Potomac Conference

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me’” (John 14:6, NKJV).

I have always believed that logical thinking, risk analysis and dealing with life in a sensible and realistic way would guarantee success. I used to consider myself pragmatic, focusing on the processes behind any task, initiative or goal.

When you are pragmatic, you are practical. You follow the rules and expect to be rewarded. You are usually successful, but are often still searching for “the answer.” You may attend church, but a true understanding of the Bible eludes you; it stays hidden.

“God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day” (Ps. 46:5, NIV).

Today, I feel stressed, alone and overwhelmed. I am missing my class, our memories together and all of our missed opportunities. I feel like I don’t have enough time to get my schoolwork done, and I feel like quitting. However, this verse reminds me that I am not alone. God is with me, and He will help me today and tomorrow. With Him, I will not fail.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and depart from evil” (Prov. 3:5–7, NKJV).

This was a verse I loved while I was growing up, however it took me a few years to actually understand it. Some people read it and say, “Oh, it’s just such a complicated passage.” But it really isn’t. The verses hold one message: His way or yours? In other words, do you trust Him?

“The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them” (Ps. 34:7, KJV).

I love Psalm 34:7 because you can claim it in so many situations. For example, if you’re afraid of the dark, you can declare this promise when you’re scared. I personally claim this promise every night before I go to bed.

“This man is My chosen instrument to proclaim My name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel” (Acts 9:15, NIV).

God loves us very much. No matter what we do, He will still forgive us because His love for us is unconditional.

Before the apostle Paul became a follower of Jesus, his name was Saul. Saul thought he knew all about God and that Jesus was a false messiah. He even convinced people to kill Stephen. Saul was angry that the disciples were preaching about Jesus.