Your—Dash Devotional

YOUR ~ DASH MAKE YOUR LIFE COUNT! Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Colossians 3:23-24 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Every tombstone bears two dates—the day of birth and the day of passing. These two moments are inevitable for every person. However, it’s the small dash between them that truly defines our life and the legacy we leave behind. MAKE YOUR DASH COUNT! Remember, it’s not about what you hold onto but what you leave behind. It’s the in-between that counts! You have ONE LIFE . . . LIVE IT! I’ve experienced my share of loss throughout my life. When I look back on the lives of those I’ve loved and lost, I realize that some of them didn’t have very many years here on earth. Even so, their impact was profound. They made a difference in the lives of others and in mine. They lived their lives as closely to God’s will as they could, and their faith left a lasting mark. One of the reasons I’m writing this book is to encourage people to become believers and to follow Christ wholeheartedly. I also hope that, through these words, I can help others. I want people to understand that facing difficulties in life is normal—it’s part of our journey. But I also want them to know that it’s possible to come out on the other side of pain, whole and healed, holding onto love and finding happiness again. With the help of God, fellow Christians, family and friends, I’ve climbed every mountain that has been set before me. There have always been people who questioned my choices, but through it all, I believe I am following the path God has laid out for me. Everyone experiences suffering in life. What matters is how you respond to it—the choices you make during and after the pain. Your memories and experiences shape who you are, and even pain can bring people closer together. Life is made up of what happens to us, but 90% of it is how we choose to respond. How can you live a bigger, fuller life despite what you’ve faced? You are not defined by what has happened to you. Raise your hands in surrender and allow God to direct your path. If you never choose to make changes, you might one day mourn the life you didn’t allow yourself to live. Life is short. How will you use yours to make a difference for yourself and for others? What will your story be? What choices will you make? God created each of us with a purpose far greater than simply waking up, working, and going to bed. He designed us to live abundant, meaningful lives. Jesus didn’t say He came so that we might just get by each day. He said He came so that we might have life to the fullest—a life overflowing with His love, peace, and purpose. In John 10:10, we are told, “I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” Living life to the fullest doesn’t mean our days will be free from trouble, pain, or disappointment. Instead, it means that in every situation, we choose to trust that God is working for our good. It means finding beauty in the ordinary, gratitude in the small things, and joy even in the struggles. It means waking up each morning with a heart that says, “Thank You, Lord, for this new day.” It’s taking time to notice the blessings that surround you—the warmth of the sun, the sound of birds singing, the smile of a stranger, the simple meal on your table. It’s about pausing to truly live each moment rather than rushing through life on autopilot. Living life to the fullest means loving deeply and forgiving quickly. It means letting go of past hurts, so they no longer weigh you down. It means stepping out in faith when God calls, even when it feels scary or uncertain. It’s about using your gifts to serve others and glorify Him, knowing that your life is part of His greater plan. Sometimes, living fully means learning to rest and be still in God’s presence. It means surrendering your worries and trusting that He holds your future in His hands. It’s about understanding that fullness of life is found not in possessions, achievements, or recognition, but in a deep and abiding relationship with Jesus. Shut up: Quiet the inner chatter, excuses, self-pity, or over-analysis. Stop complaining about circumstances or blaming others. Be still within yourself. Pause your complaints and fears. Suit up: Prepare yourself internally and externally. Take responsibility, gather your courage, and equip yourself with the mindset and tools needed for what lies ahead. Prepare with prayer, wisdom, and a willing spirit. Show up: Be present and engage fully in life, relationships, and responsibilities. Face what is before you, even when it is hard or uncomfortable. Step forward in faith, doing the next right thing with courage. Prayer: Dear Most Heavenly Father, Thank You for the gift of life and for each day You give me to live with purpose. I am grateful for the people You’ve placed in my life—those who are still here and those who have gone to be with You. Their lives have shaped me, encouraged me, and left a lasting impact on my heart. Lord, I pray that I would live my life to the fullest, not merely existing but embracing each moment with gratitude and intention. Help me to make choices that honor You and bring love and hope to others. When I face suffering or loss, remind me that pain is a part of life, but it doesn’t define me. Teach me to trust You through every trial and to find joy even in the midst of difficulties. Give me courage to make changes where You call me to grow, so I never have to look back and grieve a life I didn’t allow myself to live. Help me to surrender my fears and worries to You, raising my hands in faith and trust. Guide my steps so that my story reflects Your goodness and love. Lord, I want to make a difference. Use my words, my actions, and my life to encourage others to follow You. May I climb every mountain before me with faith, knowing that You walk beside me. Strengthen me to become the best version of myself—the one You created me to be. Thank You for loving me completely and for never leaving my side. May my life bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. Bible Verses: John 10:10 Micah 6:8 Galatians 2:20 Matthew 5:16 Romans 12:2 Songs: How You Live Point of Grace Life Ain’t Always Beautiful Gary Allan *Different Micah Tyler Three Wooden Crosses – Live The Booth Brothers Hold Onto Me The Neighborly Dare to Live (Vivere) Andrea Bocelli, Laura Pausini Made to Fly Colton Dixon The Truth – Strings Version Megan Woods Things I’m Thankful For JJ Heller See Me Through It Brandon Heath You, Me, and Jesus Arbor North What a Wonderful World Chris Botti, Mark Knopfler Miracle Child Brandon Lake Miracle Riley Clemmons Kiss the Sky (from The Wild Robot) Maren Morris