A couple of months ago, I was celebrating my birthday out of the country with my family, and we invited some friends to join us for dinner. At dinner, one of my dear friends gave me the most gorgeous, handmade box. It looked almost like a treasure chest. My friend, who is from Ireland, said, “We have a birthday tradition in Ireland where each person at the table speaks a blessing and places it in the box.” As each person in the room shared from their heart, I was completely overwhelmed by their sincerity, and my eyes filled with tears!

Several weeks later, I was having somewhat of a difficult day. Several things had gone in a different direction than I had expected. I walked into my office and that beautiful treasure box caught my eye. I picked up the box, opened it, and began to let those healing words of love and affirmation wash over my mind and heart. In a matter of moments, my thoughts were completely turned around, and I felt renewed as I focused on those words of love.

In the same way, every person has a memory box inside their hearts. Scripture says that what you put inside that memory box defines and shapes who you are and sets the course for your life. That’s because your thoughts set you up to win or lose. If your memory box is filled with bitterness, unforgiveness or negative attitudes, your life will follow a negative path. But when you fill your heart with the treasure of God’s Word, you will be set free to live the life of blessing God has prepared for you.

Today, know that God is speaking words of love and affirmation over you. He is rejoicing and singing over you. He believes the best about you, and He wants you to know and understand His love. Store His love deeply in the treasure box of your heart. Then every day, open your box and let His love renew and strengthen you. Let His love permeate your heart and mind; let it wash over you and empower you to move forward in victory every day of your life!

Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You. (Psalm 119:11, NKJV)