Christian Devotionals and Scripture Applied to Everyday Life

Dehydration does bad things to your body. I found this out the hard way. This past winter I did not drink enough water and I experienced all sorts of unpleasant side effects. My hair and nails got dry and brittle, my joints began to ache, my eyes had trouble focusing, and my skin felt rough and flaky. I had no idea that all of these symptoms came from lack of water, but once I figured it out I began to drink more.

It is easy to dwell on past mistakes so deeply that it is hard to move forward in life. The weight of regret can so encumber a person that they find themselves sinking into a quicksand pit of guilt and sorrow. As one wrestles with thoughts of a failed past, the feelings continue to grow stronger until there seems no way to become free. But there is a way to move forward.

Regret is one of the worst feelings. Have you ever experienced that sickening feeling in the pit of your stomach because you wished you could go back and do something differently? Maybe you wish you had spent a little extra time studying for the big test instead of watching a TV program. Or maybe you wish you had spent just a little more time with a loved one who has passed away. Regardless of the situation the heavy feelings of regret linger in your heart and mind for many days, months, or even years

The secret to a fulfilling life is contentment. Unfortunately, this is not a character quality that many people in our country possess. We have become used to having all sorts of fancy gadgets and conveniences and when we have to do without it is not a happy day. The funny thing is that some of the richest people are actually the saddest. All their stuff can't bring them the joy they so desperately want.

Supposedly this adage originated many years ago when farmers gauged their corn crop's growth. If the crop did not measure knee-high by the United States' celebration of Independence Day, then the crop wasn't as mature as it should be.

God loves to use people despite their inadequacies and weaknesses if they are willing to turn their lives completely over to Him. We see this over and over again in the Scripture. In doing this He shows Himself strong on their behalf and gets all the glory for the work that is done.