One man’s actions can cause untold destruction for an eternity. Adam’s original sin doomed all of mankind to God’s judgment. Romans 5:19 provides us hope that we can escape the judgment we deserve. “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.” God, in his infinite love for us, provided a way to escape His punishment. Jesus willingly gave His life for you and me. Let’s remember to give thanks for the gift he gave us! God bless you.
Our Most Valuable Possession
Sadly, we live in a world where most people value things: houses, cars, large investment portfolios. They just don’t understand what a trap that is! Luke 12:15 tells us the words of Jesus: “And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.” The most valuable thing we possess is the relationship we have with Christ! Let’s value that above all other things. God bless you today and always.
We Have Hope
Have you ever heard the expression, “All hope is lost?” The word hope appears 16 times in the book of Job, and most of those are about how Job had lost hope. He said in 7:6, “O remember that my life is wind: mine eye shall no more see good (hope). Job faced many difficult things. Too bad Job didn’t have the New Testament. When we’re not sure of God’s plan for us, 1 Peter 1:3 tells us we have a living hope; 1:13 tells us to hope until the end; and 1:21 tells us that our faith and hope should be in the Lord. When we have tough times and feel sorry for ourselves, let’s all remember who has us in His hands. May He bless you and carry you through the tough times!
Nothing to be afraid of!
It is probably safe to say that many people are fearful about something, whether it is fear of the dark, spiders or snakes, being alone, flying, and maybe even of dying as a non-believer, facing eternity in darkness, separated from God. It is how we face our fears that makes the difference. Franklin Roosevelt said, “we have nothing to fear but fear itself.” As believers we have the ability to set our fears aside by reading scripture. Isaiah 41:13 says, “For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not I will help thee.” With God holding our hand, what do we have to be afraid of, amen? God bless you!
A Field Manual for Life
During my time in the Army, I learned a great many things by using field manuals. These manuals taught everything from how to march and salute to how to survive in combat. These manuals were written to save time and to help keep me from making the same mistakes others had made before me. We have the greatest field manual ever written, the bible! It instructs us in every facet of our life. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” I pray that this manual is used every day by all of us. God bless you!
A Beacon of Light
We have a beacon to light our way in this new year. It’s God’s word! When the road ahead is especially dark, it’s a floodlight for us; when we need comfort, it’s a calming table lamp. Psalm 119:105 says: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” His word can be like sunshine for us on dreary day. It can also be a lighthouse when we share it with others! When we spend time in it, we ourselves become radiant. Let’s try to make it a point this year to dwell in the light His word provides and share it with others. I pray his light will shine upon you this year!
Hope for the Future
It’s almost New Years 2025. It’s a time for new beginnings, new plans, and new hopes. Almost everyone looks for something hopeful. Micah 7:7 says: Therefore I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me.” For this upcoming year, let’s hope for something and someone meaningful, let’s look for the Lord. God bless you!
Help and Hope
Sadly, even in the most joyous of seasons, there are many who may be alone or depressed. We need to pray for those who are experiencing loss this Christmas season: relational, financial, spiritual, and physical. We have to let people know that HE is The Wonderful Counselor and Prince of Peace. Let’s remember that there is something to look forward to: Luke 2:10 tells us, “And an angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” Let’s pass that good news along, amen? God bless you!
Know Peace!
As we approach Christmas, we see a world in chaos. Instead of focusing on the birth of our Savior, some might be tempted to be concerned about the state of the world, but I think we can be focused on what is found in scripture. We have nothing to be concerned about! John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let be afraid.” I am reminded of a once popular bumper sticker that said: “No Jesus, no peace, know Jesus, know peace.” I pray you have peace during this season, God bless you!
Bread and Water
I have heard it said that prisoners used to only receive bread and water for nourishment. There are also people in the world who might only have bread and water as their daily subsistence. As Christians, we are supplied with all we need to survive. John 6:35 tells us: “And Jesus said unto them, “I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” That sounds like a very fine meal to me. God bless you!
