From everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear Him, and His righteousness with their children’s children — with those who keep His covenant and remember to obey His precepts. — Psalm 103:17-18 May the Lord bless you from Zion; may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your…
Please, God
Maybe your dad was always there for you. Maybe he took you school-supply shopping, hugged you when you cried, and told that ex of yours that he or she messed with the wrong kid. Or maybe your dad was deeply flawed. Maybe, through his words and actions or his silence and neglect, you learned that…
The Scriptures Teach Us a Better Way
The Word of God is a lifeline for every Christian. Paul instructed his readers that the Word of God will teach us as well as provide encouragement and hope. The psalmist wrote, My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to Your Word. — Psalm 119:28 NIV The Bible is the primary way God…
One More Powerful
Luke 3:15-18 When John began to preach in the wilderness, crowds flocked to see Him. He baptized those who confessed their sins but rebuked the pious religious leaders for their self-reliance (Matthew 3:7-10). After 400 years without a prophet, people rushed to John, wondering if he might be the Christ, the one for whom they…
Believing and Listening
The Best Answer to Prayer The word of the Lord came to [Abraham]… “A son who is your own flesh and blood will be your heir.” He took him outside and said, “Look up at the sky and count the stars — if indeed you can count them.” Then He said to him, “So shall…
Expectation
When they cry out to the LORD because of their oppressors, He will send them a savior and defender, and He will rescue them. — Isaiah 19:20 Expectation. What’s more exciting than to eagerly await a person or an event? Perhaps it’s Christmas, a new baby, loved ones we haven’t seen for far too long,…
Sharing Holy Christmas Joy
A Legacy of Joy The memory of one who lived with integrity brings joy. — Proverbs 10:7 VOICE We’re in that season when families travel great distances to reconnect, share long conversations, eat meals, carry out traditions, and reminisce about relatives that the little ones never got to meet. Maybe your grandfather passed away years…
He Entered the Mess
He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was obviously pregnant by this time. And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born; and she gave birth to her first child, a Son. She wrapped Him in a blanket and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room…
Giving Thanks for Blessings
A Reflex Action The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my Savior. — 2 Samuel 22:2–3, 2 Samuel 22:47 We are concerned about a person or situation. We pray…
Hannah’s Request
Hannah prayed and said: “My heart rejoices in the LORD… I rejoice in Your salvation.” — 1 Samuel 2:1 When have you really wanted something? We all know what it feels like to long for something desperately, for something, such as a life-giving job, a significant other, a repaired relationship, a sense of purpose, or…