DAILY DEVOTIONS with MICHELE

God can use people in our lives, but we must never let people take the place of God in our lives.

Sometimes we think we can reach people for Christ if we just do what they do and relate to them on their level. Then they will believe and think we’re really cool. But no one has ever come to Christ that way. Nonbelievers come to Christ because Christians living genuine lives before God aren’t afraid to let their lights shine. Sometimes we’re trying so hard to be cool and relatable that we forget about being righteous. We forget about standing up for what is right.

A little salt goes a long way. Just a pinch of salt on your eggs in the morning or on an apple can enhance the flavor. And one Christian in a family, neighborhood, or workplace can influence everyone around them.

Christ desires us to have peace. If we do not have it, we miss part of the blessings of being a Christian. Now there’s a simple statement!  But I think we make it too hard. Too complicated. Christ wants every Christian to experience His peace. How many of us lived in peace this past week? Have you had peace today? If not, what's wrong?

Identify one way you can give back today. It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture—sometimes a simple act of kindness can make a world of difference, and it serves as a heartfelt expression of your own gratitude.

As we head into the Christmas Season, remind yourself each day that "Jesus is the reason for the season".  Let’s commit to taking a moment each day to simply “be still” before God. It is in these quiet moments that we often find clarity, peace, and a thankful heart.

Today, as you prepare Thanksgiving, spending it with family and friends, consider the little blessings around you—the smile of a loved one, a warm cup of coffee, or a beautiful sunrise. These everyday graces are gifts from God, designed to bring joy into our lives.

Today, intentionally set aside time for what truly matters. Whether it’s time with family, time spent in prayer, or time invested in helping others, make each moment count.

Gratitude isn’t just a one-time event that rolls around every November; it’s a lifestyle, a deliberate choice to focus on the blessings in our lives rather than on our circumstances.