Psalms 16

Come feel Africa’s rhythm! Its heart tells stories of winning, strength, and togetherness. As the sun shines on its big lands and lively cultures, we’re on the edge of Africa Day. It’s a party that goes beyond borders, celebrating what it means to be African.

A – Abundance of Blessings

Africa is blessed with natural wonders and resources, reflecting God’s abundant provision. Psalm 68:19 reminds us, “Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens.”

F – Faithful Foundations

Africa’s history is intertwined with faith, from the ancient civilizations to modern-day believers. Hebrews 11:1 inspires us, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

R – Richness of Diversity

Africa’s diverse peoples and cultures showcase the beauty of God’s creation. Galatians 3:28 proclaims, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

I – Inheritance of Identity

Africa’s heritage is a testament to the enduring legacy of its people. Psalm 16:6 assures us, “The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.”

C – Call to Community

Africa’s communal spirit fosters unity and solidarity among its inhabitants. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 teaches us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”

A – Affirmation

 The Bible affirms the inherent value and dignity of every individual, echoing the principle of ubuntu prevalent in many African cultures.”So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” – Genesis 1:27 

As we journey through the spiritual essence of AFRICA, let us embrace its blessings, celebrate its diversity, and honor its heritage. For in this vast and vibrant continent, we discover echoes of God’s faithfulness, reminders of our shared humanity, and glimpses of His divine purpose for all creation. Let us unite in prayer, as Psalm 133:1 proclaims, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”

Are you hurting right now? Know that the Word of God can speak to you in every situation of your life. Here are some reminders for you.

1. Psalm 34:18 The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.

Remember this, you are not hurting because God has left you, or is far away. God is near. Invite him in your life, especially when you are hurting.

2. John 11:35 Jesus wept.

When Jesus saw the grief that people had when Lazarus had died, his love and compassion for us made him cry. This is our God, who feels with us, who weeps with us when we are hurting and who smiles with us when we rejoice.

3. Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

God doesn’t want you to hurt or mourn. There is comfort.

4. Matthew 11:28-30 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Give your pain and hurt to Jesus. He doesn’t want you to carry it, but will give you peace instead.

5. John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

Jesus doesn’t promise us that everything in this world will be fine, quite the opposite, there will be hardship. That’s when you need to turn to Jesus, because he has overcome the world

6. Matthew 6:14-15 For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Here is something challenging when we are hurting. To have peace, find it in your heart to forgive the person who hurt you. Forgiveness is not earned or deserved, but given anyway, just like God forgives us.

7. Revelation 21:4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.

Ultimately, we live with the hope that one day there will be no more pain, no more crying. One day we will be with Jesus in the new Jerusalem. There is an end to pain, hurting, suffering. But there is no end to God’s love and grace

When you wake up in the morning, start your day with a verse from the Bible. Before you get out of bed, take a moment to pray.

1. Psalm 118:24 This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Each day is a gift from God. Life is not without its problems and struggles, but take a moment to give thanks to God for his blessings.

2. Lamentations 3:22-23 The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

God loves you. Be reminded as you wake up that God’s mercy is new every day. God is faithful.

3. Psalm 143:8 Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.

Take a moment at seek God’s will, ask for his presence to fill you as the new day begins. Ask God to lift off any burdens and give you peace.

4. Proverbs 16:9 The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.

We have our will, wishes and desires. Make it a habit to lift up your plans before God and ask for his guidance in everything you do the coming day.

5. Matthew 6:11 Give us this day our daily bread

We trust God’s provision. He knows what we need. When we pray the Lord’s prayer, we ask for God to give us what we need.

6. Psalm 90:14 Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.

Starting the day in the right way makes the whole day easier. Remembering God’s steadfast love for us is surely a wonderful reminder.

7. Isaiah 33:2 O LORD, be gracious to us; we wait for you. Be our arm every morning, our salvation in the time of trouble.

Ask for God to protect you. We entrust our lives and our souls to God. It’s in him we have salvation.