Praises

 

     Moving our attention heavenward will allow us to praise God through all circumstances. Psalm 100 is a short Psalm of praise.  Lift your eyes as we end this year and move into the future. Praise His name. His love endures forever!

Shout for joy to the Lord all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness. Come before Him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is He who made us and we are His. We are His people, the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His names. For the Lord is good and His love endures forever. His faithfulness continues through all generations. Psalm 100:1-5

Praying for a New Year filled with blessings from God.  See you Monday!

The Light of Christ

 

Your sun will never set again and your moon will wane no more. The Lord will be your everlasting light and your days of sorrow will end. Isaiah 60:20

     I pray for you as we enter a fresh new year. May this be a year of new light, of new beginnings, of astounding hope and possibilities such as you have never seen or experienced. Believe in God. Believe in the way He sees you as His beloved child. And as His child you can shine His love light wherever you go.

     Pray for each family as you look through your Christmas cards. Reach out to others. If you are going through a time of difficulty turn the focus on to someone else, if possible. Bake some cookies. Give a word of encouragement. Pay a compliment. Let Jesus shine through you. The more you give away the more you will receive in great blessings. And if you are in deep despair or struggle, accept help. There are others willing to listen, to drive, to cook, to be there.

     I pray for you dear children of the light, as the Son prays for you. Before Jesus went to the cross, He prayed He would be glorified and He prayed for all of us to be one with The Son and the Father. Let’s unite in His name.

“The Christian is a person who makes it easy for others to believe in God.” Robert Murray M’Cheyne.

Jesus,

Shine Your divine light on us and through us in the new year. May others ask about You because of us. We can make an eternal difference for You.

Amen

Children of the Light

 

     The longer we walk with Jesus, the more we recognize His faithfulness, His love and His grace. He forgives and forgets. He allows us to grow more and more into His image as we follow Him. We no longer belong to the darkness. We walk in the eternal light of life.

You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. 1 Thessalonians 5:5

     As we continue our journey in Christ, the follies of the night no longer satisfy. The old passions fall by the wayside as we move into more and more light. What a gift! Removing our hearts from the night brings great freedom and joy

Your word is a lamp for my feet; a light on my path. Psalm 119:105

Lord,

Show us the way. Light the path ahead. Lend us Your hand and lead us out of darkness into a life of light. Your Word will light the way and show us how. You know the way.

In Jesus name,

Amen

A Child Is Born

 

     Merry Christmas! Sing the hymns. Praise His name. Light the candles. Remember the reason for the season. Remember the precious Son of the living God born in Bethlehem in a manger. God with us, Emmanuel. Listen to the words of Mary as the angel Gabriel gives her the news of the birth to come.

And Mary said, “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” Luke 1:46-47

     Let your soul and spirit magnify and glorify the Lord Jesus this Christmas.

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you. He is the Messiah, the Lord. Luke 2:11

Father God,

We worship and praise You this season. May the miraculous birth of Your Son remain in us every day of our lives. Thank You for the greatest gift ever given.

Amen

Merry Christmas!  See you Monday

 

The Light of Life

 

     Jesus is the light of the world. Light came to live among us and the darkness has not overcome it. Just as the sun sustains life and without it there is death and darkness, so it is with the Son. Jesus removes us from darkness and shines on us and through us to give real life.

In Him was life and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:4-5

     Allow Jesus to sustain and nourish you with the light of life. Without Him there is darkness. And with Him you will never walk in darkness again. Look up and feel the warmth of His love. Bask in it. Delight in it. It is yours forever.

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12

Jesus,

As we follow You, You remove the darkness from us. Let Your light shine in our hearts as we get ready to welcome in a new year. You promise us the light of life.

Amen

 

Look for the Light

 

     Today is the shortest day of the year; the winter solstice. The sun comes up late and goes down early. We could choose to focus on the darkness. Or we could watch for the first rays of the dawn. The shortest and darkest day of the year is the end of one season and the beginning of another.

     With God, each ending brings a new beginning. Each omega brings the promise of another alpha. Darkness comes just before the dawn. Satan wants us to focus on the darkness. He confuses darkness with light and sometimes we are fooled. We talk ourselves into staying in a dark place. It feels comfortable. We make the best of it.

     God offers full light, beacons of hope before the fullness of the sun. His hope is always there. Brightness is ahead. Full summer days to bask in His light. Let the hope of fresh beginnings fill you this morning. Take a deep breath and watch for the dawn. Count your blessings and pray for fresh light.

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up. Do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:19

Father,

We wait in hope for the new beginnings you have in store for us. Shine your beacon of hope through the darkness of these days. You are making a new path for us. You are the God of new beginnings.

In Jesus name,

Amen

NOTE: Even though Saturn and Jupiter are millions of miles apart tonight in the Southwest sky they will appear close together. Some are calling it “The Christmas Star." Watch for it just after sunset.

 

A Safe Place

 

     This week we have withdrawn to solitary places to seek God. We have stilled our minds and hearts to know God. We have slept in peace as we trust God. We have found a solemn place to worship God. Silence, stillness, sleep-filled peace and solemnity bring us to our safe place in Jesus.

     His protection is ours for the asking. His promises are there for all of us and He is faithful. His resurrection is sure and so is ours. We need only to believe. The resurrected Jesus is coming soon. Look up and get ready and rest assured. You will be escorted safely home. Seek Him, find Him and rest in Him today, tomorrow and forever.

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge, my fortress, my God in whom I trust. Psalm 91:1-2

Do not withhold your mercy from me Lord, may your love and faithfulness always protect me. Psalm 40:11

Father,

Your promises are faithful and true. We rest in them. Protect us. Give us peace. Give us sanity and serenity and safety throughout this season.

In Jesus name,

Amen

A Solemn Place

 

     See the bright and shining star? It hovers over the greatest miracle on earth; the birth of a Savior, the baby Jesus, the One who came to save us. Sit in solemn wonder and fill your heart with the awe of it. It is the greatest story ever told and the greatest gift given to mankind. He came for you.

     This innocent child would grow into the sinless man, fully man and fully God. He took our place. This Christmas be reminded of the miracle that is Jesus at His first coming, His most humble beginnings, born in a manger in the presence of common shepherds. 

     In His second coming, we will see Him in full majesty as the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. He came as a Lamb. He will come back as a Lion. Bow in reverence and solemn wonder.

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you. He is the Messiah, the Lord. Luke 2:10-11

Jesus,

Don’t let us get comfortable with the Christmas story and take it for granted. Give us the true hope and joy of the miraculous moment when You came into this world. The Son of God, the light of the world, the Messiah, the Lord stepped from eternity into space and time. Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace goodwill toward men. (luke 2)

Amen

A Sleepy Place

 

     I don’t know about you, but I could stand a good night’s sleep. Can Scripture help? Try these verses below tonight as you give your troubles to the One who never sleeps. He will watch over you.

Indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. Psalm 121:4

     Let His peace wash over your mind as you drift off to sleep. Trust Him with everything. Give Him your burdens and Your worries and rest your mind and your weary soul. Ask Him to protect you and hold you safely for this night.

In peace I will lie down and sleep, for You alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8

When you lie down you will not be afraid. When you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Proverbs 3:24

You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in You.  Isaiah 26:3

Jesus,

Sometimes sleep eludes us. We toss and turn. Our minds and our hearts keep us awake hour after hour. Let these words from You filled with promise allow us that deep peace that comes from You alone. Give us sweet rest as we count on Your protection.

Amen

A Still Place

 

     For some of us complete silence or quiet time are nerve wracking and awkward. The TV or the radio blares with background noise. We text. We call. We compute. Even fifteen minutes a day will allow God to speak in those quiet moments. A deep thought may escape from within to give each of us new insights.

He says, “Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10

     And in the quiet time, the waiting time, the watching time, God works for us. Let Him take control. Let Him fight the difficult battles. He will help you overcome them all with peace in your soul. Just listen.

The Lord will fight for you. You need only to be still. Exodus 14:14

Father,

Let us be still and behold Your presence. Let us be quiet and watch You work. Take care of our needs today as we witness Your miraculous ways. We will be still and know You.

Amen

 

A Solitary Place

 

     My husband and I are both introverts by nature. I love being home alone, studying, reading and writing. We both love our friends and family, but we are often the first to leave a gathering. We spend most of each day together, but we both appreciate the reality of the man cave.

     Today, even for you extroverts, try to embrace your inner introvert. God will meet you right where you are. Even for us solitary souls, we are never alone. Knowing Him and His word and what He says about our short lives on earth allows us to fulfill the purpose He has in store for each of us.

     Jesus often went away by Himself to pray.

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went ff to a solitary place where He prayed. Mark 1:35

At daybreak, Jesus went off to a solitary place. The people were looking for Him and when they came to where He was, they tried to keep Him from leaving them. Luke 4:42

But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. Luke 5;16

     If the Son of God Himself needed time to withdraw and pray, how much more is it necessary for us?

Lord,

Remind us to spend time with You. Let that be a priority in our lives. Help us to prioritize You above all else and give us those in need of prayer.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Yes and Amen

 

     Let's finish out the week with praises to God! We say “Yes!” and “Amen!” to Him on this beautiful Advent day. His glory shines brighter than the brightest sunshine. His grace falls upon us when we don’t deserve it. His mercies are new every single day. Think about Jesus as you go about your day and represent Him well. Seek kindness and goodness. Forgive and show love. Smile with His joy and rest in His peace.

“Yes!” “Amen!”

For from Him and through Him and for Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen  Romans 11:36

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers and sisters. Amen! Galatians 6:18

To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen  Ephesians 3:21

To Him be the power forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 5:11

Jesus,

In Your name the powers of heaven and earth rest. To You comes the glory forever and ever. Let it be so.

Amen

Yes and Amen

 

     One day every person under heaven and earth will see Jesus. For many it will be too late to stay in the presence of God. Why not bow the knee to Him today and say, “Yes!”  All of His promises have come true. All of creation is waiting for His return. Are you? Wait expectantly for Him to work in your life. Wait expectantly for Him to show Himself to your friends and family. And wait expectantly for that day when He returns for us.

Therefore, My people will know My name; therefore, in that day, they will know that it is I who foretold it. Yes, it is I! Isaiah 52:6

Therefore, God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow on heaven and on earth and under the earth. Philippians 2:9-10

Salvation is found in no one else for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12

     One day every single knee will bow, even the demons under the earth. Say, “Yes!” today. He gives everyone a chance to do so. He does not want to lose even one.

Jesus,

Your name has the power of heaven and earth within it. We praise Your name today above all else. God has given You all authority over heaven and earth. You came for us to save us.

Amen

Yes and Amen!

 

     Let your soul say, “Yes” to God’s rest. Give Him every achy muscle, every worry of your heart, every unanswered question, every unkind thought, every unhealthy habit, every anxious moment and lay it at His feet. He will guide the works of your hands today. He will be beside you to listen. The future is in His almighty hands. Yes, it is.

Yes, my soul, find rest in God, my hope comes from Him. Psalm 62:5

May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us-establish the work of our hands for us-yes, establish the work of our hands. Psalm 90:17

Lord our God,

We find rest in you. Quiet our anxious thoughts. Establish our ways to align with Yours. We say, “Yes!” to You. Shine Your favor on us

in Jesus’ name.

Amen

Yes and Amen!

 

     The word, “Amen” is a universal word. There is no other way to say it in every culture. When we say, “Amen” after a prayer or after hearing a sermon, we are agreeing wholeheartedly with what has just been said. The meaning may be defined as, “Let it be so.”

     The Jewish people traveled to Jerusalem for the annual feasts. As they moved up the hills to the temple, they would sing and speak the Psalms of ascent, followed by “Amen!”  Let it be so that we may praise the Lord and glorify His name.

Praise be to His glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with His glory. Amen and Amen.  Psalm 72:19

Praise be to the Lord forever! Amen and Amen! Psalm 89:52

Jesus,

We say “Yes” and “Amen!” to You every day as we sing Your praises. May the whole earth be filled with Your glory.

Amen and Amen

Yes and Amen!

 

     Jesus never changes. He is eternal. He is Creator and Lord. All things were made by Him and for Him. He is not surprised by the world. He has overcome it. He knows the words you will speak before one comes out of your mouth. (Psalm 139) Why do we continue to doubt? Why do we fear? Why do we fret? So much of life appears to be beyond our control. But not His.

     When we sin, He forgives. When we doubt, He reassures. When we fear, He comes alongside. When we grieve, He comforts. When we are burdened, He says, “Come to Me.” (Matthew 11)

     Believe in His sovereign grace to see you through this often impossible life. He works for your good. He turns things around. He redeems and restores. He is your Lord. You can put everything in His mighty hands. Yes and Amen!

For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “yes” in Christ. And so through Him the “Amen” is spoken by us for the glory of God. 2 Corinthians 1:20

Jesus,

We say “Yes!” and “Amen!” to You. Give us Your complete peace with the understanding that You are sovereign above all things. We trust You to work through our circumstances to show Your glory.

Amen

An Ordinary Night

 

     It was an ordinary, quiet night for the shepherds; leading their flocks through the mountain fields, tending to their needs, keeping them safe. There was nothing unusual at all, until the heavens opened up around them, that is. I will let the beautiful words of Scripture remind you of the familiar story.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you. You will find a baby wrapped in clothes and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” Luke 2: 8-14

     I love this! God chose Mary and Joseph, an ordinary couple from humble homes. Now He opens up the heavens with a host of angels praising God to a group of shepherds. What did they do? Just like the wise men, they went to find the baby. And when they found Him, when they understood, what did they do next?

When they had seen Him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.  Luke 2:17-18

     Something about meeting Jesus makes us want to talk about Him. We cannot help but speak of all we have seen and heard. (See Acts 4:20) Have you amazed anyone lately with stories about Jesus? Filling up on His glory, recognizing the heavenly hosts surrounding us with protection and sustenance, finds us unable to keep it to ourselves. This kind of news needs to be shared.

     And for all of us who have encountered the Savior, one day the heavens will open up for us and we will witness the heavenly host of angels sayings, “Glory to God in the highest.” And we will be singing and shouting right along with them.

Dear Father in heaven,

Thank you for showing Yourself to ordinary folks like us. Your glory is beyond anything we can imagine and one day we will be in the midst of it. One day that will last forever. Each day of our lives is precious on this earth. Let us make the most of them, as we speak of the Good News. A child is born in the city of Bethlehem. He is the Messiah, the Lord, the Christ!

Amen

Wise Men Still Seek Him

 

     The wise men from the East saw the star. Not many did. How did they know? What was it about that star that brought them in search of the Messiah? Were they familiar with Jewish Scripture?

“A star shall come out of Jacob, a scepter shall rise out of Israel.” Numbers 24:17

     It is ironic that King Herod, the king of the Jews, calls a secret meeting with the Magi. He had consulted with his advisors and teachers of the law. He asks the three men to seek out this child and report to him, and they go on their way.

     God leads them to Bethlehem. That same star is just ahead of them.

When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with His mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh, and having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.  Matthew 2:10-12

     The virgin birth, the town of Bethlehem, the star rising, and now the gifts of the three Magi, all prophesied hundreds and even thousands of years earlier. Statistically impossible by human standards. But with God, nothing is impossible.

“Herds of camels will cover Your land, young camels of Midian and Ephah and all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and frankincense, and proclaiming the praise of the Lord.” Isaiah 60:6

    The wise men were watching the skies, waiting for the Messiah. Are you? Jesus could return at any moment. Wise men still seek Him. And maybe, like them, your route will change. Worshiping Him, seeing Him up close and personal, often moves us in a new direction. The three travelers were moved out of the way of a scheming King.

     Which way will He lead you? Away from a poor choice, away from weariness, away from all-encompassing anxiety? After meeting Him for the first time, we turn from despair and move to expectant joy and hope. Just as His mother clothed Him in swaddling clothes, He clothes us with His righteousness. He wraps us in His loving arms and we will never be the same. Keep your eyes fixed on the skies. We are heaven-bound!

Dear Lord,

The stories surrounding your birth astound us. From the ordinary birth in a manger to the brightest star spoken of so long ago, all leading us to You. Keep our minds and hearts focused on You during this season and every single day thereafter.

In Jesus name

Amen

A Humble Beginning

 

     Joseph and Mary have heard from the heavenly host. They are carrying the Son of God, the future King, the Savior of the earth. What would you expect with this kind of news? The offer of a palace with satin sheets and lavish banquets? A parade filled with all of the fanfare expected to herald the arrival of a King? Birth announcements embossed in gold? No.

Rather, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.  Philippians 2:7

     Around the time of Christ’s birth there came a decree from Caesar Augustus. Everyone was required to register in their hometown. Joseph happened to be from Bethlehem. Micah knew where the Messiah would be born. He wrote about it hundreds of years before the event.

But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for Me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of ol, from ancient times.”  Micah 5:2

    Yes, Jesus was to be born in Bethlehem and God knew exactly where Joseph and Mary would be on that glorious night. The trip would be long, about 70 miles from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Where would Joseph and Mary stay at the end of this long and bumpy road? In the presidential suite of the town? Well, not exactly.

     The sounds they would hear on that particular night would not include the voice of the hotel manager bringing them fresh towels and warm food. In fact, there was no room for them. The silence would have been deafening beyond the cries of childbirth. But I am sure they could hear a soft moo, a hushed whinny, a squeaky baa, as the animals, created by God, witnessed their Creator Himself appear in human form on that very special eve.

     How about you? Overwhelmed with a long and tiring journey? Is there a long recovery ahead, an unanswered prayer with no end in sight? Have you been squeezed out by divorce or a family feud? How about your stable mates? Or should I say, stall mates at work? Are they a little stinky, noisy or ill-mannered?

     Imagine a glorious end to the journey, a new birth in a relationship or a witnessing miracle at work. Anything can happen when the Savior is along for the ride. You may recognize a change in your outlook, a peace in the wait, a hope in your heart, a new way to cope. When He appears, anything becomes possible. And then there was light.

Dear Jesus,

The story is miraculous. The characters, regular folks, in regular surroundings. No hoopla, just humility. Your birth. The wonder of it all. We sit in awe of You.

Amen

The Unknown Journey

 

     Joseph was engaged to the young and devout Jewish girl, Mary. Can you imagine his thoughts, his reaction to the news? She was expecting a child. The Bible tells us, “…before they came together, she was found to be pregnant…” (See Matthew1) As was right according to Mosaic law, Joseph was going to petition for a divorce from the betrothal. God had other plans. He often does. God not only chose Mary to carry the Christ. He chose Joseph to raise the child.

     Joseph was a decent guy. He did not want to disgrace Mary. He had in mind to divorce her quietly. No Facebook page announcing the single girl’s pregnancy. No, “How could she do this to me?” Just a quiet exit from a devastating shock. Instead, Joseph had a heavenly encounter with an angel.

“Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:20-21

    The virgin birth reminds us that this very news fulfills a prophecy written by the prophet Isaiah hundreds of years before Christ’s birth. (See Isaiah 7:14)

     God chose Joseph and Mary. He chooses you. He saw you before the beginning of time and He sees your path. He will step in and use you to fulfill His purposes on earth. Joseph obeyed. He took Mary as his wife and they named their newborn son, Jesus. Mary had been told her newborn son would be the Son of God and His kingdom would have no end. (See Luke 1)

     Tomorrow we will journey with Joseph and Mary as they, unknowingly, fulfill another prophecy written 500 years before their child’s birth, and we will sit with them in their unusual surroundings as they and we get ready to greet the Messiah.

Dear Lord,

Your humble beginnings speak to us. Your servant’s heart shows us. The people you chose give us hope. Speak now. Show us today. Choose us. Fill us with that same Holy Spirit that gave birth to the Christ, the same Holy Spirit that resurrects the dead. The Spirit that changes us.

Amen

 

Set Your Seasonal Heart

 

     December is here, ready or not. The church’s calendar is turned to the beginning of a new year. The four weeks leading up to Christmas are celebrated as the season of Advent. It is a time of anticipation, expectation and preparation. Sort of fits in with our cultural relationship with Christmas, doesn’t it?

     Could these weeks be a time to fill our hearts with joy and gladness? The light of the world is coming! The Word is about to become flesh and dwell among us! The God of creation is about to humble Himself. He will be born in human form to become a servant to all. Yes, His first coming is a time to celebrate the miracle that changes everything. Emmanuel, God among us, is about to be born.

     Let’s take a peek into the cast of characters surrounding this great event. We will see how God worked through the most ordinary people to show His glory. He does the same with us. He can use the craziest circumstances, the darkest of days, the most challenging journeys and suddenly show up in the most miraculous of ways.

     Put your feel up. Take a few minutes each day as we revisit Joseph on his difficult journey, the Magi taking a completely different route after seeing Jesus, the shepherds retelling the tale after witnessing the heavenly host. Will you recognize Him and be changed?

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.”  Luke 2:10-11

Dear Father,

Walk with us through the greatest story ever told. We listen with expectation as we await the celebration of Your Son’s birth. Let the joy and gladness seep into our very souls over these next few weeks until we are changed forever. The light of the world has come. Oh, come let us adore Him.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Thankful For You!

 

     This is a tough year for so many. Whether you celebrate with family or are alone this Thanksgiving, I pray you will find peace, joy and hope. Enjoy time with family, if possible. Remain thankful in Jesus. He is our constant companion, our closest ally, our protector, our God, our friend, the One who died for us. Spend time with Him and thank Him for all He has done for us.

     See you on Monday. I am thankful for you!

I thank my God every time I remember you. Philippians 1:3

Jesus,

Thank You for giving us brothers and sisters in the faith. We need each other to remain rooted and strong. We are grateful to You for so much. Give us hearts of thanksgiving each day and please give comfort and strength to those struggling this week.

Amen

A Heart of Praise

 

The Lord is my strength and my shield. My heart trusts in Him and I am helped. Therefore, my heart exults and with my song I will thank Him. Psalm 28:7

     A heart of thanksgiving brings deep joy and blessing. Even through the storms of life, we have Jesus with us in the boat. He calms the wind. He is the peace in the midst of the struggle. His name offers great power as we pray.

     Praise Him for who He is, for His willingness to walk alongside us through this life, until we are home with Him. He longs to see us as much as we long to see Him. If you are a believer, you have work to do! He has a purpose, a way to serve, a way to show others who He is!

     The Lord is our strength and our shield. Let our hearts trust Him and worship Him. Let our hearts rise up in song to praise Him.

Father,

We exult in our worship. We praise You through our joy-filled moments and through our dark storms. You are with us and will protect us and guide us until we arrive in heaven. Remind us to have an attitude of gratitude and thanksgiving for who You are, not for what You can do for us. We praise You!

In Jesus name,

Amen

 

The Blessing Beyond All Blessings

 

     Beyond the blessings of our personal belongings, our homes, our food, and beyond the greater blessings of our spouses, our children, our families, and our friends, remains the truest blessings of a loving heavenly Father. This loving Father offered His Son as a living sacrifice so we can live forever!

     Beyond this very short life lies life forever in the presence of the glory of God or life forever separated from God. The images of both are beyond our imaginations.

     Today, thank God for your faith. Thank God for Jesus Christ. And thank God as we pray for those who do not yet believe, that He will continue to work in their hearts and open their eyes to the best blessing of all.

In that day you will say, “Give praise to the Lord, proclaim His name; make known among the nations what He has done and proclaim that His name is exalted. Sing to the Lord for He has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world. Isaiah 12:4-5

Heavenly Father,

You are the blessing beyond all blessings. We give You thanks and proclaim the name of Jesus Christ to be exalted above all names. Let the world hear about You.

Amen

Contentment

 

     What brings us contentment? What needs have to be met? Do our situations and people around us need to live up to our expectations? How about interruptions? Do they cause a disturbance in your mood? Do you react to the actions of everyone and everything around you as if they need to accommodate you? During this time of great division, of living with a pandemic, of civil unrest, it would seem nearly impossible to remain content!

     Can we use the Holy Spirit’s help to stay content throughout the day? It’s not easy. Stress finds us out of sorts and anxious. A disagreement over the simplest of things hits us right in the stomach.  A sleepless night or two leaves us grouchy and sensitive.

     As the Bible says over and over again, “But God…” He always comes through for us and peace and contentment are promised by God. Turn to Him in thought and prayer when you feel the seeds of discontent about to plant themselves within your heart.

But godliness with contentment is great gain.  1 Timothy 6:6

      The Apostle Paul was shipwrecked, beaten, lived in poverty, arrested and put in jail. Here is his answer from within the prison walls.

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again. Rejoice!” Philippians 4:4.

     Is it any wonder the jailers in charge of him accepted Christ? When we stay joy-filled and peaceful (with the help of God) it becomes contagious. Rely on Jesus. He can help. We’ll never get it just right, but He can transform us, day by day.

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  Philippians 4:11

Dear Father,

Contentment is hard to find in these crazy days, but with You all things are possible. Give us peace and contentment within our hearts and souls, no matter the circumstances. We can and we will rejoice in You always.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Seasons of Joy

 

     There are seasons of sadness, seasons of the unknown, and, thankfully, we experience seasons of great joy. Holding a new-born baby, experiencing deep love,, finding a cure, or experiencing a miracle. I pray your life will have many joy-filled seasons.

 Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5b

     As believers, we are to live with each other through it all, just as Jesus lives through it all with us.

Rejoice with those who rejoice. Mourn with those who mourn.  Romans 12:15

     I pray that each of you will have times of great joy over this next year. And when you do I rejoice with you. May joy come to you in the morning and cause you to dance!

You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.  Psalm 30:11

Jesus,

Thank you for the moments of joy that fill our hearts. Bless us with those moments this year and remind us to stop, cherish and hold them close when they come to us.

Amen

Yearning for God

 

     King David wore his heart on his sleeve. I am so thankful for the words he penned so long ago with his strong emotions that match our own. David fell in love and committed great sin because of it. He cried out for forgiveness. Another time, with his enemies surrounding him, we understand his great fear. And, like us, there were days he did not understand his deep anguish and sadness.

Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so distraught within me? Psalm 42:5a

    Through it all, his faith in God remained. In fact, the Bible calls him, “a man after God’s own heart.” We can learn from this man. He is not shy about pouring his heart out to God. Throughout the Psalms he moves through his life seeking God, praising God and loving God. In the second half of the verse above, even with his downcast soul, and his distress he continues:

Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. Psalm 42:5b

    If great sadness surrounds you today, cry out to God. And yearn for his presence. If you are scared, His protection surrounds you. Read these beautiful words that begin this Psalm.

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? Psalm 42:1-2

Jesus,

We yearn for the living water of your grace. Even through the times our souls are downcast within us, You are there. Hear our cries for help today. Hear our voices filled with sadness. You hear us and we will ever praise You, our Lord.

Amen

 

When We Are Scared

 

     Joshua took the place of Moses as the Israelites finally made their way into the promised land after 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. Those wilderness experiences in our own lives can leave us feeling lost, confused and filled with fear.

     Taking a step into the unknown future can be frightening. There are obstacles in the way and we can’t see our way around, over or through them. And we stop and ask, “Why, Lord?” or “When, Lord?” or “How, Lord?”  The key word in all of those questions is, “Lord.” Keep Him involved in your questioning. Allow Him into your deepest fears. Ask Him to help.

     Before the Jordan River dried up and the Israelites were able to cross into the long-awaited promised land, God asked the priests to take a step into the river. Maybe we need to take a small step of faith right now, too.

    And we just might find the courage to take another small step into the future. The path may change. The water may be deep. The outcome may still be unknown. But we choose to move. And Jesus? There He is within us with His comfort and His peace as He surrounds us with protection and with heavenly power. And our Father in heaven speaks to us just as He did to Joshua all of those years ago.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

Lord our God,

You are with us wherever we go. Take away our fear and discouragement as we make the difficult decisions in life. Guide our thoughts to dwell and focus on You through it all as we take another step of faith.

In Jesus name,

Amen

When We Don't Understand

 

     The disciples of Jesus were Jewish men awaiting their Messiah. Their expectations for Jesus were for Him to rule and reign on earth. Jesus told them on more than one occasion what was to come. Here is one example. This conversation takes place as Jesus and His followers are journeying to Jerusalem for Passover, shortly before His crucifixion. The disciples had been with Him for nearly three years.

Jesus took the Twelve aside and told them, “We are going to Jerusalem and everything that is written by the prophets about the Son of Man will be fulfilled. He will be delivered over to the Gentiles. They will mock Him, insult Him and spit on Him. They will flog Him and kill Him. On the third day He will rise again.”  Luke 31-33

     From this side of the cross it all makes sense. Did they listen and ask what it all meant? Here is their response.

The disciples did not understand any of this. Its meaning was hidden from them and they did not know what He was talking about.  Luke 18:45

     Not only were they confused. Did you catch it? The meaning was hidden from them. Even the disciples would not understand God’s plan until after the resurrection. In fact, all of the disciples scattered as Jesus was brought to the cross. All but one. John.

     I’ve had the urge to run away from God now and again. It’s easy to turn away when we don’t understand. We tune out. We try to escape from what is before us. We long to control the situation and deny the reality. God seems so far away. Has He deserted us? We thought He was the One. Isn’t He the One to watch over us and take care of us?

     God has always and will continue to watch over us. He understands and He offers hope. Can we listen and trust when we don’t understand? Will we run from His presence rather than wait patiently under His protective wings? Or will we stand by the foot of the cross as John did?

     Let’s bring it all to the foot of the cross where He took on all of what we are facing, right this minute. He rose again. And so will I. And so will you.

Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God. Believe also in Me. John 14:1

Dear Jesus,

The stories in Your Word give us hope. Even those You were closest to on the earth ran from You. Don’t let us go when things get tough and we don’t have all of the answers. You do, and we trust You.

Amen

A Perfect Kind of Love

 

     A perfect kind of love, an unconditional kind of love, a sacrificial kind of love, a God in human form kind of love, a suffering servant kind of love, a heaven-sent kind of love. All of the above have been given to us, even while we were still sinners.

But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: while we were still sinners Christ died for us. Romans 5:8

     Turning 65 puts life in perspective. I recognize the fact that I have many more years in my past than in my future. I pray that age brings wisdom and an acknowledgment of what is most important in the years ahead. I understand I have the perfect love of Christ with me and within me. He gives all of us purpose.

     Living in relationship with Jesus should cause each of us to look and act more and more like Him. Have I changed in my attitude toward others? Am I acting out in love? Do I need to be right or can I humble myself to listen to the needs of others? Do my family, friends and neighbors know Jesus? Am I praying for those not yet in His family?

    Only those things we do for the kingdom of God will travel with us into heaven. We won’t be playing harps and sitting on clouds forever. We will have so much to do and we will have the entire universe as our playground. Focus on Jesus. He will give you the answers to this life and the life to come. His perfect love is yours for eternity. Let’s put our lives into His hands and walk in hope and grace for the benefit of others. His perfect love is ours into our old age.

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He. I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you. I will sustain you and I will rescue you. Psalm 16:4

Jesus,

Teach us Your wisdom. Teach us the vital lessons we need in order to live a life of purpose. Show us what is most important to You. Help us to leave a legacy of love. Thank You for being with us as long as we live.

Amen

 

Eternal Love

 

     Has the hope and truth of eternal life changed you? When you have no fear of death, perspective on this life changes. Our fear is wiped out.

There is no fear in love. Perfect love casts out fear. 1 John 4:18a

     This perfect love came in the form of the perfect man. He took the pain and suffering of our sin unto Himself and He asks us to believe. Take these beautiful words of hope for eternal life into your very soul today and never forget them. You are heaven-bound! Death unto life is ours and heaven will be beyond anything we can hope for or imagine.

Very truly I tell you; the one who believes has eternal life. John 6:47

I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one will snatch them out of My hand. John 10:28

And this is what He promised us-eternal life. 1 John 2:25

I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know you have eternal life. 1 John 5:13

Father,

Thank You for the gift of Your Son. In His name we have eternal life. Remind us of this hope throughout our lives, through the joy and the mourning, through every season. Keep us anchored in You. We are Yours now and forevermore.

In Jesus name,

Amen

God's Love Letter

 

     I don’t think it’s possible to take in the enormity of God’s love for us. It may take until we step into eternity to realize it fully. One way to understand God’s faithful, patient, enduring, unconditional love for humanity is to read His love letter. This letter, written over thousands of years, through the power of the Holy Spirit, has been revealed progressively through the centuries.

     The Old Testament and the New work together to tell the story of the redemptive love of Jesus Christ given to save a fallen world. The more you read it, study it, and meditate on it, the more peaceful and rich life becomes. It is our plum line, our guide book, filled with lessons on how to live life. It is Jesus. He is the Word, the one sent to save.

The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14

     The Word of God brings hope and truth and light into our lives. All of it, every single word. Do not neglect it!

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide, we might have hope.  Romans 15:4

     May this Word give you peace and joy as you take on the day!

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.  Romans 15:13     

Amen!

A Forever Kind of Love

 

     Hold on to God’s love for you even in the depths. He is right there beside you. Did you know the Bible tells us that nothing, not anything, can ever separate us from Him? This life will be done one day. And we will step into forever. Whatever today brings, joy or sorrow, doubt or hope, loneliness or fellowship, worry or confidence, Jesus is holding you up. Nothing will ever take Him away.

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, not anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.  Romans 8:37-39

Dear Lord,

These words bring such encouragement to us. Not even death will separate us from Your love. Surround us with that love and heal the hurting world around us.

In Jesus name,

Amen

A God Kind of Love

 

     I don’t know about you, but I can use some God kind of love to surround me these days. Each relationship with Jesus is unique. He knows our quirks, our faults, our personalities, our doubts and fears, our strengths and weaknesses. He loves us; each one of us, right where we are right now, this very minute.

     Sometimes we compare ourselves with each other, even with those in the body of Christ. And we think we could be more like her or him. Maybe I should pray more? Should I try to teach or sing? Why can’t I be more like her or him?

     Let Christ’s love wash over you and let it be enough. Once you are His, He will never let you go. Relax in His presence. Tell him everything on your heart. He won’t tell anyone! And He is there to help, to guide, to teach, to give you power and strength and love. His kind of love is made just for you.

     Just as each of our earthly relationships is unique, one-of-a-kind and special, so is the relationship with our Lord. Yes, we are somewhat of a dysfunctional family. There are various factions and denominations. But, if we have accepted Jesus as Lord, we are sons and daughters of the King! We are children of the most-high! We are brothers and sisters in the faith. Enjoy your relationship, just as it is, made just for you and Jesus. He chose you. You are His.

For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that He has chosen you.  1 Thessalonians 1:4

Jesus,

Thank you for loving us, each in our own way. The deep understanding, patience and kindness You give each of us cannot be measured. Meet us right where we are and show us the way forward.

Amen

Legacies of Love

 

     Is there someone you want to emulate? A parent, a friend, a movie star, or singer? Someone with tons of money, power or youth? What drives you each day? What are the motives of your heart? All questions worth pursuing.

     The older I get the more I want to be like my father-in-law, Bert, or my friend, Marcia. They represent those who pour out love even when they are suffering, even during struggles. The husband who never complains when his wife no longer recognizes him. He just loves. The friend who cares more about you than about the pain she is in. Those able to sacrifice their own agenda and their own selfish desires to do what Jesus asks.

     The apostle Paul experienced great suffering throughout his life. You can read a list of just some of what he went through in 2 Corinthians 11. Here is what he wrote from his prison cell:

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21

     And he also reminds us to rejoice always. Sounds impossible. But with God all things are possible. To show strength in suffering, sacrifice in struggles, wisdom in worry, love in loss. And maybe, just trying to be kind to everyone.

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.  Ephesians 4:31-32

When Jesus was asked, which is the greatest commandment?

Jesus replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22-38-40

     Good words to meditate on this morning. Be kind. Be compassionate. Love God. Love others. Why? Because Jesus says so. And, oh how the world needs Him.

Dear Lord,

We grumble and criticize and lash out in our human frailty. Teach us how to be kind and loving to each other. Will you show us how today? Let our lives be a legacy of love.

Amen