21 Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. 22 But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation— 23 if you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.

These verses show us again the great gift that is through Jesus Christ. He has made peace with God and now mankind and God are reconciled. Paul urges us to stay grounded firmly in this gospel. God promised us redemption through Christ and eternal life with him. No matter what the circumstances, always believe in God's promise. This is faith.

Isaiah 12

 1And in that day thou shalt say, O LORD, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me.

 2Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.

 3Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.

This scripture is a great example of what the Old Testament says about salvation through Jesus Christ. This is one I memorize and keep with me. Another note is that verse 3 almost makes it sound as if joy is a key factor in drawing upon God's grace or "living water". It shows us just how important joy is and that depression and strife should not rule our lives. However, this is not a fake joy but a real joy that comes through faith in what Jesus did for us.

Psalms Chapter 1

1 Blessed is the man
       who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked
       or stand in the way of sinners
       or sit in the seat of mockers.

 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
       and on his law he meditates day and night.

One of my all time favs from Psalms. Showing that keeping his word ever present on your mind throughout all circumstances and daily tasks is a key to blessing. A great message that few actually take to heart but the rewards are endless!