claimed as their own comes to mind. Solomon commanded the child be cut in half and each half given to each woman. The real mother cried out to spare the child’s life and give the child to the other woman whom she knew was not the child’s mother. How wise of Solomon to judge rightly in that situation! As a result, the child was restored to its real mother. (See 1 Kings 3:16-28)
 
Discernment and judgment are often confused. Proverbs 16:21 says that those who are wise are also discerning. The dictionary defines “discerning” as “showing good or outstanding judgment and understanding”. While judgment is defined as the ability to make a wise decision, it also means the forming of an opinion or coming to a conclusion.
 
So while discernment and judgment are related, being discerning and judging can be two different actions with opposing consequences. The Bible says “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Matthew 7:1-2) It’s easy to fall into the trap of critical and judgmental thinking. When we set ourselves up as judge, humility goes out the window and we focus on what others are doing wrong, often feeling compelled to share our “judgy” thoughts in a hurtful way. Sometimes these thoughts surface from a bitter and unhappy soul in a pathetic attempt to gain happiness. Interestingly, often we judge others in areas where we feel inadequate and insecure. When we find ourselves spouting judgy and critical words, do we stop long enough to ask ourselves where these words are rooted in our hearts? Do we ask God, the Master Gardener, to rip out these poisonous roots and sow seeds of love and grace instead?
 
Sometimes it is good to judge – but not in a critical way. Again in Matthew 7, this time in verse 15, Jesus says “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” Sometimes people aren’t always as they seem. While we are not called to judge them in a harsh and critical way, we are called to use discernment so we will not be taken in by folks who might not have our best interests at heart.
 
What’s the difference between judging and discerning? It’s not a coincidence that the second half of Proverbs 16:21 says “gracious words promote instruction.” If we are discerning correctly, without a judgmental and critical attitude, our words will be our proof. Speaking with grace with the hope of instruction (or not speaking at all!) shows we are discerning. If our words are critical and hurtful, then we’ve crossed the fine line into judgment. If we’re unsure how to stay on the side of discernment, like Solomon, we need to ask God for wisdom and He will give it to us (James 1:5).
 
There are consequences to both judging and discerning. We know from Matthew 7:1-2 that if we judge others, we ourselves will be judged. But if we are wise in our relationships, seeking out those who would encourage us rather than spending time with those who would hurt us, then that’s exercising discernment. Discernment is wisdom in practice. And King Solomon himself would find that desirable most of all.
 
 
Lord, give me a discerning heart and take away my propensity to criticize and judge. Like Solomon, I desire wisdom most of all. Grant me Your wisdom in all my relationships. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
 
 
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Text and photograph copyright © 2017 by Dawn Dailey. All rights reserved. Photo of tulips from the garden of Abbotsford, home of Sir Walter Scott, Melrose, Scotland.
 
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™

For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.  2 Corinthians 10:3-5
 
 
Of the top best-selling books of all times and in any language, the seven Harry Potter books by J.K. Rowling all rank in the top twenty (excluding the Bible and other religious texts). Becoming fans sometime after the third book was published, my children and I couldn’t wait to read the next installment of the magical adventures of a curious and brave wizard named Harry.
 
Hogwarts, Harry’s school, contained many interesting and magical devices, particularly in the Headmaster’s Office of Professor Dumbledore. Ever curious, Harry traveled back into memories through an instrument called a Pensieve. Gleaming with an iridescent glow, this watery basin got the best of Harry’s curiosity on numerous occasions. With the help of his magic wand, Dumbledore extracted wispy strands of his memory, holding them up to the light before placing them swirling into the luminescent waters of the Pensieve. When Harry drew his face down into the water, he entered the magical world of those memories, watching as an outsider the events unfold from long ago. As he silently observed these memories, sometimes Harry discovered that some memories had been altered to conceal the truth of what really had happened. Those tampered memories were no longer truth, but were in fact lies.
 
As I recently studied spiritual warfare, I came to realize that the spiritual battleground we fight begins in our minds. The enemy will do anything to distract us, instill fear into us, and keep us from the truth of God’s love for us and the abundant life He desires for us. It all starts with our thoughts.
 
2 Corinthians 10:4 talks about using spiritual weapons to “demolish strongholds”. In military terms, a stronghold is a fortress built to keep out invaders. In this verse, strongholds refer to the partitions that the enemy builds in our minds to separate our thoughts from God’s truth. When our thoughts run without God’s truth, we start believing lies about God and ourselves. Lies like “I am not worthy”, or “God doesn’t love me”, or “I am not lovable” take hold of our minds and take our thoughts down destructive paths.
 
By putting on the Helmet of Salvation and using the Sword of Truth (Ephesians 6:17), we can break down these strongholds. Strapping on the Helmet of Salvation protects our minds from the lies the enemy would tell us as we affirm our belief in the power of the resurrected Christ and our identity as belonging to Him. Taking the Sword of Truth, meaning the Word of God, by reading and meditating on Scripture further combats the enemy’s lies.
 
2 Corinthians 10:5 says we are to take captive every thought. As I pondered what “taking captive every thought” meant, I wondered if that really meant every thought. (That would be “yes”!) What exactly does taking a thought captive really mean? It means grabbing that thought and holding it up to the light of God’s Word and seeing if that thought aligns with God’s truth.
 
Like Dumbledore, we have to grasp our thoughts, particularly the negative ones, and examine them against the light. Like Harry, we have to bravely face the swirl of our minds to see if these thoughts are true or whether they’ve been tampered with by our own biases or lies from the enemy. Only when we intentionally take every thought captive and examine them in the “Pensieve” of God’s Word, can we break down the strongholds of untruths and become the children of God we were intended to be, saved by the Savior and loved by the King. Free of thoughts that would entangle us and ultimately destroy our identity in Christ, we can live the abundant life of love, peace, and joy.
 
 
Heavenly Father, when my negative thoughts start swirling around in my mind, help me take them captive by holding them up to the truth of Your Word. Thank You for the love, peace, and joy that comes from living in Your truth. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
 
 
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Text and photograph copyright © 2017 by Dawn Dailey. All rights reserved. Photo of artful figures at Salentein Winery, Uco Valley, Argentina.
 
 
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™

What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which he revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him.  John 2:11
 
 
Dotted with prickly shrubs and parched clumps of grass, the high desert topography whizzing past my window reminded me I was far from home. Punctuated by the occasional verdant vineyard, the otherwise flat expanse knelt at the foot of the towering and majestic snow-capped Andes. Disembarking from the vehicle, the brightness from the blazing sun nearly blinded me through my sunglasses. The clouds, almost as colossal as the peaks they caressed, paradoxically seemed low enough to reach up and touch. Like Dorothy, I had a feeling we were not in Kansas anymore! Unlike Oz, the oasis where we had landed was an impressive winery in the Uco Valley, one of the top wine regions in all of Argentina.
 
After our informative tour with its delicious wine and lunch, our host led us out into the blinding sunlight again to a building opposite the first. Growing up in the “Bible Belt”, I was unprepared for the sight before me. Although it had some of the appropriate earmarks, such as a bell tower, the chapel seemed out of place at a winery. The host explained the chapel was used for weddings and that the artwork on the exterior was a frieze of Jesus at the wedding in Cana where He turned water into wine.
 
The backdrop behind our key verse today in the second chapter of the Gospel of John paints a picture of Jesus and His mother, along with the first five of His disciples, attending a wedding in a village called Cana. Picking up in verse 3, the Bible says “When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, ‘They have no more wine.’…Jesus said to the servants, ‘Fill the jars with water’; so they filled them to the brim. Then he told them, ‘Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.’ They did so and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine.” (John 2:3, 7-9a) This is the first miracle that Jesus performed which marked the beginning of His ministry and interestingly, it was not for the masses. Only His mother, His five disciples, and the servants witnessed this wonder. Verse 11 says because of this miracle, His disciples believed in Him.
 
As Jesus’ public ministry grew, the people looked for signs and miracles before they believed. Sadly, even when they did witness the miracles, many still did not believe. Although these disciples at the wedding in Cana already believed in Jesus, turning the water into wine before their very eyes confirmed their belief in Him.
 
Not only did Jesus turn water to wine, He created the best wine. In Verse 10, the master of the banquet says that instead of serving the best wine first, the best was saved for last. This free-flowing excellent wine is a metaphor for the free-flowing Gospel message. Salvation flows freely to all who believe. Saving the best for last means the best is yet to come. Heaven, eternal life through Jesus, will be the best life ever. The celebration when we get to heaven is often called the wedding feast of the Lamb. What great “bookends” these two feasts are of Jesus’ ministry:  a humble wedding feast in Cana and the grandest feast of all in heaven!
 
Sometimes we are like those disciples. We might have some knowledge or vague belief in Jesus as the Risen Christ, but our faith isn’t real to us. Perhaps we’ve been going to church all of our lives but our faith has lost its meaning. Or maybe we’re waiting for a miracle before we put our trust in the Savior. Sometimes, like these disciples, we have to believe first, stepping out in faith, and then our belief will be confirmed by experiencing God’s faithfulness to us through life’s trials and tribulations.
 
We all have a choice. Is Jesus just a prophet who lived long ago? Or is Jesus the long-awaited Messiah, the Son of God, the One who was crucified on Good Friday and resurrected on Easter Sunday? Believe the miracles. But more so, believe in the One who created the miracles. The choice is yours.
 
 
Dear Jesus, help me believe more deeply in You, not as a prophet from long ago but as the Risen Christ, the Messiah, the Son of God. Open my eyes to the signs, wonders, and miracles You continue to provide today. Amen.
                                           
 
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Text and photograph copyright © 2017 by Dawn Dailey. All rights reserved. Photo of the chapel at Salentein Winery, Uco Valley, Argentina.
 
 
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™

My hand will sustain him; surely my arm will strengthen him. The enemy will not get the better of him…My faithful love will be with him.  Psalm 89:21-22, 24
 
 
While traveling in South America recently, I was struck by a simple truth, spoken in an unlikely place. The wine countries of Chile and Argentina had been on my “bucket list” for quite a while when I was presented with an opportunity to tour these up and coming wine regions. Having traveled to Colombia many years ago where police carried machine guns, I was a bit hesitant to sign up for the group tour. After vetting my fears with the owner of the tour and friends who had been there before, I took the plunge and committed to going.
 
I have no regrets. The tour was absolutely amazing, the food and wine were unbelievable, and sights and activities were beautiful and thrilling. As we arrived at one winery for lunch at their attractive estate set at the base of the snow-capped Andes, I was immediately curious about the rather unusual name of the establishment. “El Enemigo” in Spanish means “The Enemy”. Our host explained that the owner of the winery was reluctant to launch his own business. As fears of starting something new assailed him, he realized that sometimes we are our own worst enemy.
 
How many times have I backed away in fear of trying something new or taking a risk? While it’s easier to remain in my comfort zone, when fear keeps me there, my comfort zone becomes a prison where I am no longer free to be who God intends me to be. When He calls me to step out of my safe haven to experience something new, I’ve learned that I have to step out in faith, knowing that God goes before me and walks beside me. He equips me to do what He’s called me to do, whether that’s to start a second career as a writer or to travel halfway around the world to a new and different place.
 
What fears keep you from starting something new or stepping out to follow where God leads? As our key verse says, when you allow God to guide you, He will give you the strength. The enemy, your fearful self, will not get the better of you. God’s faithful love will be with you.
 
I’m so thankful I didn’t listen to the “enemy” in my head and cave to my fears. Like the owner of “El Enemigo”, I, too, can experience new adventures as I step out of my fears and into God’s will for me, knowing that He goes before me and walks beside me, every step of the way.
 
 
Lord, forgive me when I’m controlled by my fears instead of by Your Spirit. Give me the courage to step out in faith and follow wherever You lead. Thank You for going with me wherever I go. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
 
 
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Text and photograph copyright © 2017 by Dawn Dailey. All rights reserved. Photo of colorful tiled steps at Casa El Enemigo, Mendoza, Argentina.
 
 
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”  Matthew 6:34
 
 
As I swung my leg over the bike and sat on the seat, I wondered if I should pump up the tires a bit before I began my ride. I decided not to. As I was riding my bike on the trail, I kept thinking about those tires and second-guessing myself as to whether I should have put more air in them. As I continued to ride, I became a bit anxious about the tires. It didn’t help that I was lacking in energy that day. Maybe I would have a flat? Would I really want to walk my bike back home after a flat? My mind began to create all sorts of unrealistic catastrophes that only served to increase my anxiety level. What was supposed to be an enjoyable and energetic bike ride almost turned into a full-blown anxiety attack.
 
While I may be exaggerating my anxiety level, we do sometimes focus on the negatives, the what-if’s, the worse-case scenarios. Trust me, if there’s a worse-case scenario, I’ll find it. If it’s not there, I’ll dream it up!
 
How often do we lose our joy in the moment because we are distracted by what-if’s? Living in the moment requires us to focus on what’s good, what’s real, and what’s positive. Otherwise, anxiety will steal our joy, which in turn will make us more anxious. It’s a spiral-down that begins with our thoughts.
 
A friend and mentor used to say frequently, “You never know what a day will hold”. How right he was! Although the context was the office where we worked, his saying holds true regardless of the circumstances. We don’t know what a day will hold. We can’t see into the future. A Swedish proverb sums this up well: “The afternoon knows what the morning never suspected.” While we may not know what the future holds, thankfully, God does. He already knows our future, not in a predestination kind of way but because He is not bound by time. He knows the future because He is already there. We can totally trust Him with tomorrow because He is totally trustworthy today.
 
Our key verse says not to worry about the future. The preceding verse says to “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” “These things” refers to our day-to-day cares. When we trust God for our needs today, He will meet us in those needs and also give us Himself. Knowing He is with us today helps calm our fears about tomorrow, for we know He will be with us then, too.
 
Instead of jumping ahead to the what-if’s, surrender your thoughts to Jesus. Stay mindful in the present moment, enjoying the current ride without worrying about what’s down the road. We’ll get there soon enough and will most likely find that “on down the road” is not as scary as we thought. Thankfully, Jesus is with us there, too, just as He is with us in the present. Thanks be to God!
 
  
Heavenly Father, forgive me when I run ahead of You in worry and anxiety. Calm my anxious heart. Help me to trust You more. Fill me with Your joy. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
 
 
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Copyright © 2017 by Dawn Dailey. All rights reserved.  Photo of road through Redwood National Park, California.
 
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™

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, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.  Hebrews 12:1-3
 
 
Known as the “Proud One”, Genoa is one of the largest cities on the Mediterranean Sea and the largest seaport in Italy. Bearing the Italian name of Genova, this city is rich with history. Walking through its streets on a warm fall day, I was impressed with the city’s numerous palaces and cathedrals, its beautiful skyline of both old and older architecture styles, and the glorious sunset we encountered at the end of our day there.
 
On our walking tour of the city, we learned much of Genova and its long-standing heritage. Its checkered past is reflected in the black and white marble buildings, some of which have been rebuilt after wars and various occupations. One of Genova’s famous sons is none other than Christopher Columbus, who was born here in 1451.
 
Following our guide, we walked the wider promenades and the narrower cobbled streets.  At one point, I realized that our surroundings had changed significantly and just as I was wondering if we had veered off-course into a less than desirable neighborhood, we passed three women who were scrutinizing us closely as we passed by. My suspicions were confirmed. Our guide had taken us through the streets of “ill repute”!
 
How often do we think we are on the safe and sunny boulevards of life only to realize that we’ve taken a wrong turn and are passing through crooked and narrow pathways that are increasing becoming darker? Sometimes it doesn’t take much to get us off-track. Proudly putting our map aside as if we don’t need it, we turn one street too early or late. Entangled in temptation, it’s difficult to find our way back.
 
As a Jesus-follower, I’m thankful we have a Guide who is totally trustworthy and will not lead us into places that will tempt us. And as a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105), the Bible is better than any map or GPS.
 
Hebrews 12 opens with an analogy of a race where we are the runners. Surrounded by faithful ones who have gone on before us and are now cheering us on to the finish line, we keep our eyes focused on Jesus. When running the course, we can’t be tripped up by things that hinder us or entangle us. Is there a particular sin or temptation in your life that keeps you from running the race of faith full speed ahead? Are there worldly distractions that keep tripping you up? We are called to throw off such hindrances and the sin that so easily entangles us so we can freely run to the finish line. As verse 1 says, we do need perseverance. Focus and courage are needed to finish well this life marked out for us. The Christian life is the marathon we run. How we run this journey of faith is marked out in God’s Word for us.
 
Next time you find yourself wandering the dark streets of temptation and sin, look up to the One who endured the cross. Jesus’ victory over death gives us the strength we need. We can run untangled to the finish line and not grow weary or lose heart.
 

Lord, give me the perseverance I need to run this race of faith. Keep me focused on You and free from distractions that entangle me. Guide me with Your Word and Your Spirit to run the course and finish well. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
 
 
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Copyright © 2017 by Dawn Dailey. All rights reserved. Photo of harbor at sunset in Genoa, Italy.
 
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™