The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. Psalm 23:1-2 ESV

This opening sets the scene of complete trust and provision. Calling God “shepherd” highlights His active role in guiding and caring for us like a shepherd tends sheep—leading us to what we truly need. The promise “I shall not want” goes beyond physical needs—it speaks to a deep spiritual contentment. The green pastures and still waters symbolize rest and peace, showing that God’s care includes not just meeting our needs, but providing places of restoration for our weary souls.

“True peace is found when we stop striving and allow God to lead us to rest. God’s leadership is tender and purposeful—He doesn’t rush or force, but gently invites us into calm.”

He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Psalm 23:3 NIV

Restoration is at the heart of the Shepherd’s work. Life can wear us down emotionally, spiritually, and physically, but God actively renews us. The paths of righteousness aren’t just moral commands—they’re life-giving ways that align us with God’s character and purpose. Importantly, God leads “for his name’s sake”—meaning His guidance is consistent and faithful because of who He is, not just what we do.

“God’s restoration doesn’t depend on our performance—it flows from His unchanging nature. Following God is less about perfection and more about being guided into life.”

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4 ESV

Here the psalm shifts to acknowledge real hardship—dark valleys where fear and danger feel overwhelming. Yet the promise isn’t that trouble won’t come, but that God’s presence is the ultimate source of comfort. The rod and staff were tools a shepherd used to protect and guide sheep, symbolizing God’s protection and guidance amid life’s darkest moments. This verse reassures us that God walks through hard places with us, turning fear into courage.

“Fear loses its grip when we fix our eyes on God’s faithful presence. God’s protection is not absence of danger but His nearness in it.”

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Psalm 23:5 NIV

This vivid image shows God’s blessing and honor even when we face opposition. Preparing a table in front of enemies means provision and celebration aren’t withheld by threats or hostility. Anointing the head with oil was a sign of being chosen and blessed, while an overflowing cup represents abundance. God’s goodness doesn’t retreat in conflict; it shines through it.

“God’s favor can turn our greatest challenges into moments of victory. Abundance in God’s kingdom often looks different than the world’s—marked by grace, dignity, and joy.”

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23:6 ESV

The psalm closes with confident assurance. Goodness and mercy aren’t occasional gifts but persistent companions following us through life. To dwell in the house of the Lord forever points beyond this life to eternal fellowship with God. This hope grounds us in God’s unwavering presence and care—not just now but always.

“God’s goodness isn’t just for a moment; it pursues you relentlessly. Our ultimate home is not a place, but intimate, eternal relationship with God.”

Reflection:

Which part of the Shepherd’s care do you need to rest in most today? Is it His provision, restoration, presence in hardship, abundant blessing, or eternal promise? Take a moment to invite Him into that need.

Romans 8 is like standing on solid ground after walking through deep water. It’s where Paul answers the tension of life in a broken world with the reality of life in the Spirit.

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1 NIV

This isn’t just a hopeful statement—it’s a verdict. If you’re in Christ, your past is not on trial. You aren’t under guilt, shame, or spiritual debt. That’s not just forgiveness; that’s freedom.

“God doesn’t just pardon you—He redefines you.”

Even in your struggle, the Spirit is present.

The Spirit helps us in our weakness... the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. Romans 8:26 NIV

You’re not expected to be strong all the time. You’re expected to stay connected.

“Grace doesn’t demand perfection—it invites surrender.”

When life doesn’t make sense, people often quote this:

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 NIV

This doesn’t mean everything is good. It means nothing is wasted.

And the “good” He’s working toward?

To be conformed to the image of his Son. Romans 8:29 NIV

God’s goal isn’t ease. It’s Christlikeness.

Then comes the crescendo:

If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31 ESV

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Romans 8:35 ESV

Nothing... will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:39 ESV

“You aren’t just holding onto God—He’s holding onto you.”

“Your weakness doesn’t threaten His love.”

Reflection Prompt:

Where in your life are you still trying to earn what’s already yours in Christ?

Read Romans 8 slowly. Let it silence your shame and stir your confidence.

We wait for the big opportunities to serve God—some moment where it all matters. But most of following Jesus looks like faithfulness in ordinary, unseen choices.

Jesus said, “If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones” (Luke 16:10, NLT). That means how you respond to the interruption, the chore, the difficult person—it matters.

“You don’t need a platform to live on purpose.”

Faith in action might look like choosing not to complain today. Or texting someone just to encourage them. Or stopping to pray before reacting. These aren’t dramatic acts. But they’re real, and they shape who you’re becoming.

“When no one else sees, God does. And He counts it as worship.”

Live it out:

Pick one task today that feels meaningless or annoying. Do it intentionally, as an offering to God. Let it remind you: He sees, and it matters.

So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever. 2 Corinthians 4:18 NLT

We spend a lot of energy managing the temporary: inboxes, bills, appearances, approval. But Paul reminds us—what we see now is fading. The eternal isn’t obvious, but it’s more real than what we touch.

“Most of what stresses you out today won’t matter in five years—much less in eternity.”

“God’s priorities often feel upside down, but they’re actually right-side up.”

Jesus taught that the first will be last, the meek inherit the earth, and storing treasure in heaven matters more than building platforms here.

Living with eternity in view doesn’t mean ignoring real-life responsibilities. It means filtering them through what will matter forever—faith, love, obedience, and people’s souls.

Reflection Prompt:

Ask yourself: “Am I living today for something that will still matter 10,000 years from now?”

Then adjust one decision—big or small—to align with that answer.

Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. Psalm 62:8 NIV

We often think we need to “clean up” our prayers—make them polished, correct, or even optimistic. But Scripture invites the opposite: pour out your heart. That means the messy parts, the doubts, the anger, the hopes you’re afraid to say out loud.

God isn’t surprised by your disappointment or your silence. He’s not offended by your raw emotion. What He wants is honesty—a real connection, not a rehearsed monologue. Some of the most powerful prayers in Scripture are desperate, simple, or full of questions.

Try this:

Instead of “God, help me be more patient,” try “God, I’m tired of being patient. I don’t even know if I can keep going.”

Instead of “Thank You for today,” try “God, today was really hard, and I’m struggling to feel thankful.”

Prompt:

Take 2 minutes today to write or say one honest prayer—uncut, unedited. Don’t try to make it spiritual. Just make it true.

Life often brings us unexpected storms—times of hardship, grief, or uncertainty that seem to shake the very ground beneath us. It’s easy to lose hope when circumstances feel overwhelming, but as followers of Christ, we are called to place our trust in an unshakeable hope that remains steady no matter how fierce the storm may be.

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. Hebrews 6:19 NIV

In a world where everything is temporary, God's promises are steadfast. He doesn't promise that storms won’t come, but He does promise to be with us through them. Our hope is not in our ability to weather the storm on our own but in God's unchanging character and His faithfulness to see us through.

When the winds of life blow strong, it’s easy to focus on the chaos around us. But Jesus invites us to keep our eyes fixed on Him, the one who calms the storms with a word. Our hope in Him isn’t based on circumstances but on His power, love, and eternal promises.

Reflection:

Today, if you find yourself in the middle of a storm—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—anchor your soul in the hope of Christ. Remember that He is your firm foundation, your unshakeable hope, and He will never leave you nor forsake you. Trust that no matter how fierce the storm, God’s peace will carry you through.

Forgiveness is one of the most challenging commands we’re given in Scripture, especially when we’ve been deeply hurt. Yet, it’s also one of the most freeing. Forgiveness doesn’t excuse the wrong, but it releases us from the burden of carrying the offense. When we forgive, we align ourselves with the heart of God, who forgave us when we were undeserving.

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 NIV

The act of forgiving is not about forgetting or condoning the hurt but choosing to release the anger, bitterness, or resentment that holds us captive. When we forgive, we free ourselves from the power of the offense. It is not always easy, but it is always worth it, for it mirrors the grace God has shown to us.

Forgiveness also brings healing, both to our hearts and to our relationships. It paves the way for reconciliation and peace, allowing us to experience the fullness of God’s love and mercy.

Reflection:

Is there someone you need to forgive today? Ask God to help you release the pain and offer forgiveness, just as He has forgiven you. Trust that as you forgive, you will experience the peace and freedom that comes from walking in His grace.

It’s easy to believe that strength is shown in our victories, accomplishments, and moments of confidence. But Scripture tells us that God's strength is often most evident in our weakness. It’s when we feel most inadequate that we can experience His power in ways we never could on our own.

But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV

Paul’s words are a reminder that in our weakness, we make room for God’s strength to shine. It’s not in our self-sufficiency that God is glorified, but in our dependence on Him. When we are weak, we are more open to His grace, and His power is made known.

Instead of trying to hide our struggles or pretend we have it all together, we can embrace our weaknesses as opportunities for God’s strength to be revealed. When we lean into Him, He transforms our weaknesses into places of powerful, unshakable faith.

Reflection:

Today, acknowledge areas where you feel weak or overwhelmed. Instead of running from those feelings, invite God into them. Trust that His strength is sufficient, and let His grace be your foundation.

In the hustle of everyday life, it’s easy to lose sight of the purpose behind our actions. We get caught up in tasks, responsibilities, and distractions, often feeling like we’re simply going through the motions. But God calls us to live with intentionality, to recognize that every moment matters in His plan.

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV

This verse reminds us that no part of our life is insignificant. Whether we are working, spending time with loved ones, or resting, we can glorify God in all things. Purpose is not reserved for grand moments or major accomplishments; it’s in the everyday choices and actions we take.

Living with purpose means seeking God’s presence in every moment, asking Him to guide our decisions and align our hearts with His will. It means doing all things—big and small—with the understanding that they are part of His greater plan.

Reflection:

Today, ask God to help you live intentionally. Whatever you’re doing, whether mundane or meaningful, invite Him into it. Trust that He is with you, guiding you, and using even the small moments for His glory.

In today’s world, environmental concerns are more pressing than ever. From climate change to pollution, the health of our planet is at risk, and the responsibility to care for it falls not only on governments and organizations but on every individual. As believers, we are called to view creation through a biblical lens, understanding that we are stewards, not owners, of the earth.

The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it. Psalm 24:1 NIV

This verse reminds us that the earth belongs to God. He created it and entrusted it to us. From the beginning, God placed humanity in the garden to “work it and take care of it” (Genesis 2:15). Our role as stewards means we are called to preserve, protect, and manage the earth’s resources responsibly.

Stewardship vs. Ownership

The key difference between stewardship and ownership is this: as stewards, we manage what has been entrusted to us. We don’t own the land, the animals, or the resources. Everything belongs to God. This perspective shifts how we interact with the world around us. When we see the earth as God’s creation, we begin to recognize that caring for it honors Him.

Practical Ways to Steward Creation:

• Reduce waste: Be mindful of what we consume and how we dispose of it. Small actions like recycling, minimizing single-use plastics, and choosing sustainable products can make a difference.
• Conserve energy: Turn off lights, reduce water usage, and opt for energy-efficient appliances.
• Protect wildlife: Support efforts to preserve endangered species and natural habitats.
• Support creation care ministries: Many Christian organizations are working to protect the environment. Consider supporting their efforts through prayer, action, or donations.

Reflection:

Stewarding creation is not about perfection; it’s about progress. Each small step we take to care for the earth is an act of worship, recognizing God’s majesty in the world He created. Today, ask yourself: How can you take better care of the world around you? What changes can you make that reflect your calling as a steward of God’s creation?

Memorial Day is a time to remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifices remind us of the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus, who laid down His life for us.

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13 NIV

As we honor those who gave their lives, we also reflect on the hope we have in Christ. For those grieving, we find comfort in knowing that Jesus, who sacrificed everything, promises to be near to the brokenhearted.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4 NIV

On this Memorial Day, let’s remember both the cost of liberty and the eternal hope found in Christ. May we honor the fallen with gratitude and look forward to the comfort and peace God promises to all who mourn.

We live in a world that praises productivity. From early mornings to late nights, we’re constantly pushed to be doing something—always moving, always achieving, always striving. The idea of slowing down can seem almost counterproductive in a culture that equates worth with activity. But God’s Word presents a radically different picture.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28 NIV

Rest isn't a suggestion in Scripture—it's a command. God set a rhythm of work and rest from the very beginning of creation. On the seventh day, He rested, not because He was tired, but because He knew we needed a rhythm that includes rest.

The hustle culture tells us that more is always better, but God’s design for us involves not just work, but also true, soul-deep rest. Jesus invites us to rest in Him, not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally. In Him, we find renewal that the world’s hustle can never provide.

Resting Isn’t Laziness—It’s Trust

When we rest, we acknowledge that the world does not depend on our constant efforts. Our work is important, but it is God who holds all things together. Rest is an act of trust, a declaration that God is in control, even when we’re not constantly working.

In a culture that constantly demands more of us, we must ask ourselves:

• Do we truly rest?
• Do we take time to be still in God’s presence, to be renewed by His peace, and to listen for His voice?
• Or do we simply collapse, exhausted, at the end of a day, with no time for spiritual renewal?

Reflection:

Today, make a conscious choice to embrace the rest God offers. Whether it’s a quiet moment in prayer, a walk outside, or simply sitting in stillness, take time to let God refresh your soul. Trust that rest isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessary part of His design for you.

Change in spiritual leadership can stir many emotions—hope, uncertainty, expectation. With the appointment of a new pope, the global Church enters a fresh chapter. Whether you greet the news with joy, hesitation, or a mix of both, the invitation remains the same: to fix our eyes not just on the leader, but on the One who appoints and guides all shepherds.

I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding. Jeremiah 3:15 NIV

The role of the pope is not merely symbolic or administrative; it is pastoral. He is called to be a servant of Christ and a servant to all. In a world marked by division and noise, we pray that his leadership would reflect the humility, courage, and compassion of Jesus.

In moments like this, the Church is reminded that our unity and hope are not found in any one individual—but in Christ Himself. The pope leads the Church, but Christ is the Head of it.

Let this new season be a call to prayer:

• For wisdom and integrity in leadership
• For a renewed spirit of unity among believers
• For hearts open to being led, not just by a man, but by God through him

Reflection:

Leadership changes. God’s faithfulness does not. May we respond not with fear or criticism, but with prayerful hope—trusting that the Spirit continues to guide His Church, one step at a time.

We live in a world that prizes instant results—quick fixes, fast answers, visible change. But God often works in ways that are slow, quiet, and unseen. His timing stretches us, reshapes us, and calls us to trust when there’s no obvious progress.

Jesuit priest Pierre Teilhard de Chardin wrote,

Above all, trust in the slow work of God.

This kind of trust requires patience. Not passive waiting, but active faith—choosing to believe that even in silence or delay, God is not absent. He is present in the process, refining our hearts, teaching us to rely on Him more than outcomes.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 NIV

So if you’re in a season that feels stagnant or unfinished, don’t rush past it. God’s best work often happens beneath the surface, where roots grow deep. Stay faithful. Keep sowing. The harvest comes in His time.

There are moments in life when everything feels out of control—when the circumstances around us are loud, chaotic, and painful. And yet, Scripture speaks of a peace that isn’t tied to our circumstances but anchored in God Himself.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 NIV

This isn’t a peace that comes after everything is resolved or when life feels manageable. It's the kind that shows up in hospital rooms, during heartbreak, or in the waiting seasons. It doesn’t make logical sense—and that’s exactly the point. It’s not manufactured by positive thinking or self-talk. It’s given by God, and it guards us.

The phrase “will guard your hearts and minds” is striking. It implies protection, like a soldier standing at post. God’s peace isn’t passive; it’s active. It steps in and stands watch over the parts of us most vulnerable to fear and anxiety.

Finding this peace starts with presence—being with God, even if all you can do is whisper a tired prayer. He doesn't require you to have the right words. He offers peace to those who come as they are, not those who have it all figured out.

So if life feels like too much today, you don’t have to fix it all. Begin by simply turning toward Him. Let Him guard your heart. Let His peace meet you where nothing else can.

We often associate strength with holding on—pushing through, standing tall, never backing down. But in the kingdom of God, strength often looks like surrender. Letting go is not weakness; it’s trust. Corrie ten Boom once said,

Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.

Surrender means admitting we don’t have full control and resting in the One who does. It’s not resignation, but release—a handing over of burdens, fears, and plans into hands far more capable than ours.

Jesus himself modeled this. In Gethsemane, overwhelmed with sorrow, He prayed,

Yet not my will, but yours be done. Luke 22:42 NIV

Even the Son of God found strength in surrender.

If you’re wrestling today—fighting for control, resisting what God might be asking—pause. Ask Him to give you the courage to let go. Strength isn't always in holding on. Sometimes, it's in saying, "I trust You with this."

Let surrender be your quiet act of faith.

God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. 1 John 4:16b NIV

We are not just called to love—we are called to embody it. When we love well, we point people toward God’s nature. The world doesn’t recognize Him by our knowledge or platforms, but by the way we love.

Think about this:

• Do your words bring peace or division?
• Do your actions show mercy or pride?
• Does your life reflect self-interest or self-sacrifice?

When believers love differently—radically, humbly, and persistently—it shines like light in darkness. This love isn’t always easy, but it’s always powerful.

Reflection:

Walk today in love that reflects your Creator. In every conversation and every decision, let your love echo His glory. The world is watching—and more importantly, God is working through you.

To love as Jesus loves is to live beyond convenience.

Loving others is often difficult, especially when it costs us something—time, comfort, or pride. Jesus didn’t love from a distance; He entered people’s pain, served their needs, and forgave their failures.

A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. John 13:34 NIV

Key Ways to Practice Christlike Love:

• Forgive when it’s undeserved
• Serve when it’s inconvenient
• Speak truth with grace
• Love those who are hard to love

The measure of our love is not how we treat the people we like, but how we treat the people we avoid.

Challenge:

Choose one act of sacrificial love today—especially toward someone who may not expect it. Whether it’s an apology, a gift, or a prayer, let it be love in action.

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. Matthew 22:37 NIV

Loving God isn’t merely about feelings—it’s about loyalty, obedience, and the daily choice to put Him first. Jesus identified this as the greatest commandment because all other aspects of love flow from this foundation.

How Do We Love God Fully?

• Through Worship: Making space in our lives to adore and prioritize Him.
• Through Obedience: Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15).
• Through Trust: Surrendering our worries and plans to His care.

Reflection:

Is there anything in your life taking God’s place at the center? Today, recommit your heart to Him. Loving God fully is the anchor that empowers you to love others rightly.

Answered prayers are a testimony of God's faithfulness and love.

God delights in answering the prayers of His people. Sometimes, His answers are clear and immediate, and other times, they come in ways we didn’t expect. Regardless of the answer, prayer deepens our relationship with Him and strengthens our trust in His sovereignty.

Key Verse:

Before they call, I will answer; while they are still speaking, I will hear. Isaiah 65:24 NIV

The Impact of Answered Prayer:

• A Source of Strength: Answered prayers reinforce God’s faithfulness and encourage our hearts to trust Him more deeply.
• Testimonies of His Power: Sharing stories of answered prayer inspires others to pray with faith and confidence.
• Increased Expectation: As we see God answer prayers, our faith grows, and we become more expectant for His continued work in our lives.

Reflection:

Think about how God has answered your prayers in the past. Take time to thank Him for His faithfulness and trust that He will continue to respond in the future, even when His answers are different from what we expect.

Sometimes the breakthrough comes not in the first prayer, but in the persistence of continued seeking

There’s strength in persistent prayer. Jesus teaches us that we should never give up on seeking God's will, even when the answers don't come immediately. Our persistence shows God that we value His will above our own.

Key Verse:

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7 NIV

Praying with Persistence:

• Keep Asking: Jesus assures us that persistent prayer is not in vain. Ask, seek, and knock until you find the answer God has for you.
• Trust in His Timing: Our waiting teaches us patience and trust in God’s perfect timing.
• God’s Heart for His People: He invites us to continue praying because He wants to show us His goodness. Our persistence is a sign of our desire for His presence.

Reflection:

When facing difficulty, it's tempting to give up, but the persistence in prayer can build faith and grow our understanding of God’s will. Keep praying, even if you feel discouraged—God is at work behind the scenes.

Prayer is the lifeline that connects us to God.

Prayer is not just a ritual but an invitation to commune with the Creator. It's where we build intimacy with God, express our dependence on Him, and surrender our desires to His will.

Key Verse:

The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16 NIV

Understanding Prayer:

• A Two-Way Communication: Prayer is not only about speaking; it’s about listening as well. It's a conversation, not a monologue.
• A Daily Practice: Just as we nourish our bodies with food, prayer nourishes our souls. Make time to talk to God, both in moments of joy and struggle.
• Rooted in Trust: Prayer is based on the trust that God hears and cares about our hearts. The act of praying is a declaration that we believe in His sovereignty and love.

Reflection:

Consider the power of just one prayer—an honest, sincere heart reaching out to God. In your prayer today, remember that it’s not the length or eloquence of your words, but the heart behind them that moves the hand of God.

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Philippians 3:12 NIV

It’s easy to get discouraged when we’re not where we want to be—whether it’s in our faith, work, or relationships. We feel stuck in the “middle” between where we were and where we’re going.

Paul reminds us that growth is a process. We may not be perfect yet, but we’re pressing on. We’re moving forward, even if it’s one small step at a time.

Reflection for today:

• Don’t focus on how far you have to go.
• Celebrate how far you’ve come.
• Keep pressing on—progress is still progress.

Prayer:

God, help me keep moving forward today, even when I feel stuck. Thank You for being with me in the process. Amen.

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22–23 NIV

It’s Tuesday. Maybe the rush of the week has already started pressing in. Maybe you’re tired, behind, or just unsure how to carry what today asks of you.

Pause. Breathe.

The calendar might call it just another Tuesday, but God calls it a brand new mercy.

Not recycled grace. Not leftover peace. Fresh.

Today, May 13, carries its own mercies—perfectly measured for what’s ahead, even if you don’t know what’s coming. You are not meant to pull from yesterday’s strength. God meets you here, now.

Let this be your quiet confidence:

• You are not behind on grace.
• You are not too late for peace.
• You are not too much for Him.

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for the mercies tucked into today. Help me not to miss them. Let me walk into this Tuesday with open hands and a trusting heart. Amen.