Nov 24, 2024
I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. (Luke 2:10)
Let’s take a closer look at this Scripture for a deeper understanding of Luke’s message:
“I bring you (it’s personal) good news of great joy (it’s positive) that will be for all people (it’s global).
This Christmas, may we focus on these three reasons as we celebrate the birth of Jesus:
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God loves you! (personal) God created us in His own image so we all might have the ability to enjoy a personal relationship with Him. He sent His Son, Jesus, to come to Earth in human form as a precious baby. Through Jesus’s life and His teachings, we understand God’s love and our need for Him.
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God is for you! (positive) God knows what is best for you and through salvation, He welcomes you into a life of righteousness with deep inner joy. Jesus came to Earth to erase all of our sins, mistakes, failures, and regrets.
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God is with you! (global) You are never alone. God is with you even when you may not feel His presence. He knows your every need, He cares and understands, and He is going through every circumstance with you, no matter where you live on Earth.
Believe each of these and you will find your life more settled, less stressful, joyful, at peace, and fulfilled. What a reason to celebrate!
Heavenly Father, thank You, Lord, for the Good News of Jesus Christ. I pray that we will never feel insecure in Your constant love for us, never doubt that You are always with us, and remember that our comfort comes in knowing You are with us in all we do. But, most of all, thank You for sending Jesus to Earth to forgive us of our sins. Through our belief and faith in You, we know that we will live forever in Eternity with You.
In Jesus’ Name, I pray,
Amen.
Inspired by Rev. Rick Warren
Nov 24, 2024
He took the seven loaves and the fish, and when He had given thanks, He broke them and gave them to the disciples and they in turn to the people. (Matthew 15:36)
Near the Sea of Galilee, Jesus has returned to a predominantly Gentile area where four thousand people had come to see Him for His healing powers. After three days, the lame were walking, those who couldn’t speak were now talking, the crippled were made whole, and the blind could now see. This healing work seems to be the way Jesus was preparing His followers to spread His Gospel beyond the nation of Israel.
Jesus realized the food had run out and He felt compassion for them. His disciples brought forth seven loaves of bread and a few small fishes. Jesus thanked His Heavenly Father for the small amount of food and by trusting Him, Jesus knew that God would bless the little amount and make it more than enough. Then Jesus broke the food into pieces and fed the multitudes. And for this, Jesus was grateful.
We too must be grateful to God for all He has given us, even when we may think our provisions are too little. We must have faith and trust that what God provides us will always be more than enough.
The miracles that were performed those three days near the Sea of Galilee inaugurated the beginning of Gentile salvation and signs that the Kingdom of God had broken into history through Jesus’ ministry. Through these miracles, Jesus demonstrated that He is the true Bread of Life.
Heavenly Father, thank You, Lord, for being such a wonderful and faithful provider. When circumstances come into our lives and when doubts arise, may we remember the story of the seven loaves and small number of fishes and realize that by trusting in God, the little we have will become more than enough.
In Jesus’ Holy Name I pray,
Amen.
Inspired by Stacy Edwards
Nov 17, 2024
The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. (Isaiah 58:11)
Our Heavenly Father has promised to lead us and guide us at all times, in all ways, through all places, and throughout all the circumstances of our lives. His Grace is always sufficient. His strength is made perfect in our weakness, then we are strong in Him.
We are blessed to know that God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ will direct and govern our path. We are doubly blessed to know that the Holy Spirit will guide us into all truth and lead us on the path of righteousness. We are held securely in our Father’s hands and no one is able to snatch us out of our Savior’s keeping.
We have a blessed hope and an Eternal inheritance in Jesus Christ that is kept for us in Heaven.
Heavenly Father, thank You, Lord, that you lead and guide me at all times. Your promises are so precious to me. Great is Your faithfulness. As I face today, I pray that Your sufficient Grace will flood my soul and Your living waters may flow through me to others who are in need of Your Grace.
In Jesus’ Name, I pray,
Amen.
Nov 10, 2024
“Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” (Luke 18:17)
One of the most amazing things about a child is their ability to see everything through the eyes of wonder. Even infants find joy in the discovery of their feet! And, as they grow, they soak up knowledge with delight. Children can find treasures everywhere: in nature, in a book, and even at the Dollar Tree!
Jesus tells us that to enter into the Kingdom of God requires childlike faith and dependence on God. To be as a child with wonder-filled eyes, an open heart, and hands outstretched to enter into His Kingdom.
God offers this treasure, this Kingdom, as a free gift to all who believe in Him as their Lord and Savior.
People search the world over to discover earthly treasures. But none will compare to the treasure of the Kingdom of God that He has created for His followers, His children.
Heavenly Father, remind me to always come before You in a childlike manner. Thank You, Lord, for teaching me Your Way and preparing Your Kingdom for me. My prayer is that unbelievers will come to You and receive Your Kingdom as a gift in amazement, admiration, and thankfulness.
In Christ’s Holy Name, I pray,
Amen.
Nov 3, 2024
Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from Heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14)
At the beginning of time, sin entered into our world and all throughout Scripture, we continue to find the fallen nature of mankind. In the disgraceful condition of our world today, the pattern continues where people seem undaunted by sin and show no shame for their actions with others nor even seeming to care at all.
But as believers, we know to spend time with God every day and study His Word for wisdom and strength. We must shine as a lighthouse for Him, representing a Christlike life, and spread the Good News of Jesus Christ.
We do not have to yield to the sad and tragic events of today’s society. Tuesday, November 5, is Election Day. We have the privilege and the freedom to vote and your vote is so important. Know the platforms of our candidates, pray for them, and pray for God’s guidance as you cast your vote.
We know that God is in control and He can adjust our perspective to see past the sinful destruction of our country to a life of hope in bringing our country, the United States of America, back to be one nation under God.
Heavenly Father, thank You, Lord, for remaining the same loving and protective God You have been throughout the history of our world. I pray that You will fix our mess, that You will bless and heal our country and our world with Your Mercy and Your Love, and that You will comfort every heart as only You can do. Be with each of us as we cast our votes Tuesday according to Your Will. These things I ask in Your name and if it is Your Will to do so.
In Christ’s Name, I pray,
Amen.
Inspired by Dr. Billy Graham
Oct 28, 2024
He sat down, called the twelve disciples over to Him, and said, “Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant to everyone else.” (Mark 9:35)
In our world today, competition is fierce and now even controversial. It seems everyone strives to be number one (G.O.A.T) or in the spotlight being recognized for their achievements. And, like ourselves, even little children want to be the first in line.
In our Scripture today, Jesus explains that in God’s Kingdom, true greatness is not being the leader in charge but involves being a servant to everyone. He made this clear by living His life as an example to us all. “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give His life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45)
Some may believe that serving may involve being called from their homes like Abraham or going overseas to help the poor or sick. Yes, God does call some people to serve in this way. But, serving is also available to us all right here in our homes and community. Even doing what you consider a menial task can be an act of ministry. There is a need for your service everywhere in our chaotic world, even in our Church!
Remember, receiving accolades and recognition for yourself is not service at all. True servanthood begins in the heart. You must decide if you want the glamour for yourself or for the Glory for our Lord.
My kind and gracious Heavenly Father, there are times, Lord, when we overlook the gifts and blessings You have given us and make our actions all about ourselves. Forgive us, Lord, when we seek praises for ourselves. Teach us the beauty of humility, give us a servant’s heart to serve others, and may we always remember to give You all the Glory.
In Jesus’ precious name, I pray,
Amen.
Inspired by Stacy Edwards
Oct 21, 2024
This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His Will, He hears us. (1 John 5:14)
Prayer is our lifeline to God. His heart is moved by our prayers and because of His Son, Jesus Christ, we have the surreal opportunity to keep a conversation going on with our Lord and Creator. What a privilege and blessing to come into God’s presence and just talk to Him!
People pray in different ways. Some feel comfortable to pray aloud among others while some feel timid or uncomfortable doing so. People pray on altars while others prefer to pray in the pews. Some may sing, dance, and shout joyously alone in a room while others may kneel in prayer. However, when we pray, no matter in what fashion, we must come before God with a humble heart. He will listen and answer our prayers according to His Will.
God gave us the Book of Psalm, a collection of hymns and petitions to show how David and others prayed with hungry hearts for God. Jesus gave perfect instructions on how to pray, found in Matthew 6:9-13, the Lord’s Prayer. Sometimes, you may find that you just don’t have the words to express your feelings. At those times, sincerely pray the Lord’s Prayer and you will find the comfort and peace these words will deliver.
Prayer does not inform God about our needs. He already knows what we need before we ask (Psalm 139:4). Prayer expresses our faith, our confidence, and our trust in His provisions.
So, pray, then pray again and again. What better way to get through the day and through life when we continually talk to our Heavenly Father.
Our Father who art in Heaven, thank You, Lord, for the invitation to come to You in prayer. As we stand on the promises of Your Word, may we lift our voices to You in humility and in confidence, believing that You will hear us and knowing that if we ask anything according to Your Will, we will receive it.
In Jesus’ name, I pray,
Amen.
Oct 14, 2024
You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord. (Psalm 139:4)
What Good News it is to know that God knows our future! It is in His hands and under His control. As believers, we live by faith and find comfort in knowing that we will one day live in Heaven with Him for Eternity.
With every experience God gives us, we have the opportunity to grow in Him. With every person He puts in our lives, we have the opportunity to share His love. Each time we have the freedom to attend Church, we have the honor to worship Him and enjoy fellowship with others. And, each time we pray, we have a peace that passes all understanding.
We can be confident as we face the future because of His promises to us. He will never leave us (Deuteronomy 31:8) and His Grace is sufficient for us all (2 Corinthians 12:9). We are encouraged in knowing these truths and with Christ in our hearts, we can face the future. Let us sing praises to Him.
Heavenly Father, we know that we can trust You with our future. Thank You, Lord, for the many blessings we will experience, the tribulations You will help us overcome, and the wisdom You will reveal to us over time as we walk with You.
In Jesus’ name, I pray,
Amen.
Inspired by Corrie Ten Boom
Oct 7, 2024
You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength. (Mark 12:30)
Our feelings, emotions, and love are found within our hearts. Our desires, our conscience, and our moral compass come from our souls. Our thoughts, knowledge, and understanding are housed in our minds. Our will to perform, our power, and our energy are given to us through our strength. Do you use all of these characteristics to honor and praise our faithful Lord?
Unfortunately, the devil is constantly enticing us by saying anger and revenge, not love and compassion, will make us feel better. He continually tempts us to live out our sinful desires, tricking us to believe they will make us happy. If our understanding of how we must live our lives does not align with God’s truth and wisdom, the devil will creep in, causing us to make unwise decisions. And, if we choose to gain strength from evil, we will find ourselves weak and lacking. But, thankfully, our God, the One and only Lord, has given us a heart, a soul, a mind, and strength to build our lives on a firm foundation. Live each day with gratitude for all He has given us and share His love with others.
Heavenly Father, thank you, Lord, for Jesus and His teachings. Every day, may our focus be to love You more, Lord, as we live in Oneness with You.
I pray these things in Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Sept 30, 2024
There is no one righteous, not even one. (Romans 3:10)
Do you know someone who thinks their good works will get them into Heaven? They will gladly boast that they attend Church, they contribute to good causes, they know the difference between right and wrong and live accordingly, and they teach their children to live by the Golden Rule. They will tell you that they are good people.
While these things are commendable, they will not give you a ticket into Heaven. God’s standard is perfection and unfortunately, we all sin. But, by believing the Gospel and receiving Jesus as your Lord and Savior, your sins are forgiven and you will receive the righteousness of Christ.
If you know someone that believes that good works is all that is required for them to enter into Heaven, speak with them, counsel them, and urge them to repent of their pride and not to gamble with their souls. Through the Holy Spirit, lead them to Jesus for their salvation. He alone can save them and grant them the golden ticket into Heaven and into an Eternity with Him.
Father in Heaven, thank You, Lord, for choosing me and saving my life. Keep my eyes open to the opportunities You provide so I may share with prideful people the importance of salvation and living a life for Jesus, not themselves.
In Jesus’ Name, I pray,
Amen.
Inspired by Billy Graham
Sept 23, 2024
Give all your worries and cares to God for He cares about you. (1 Peter 5:7)
We have all experienced unexpected worries or anxiety in our lives. Perhaps health issues occurred at the most inopportune time that may have disrupted a big event. Maybe an unexpected expense popped up where you found yourself lacking sufficient funds and there was no promotion, raise, or bonus in sight. Or, perhaps your children waited too long to study or prepare for that important test that could determine their future. What are we to do? You feel like you are drowning.
We all have had storms in our lives. But, the Good News, God is always there with us, caring for us with His abundant love. Sometimes it may take longer than the “quick fix” we desire but His Purpose may be to use this time to grow us and bring about something in us to use for His Glory.
When the storm passes, let’s not find ourselves hanging our heads for not believing in our Glorious God or worrying instead of trusting Him. Instead, give Him all the glory, honor, and praise for walking through those storms with us and share His Faithfulness with others.
Always have faith. Remember that God is in control and wants us to seek refuge in Him. In His Arms, we will find comfort. After all, there is no weather too rough for the One who created it.
Heavenly Father, thank You, Lord, for understanding our humanity that causes us to worry. Draw us near to You in our pain, suffering, and times of fear or doubts. Help us to weather life’s storms. For Your Faithfulness, we give You all our honor and praise.
In Christ’s Name, I pray,
Amen.
Sept 16, 2024
And I heard every creature in Heaven and on Earth and under the Earth and on the Sea, and all that is in them, saying, “To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power forever and ever!” (Revelation 5:13)
Do you ever take the time to just sit in the middle of God’s creation and reflect on the wonders and gifts that God has given to us?
Looking at the sky, up to the Heaven’s above, we are reminded of God’s miracles and His beautiful Creation. We only have to look up to feel God’s Presence.
As we feel the ground, we are reminded that God is our Rock and our Strength.
As we smell the freshness of the grass and the flowers and see the trees, we are reminded of His Blessings He shares with us in the Majesty of the Earth.
As we see the birds flying overhead and the squirrels scurry about, we are reminded how God takes care of us.
As day turns to darkness, we are reminded of His Omnipotence, knowing He is giving us a time to rest as His stars twinkle down on us.
God’s love and His provisions for us endures forever.
Heavenly Father, thank You, Lord, for all of Your Creation. May we always remain humble in giving You all the praise for Your gifts. I pray that we will never take for granted the beauty of this Earth.
In Christ’s Glorious Name, I pray,
Amen.
Sept 9, 2024
Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, Be Still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. (Mark 4:39)
Most people will agree that the sight and sounds of the ocean can lull us into a trance-like state that can reduce our stress and calm our nerves. However, all of a sudden, that same ocean can make us anxious and fearful as storms approach and waters begin to churn into crashing waves.
As we look to our Scripture today, we find Jesus teaching His disciples all day in a boat on the Sea of Galilee. The water was calm and the disciples were probably feeling tranquil, relaxed, and worry free. However, later that night as Jesus was sleeping, a massive storm erupted and the disciples panicked. In fear, they ran to Jesus, trusting that He could help. Jesus arose and simply said, “Peace, Be Still!” The wind and turbulent waters instantly became calm.
When a storm comes into our lives, we become a bundle of frazzled nerves and tightened muscles. Take to heart the command of our Lord, “Peace, Be Still!” Just as Jesus was aware of His disciple’s fears, so He is aware of our circumstances when we become fearful. Go to Jesus. Let Him draw you in. He can deliver into your life a peace that will calm the turbulent waters and bring an oasis of serenity to you amidst this chaotic world.
Heavenly Father, thank You, Lord, for the instant calmness You can bring to our lives just for reaching out to You and asking. Help us not to fear the future but to boldly trust that You are in control. May we always remember to “Be calm” and know that You are God and in You, all things are possible.
In Jesus’ name, I pray,
Amen.
Inspired by Miriam Drennan
Sept 2, 2024
He opened the rock and water gushed out; it flowed like a river in the desert. (Psalm 105:41)
For many, Labor Day symbolizes the end of summer. People have become tired of the heat and the desert-like temperatures. For those who work outside, there may have been times when they felt they could not survive another moment.
This reminds me of the Israelites as they wandered in the wilderness. No matter how many times they had seen God perform miracles, they felt certain they were going to die.
Sometimes when we find ourselves stressed, in a panic, or it seems we are constantly reminded of our sinful past, we too seem to forget that God called us by name unto Him and He saved us. We forget that He sent His one and only Son to die on a Cross to forgive us of our many sins. We forget all the many things He has done for us. And, we forget that in the middle of the desert, God can send water gushing from a rock.
Heavenly Father, too often, Lord, when we find ourselves in unfavorable circumstances, we seem to forget the many times You have brought us through. Lord, help us remember that with You, nothing is impossible. Thank You, Lord, for the tender care You always provide.
In Jesus’ Name, I pray,
Amen.
Inspired by Stacy Edwards