Tuesday, January 30, 2024

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭89:11. The heavens are Yours, the earth also is Yours; The world and all its fullness, You have founded them.


Over my lifetime I've had to borrow tools, money, even a vehicle for a short while. During my time of possession, I made sure I took good care of that which I borrowed and respected the lender by making payments on time and returned what I borrowed in good or better condition than when I borrowed it. It's what you do as a responsible person. 


Today's scripture reminds us, that everything in this world God created, and He has simply let you borrow it during your short lifetime. Everything from your home/property, children, friends/family/neighbors, church, even planet earth. As His child, He expects you to make good use of everything by having respect for your planet, raising your children in the proper way, taking care of your possessions and honor the One who lent these blessings to you. Are you doing just that? 


Maybe it's time to wash that car, fix that broken light switch, freshen up your marriage and spend some meaningful time with your children. We can all improve what's on loan to us by God. Start today by thanking God for His blessings, and ask His help to bring awareness of those things and people who need your attention. God will bless you for respecting what He's lent you during your lifetime. Blessings.

Monday, January 29, 2024

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:6‭-‬7‬

[6] Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; [7] and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.


Anxiety, it's felt by everyone and can eventually cause health issues and basically paralyze you in a state of fear. I dealt with it a lot in the workplace and it was no fun. 


One thing I started to do was pray everyday by walking around the building, first thing, and gave all my troubles to God. Did my troubles disappear? No, they still remained, But God helped me work through them with His wisdom and some miraculous workings on my behalf. 


Whatever brings you anxiety, give it to God and let Him guide you through it. Troubles will never go away on their own, but with God, all things are possible to ease your anxiety so you can keep your light shining in this dark world. He can help, let Him help you today.  And be sure to always cover your request with praise. God bless. 


Friday, January 26, 2024

 And Esau said to Jacob, “Please feed me with that same red stew, for I am weary.” But Jacob said, “Sell me your birthright as of this day”. And Jacob gave Esau bread and stew of lentils; then he ate and drank, arose, and went his way. Thus Esau despised his birthright. Genesis 25:30-31&34

 Have you ever been hungry? Not like your stomach is growling and you think you want something to eat. I’m talking about hunger, your body is weak and you know if you don’t get food in you soon, you’ll pass out. That’s just how hungry Esau was when he came in from hunting. He was starved and that warm pot of stew enticed Esau to give up his birthright. Now that’s hunger!

 Our bodies hunger for a lot of things, like love, sex, wealth, status, comfort, healing….the list is endless. People are willing to go to great lengths to satisfy that deep hunger and sadly willing to give up everything to achieve it. That is exactly how Satan works in your life. He is like a hunter in tree stand, watching and waiting for you to desire something enticing and heats up the desire to the point that you actually justify sacrificing everything. What suffers from this type of hunger satisfaction? Broken marriages, health issues, finances, reputations, and you are looked upon as an outcast. Is this really what you want for yourself?

 As you go through this day, this week, this year, your lifetime, I plead with you to use caution as you make choices in life that can have eternal impacts. Satan wants to wreck your life and he has achieved much success during people’s lowest times of life (and sometimes highest moments). Stay focused on God’s goodness and what He offers. Sex, drugs, and rock-n-roll may satisfy you in the moment, but God’s blessings last throughout eternity. Weighing the consequences of life’s choices between here and now to the future has no comparison. Sacrifice the momentary pleasures for the benefit of your health, prosperity, and status as a child of God. God will reward you in this lifetime and the one that never ends. God bless!     

 

Thursday, January 25, 2024

 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when his gory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. 1 Peter 4:12-13

 Have you ever encountered a time in your life when it seemed everything was unraveling and you had no clue what was happening? There were several occasions where I experienced this very feeling, and it was humbling, scary, and made me cry out to God, “where are you?”. And the times that this unraveling occurred, I thought I was doing things right, living by the standards of God. Can you relate?

 As a child of God, you have a target on your back and Satan has the weapons formed against you. Satan does his best to try to wreck the lives of God’s children. But, God has a plan greater than your distress and He can take the lose threads and pattern something even greater. It takes a lot of faith to trust God when everything inside you wants to question God’s faithfulness. But, looking back, I can assure you that nothing loosened is without His purpose and plan to turn a new chapter in your life.

 Whatever you are going through right now friend, may in fact be ordered by God. Although you had nothing to do with the unthreading of your pattern of life you’ve grown used to, God wants to change that pattern to grow a stronger you, a more trusting you and walk in stricter obedience and faith as He rethreads that part of your life that appears amiss. In the end, His glory will be revealed and your faith will be strengthened in the One who weaves the beautiful patterns of your life with His perfect will. God bless!

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control. Against such there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23

 Have you heard any of these statements said of someone: “they have a peace about them, they are always positive, I’ve never heard a foul word come out of their mouth, they are the humblest person, they bring light into the room”. Over my lifetime I’ve heard these and many other positive statements said about people. I’ve been blessed to know so many people with quality character traits that I desire in my life. Where do these come from and how can you (and I) develop them?

 as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who calls us by glory and virtue. 2 Peter 1:3

 Today’s verse sheds light on the source of those and many other positive qualities, by the fruit of the Spirit. God’s Holy Spirit is gifted to each of His followers. By engaging daily with His Spirit, through continual prayer, scripture reading, and walking in obedience, a transformation occurs within your mind and the Spirit’s qualities grow inside your heart. Over time, your character begins to take on the same traits as Jesus Christ. This is exactly how God wants His children to grow in the Spirit, so others can see your good works (and qualities) and yearn for what you’ve got.

 As a child of God, He is always working in your life to bring about a better you. If you don’t recognize character growth, maybe you need to spend mor time talking to God, read scripture, and be more disciplined in Godly obedience. He will bless you when you remain committed to growth and develop these positive traits. God bless!  

 

 

Tuesday, January 23, 2024

 ‭‭II Timothy‬ ‭2:19‬ Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”


As a child of God, you have two requirements: 1. Have faith in Jesus Christ and ask forgiveness of your sins. 2. Live your life according to God's will and biblical standards. Are you doing both? 


#1 is fairly simple, faith in Jesus Christ, that He made payment for your sins and asking His forgiveness. Many claim to be a Christian, yet they model their life according to their own set of standards, blatantly disregarding certain standards God records in the Bible. Some people truly believe good behavior covers their shortcomings. This is false thinking and on the day of judgment will find themselves in the category of “I never knew you, depart from Me you who practice lawlessness”. 


Eternity in Hell is an awful price to pay for not living in obedience. God sees everything from your thoughts, words, actions, and intentions. There is nothing hidden from your life that won't be exposed on your day standing in the presence of God. Start today by completely surrendering your life to Christ, seek His forgiveness, and walk closely with Him every day. Your obedience will have a Heavenly welcome, “well done, my good and faithful servant. God bless. 

Monday, January 22, 2024

 When Jesus heard it, He departed from there by boat to a deserted place by Himself. But when the multitudes heard it, they followed Him on foot from the cities. And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick. Matthew 14:13-14

 Have you ever experienced something so tragic that you just wanted to be left alone? Sometimes getting away from everyone and everything is good, because it allows you the opportunity to reflect, heal, and recover from whatever bad news you received. The only danger in isolation for too long of a time gives Satan an opportunity to speak lies into your mind, paralyzing you from continuing to live on.

 In today’s passage, Jesus just learned of John the Baptist’s beheading and wanted to be alone. After a short period of isolation, He looked up to see a multitude of people who needed His help, His healing, His wisdom, and most of all His loving compassion. And with that motivation, He stepped back into the crowds and began healing them. I’m sure that His compassionate work eased His mind from the loss of His dearest friend who baptized Him in the Jordan River.

 Maybe you are experiencing much grief at the loss of a loved one or the recipient of bad news and simply want to put life on hold while you digest the moment. It’s ok to do so, but don’t let that keep you from living life. Other people within the realm of your influence need you. Your light may be dim right now, but getting back into the game of life will recharge your spirit and keep you on track for God’s will and plan for your life. Don’t let your moment of sadness define the remainder of your life; there is much to live for and Jesus will help you get through this difficult time. God bless!

Sunday, January 21, 2024

 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14

 One of God’s desires is that others will see Jesus Christ living in His children by the way they interact with others, especially those outside the faith. Today’s verse presents a challenge for everyone to live in peace with all people. Jesus Christ gave us the perfect example of this verse by showing love towards others, providing grace, mercy and forgiveness towards those who needed it, and most of all He showed compassion.

 If you think about it, that’s truly a tall order, especially these days when everyone is living for themselves and have very little concern for you. I witnessed this while on the cruise ship, people going here and there, I had to frequently yield to their forward movement, otherwise I’d get run over. And sadly, it’s that way, everywhere. One of the quickest responses is anger, revenge, and even close off all communication with that person or group of people. By doing so, you also close the widow view of Jesus Christ’s character living through you!

 If you truly love God, you will find it in your heart to keep the view of Christ shining through your life by providing grace, mercy, and forgiveness to those who need it. By doing so, you continue to shine your light into this dark world; a world that needs to see the light out of their darkness. Keep yourself open and available to everyone by living in peace and holiness. God bless!

Friday, January 19, 2024

 ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭32:4‭  For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; My vitality was turned into the drought of summer.


Ever feel the weight of guilt; something you did and knew it was completely wrong? Sin has a way of putting an unnecessary burden on the child of God. I know this sounds funny, but it's like going days without a bath. No one knows of your dirtiness, but you are aware and until you bathe, you have this burning desire to wash up. 


‭‭Psalms‬ ‭32:5‬ ‭I acknowledged my sin to You, And my iniquity I have not hidden. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” And You forgave the iniquity of my sin. 


Maybe you are currently dealing with the weight of sin, and even feel too guilty to bring it to the Lord. Trust me, God desires to forgive and lift your burden of guilt and shame. You are human and no different than some of God's most devoted disciples. Even David who committed adultery and murder, was called a man after God's own heart. Today's Psalm was written by David as confession and cleansing of his wrongdoings. 


Why carry your burdens any longer. Ask for God's cleansing through the blood of Jesus Christ. Your spirit was never meant to be grounded. God bless. 


 ‭‭Romans‬ ‭8:28‬ ‭And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. 


Do you believe there is a God? If so, how do you know? For me it's very evident when you see the beautiful places of this world; the vastness of the ocean, the tall mountains, the beautiful creatures, plants and we humans. Just looking at how the body functions and creates new life provides solid proof of God's existence. 


But how does God relate to you on a personal level? 


As a Christian, you should have eyes to see God's inner workings on your behalf. That traffic light that stays green til you cross the intersection, that unexpected deposit in your bank account that covers expenses this month, the flat tire that held you up and kept you from being in the center of a fatal car wreck, or that last minute memory that helped you ace a test. There are countless, many countless opportunities to see God's goodness. But, you have to be keenly aware and be ready to acknowledge and thank God. 


The next time things fall into place, give God the credit and praise He so rightly deserves. Everything good, even the bad things, align to work together for His will and purpose in your life. 

Thursday, January 18, 2024

 ‭‭Leviticus‬ ‭13:2‬ ‭NKJV‬‬ “When a man has on the skin of his body a swelling, a scab, or a bright spot, and it becomes on the skin of his body like a leprous sore, then he shall be brought to Aaron the priest or to one of his sons the priests. 


Leprosy was considered a horrible disease back in biblical times and if diagnosed, that person was considered “unclean”. The priest was the designated person to inspect the skin and make a diagnosis. It was a terrible thing to have and people were isolated from everyone else. Leprosy still exists today and more is known about this condition, which on average 100 Americans get each year. 


There is another disease that everyone is born with, sin. It started with God's first creation, Adam and Eve, and has spread like wildfire and taken on many forms. Although we as humans may rate each sin with different severities, God views sin as the same. Yes, your sin is no less impactful than a murderer. Let that sink in for a moment. Kinda puts things in perspective. 


What can you do about your sin? See the Master Physician, Jesus Christ. He lived on earth 33 years and was sinless. Only by the power and strength of God was He able to withstand the temptations Satan presented. And by His grace, mercy, and Holy Spirit, you can battle sin and come clean of this wicked disease that God can't even look upon. Jesus' blood paid your sin debt and He's ready to heal your transgressions. 


If you haven't paid Him a visit, why not do so now so you can discover the healing power of His forgiveness and strength to overcome that very thing that isolates you from God. 

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

 ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭32:8‬ I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.


Between 300 - 900 miles overhead satellites orbit the earth, relaying radio and TV broadcast around the globe. Another important function of these orbital machines is views of earth, detailed views of the topography, roads, forests, and weather systems that help us prepare for tomorrow and even weeks and months into the future. Without these satellites, we'd see no further past today. 


Thankfully for the child of God, we have available to us God's eye who sees into our future, even at the moment of our death and every minute in-between. It would be nice to know what our future holds, but God wants us to trust Him in this moment. For you see, each moment is preparing you for all your tomorrows. If you knew what you'd be doing a year from now, you'd make choices that might misdirect your path to that point in time, totally missing God's blessings of today. 


Concerned about your future? Live in this moment by trusting God's plan. He's preparing you for your lifelong journey on earth, all the way into eternity. God bless. 

Monday, January 15, 2024

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭3:2‭-‬3‬

[2] And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; [3] but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, ‘You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.’ ”


Today's two verses documented the beginning of sin. Eve found herself in a compromising situation, talking to the Devil himself. Well as you know, she failed the debate and succumbed to the lies of Satan. The fact is, she didn't even know who Satan was, and thought he must know something, I mean how many snakes do you know who talk. 


I sit here chuckling as I type; I've known many “snakes” of Satan who talk and they can be quite convincing. Therein lies the danger….talking to those lying snakes. There are certain people you'll meet in life who have no moral compass and will misguide you into following their path that leads to a destructive life. The best thing you can do is not engage in conversation with them. Avoid them at all cost, because their dark spiritual ways have powers you have very little strength to fight against. 


‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7:17‬ 

[17] Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.  


So how to overcome or avoid these evil talking snakes? How they live their life is one quick reference you can use to filter whom you converse with. If their life displays a pattern of purposeful, deliberate sin, you can be assured their compas of morality is off. Another shield is fervent prayer, asking God to shield you from talking snakes and have spiritual vision to see through their smokescreen of deception. 

God wants to keep you safe from the pitfalls of Satan. Trust Him when venturing out on the battlefield of life. God bless.

Sunday, January 14, 2024

James‬ ‭1:2‬ My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,


My wife and I recently traveled to Mobile Alabama for a 6 day Carnival cruise. If you've ever traveled to Mobile, you know it's the most boring drive, and makes it feel like forever getting there. By the time we got to our hotel, I just wanted to get to my room and chill. After waiting a bit to check in I had a few hiccups with the front desk, ended up at the wrong room with key not working. Got that worked out and finally in the room. Whew, I was a bit ill. Said and thought things out of character. After a good night's rest, I had a better attitude and need of God's forgiveness for not passing this test to be joyful in the moment of a trial. 


‭‭James‬ ‭1:3‬ knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 


Patience, we all need it, especially as a child of God. Patience prevents your behavior and thoughts from going south, which mine did at check in. Satan had fun poking me, and I should have prayed him off. Have you been there? I bet you have, and it's something you look back with regret and damage control. 


‭‭James‬ ‭1:4‬ But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.


Lesson for all of us. Next time you, and myself, feel patience being tested, praise God in the moment and pray off the culprit, so you can maintain character and wake the next day without regret, knowing you passed that test of your faith and patience. God bless. 

Saturday, January 13, 2024

 ‭‭II Chronicles‬ ‭4:11‬ ‭NKJV‬‬ Then Huram made the pots and the shovels and the bowls. So Huram finished doing the work that he was to do for King Solomon for the house of God: 


Ever feel like you don't have much to offer God? Maybe you aren't talented with speaking, fixing things, or financially capable of giving much. Satan does his best to make Christians feel insignificant and helpless. Therefore many who attend church sit idly by and let others do the work of the church. 


‭‭Romans‬ ‭12:6‬ ‭Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let  us  use  them: 


Huram made pots, bowls, and shovels for his church. Doesn't sound very significant, but without those tools, there wouldn't be bowls for food, pots to cook in and shovels to stir the coals of fire. Romans 12:6 says everyone is gifted by God with some talent to serve Him. That everyone includes you friend. 


Ask God to open your eyes to the needs of your church and where He'd use you in the most effective way possible given the talents you possess, even if it's taking out the trash and sweeping floors. God's house needs workers in all areas, and He's got a specific job just waiting for you to accept. Then watch as God blesses you for being an obedient servant to the King of Kings. God bless. 


Wednesday, January 10, 2024

 Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God. Psalm 42:11

 One of the necessary essentials in a soldier’s first aid pack is a blood clotting solution to stop the wound from bleeding out. Many lives have been saved by this miracle medicine and soldiers are alive to share their stories of survival on the battlefield.

 As a child of God, you too are on the battlefield. Satan does everything in his power to weaken your faith by causing personal injury to our mind, soul, and even your body. If he can distract you from your focus on God, he can turn your spiritual wounds into rivers of depression, regret, anger, and feeling worthless.

 Thankfully God has an antidote for your injury, praising God! When you praise God, you literally stop bleeding out the joy and peace He provides, and your focus turns to Him. He loves praise and when received, He blesses you with His presence in the form of healing, forgiveness, hope, and restores that confidence needed when facing the enemy of fear.  

 Life has its difficulties and sometimes brings pain to your soul. Don’t let it bleed out the goodness of God from your life. Trust God and give Him the praise He so rightly deserves. It’s the best antidote to life’s painful moments. God bless!

Tuesday, January 9, 2024

 Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness. 1 John 3:4

 Back in the early part of my career as a park ranger, one of the older rangers I worked with was a retired Alabama State Trooper. He perfectly fit the mold of a State Trooper. Although his park ranger uniform differed from his Trooper uniform, he wore it proudly and that “smokey bear” hat was the perfect fit. He shared with me a story about a trip he took from his home down to Florida for business. He hated the long drive, so he sped up to 90 mph to get there. Yes, he was in a State Trooper car, but he felt privileged because of his law enforcement status. Was he breaking the law by driving so fast? Yes! Thankfully he didn’t get in a wreck, or injure someone else by his dangerous driving.

 As a child of God, do you feel privileged to sin? The blood of Jesus Christ covers your sins: past, present, and future, but does His blood cover those purposeful acts you know are not right in the eyes of God? Today’s verse in 1 John 3:4 says that whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness. Just like that state trooper breaking the speed limit, you are just as wrong in your belief that you can live in purposeful sin without angering God.

 Whoever abides in Him does not sin. Whoever sins has neither seen Him nor known Him. 1 John 3:6

 Verse 6 digs deep in conviction, and it should. If you truly knew Jesus Christ in what He did on Calvary’s cross to save you, your intentions to avoid sin at all cost would resonate in and through your life. 1 John 3:5 says: And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin. If Jesus Christ came to take away the sin of mankind, then how can you feel comfortable continuing in deliberate sin? Think about it!

 There is no free pass to detour from Godly obedience! If you find yourself in this category, maybe it’s time to re-evaluate your position in Jesus Christ and come to the realization that you need to completely repent and receive all of Him in every area of your life. Once you truly come to Christ and receive His free gift of salvation, you’ll have the power to overcome any temptation.

 You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 1 John 4:4

Monday, January 8, 2024

 Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.” John 13:8

 During the “last supper” Jesus had with His disciples, He showed His humbleness by washing their feet. Peter, one of Jesus closest disciples, saw that task as something beneath Jesus and didn’t want His act of love and service shown to himself. Jesus made clear that unless He washed Peter’s feet, he would have no part of Jesus Christ. Within a short moment, Peter came to his senses and permitted Jesus to do this task.

 There are areas of your life that you might feel Jesus should have no part in, yet He made the ultimate sacrifice to bring unity between God and mankind..that’s you and me. You are loved by God and His desire is to wash your life with the blood of Jesus Christ, cleansing you from all the dirt and grime of sin you experience in this world. Are you willing to receive His love?

 Unless you come clean through the purification of sins through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, you will have no part in fellowship with God and spend eternity in Heaven. I encourage you to repent, ask for God’s forgiveness of your sins, believe that Jesus Christ died for your sins and receive Him today. Unless you do, Heaven and His presence will not go with you in this life and throughout all eternity. Come clean through the precious blood of Jesus Christ today! God bless!

Saturday, January 6, 2024

 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

 “Yep, he’s too far gone.” Have you ever thought that about someone who was consumed with wrong doing and knew there was simply no hope for that person? All their wickedness and continual evil deems them undeserving of God’s forgiveness. Maybe that person is you.

 As I thought about this verse, God reminded me the story of Lazarus, who fell ill and died. His family requested Jesus to come heal him, but Jesus delayed and when he arrived, Lazarus had been dead for four days. Through the power of God, Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. What an awe-inspiring sight to see Lazarus come back to life. He was dead, but God had the power to bring life back into his body.

 Friend. You might feel your sin has buried you, making you feel spiritually dead. I can assure you that the same Jesus who raised Lazarus from the dead has the power and forgiveness to bring your spirit back to life in Jesus Christ. Today’s verse in 1 John, makes it clear that if you confess your sins, He is faithful and just to forgive you and cleanse you from all your unrighteousness.

 Maybe you haven’t connected with God in a long while and sin has consumed your life. If you are still breathing in this life, you still have time to turn from your sinful ways, ask for His forgiveness, and be restored back into fellowship with God. Hope is not lost for those who yearn to seek after the will of God. Make confession today and find new life in your mortal body and soul. God bless!

 

Wednesday, January 3, 2024

 You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. John 15:14

 Free will is a privilege God gives to mankind. How mankind uses that privilege determines the blessings he receives from God. As your creator, God desires to have a personal relationship with you. Just like a friend, He longs for you to develop an everlasting friendship that sustains the test of time.

 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. John 15:7

 The Son of God, Jesus Christ, called those who followed Him a friend. Adhering to the voice of God and His will for your life is the hallmark of a loyal friend. Nothing God asks of you doesn’t come without His help. God’s Holy Spirit goes with each of God’s followers and through His Holy Spirit, you can do any and all things in life that bring honor to Him.

 …as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who calls us by glory and virtue. 2 Peter 1:3

 Why friend God? Because He will provide you everything you need in life. Your view of life will have greater meaning and purpose. The structure of your life will continue to develop into the image and characteristics of Jesus Christ. Nothing that happens in your life, as a friend of Jesus, will ever be faced alone. God goes with His followers, and just like a friend He will never abandon you along your journey in this life. Find a friend in Jesus Christ today!

 

Monday, January 1, 2024

 All the rivers run into the sea, yet the sea is not full; to a place from which the rivers come. Ecclesiastes 1:7

 Every time I go to the Smokey Mountains, I’m just awed by the abundance of creeks and rivers flowing everywhere we go, and ponder how this much water could be produced from these mountains. I know it’s all God, but it’s still a mystery to me how it all works.

 Today’s verse speaks of this great mystery. Have you ever thought about it?

Genesis 1:9-10 states that God spoke the waters and dry land into existence and that each has its own boundary. It’s also a mystery to think that the God of this universe, who created land, seas, plants, and creatures of this earth also created you in His image (So God created man in His own image in the image of God He created him, male and female, He created them. Genesis 1:27). What’s truly fascinating is everything has order, like the seas don’t overfill from the rivers and how human life begins as one egg.

 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

 There are some things in life you’ll never understand. Maybe what’s been happening in your life is a mystery and you wonder how you’ll manage in this new year. Trust that the God, who created you and this universe we live with all it’s order, has a specific plan for your life. Trusting Him every day is essential to building trust in God and that He has your best interest at heart. No matter what happens, just know it’s ordered by Him and you are on the right path for God’s blessings and spiritual growth. God bless!