“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Yesterday we talked about prayer being our first line of defense. What better way to put prayer first than to continually praise God. Were you able to make a prayerful declaration? Has it helped change your mindset for this Monday? Mind over matter is using our willpower to overcome. In similar thinking, if we continually offer a sacrifice of praise, we can overcome the mind. I love the image of “the fruit of lips” in our key verse. Like the berries on the tree pictured here by Ray, when rooted in God, we can have His sweet word on our lips.

One of my favorite forms of prayer is called Lectio Divina which is a dialogue with God through scripture. We may not always know what to think, say, or pray but thankfully we can turn to God’s living word to find the words we need. These words are sharper than a two-edged sword that can cut through Satan’s ploys. I have shared with you a prayer using God’s word. I encourage you to use this example to create your own prayer using scriptures.

Father, Thank You for Your living water that quenches my thirst spiritually and never runs dry (John 4:14). Help me stand firm upon Your word so when trials arise I will stand tall (Matthew 7:25). May I live without fear for the future knowing You have redeemed me, You call me by name, I am Yours (Isaiah 43:1). As I hear Your call may I step out in faith into the waves (Matthew 14:29). When I obey Your commands, I experience Your peace like a river, Your holiness crashes over me like the waves (Isaiah 48:18). May I continually offer a sacrifice of praise on my lips (Hebrews 13:15). In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.