Thank You for Joy! The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. — Psalm 19:8 Dear Jesus, Sometimes I crave the unbridled joy of childhood. I remember how it felt to pedal my bike fast, wind whipping through my…
Sin: Temptation, Red Flags, and a Way Out
In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with the king’s men and the whole Israelite army… But David remained in Jerusalem. One evening David got up from his bed and walked around the roof of the palace. From the roof he saw a woman bathing. The…
A Domino Effect
On the third day Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the palace, in front of the king’s hall. The king was sitting on his royal throne in the hall, facing the entrance. When he saw Queen Esther, he was pleased with her and held out to her the…
God’s Words of Life on Grandchildren
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…