Ezekiel 36:25-27

Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols. And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. And I will put my Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations. NLT

Heavenly Father,
You are the Maker of indescribable gifts. I hurry into Your holy presence unashamed to admit that I'm in desperate need of a new Christmas heart.

Consumed with materialism, I've become hard pressed like a cheap plastic toy that's heartless, mindless, and lifeless. Unscrupulous marketing convinces me to join the frenzy of panicked shoppers in the mad fight to buy the latest gizmos and gadgets. Glossy magazines persuade me to perfectly deck the halls of my home, and host impressive holiday parties. Santa Claus has replaced You as the father of Christmas. Caught up in commercialism, my heart has become greedy, hard, and selfish. By worshipping the false images of Christmas, I've forgotten the reason for the season.

Please wash away the waste from Christmases past. When I'm clean, lay Your compassionate Christmas heart over mine, making a tender new heart for me. Shaped like Your Son and full of Your Spirit, my perspective will radically change. Suddenly, the joy of all the holiday fury will fade beneath the pure pleasure and divine excitement of making a permanent difference in the lives of others.

With an incorruptible new Christmas heart full of Your beautiful Christmas Spirit I will cheerfully share the heart of Christ with difficult people who cause division and discord. Thinking of You, I'll tenderly touch them with Your amazing love allowing them to feel the warmth of Your extravagant kindness and the softness of Your extravagant grace in my words and actions. Looking beyond their stony, stubborn hearts, I'll have a good-natured harmonious visit with them to glorify the Christ of Christmas. Amen.

What's your heart look like this Christmas? What are you worshipping? If you want to have an incredibly different kind of Christmas, ask God, with great expectation, to give You a heart like His this Christmas. When you are focused on the things that matter to His heart, your perspective of Christmas will be radically changed. The presents and people won't matter; His purpose will be the only thing that's important.

Will you touch prickly people for Him with your kind words and gracious actions in order to show them the heart of Christ? This is your opportunity to shine in the darkness like the radiant Christmas Star!

Matthew 2:10-11

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 and of incense and of myrrh.

Holy Child of God-
I have seen Your splendor and majesty brilliantly beaming down from heaven on high. Under the glowing streams of glory is the wonderful gift of worship. In awe of Your radiant reflection, I joyfully fall on my knees in adoration to worship You in the splendor of holiness. I praise Your great and awesome name!

Rose of Bethlehem
Son of God Most High
Light of the World
Living Word
Messiah
Emmanuel
Wonderful Counselor
Everlasting Father
Prince of Peace
Lover of My Soul
King of Kings
Lord of Lords
And, my Best Friend

You are the worthy of the best I have to offer.
Generously, I give you the tarnished gold of my life. Purify me. Remove the grime, and I will glitter and glimmer becoming incredibly valuable to You. Selflessly, surrendered to You my King, I will sparkle when I sincerely worship You with a life of service.

Freely, I offer You my fragrance frankincense of faithful prayers flowing heavenward. The sweet sound of the song in my heart will be a pleasant perfume of praise to You, O Sovereign God.

Boldly, I bring to You the bitter myrrh of my brokenness. In the shining strength and splendor of Your sanctuary, You graciously accept the sacrifice of my suffering and shame, restoring my righteousness with heavenly healing.

All I really want this Christmas is to worship You with all my soul and strength like the star-guided strangers. After a long strenuous journey through darkness, I have found You in the home of my heart. Now I want to open the glowing streams of glory, take out the wonderful gift of worship, and triumphantly sing in exultation, "Glory to God, all glory in the highest." Hallelujah! Amen.

If You have found the gift of the Christ Child in your heart, will you bow down and worship him? Give Him the tarnished gold of your life. He can make it beautiful. Present him the sweet scent of your prayers and praise. Offer him the bitterness of your suffering and sorrow. Then find someone who needs the heart of Christmas and offer them the Child of Christmas.

Matthew 2:10-11
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 and of incense and of myrrh.

Holy Child of God-
I have seen Your splendor and majesty brilliantly beaming down from heaven on high. Under the glowing streams of glory is the wonderful gift of worship. In awe of Your radiant reflection, I joyfully fall on my knees in adoration to worship You in the splendor of holiness. I praise Your great and awesome name!

Rose of Bethlehem
Son of God Most High
Light of the World
Living Word
Messiah
Emmanuel
Wonderful Counselor
Everlasting Father
Prince of Peace
Lover of My Soul
King of Kings
Lord of Lords
And, my Best Friend

You are the worthy of the best I have to offer.
Generously, I give you the tarnished gold of my life. Purify me. Remove the grime, and I will glitter and glimmer becoming incredibly valuable to You. Selflessly, surrendered to You my King, I will sparkle when I sincerely worship You with a life of service.

Freely, I offer You my fragrance frankincense of faithful prayers flowing heavenward. The sweet sound of the song in my heart will be a pleasant perfume of praise to You, O Sovereign God.

Boldly, I bring to You the bitter myrrh of my brokenness. In the shining strength and splendor of Your sanctuary, You graciously accept the sacrifice of my suffering and shame, restoring my righteousness with heavenly healing.

All I really want this Christmas is to worship You with all my soul and strength like the star-guided strangers. After a long strenuous journey through darkness, I have found You in the home of my heart. Now I want to open the glowing streams of glory, take out the wonderful gift of worship, and triumphantly sing in exultation, "Glory to God, all glory in the highest." Hallelujah! Amen.

If You have found the gift of the Christ Child in your heart, will you bow down and worship him? Give Him the tarnished gold of your life. He can make it beautiful. Present him the sweet scent of your prayers and praise. Offer him the bitterness of your suffering and sorrow. Then find someone who needs the heart of Christmas and offer them the Child of Christmas.

Hope For The Holidays

Luke 2:15-18
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 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.

God of Glory,
May my response to the Good News that You have been born to bring peace on earth be like that of the shepherds who hastily left everything they were doing and sought the Christ child. They didn't wait for a more convenient time, until their shift was over, or a replacement arrived; instead, they made it a priority and went immediately. In the midst of shopping, decorating, and entertaining help me to seek You first because Your Word says that those who seek You find You when they seek You with all their heart. You are the everlasting Gift of Christmas. When You trim the home of my heart with the twinkling lights of Your love, those I entertain this Christmas will notice my inward peace and genuine joy.

Like the shepherds, I want to see You lying in the manger. With my mind's eye focused on You instead of the holiday hustle and bustle, I'll notice the unending length of Your amazing grace streaming down from heaven into the hollow of my dark, damp, and dirty heart. Mesmerized by Your infinite mercy, I'll bow down and adore You allowing You to light up my life so that it reflects the wonders of Your love.

After witnessing the wonderful new birth of Christ in the manger of my own heart, like the shepherds, I'll eagerly spread the Good News wherever I go this Christmas, leading prickly people to the peace, joy, and hope of Christmas - Jesus, Your own dear Son - for the glory, honor and fame of Your name. Amen.

I want to challenge you to take time over the next three days to STOP, DROP everything and seek the Child of Christmas. Read and re-read the Christmas Story as told in Luke 1 and 2 until the Holy Spirit shows you a fresh revelation of God's glory. Then worship and adore Him.

If you seek Him first, none of the other presents will matter. He is the only lasting Gift, and the only Gift people need this Christmas. Having spent time with Him, instead of noticing your neatly decorated home, people will notice your newly adorned heart. Then, when you entertain family and friends, and prickly people get under your skin (and someone will) you will be able to show them God's infinite grace and love - the heart of Christmas, Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.

Merry Christmas!

Go Tell It on the Mountain
John W. Work, Jr. (1872-1925)
Refrain

Go, tell it on the mountain,
Over the hills and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain,
That Jesus Christ is born.

While shepherds kept their watching
Over silent flocks by night
Behold throughout the heavens
There shone a holy light.

Refrain

The shepherds feared and trembled,
When lo! above the earth,
Rang out the angels chorus
That hailed the Savior's birth.

Refrain

Down in a lowly manger
The humble Christ was born
And God sent us salvation
That blessèd Christmas morn.

Refrain

Hope For The Holidays

Luke 2:8-14
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 of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths 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,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

God of Glory,
It is so like You to suddenly show up in the most unlikely places to the most unexpected people in a manner that is utterly unpredictable. Instead of showing up to the Pharisees or the pious, You appeared to a bunch of brawny, broad-shouldered shepherds who lived in the wild and battled the beasts. These rough and rugged men were petrified by the powerful light of Your presence. Sheer fear seized their troubled minds! But, in the light was good news! The promised, hoped-for Savior of the world, the Messiah, had arrived in the promised city. Out of the pitch black night came the paralyzing light from a choir of angels singing praises of Your promised peace on earth.

O Lord, what hope this gives me at Christmas time! You still make divine visits to the most improbable people camped out in the most unbelievable places in a manner that is totally unpredictable. When the terrifying light of Your glory surrounds our messy and mundane lives, we have no reason to be afraid because there is perfect peace in Your presence. With You, we can stand in the light and live free from shame, fear, ridicule, rejection, pain, suffering and sorrow. During the impenetrable nighttime of the soul, You leave us with the good and priceless gift of peace - peace of heart and mind. Hallelujah! Thank You, Jesus. Amen.

The psalmist says, "For the angel of the Lord is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him." NLT Psalm 34:7

There is an angel in God's presence telling us to not be afraid, offering us the priceless peace of God - not the peace of the world, but God's peace. What is God's peace? Jesus tells us in John 14:27 "I am leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid." NLT

If you are in a dark and frightening place this Christmas, be still and let the peace of God's presence surround you.

While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
Words: Na­hum Tate, 1700
Music: Christmas, George F. Han­del, 1728

While shepherds watched their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around,
And glory shone around.

"Fear not!" said he, for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind.
"Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind
To you and all mankind.

"To you, in David's town, this day
Is born of David's line
A Savior, who is Christ the Lord,
And this shall be the sign,
And this shall be the sign.

"The heavenly Babe you there shall find
To human view displayed,
All meanly wrapped in swathing bands,
And in a manger laid,
And in a manger laid."

Thus spake the seraph and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels praising God on high,
Who thus addressed their song,
Who thus addressed their song:

"All glory be to God on high,
And to the Earth be peace;
Good will henceforth from Heaven to men
Begin and never cease,
Begin and never cease!"

Hope for the Holidays

Isaiah 35:1-4
Even the wilderness and desert will be glad in those days.
The wasteland will rejoice and blossom with spring crocuses.
Yes, there will be an abundance of flowers
and singing and joy!
The deserts will become as green as the mountains of Lebanon,
as lovely as Mount Carmel or the plain of Sharon.
There the Lord will display his glory,
the splendor of our God.
With this news, strengthen those who have tired hands,
and encourage those who have weak knees.
Say to those with fearful hearts,
"Be strong, and do not fear,
for your God is coming to destroy your enemies.
He is coming to save you." NLT

God,
What precious hope You gave to Your captive people when they were wandering in the dead, dry desert of despair! Help was on the way! Suffering and sorrow would be swallowed up by a Savior! Joy was coming, and all of heaven and nature would sing! Blessed be the name of the Lord!

700 long years later, Jesus Christ, their Blessed Hope, was born to lead the world out of the wasteland and into the prosperity of Your everlasting presence. And, that Hope is alive for us today! Blessed assurance!

You're well aware of the barren wasteland we're living in. The global physical, mental and spiritual anguish of Your people is mind boggling to us, but it isn't to You. Many of the problems we face don't have a good prognosis. Indeed, the world is in an uproar and people are fainting from terror, apprehensive of what is coming, as You shake us with the power of heaven!

Feeble and fainthearted, we can be encouraged! Jesus Christ, Your own dear Son, that precious babe born 2000 years ago, who suffered, died, arose, and ascended into heaven is coming back, and possibly quite soon, in glory and splendor to finish the great work He began long ago. The wilderness and wastelands are eagerly awaiting His arrival! The badlands will burst into blossom and become a colorful choir of crocuses! Even the hills and the mountains will declare His majesty!

This is the reason we rejoice! Our strength will be renewed when Christ comes to rule the world in truth and grace! Joy to the world! The Savior reigns!

Show me a hopeless believer who is paralyzed with problems or frozen in fear. I will pick them up, and remind them of the wonders of Your love and Your never ending grace that was, and is, and is to come because of Jesus our Savior! Amen.

What this world needs is a Savior who will rescue and restore it! That Hope came with the birth of Christ, and is alive today for those who believe. And, Hope is coming when Christ returns!

If you have Hope, you are blessed beyond belief! Give someone the Hope you have this holiday season. Life is hard, and people need Hope!

Joy to the World
Words: Isaac Watts, 1719
Music: Lowell Mason, 1848

Joy to the world, the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven, and heaven, and nature sing.


Joy to the world, the Savior reigns!
Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.


No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as, the curse is found.


He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders, of His love.

Hope for the Holidays

Isaiah 51:12, 21, 22
I, even I, am he who comforts you.
Therefore hear this, you afflicted one,
made drunk, but not with wine.
This is what your Sovereign LORD says,
your God, who defends his people:
See, I have taken out of your hand
the cup that made you stagger;
from that cup, the goblet of my wrath,
you will never drink again. NIV

John 14:16
Jesus said, "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever." KJV

God,
Not much has changed in the past 2700 years. Just as the hopeless Israelites, held in captivity forgot who You were, we tend to do the same today.

Like the Israelites we have overdosed on the paralyzing potion of fear, scrupulously blended and served to us by that smooth-talker Satan who is bent on slaying our sweet spirits. Under his influence, we live in constant terror of losing everything we have because of chaotic world conditions. With the good life crashing down, an impending international crisis, and concern that our children are desensitized to immorality and injustice, we're in a stupor worried that no one will lead us out of the mess. Beaten down by dread and discouragement, we've willingly fainted in the streets of despair and allowed the Devil to rub our faces in the dirt and walk all over us. Forgive us, O Lord!

As You promise, look on us with compassion and awaken us from this awful nightmare! This is not the dream You had for us! By Your perfect love, take from our hand the dreadful cup of fear that's making us stagger. It's time for Your Church to get up, come clean, and wrap themselves in the unending Comfort of the Holy Spirit. United in love and dressed in the strong garments of splendor - compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience - it's time for us to stop worrying about the things we can't control and start parading through town, picking up people, and joyfully proclaiming the Good News: The Comforter has come!

Show me a hopeless believer who has fainted under the influence of fear. I will immediately stoop down, pick them up, and offer them hope this holiday season to magnify Your Almighty name. Amen.

You won't have to look far to see someone you can pick up! A kind word, a warm smile, and a gentle handshake or hug can easily comfort someone in captivity.

One Sunday I went Christmas caroling in a retirement community. Like the rest of the world, my life is extra busy at this time of year, and I went begrudgingly. But, it didn't take long for my demeanor to change. Just singing lifted up spirits. Before long, I found myself striking up a conversation with an elderly man. He was thrilled to show and tell me about all his beautiful music boxes while the rest of my group moved on.

Catching up with them a few minutes later, I found myself in front a precious old lady who couldn't bend over. With a tear in her eye, she began mouthing the words. My eye drifted from her to the newspaper lying on the floor by her door. Walking over to her, my friend gave her a big hug while I stooped to pick up the paper. The dear lady sobbed in my friend's arms. Her 90 year old aunt had just past away and she was overwhelmed with sorrow. We prayed with her while the rest of our group moved on.

On the next floor, we encountered a joyful old woman with a great big smile. I complimented her on her pretty smile. And she said, "My husband died 36 years ago and I am so lonely. I make myself get up every day, and I paste this smile on my face no matter how I feel." Bless her heart! I stayed and chatted with her while the rest of the group moved on.

Finally, we stopped near the door of a disabled young man. In his wheelchair, he came to the door with one of the most beautiful birds I had ever seen. While the group sang, he was delighted to show the youngsters in our group the various tricks his pet parrot could perform.

It's amazing that a group of 6 adults and a bunch of rambunctious, unruly kids, could entertain so many people in one hour, and that I could personally pick up four of them by smiling, asking a simple question, and taking time to listen.

The Comforter Has Come
Words: Frank Bottome, 1890Music: William J. Kirkpatrick
O spread the tidings 'round, wherever man is found,Wherever human hearts and human woes abound;Let ev'ry Christian tongue proclaim the joyful sound:The Comforter has come!

Refrain
The Comforter has come,
the Comforter has come!
The Holy Ghost from Heav'n,
the Father's promise giv'n;
O spread the tidings 'round,
wherever man is found-
The Comforter has come!

The long, long night is past,
the morning breaks at last,
And hushed the dreadful wail
and fury of the blast,
As o'er the golden hills
the day advances fast!
The Comforter has come!

Refrain

Lo, the great King of kings,
with healing in His wings,
To ev'ry captive soul
a full deliverance brings;
And through the vacant cells
the song of triumph rings;
The Comforter has come!

Refrain

O boundless love divine!
How shall this tongue of mine
To wond'ring mortals tell
the matchless grace divine-
That I, a child of hell,
should in His image shine!
The Comforter has come!

Refrain

Sing till the echoes fly
above the vaulted sky,
And all the saints above
to all below reply,
In strains of endless love,
the song that ne'er will die:
The Comforter has come!

Refrain

Hope For The Holidays

John 10:10
Jesus said, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

God,
Your Word is the Way, the Truth and the Life I've always longed for. In this age of deception, the bright light of Your Word cuts through the solid shadow of darkness and shines the way to everlasting hope and happiness.

Just as Satan seduced Eve thousands of years ago in the Garden, and robbed her of the carefree life You intended for her, he's still ferociously working to dupe and destroy Your masterpieces today. The old charmer convinced us that we deserve all the pleasantries this world has to offer. He persuaded us that we could afford bigger homes and fill them with piles of possessions purchased on credit. Life is good. Live high. Buy now. Pay later. We're entitled.

The Master of Lies, has set us in a fear-tinged frenzy, resulting in financial failure that's slain our spirits and shattered our dreams. He's the conjurer who's twisted our perception and perverted Your plans for us. But, You O Lord, sent Your Son into this murky, mess 2000 years ago to rescue us from the spell of death, and give us a vibrant new life. Hallelujah! Thank You, Jesus.

Fully alive, we're possessed with enigmatic energy and expected to pick up others who are dying a slow painful death in the Devil's Dungeon of Despair. Please open my eyes to see someone who's been ripped off of life, slain in their spirit, and devoured by the thief in the night. For the glory of Your name, I'll lead them to Christ, the only way to everlasting life, hope and happiness this holiday season. Amen.

All around us sad souls have been spiritually slain by Satan. He wants nothing more than to rip people off of the rich life God intended for them. Open your eyes and look around for someone you can offer the hope of life to this Christmas. Then, go lead them to Christ, the Giver of Life.

Hope For The Holidays

Hosea 11:1
"When Israel was a child, I loved him,
and out of Egypt I called my son.

Matthew 2:13-16
When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. "Get up," he said, "take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him." So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: "Out of Egypt I called my son."

When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi.

God,
How dark the ancient of days were; yet, in the midst of the dense darkness was a bright light leading to the great escape. This gives me great hope for the future. When there seems to be no way, You will make a way.

You established the authority of Herod the Great, the hard-hearted Governor of Galilee, through a fundamentally centralized bureaucracy, a well-built citadel, and large army of conditioned soldiers who subdued opposition and enforced order. Popular, charming and successful, under his influence the region prospered economically and culturally. Yet, despite his wide-spread acceptance and significant achievements he was insecure, intimidated, and indignant. When this invidious tyrant's throne was threatened, in his fury, he intentionally eradicated all male infants who could possibly interfere with his personal plans and power.

He thought he was in control of his district and his destiny, but in reality he was nothing more than a powerless pawn in Your almighty hand. Outwitting Your rival, You strategically picked up Your Token Child and moved him to Egypt for safe keeping until the opposition was defeated and declared dead.

This gives me great hope for the future! Disheartened by the election of a popular, charming and successful young ruler who's promised to prosper our country with sweeping social reform and a systematic communalist agenda, I can look back and see that he is nothing more than a defenseless pawn that can only be moved and manipulated by Your master mind. I don't know the strategy You have to keep believers in this deteriorating nation safe, but with history as my guide, I will believe through the oppressive darkness, that You will make a Way to spare us from destruction for the glory of Your name. Hallelujah! Amen.

The Bible is a fabulous history book that can calm your nerves and give you hope in harrowing times. If your heart is heavy open the Bible, and ask the Holy Spirit to show you how mightily God has moved in the past. He is unchanging, faithful to every promise, and will make a way out when there seems to be no way.

Hope For The Holidays

Psalm 16:7-8
I will praise the LORD, who counsels me;
even at night my heart instructs me.
I have set the LORD always before me.
Because he is at my right hand,
I will not be shaken.

Wise and Wonderful Counselor,
Thank You for graciously guiding me through these dark days. Your timeless Words are extremely wise. They are a lamp that lights my path to prevent me from stumbling. Your timely advice is always right. When I'm too exhausted to think clearly, in the silent night of my soul, speak to me. Tomorrow is sure to be another exhilarating day with more unexpected twists and turns.

Please go ahead of me. I'm utterly dependent on You to lead me through uncertainty and insecurity. It is vital that I remain in constant communication with Your Command Center by reading my Bible and praying. You know the way that will lead me to all the jewels of Jesus. Willingly, I'll take Your strong right hand, and walk through briars, thorns, and thickets. Connected to You, they won't hurt me.

Dear Lord, please give me the courage to hold on tightly, trusting that You know exactly where You're taking me. Following Your reliable instructions, I'll be secure and steadfast when the rest of the world is shaken. Looking forward to the hope of heaven, eternity with You and everlasting happiness, my heart and lips will cheerfully sing a sweet song to the glory of Your dependable name. Amen.

I need God's counsel for __________________________________________. Pray, asking Him for wisdom. Open Your Bible and listen to His Voice. Obey His instruction and He will reward You with divine insight - the Truth! Then, you, too, will know that He is trustworthy and dependable. Praise Him!

Hope for the Holidays

Isaiah 9:1-2
Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan-

The people walking in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of the shadow of death
a light has dawned.

Matthew 4:12-14
When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he returned to Galilee. Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali- to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah.

God,Your Word is great!
This Christmas as I study the prophecy, I'm awestruck anew by the wondrous way You work! Your thoughts surely are higher than my thoughts, and Your ways are far too superior for my simple understanding. Your infinite timeline is immeasurable and beyond my limited intellectual capacity.

700 years before the Word became flesh the holy prophet predicted precisely where You would go and what You would do. The days were utterly dark and the nation was wasting away from wickedness when he courageously offered these unpopular words of hope that rendered him a fool by public opinion.

Who would have guessed that hundreds of years later Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah, would start his ministry in this very same dark district plagued by prostitution - people looking for cheap thrills and quick fixes to life's perplexing problems? Blessed assurance, the promised Light had come to the promised land!

The radiance of Your glory makes my heart throb and swell with joy! Love's Pure Light, in You there is no darkness at all. Locked in the deep dark dungeon on death row, haunted by the demons of his past, man desperately needed his dirty deeds exposed so that he could be restored and released to live differently. And, You, my Everlasting Light, came to do just that!

Thank You for shining the Light of Your love on me. Setting aside my fears and stepping out into it, my chains fell off and I was set free forever because of Your tender mercy. Because You died, went to Hell and came back for me, I never have to walk in darkness again. Blessed assurance!

The days may be dark, but I have the Inextinguishable Light. Thank You for the blessed hope I receive and the lessons I learn when I sit down, open my Bible, and study Holy History with You. Hallelujah! Amen.

Doesn't it make your heart throb and swell with joy, when You consider how faithful God is to His promises?

My prayer is that the fulfilled prophecies that God's showing me will bless you with hope this holiday season. I pray that you will see the Light of Jesus in these dark days. I'm amazed anew, as I carefully study God's Word, that the entire Bible is essentially good vs. evil - light vs. darkness. The times we're living in really aren't that unusual.

In my little sphere of influence within one week: a friend lost her job and is wondering if she'll lose her home; a single-mom lost her benefits including health insurance, life insurance, and retirement - she's not sure what she'll do if she suddenly becomes sick or dies; a 14-year old classmate of my son could no longer take the pressure to conform and committed suicide; the dreams of five students from a high school varsity basketball team were shattered when they chose to drink alcohol and got caught. The list could go on. Every day, I hear from people who are hurting, hopeless, and just want help. I bet if you'd stop to listen, you'd hear it too.

We need to be the light in the world that leads lost souls to Jesus - the keeper of the key that will set them forever free. With the power of the Holy Spirit, we will have the courage of Isaiah to stand up and speak out so that others will be enlightened and encouraged in troubling times. Where will you carry your light?

Prayer for the Holidays

Isaiah 61:1
The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners.

Luke 4:21
Jesus said, "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing."

God,
Thank You for the timeless truths in Your Holy Word. 700 years before You were born, in the darkest, most dismal days in Israel's history, the prophet Isaiah predicted that good news was coming for the destitute, destroyed, and detained. People could expect a whole new life. Blessed hope!

Help was on the way! But, it took a long time coming - 700 years. Waiting sure does take a lot of fortitude in our frantic fast-paced, free-wheeling world ruled by instant results and immediate rewards. Blind to the fact that we're spiritually bankrupt, we don't recognize how badly we need an internal overhaul. No amount of money can bail us out of our pecuniary predicament, only the age-old blood of Jesus can. That's the good news people need to hear this Christmas.

Buried beneath the rubble of wrecked relationships, crushed hopes, and shattered dreams our badly bleeding hearts are hidden behind thick-skinned walls of pride. While smugness may conceal the gashes inflicted by Satan, it won't stop the gushing; only Your compression, compassion, and comfort will completely cover and cure the wounds. That's the healing we really need this holiday season.

Controlled by commercialism and easy credit we are a nation held captive by covetousness which will only be compounded this Christmas as we strive to be more significant in our spheres of influence. We don't realize that facades and fears restrain us. Constrained by compulsions, we need You to come set us free with the key to contentment, Jesus.

Imprisoned in the dark dungeons of our past, Satan has locked many of us up and thrown away the key! Good for nothing, we're hopelessly terrified and urgently need You to show up with the key that unlocks the door to everlasting love, life and light. Confessing with our mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believing in our heart that You raised Him from the dead, our past will be immediately forgiven and forgotten and we will be forever free!

Lord, thank You for the hope You've given me because of Jesus, the long awaited Messiah, who came to teach me, heal me and set me free forever. Hallelujah! Amen.

Hang on to the hope of heaven in these dark and dangerous days. God is true to His Word. We may have to wait a long time, but God will do what He says He will do. We must believe!

Hope for the Holidays

Psalm 27:1-5
The LORD is my light and my salvation-- so why should I be afraid? The LORD protects me from danger-- so why should I tremble?

When evil people come to destroy me, when my enemies and foes attack me, they will stumble and fall.

Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will know no fear. Even if they attack me, I remain confident.

The one thing I ask of the LORD-- the thing I seek most-- is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, delighting in the LORD's perfections and meditating in his Temple.

For he will conceal me there when troubles come; he will hide me in his sanctuary. He will place me out of reach on a high rock. NLT

High King of Heaven,
Your Holy Word, the Bible, clearly illuminates the way for me. In the light of it, I never have to be afraid. In the dark, things appear distorted and misconstrued. I'm disillusioned, perceiving people and problems as bigger and more threatening than they really are.

Please dear Lord, may I live in the security of Your holy house every day of my life? Looking deep into Your blazing holy eyes, with my Bible open, I'll contemplate Your powerful promises in the temple of my heart. Teach me in Your presence, to remain cool, calm and collect under pressure. At home with You, I'll be safe from the vicious attacks of those seeking to destroy me.

O Lord, my God, I desire nothing more than to live happily in the peace of Your presence for the rest of my life. Please give me more faith to confidently and consistently rely on You, believing that as my beloved Father You will go the extra mile to protect and conceal me for the honor of Your high and holy name. Amen.

David encountered many frightening people and situations, but wasn't provoked by a sinful fear of man. When you're afraid, do as David did, turn to your King. Open your Bible and enter into the holy presence of our great, big God. Your perception will change when you seek His power, peace and protection. What scary person or situation do you need to trust in God for today?

If you can read this Psalm and say that it expresses the desire of your heart, then your fear is not a sinful fear of man.

Hope for the Holidays

Titus 2:12-13
For the grace of God teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope-the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.

God of Grace,
You are a most excellent Teacher. If only I'd stop, sit still and listen, You'd lead me by Your truth and teach me for You are the God who saved me! School me in Your ways so that I'll turn my back on godless, indulgent living. Take my hand and show me how to take on a God-filled, God-honoring life while I wait for the blessed hope - the glorious appearing of the Immortal, Invincible, Incorruptible, Almighty King.

Surely You desire for me to be grounded in the truth of the Bible. Help me to carefully study, prayerfully consider, and aptly apply great wisdom so that I won't be swayed by the smooth rhetoric of false teachers. Expand my knowledge so that I won't be deceived by devastating circumstances. Show me how to think clearly when emotions are tugging on the strings of my heart.

In this heathen and hostile world, instruct me to do Your will. By Your good Spirit, lead me on level ground. Following You, I'll exercise good judgment and carefully control my desires, tongue, and passions. Under Your divine discipline, I'll shine brightly causing others to wonder why I seem so hopeful and happy.

God of Grace, You have been so kind and loving toward me. By Your matchless mercy, You generously gave me a rich new life along with a hefty inheritance. Because You are faithful and true, I eagerly expect that some day soon, You will appear in all Your glory, sweep me off my feet, and carry me away to live with You happily ever after because of Jesus. Amen

Are you struggling with saying "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions? If so, ask the God of grace to teach you. He desires nothing more than for you to be grounded in the truth. Then, open your Bible and carefully study it. Prayerfully consider the Scriptures you've read, and aptly apply them. Practice godly living while you wait for the glorious appearance of the King.

"Do not merely listen to the Word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." James 1:22.

Hope for the Holidays

Numbers 24:17
Balaam, the sorcerer said, "I see him, but not in the present time. I perceive him, but far in the distant future. A star will rise from Jacob; a scepter will emerge from Israel." NLT

Matthew 2:1-2
After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him."

God,
Your Word is my hope and my light in these dark and dreary days. 1400 years before You gloriously broke through the night sky, Balaam, a stingy sorcerer and soothsayer was well paid to convince Your people to compromise their moral standards. Despite the fact that he was a tool in Satan's hand, You used him to mysteriously point the way to Bethlehem.

Today, the very large and rapidly growing Emerging Church is blindly leading multitudes of biblically illiterate people who claim to be Christians to Hell by the satanically inspired teachings of modern-day Balaams. Their watered-down, seeker-friendly, purpose-driven messages are designed to bring in warm bodies and cold cash. In this New Age era, truth is not only unclear and uncertain, but also is bad for business. No wonder the days are so hopeless and dark! The only true light has been all but extinguished.

Lord, protect me from the secretly destructive heresies and cleverly invented stories that are running rampant through the nation and Church today. At the Living Word Academy, held in the classroom of my heart, teach me by Your Spirit to diligently seek, genuinely love, and absolutely believe the Truth of Your Word. Full of knowledge, I will be like the Magi who recognized a nugget of truth in the middle of a whole lot of fiction, and willingly left their familiar surroundings to follow the Wondrous Star of Heaven.

O Star of Wonder, Star of Light, Star with royal beauty bright, westward leading still proceeding, guide me to Your Perfect Light. Amen.

John MacArthur writes in The Truth War:
Advocating ambiguity, exalting uncertainty, or otherwise deliberately clouding the truth is a sinful way of nurturing unbelief. Every true Christian should know and love the truth. Scripture says one of the key characteristics of "those who perish" is that "they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved" (2 Thessalonians 2:10). The clear implication is that genuine love for truth is built into saving faith. It is therefore, one of the distinguishing qualities of every true believer. In Jesus' words, they have known the truth and the truth has set them free (John 8:32). Nothing in all the world is more important or more valuable than truth. God's Word is absolute Truth.

Abundantly clear, it will be your only hope and light in the blackest night. How well do you know it? Do you love it? Do you believe it?

It's not too late to attend the Living Word Academy. The only textbook required is Your Bible, the Living Word of God. The only Teacher required is the Holy Spirit. Open The Book and start seeking Truth before it's too late.

Peter says, "They (false teachers) have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam who loved the wages of wickedness." 2 Peter 2:15

Hope for the Holidays

2 Samuel 7:12-13
God promised David: "When your days are over and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom. He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever."

Luke 1:32-33
The angel said to Mary: "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end."

God,
Your Word is a timeless tapestry of rich and royal hues. Wondrously woven by a Master Artisan, it's an everlasting vision of Your never changing view. Meticulously following the scarlet thread hidden within the completed work, I can see the beautiful plan You designed for man.

One thousand years before Christ was born, You promised David a never ending kingdom. You made the line of identification so clear no imposter might be mistaken for the Messiah. Like a tedious thread on a tapestry, Your Word was not broken over time. O how I marvel at the magnificence and intricacy of Your handiwork.

Upon careful study, the one thing I particularly notice is that good things take a long time, a lot of devotion, and an unwavering faith. Help me dear Lord, to be more like David. Though he committed grievous crimes, he was remorseful, repentant, and will always be remembered as a man who sought Your heart.

Lord, I don't know when You'll return, but my hope is in Your well-woven Word. While I wait, please give me patience to continually trace the scarlet thread on Your Tapestry, remain wholeheartedly devoted to studying it, and maintain unwavering faith for the glory of Your name. Amen.

I marvel at how intricately God has woven the scarlet thread of Jesus Christ through His Word. By carefully studying it, I am seeing His plan being fulfilled before my eyes. Blessed assurance, His Word is my only hope.

David was the youngest of Jesse's eight sons. A little shepherd boy with a humble heart and a whole lot of faith was anointed with power and called to be a great king. Mary, a little peasant girl with the heart of princess and a whole lot of faith, was blessed by God and called to deliver the Most High King.

After hearing the Word of the Lord, both immediately and unquestionably believed, and humbled themselves in heartfelt adoration for the blessed assurance they had received.

If you are feeling small and inadequate, observe how God works. He uses little, unlikely people who have a whole lot of faith, to accomplish His master plan. Humble yourself before Him, believe He can do great things, and watch with wonder at the way He weaves You into His work.

Hope for the Holidays

Isaiah 9:6
For a child is born to us,
a son is given to us.
The government will rest on his shoulders.
And he will be called:
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

God,
Your Words light up my life and give me bright hope! My Spirit leaps within me when I consider Your unfailing love and everlasting faithfulness! These verses teach me wonderful truth and firm-up the foundation of my faith.

700 years before Christ's birth, during one of Israel's deepest, darkest depressions, You passionately promised them that the gloom and doom wouldn't go on forever. Their dreary, devastated land would one day burst forth with a dazzling light and they would see Your glory. A special little boy would be born. He would be their Savior and Sovereign Ruler. The weight of the whole world would rest on His shoulders. Blessed assurance!

This little boy would be called Wonderful Counselor because His godly wisdom would preserve their lives and prosper them. Known as Mighty God, His holy power would bind up broken hearts, shatter walls of shame, and pardon people imprisoned to their past. He would be their Everlasting Father. This Prince of Peace would show up to rescue them from the dominion of death and damnation. After saving the warring world, He would rule it forever with fairness and integrity. Blessed hope!

During this holiday season, help me to know You by these endearing names and better understand Your impeccable character. With a fresh revelation of Your faithfulness, I won't falter and fumble through the fearsome fog, but will firmly stand on Your promises trusting that You are who You say You are and will do what You say You will do for the honor of Your name. Amen.

In gloominess God gives us glimpses of His glory. He shows us repeatedly that He is true to His Word and will do what He says He will do.

When was the last time you sought His wonderful counsel? Do you know Him as Mighty God? How have you witnessed His power? Do you believe He is Your Father forever - that He will never abandon you or give up on you? Has the Prince of Peace rescued you from the dominion of death and damnation? Do you believe He is coming to rule the world forever with fairness and integrity?

The more you know Him, the more you'll trust Him! Blessed assurance! Let Him be your hope this holiday season.

2 Peter 1:19-21
We have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

Hope for the Holidays

Isaiah 7:14
All right then, the Lord himself will give you the sign. Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son. NLT

Luke 1:26-28, 31, 38God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, to a virgin named Mary. Gabriel appeared to her and said, "Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you! You will conceive and give birth to a son."

Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true."

God of Wonders-
Your Words never cease to amaze me. In the midst of political upheaval and unbelief You graciously blessed Israel with a vision of Your glory. While their backs were blatantly turned on You, and their disaffection was disguised by showy religious rituals and routines, You told them a spectacular secret. "Psst - Listen up! Look for this: A girl who is a virgin will miraculously get pregnant, and give birth to a son." 700 years later, this Word became flesh when You revealed Yourself to a poor peasant girl with an extraordinary princess heart.

Lord, let these words console me during political unrest and unbelief. You know the grave state of affairs not only in this nation, but also in the Church. Proudly parading as pious people, we're so desperate for change that we've voted for personal prosperity and pleasure separating ourselves from Your peace and protection. Like the Israelites 2700 years ago, we're in the dark about Your riches and our poverty. Unable to perceive that we're lost and perishing, we don't trust You to lead us out of the mess we've made. We want politicians to protect our future, and that's exactly what You've given us.

In the midst of this mayhem, give me unwavering faith to believe that all earthly government is short-lived. One day, and possibly quite soon, You will come back and run the world with honesty and integrity that will never end. While I wait, give me childlike faith and humble adoration, expecting it to happen as You have said it would, without signs and wonders, simply because I believe that all things are possible for You in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Instead of trusting politicians to protect your future, trust the only One who can guarantee you a future - Jesus Christ. Put your hope in heaven.

2 Peter 1:19-21
We have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

Hope for the Holidays

Micah 5:2
But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah,
are only a small village among all the people of Judah.
Yet a ruler of Israel will come from you,
one whose origins are from the distant past. NLT

Luke 2:11
The Savior-yes, the Messiah,
the Lord-has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! NLT

God,Thank You for publishing and preserving Your ancient Words. They give me hope and joy in these troubling times. During Israel's darkest days, You announced something major through a minor prophet. Hidden within this tiny little book in the Bible, written by the humble hand of a holy man is a great BIG treasure. The long awaited King would be born in the tiny little town of Bethlehem. The "house of bread" would cradle the "Bread of Life." How amazing is that!? And, after 700 long years of waiting this prophesy was finally fulfilled.

Because of that experience please give me greater confidence in the divinely inspired messages penned by Your spirit-filled scribes. In this age of uncertainty and lawlessness, help me to pay close attention to what they've written. Similarly, more than 2000 years ago, these influential saints clearly expressed the reality of Your imminent return to rule and reign over the entire earth. Under Your godly guidance, they unmistakably proclaimed that one day death would lose its sting and darkness would lose its power.

Admittedly, I am worn out waiting! Through tear-stained eyes, I strain to see Your promises. Yet, Your Word is the only flickering light I have in this place. Help me to hold it up and put my hope in it until it diffuses itself in my mind like the dawning of a new day and shines like a bright morning star in the hollow of my heart. Then, I will carry it like a prophet into my own small town to give others the hope of heaven this holiday season for the glory of Your faithful name. Hallelujah. Amen.

God has given us a great book full of fulfilled prophecy, the Holy Bible, proving that He is faithful. We would be wise to pay attention to it. It may be the only light we have in the coming days, and a candle we can carry into our own crazy communities while we wait for the Lord's impending return.

2 Peter 1:19-21
We have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

John 8:12

Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

Jesus, You are the Light of the World,

Your radiance fills the whole earth! Your glory is higher than the heavens. Before You created life, You spoke and created light to separate the world from impenetrable darkness. Great are You Lord and mighty in power!

Thank You for leaving the hallowed halls of heaven and stepping out into the wreckage of this cold, dark, and wicked world so that I could see the light of Your love and live. In the light, You exposed the mess I made of my life. Lovingly picking me up, You cleaned me out, filled me with the oil of Your Spirit, and made me into a dazzling luminary to brighten the world. Following You, I can carry the light of life into the dense darkness of death, disease and despair; sickness, suffering and sorrow.

Lord, You know how dark these days are. With the Light of the World eclipsed by heathenism in the hearts of the benighted millions, guide me by the lamp of Your Word. Following You, I won't fumble and stumble through frightening darkness, but will purely, patiently and peacefully illuminate Your love by helping and encouraging those who are lost and alone. Blazing with Your glory this holiday season, use me to lead hopeless, helpless, and hurting people into the light where they will find goodness, grace and an abundant new life. To God be the glory for the radiant gift of Light! Amen.

I don't have to tell you that we're living in dark days of uncertainty. Hordes of people are hopeless, helpless and hurting this holiday season, horrified by the unknown. They're stumbling through the darkness because they can't see the Light. If you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the Light of the World, don't hide your light. Follow Him. Open your Bible and do the things you see Him doing. His Word is a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path. Let the light of life shine brightly through you by helping or encouraging someone for Jesus today.

The Light of the World is Jesus
Philip P. Bliss, 1875
Listen on-line

The whole world was lost
In the darkness of sin,
The Light of the world is Jesus!
Like sunshine at noonday,
His glory shone in.
The Light of the world is Jesus!

Refrain
Come to the light, 'tis shining for thee;
Sweetly the light has dawned upon me.
Once I was blind, but now I can see:
The Light of the world is Jesus!

No darkness have we
Who in Jesus abide;
The Light of the world is Jesus!
We walk in the light
When we follow our Guide!
The Light of the world is Jesus!

Refrain

Ye dwellers in darkness
With sin blinded eyes,
The Light of the world is Jesus!
Go, wash, at His bidding,
And light will arise.
The Light of the world is Jesus!

Refrain

No need of the sunlight
In Heaven we're told;
The Light of the world is Jesus!
The Lamb is the Light
In the city of gold,
The Light of the world is Jesus!

Refrain

100 Things I'm Thankful For

1. Out of all the people on the face of the earth, I have been chosen by the Most High King.
2. I am loved by the King with an everlasting love that cannot be broken.
3. I’ve been adopted into the King’s family and I belong to Him.
4. I’m accepted by the King with all my faults and failures.
5. I’ve been redeemed. My tattered and torn rags have been traded for a pure robe of righteousness; my tarnished chains for opulent pearls.
6. I am forgiven!! All my mistakes – past, present, and future – BIG, medium, and small have been forever erased by the blood of Christ.
7. My chains are gone I’ve been set free! My God, my Savior has ransomed me!
8. I am free from the dark dungeon of despair, disappointment, and disgrace.
9. I am free to live in the Light of the World, and to be a torch bearer for the King.
10. My Father, the King, delights in me. I am the apple of His eye.
11. I have hope.
12. I have a bright future.
13. I have incredible power – all of the Almighty God is mine in Christ Jesus.
14. I have access to the same power that raised Jesus from the dead because I am seated next to Him in heaven, and He is seated next to the King of the Universe.
15. My heart is happy because of who I am in Christ.
16. I can give thanks in all things, at all times because of who I am in Christ.
17. I have peace that surpasses all understanding. No peace. No Jesus. Know peace. Know Jesus.
18. I do not have to be afraid of anything.
19. I am victorious!
20. I can walk on the heights!
21. I am immeasurably blessed!
22. I have an imperishable inheritance awaiting me.
23. I’m guaranteed a room in the King’s castle.
24. I am full of vibrant, abundant life. Man may kill my body; but he cannot kill my Spirit.
25. I can stand tall and confident in a corrupt culture when I adhere to God’s good standards for living.
26. I have the whole Bible and am free to read it openly.
27. I know how The Story ends.
28. Wisdom and discernment.
29. I’ve been blessed with incredible talents: the ability to relate to people, the ability to influence others; the ability to communicate both orally and in writing.
30. I grew up in a solid home with one mom and one dad who modeled love and commitment.
31. My Dad is canoeing down the River of Life. Blessed assurance!
32. My Mom is strong and healthy – against all odds.
33. I married a man who loves and adores me even though I can be a wicked witch.
34. The man I married supports me in all my adventures in life and faith.
35. The man I married is my pillar.
36. The man I married is compassionate.
37. The man I married keeps me balanced and removes activities from my overflowing plate in order to keep me healthy.
38. The man I married worries; so I don’t have to.
39. My husband has a good work ethic.
40. My husband has a job.
41. I have a job and have been blessed with an incredible income.
42. We have two healthy sons.
43. Our sons have made wise choices, thus far.
44. Our sons are chosen too and have accepted the call.
45. We have a comfortable home that’s almost paid for.
46. We have an abundance of food as evidenced in our physiques.
47. We have heat in the winter.
48. We have air conditioning in the summer.
49. We have pure water.
50. We have running water.
51. We have hot water.
52. We have 3 bedrooms and no one has to share a bed – except Craig and me, by choice; we don’t have to sleep on straw, we have pillow top mattresses and warm, clean blankets.
53. A good night’s sleep
54. We have 4 reliable cars – one for each driver.
55. We are all healthy.
56. Our kids have access to free and good education.
57. We have access to the best medical care in the world.
58. Our kids have been protected from evil.
59. I have two sisters and one brother and we all get along.
60. Childhood memories.
61. My nieces and nephews.
62. My siblings and their children have all been chosen and set apart; and have accepted the higher call.
63. My friends – old and new.
64. God’s leading us to Faith Bible Fellowship Church.
65. Pastor Thomann and his sound Bible teaching.
66. Pastor Claire and Carlene and the exceptional and extravagant care they’ve shown to Craig and me.
67. Pastor Keith Long and other godly men involved with the youth and the impact they’ve had on Nic.
68. Joel Hess and the impact he had on Jon.
69. Nancy Meyer my writing and speaking coach.
70. Brian Funk, Dick Boyer, and Nancy Meyer who saw my potential and encouraged me to pursue it.
71. Pastor Thomann and Pastor Claire who have affirmed my call to write and speak, and have picked up where others have left off.
72. My prayer partners.
73. My boss who is fun, full of energy, and a great coach.
74. Great co-workers.
75. The freedom and flexibility to work from home.
76. Jane and the precious gift of her friendship that God gave me on the Christmas of 2005. The honor of carrying her cross.
77. David and the privilege to be the hands and feet of Jesus to him.
78. The friends who have come into my life through tragedy: Peggy and Sherrie.
79. Rosemarie and the precious gift of her friendship God gave me on the Christmas of 2006.
80. The business relationship that resulted in divine connections: Michelle, Donna, Missy and Aunt Crystal – in 2006.
81. The opportunity to personally meet Henry Blackaby in 2006 and thank him for the influence he had on my life through Experiencing God.
82. Henry Blackaby, Ann Graham Lotz, Kay Arthur, and Beth Moore who taught me how to study God’s Word for myself.
83. Claudia and the way God connected our lives in 2007.
84. My small group: The Shorters, The Kreiders, The Pongonis’, The Santos’, The Spanglers
85. My two adorable dogs
86. Amazing vacations and all the spectacular places on earth I have seen.
87. The mighty majestic mountains
88. Quiet moments alone with God
89. The roaring oceans teeming with life
90. Fresh air to breath
91. Changing seasons
92. The sun on my face
93. Green grass and blue skies
94. Fantastic neighbors who are also best friends: The Martins and Lapps!
95. I live in a free nation; the most prosperous nation in the world.
96. The men and women who have fought for my freedom
97. Toastmasters and how it has helped me grow personally and professionally
98. The story God’s given me and the influence it has on others
99. Each of the 15 girls I met and ministered to at the fall youth retreat in 2010
100. Massages and facials

1 Chronicles 29:35

Now, our God, we give you thanks,
and praise your glorious name.

O Lord, It is a joy to give thanks and bless Your glorious name!

Truthful Teacher, I'm overwhelmed by the truths You teach with me when I open my Bible and my heart. Thank You for correcting my wayward thinking.

Healer of Hearts, there is no Doctor like You in heaven or on earth! Thank You for transplanting Your heart into mine, healing me and giving me a vivacious new life full of love and strength.

Almighty Attorney, You defend me from the allegations brought against me by proud people with personal agendas. Thank You for standing up for me.

Narrator of Life Changing Love Stories, You have written the brilliant biography of my life - a fantastic novel of drama, power, romance, and intrigue. Thank You for my life story.

King of Compassion, approaching Your divine throne, I'm overwhelmed by Your kindness. Your mercy and justice take my breath away. Thank You for your compassion.

Sufficient Supplier, You show me the secret to a satisfying life: Relying on your promises, looking for Your provision, and depending on Your power. Thank You for satisfying the desires of my heart.

Great God who governs from beyond the galaxies, You are the Mighty Magistrate righteously ruling and reigning over all the earth. Patiently, You pardon people who plea with You. Thank You for Your righteousness.

Irresistible Lover of My Soul, You light up my life, making my heart happy. You are absolutely precious to me! Thank You for loving me intimately.

Victorious Lord, You're the Commander-in-Chief of the Army of Blessed Angels. I celebrate the sweet victory You've given me through Jesus Christ. Thank you for the glorious conquest!

Indescribable Light, because You made Your home in my heart the Light is always on. Darkness has disappeared and I never have to stumble again. Thank You for releasing me from darkness.

Negotiator of Great Deals, the bargain You made for me is unbelievable! You'd serve my death sentence so that I could be free. Thank You for defending, saving, and freeing me.

Good and Gentle Shepherd, You are my powerful Protector and one and only Owner. O how Your sweet voice resonates deep within the inner ear of my soul. Thank You for taking care of me.

Prepare your heart for worship this Thanksgiving, by perusing your Bible and thinking about Who God is to you. Thank Him for Who He is.

Psalm 107:22

Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving
and sing joyfully about his glorious acts.


Father in Heaven,
As a gesture of appreciation for Your matchless mercy toward me, I'll joyfully show the world the wonder of Your amazing love by:

Self-expenditure - I'll gladly abandon my own dreams for absolute loyalty to You, determinedly following You wherever You lead.

Attitude of gratitude - I'll quickly and gratefully stamp out my personal agenda in order to enliven a broken heart.

Crucifixion of self - Deliberately, I'll kill my spirit of intolerance and indifference in order to allow You to freely work through me to do anything You choose.

Radical love - Because of the extravagant love You've shown me, I'll readily demonstrate extreme compassion to those outcast by society.

Immediate obedience - Out of fear and respect of Your almighty authority, I'll willingly do any assignment You give me without hesitating or complaining.

Full devotion - Attached to no one but You, I'll notice the people and situations that burden You.

Individuality broken - In order to effectively aid and assist You, I'll allow You to crush me and shape me into Your perfect image.

Challenge - I'll intentionally accept assignments that may be beyond my mental and physical abilities, fully trusting You to energize and equip me.

Endurance - The power of Your Word, coupled with praise and prayer will strengthen me.

Thank You, Lord for filling me with the sweet aroma of Your love. Let my life pleasantly emulate Your essence this holiday season, attracting others to Your fine fragrance because of Jesus. Amen.


God gave up His Son for Your benefit, ask Him what He wants You to give up for His benefit this holiday season. Then, obey immediately, without hesitating or complaining, cheerfully offering Him your sacrifice with a thankful heart.

O. Chambers writes in My Utmost For His Highest: We know something is right, but we try to find excuses for not doing it immediately. If we are to climb to the height God reveals, it can never be done later - it must be done now ... Always guard against self-chosen service for God ... God chose the test for Abraham, and Abraham neither delayed nor protested, but steadily obeyed.

Psalm 100

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 thanksgivingand his courts with praise;give thanks to him and praise his name.For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Almighty, All-bountiful, All-gracious God,It's sheer pleasure to worship You with heartfelt adoration and undivided attention. Your unfailing love has put a song in my heart, a spring in my step and a smile on my face. I believe that You are Lord, my God, Creator of everything. Thank You for making me intricately and uniquely with Your strong hands. I'm Your most valuable possession. O, how I praise You!

My Good and Gentle Shepherd, knowing You intimately is the greatest joy and blessing. Your voice is music to my ears. Willingly, I follow You. With steadfast devotion, You lead me to the lush, rolling meadows in my Bible where I can devour the rich delicacy of Your Word. Faithfully, You guide me through barren deserts to refreshing streams of Living Water that quench my thirsty soul. Along the way, You staunchly defend me from the wolves of sin and temptation that hound me. Thank You for protecting and providing for me.

With unbridled excitement, I enter the heavenly gate and come into the safety of Your beautiful sanctuary. My thankful heart, tells of Your tender kindness and continuous mercy. I sing of Your infinite goodness and everlasting compassion. Your enduring love has set my feet a dancing. O how I love and worship You for all You've done for me, Jesus, my Wonderful Savior, Redeemer and Friend. Amen

Prepare your heart for Thanksgiving, by pondering God's goodness. Make a list of all the gifts He's given you. Thank Him for each one, offering Him a sacrifice praise!

Romans 8:35-39

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? ... No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Lord of Love,
I come to You seeking mercy and grace. Forgive me for fearing man. Please drive out my fears in the name of Jesus, Your Son. Every day I worry about what others will think of me, say about me, and do to me. I'm concerned that they will kill my ambitions, hopes, and dreams. Frightened of man's condemnation, I live in constant apprehension. Paralyzed by fear, I'm tentative to open my mouth and speak for You. I'm sorry, Jesus.

Today, I'm claiming the truth! Your love drives out fear. You didn't give me a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of love, power and sound mind. With Your Spirit living in me, I have no reason to worry. You and You alone are the Ultimate Judge. In Your Supreme Court, I'm already declared innocent and spared eternal punishment. Thank You, Jesus.

Nothing anyone thinks, says or does can separate me from You. From this day forward, I'm choosing to focus on Your perfect love living in me. Relying on it, I will conquer my fears. Please dear Lord, quiet my heart and give me confidence to trust in Your perfect love for the glory of Your name. Amen.

Do you worry about what others will think of you, say about you, or do to you? We are certainly living in tumultuous times. Fear is everywhere - the global economy, the flu pandemic, and widespread war are a few. Resolve your fears by focusing on God's endless love. Then, allow Him to love others through you.

Romans 7:4, 6

So, my brothers, you also died to the law through the body of Christ that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit to God. But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code.

Jesus, Lover of my soul, it's an honor to be united and living with You, the most powerful King of heaven and earth. Connected to You, I'm filled with love, strength and a clear mind. I'm coupled with the same power source that raised You from the dead. Wow!

Joined with You, I can selflessly serve others sweet fruit ...
I can love the unlovable, forgive the unforgivable, and approach the unapproachable, only by Your power.

I can smile when I feel like frowning, only by Your power.

I can lay down my words that are harmful weapons and be a peacemaker, only by Your power .

I can endure difficulties without condemnation, only by Your power.

I can show kindness to the least, the lost and the last, only by Your power.

I can do good deeds, only by Your power.

I can trust You, believing You're sufficient to meet all my needs, only by Your power.

I can put on a gentle, quiet, humble heart only by Your power.

I can exercise self-control, self-discipline, and a sound mind, only by Your power.

Please dear Lord, attach me securely to You today so that I can serve You with all my heart at any time, in any place, and any situation in the power of Jesus, my Risen Lord, for Your pleasure and glory forever and ever. Amen.

Are you plugged into the power that will enable you to bear sweet fruit and serve others selflessly? Find someone - the least, the last or the lost - to serve in the power of the Holy Spirit today.

Matthew 6:24

Jesus said, "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.

My Dear Master,
Your Word is my startling wake up call. It is loud and clear. Today, You're asking me to make a difficult choice. Will I love You more than the almighty dollar? Living in a materialistic culture, it's a tough decision.

The world is calling me to join in the hot pursuit for power, prestige, and possessions. Everywhere I turn there is another attractive demand for my time and energy. The Prince of Darkness is fully intent on toppling me from my lofty and safe haven with You. People everywhere delight in his lies. Consumed with materialism they're hard-pressed like heartless, mindless, and lifeless plastic toys. Caught up in commercialism, they're greedy, miserable and selfish. I can't possibly listen to them and follow You.

With all my heart, mind and soul, I want to love You more than status and stuff. Rather than being fascinated by wealth, I want to be mesmerized by all the magnificent riches of heaven. Captivate my mind with pure and clean thoughts. Clear thinking is priceless and will help me make right decisions in the dark days ahead. Fill my heart with precious peace and love so that I can calmly pour it out on people who are panicked and perplexed by their spiraling problems.

O Lord, thank You for the gift of glorious everlasting life. No amount of money can buy access to heaven, a peaceful mind or lively heart. Enthralled with You, I'll authentically live a life of love by being generous, kind and altruistic at all times. Instead of chasing the almighty dollar, I choose to passionately pursue You, Jesus, the One and Only source of all blessings and happiness now and forever. Amen.

Can you honestly say you love God more than money? One test is to ask which one occupies more of your thoughts, time and effort these days. Whatever you love, you will spend much time and energy thinking about.

I encourage you, in these dark days of uncertainty, to read your Bible, pray earnestly, and think about what really matters: God.

Hebrews 10:35-38

Do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For in just a very little while,
"He who is coming will come and will not delay.
But my righteous one will live by faith.
And if he shrinks back,
I will not be pleased with him."

King of Eternity,
You are Lord of my heart! I know that soon, and possibly quite soon, You are coming back, and that makes my heart want to sing: "Hosanna! Glory to the King of kings!"

Lord, as the days become increasingly darker and pitch black with terror, prepare me to enter the final round of life's last contest. When I can't see through the gloom and doom please give me courage and confidence to stand my ground! I know my stuff, and I know YOU. Don't let me shrink back in fear or throw away my faith just before Satan is forever vanquished. Help me to:

Draw nearer to You with an honest heart fully trusting that my guilty conscience has been sprinkled with Christ's precious blood, and I've been made right and ready to hail Your glorious entrance. (10:22)

Hold on tightly without wavering to the blessed hope of heaven, expecting You to keep Your promise. (10:23)

Think of creative ways to love others and do good deeds, and motivate others to do the same. (10:24)

Frequently spend time with other believers for encouragement and endurance, especially now that the day of Your return seems so imminent. (10:25)

By doing the right things, I will have nothing to fear or dread because I'll remember that beautiful blessings wait for me. You are absolutely sincere and will richly reward me for waiting through the tribulation. With a wink of the eye, You'll whisk me away in the wind, taking me to the home I've always longed for. Hosanna! Hosanna in the highest! Amen.

Are you ready for the final round of life's last contest? Soon, and possibly quite soon Jesus will suddenly show up on the scene. Hebrews 10: 22-38 tells us exactly how to prepare. I encourage you to be ready!

Psalm 2:1-2

Why do the nations conspire
and the peoples plot in vain?
The kings of the earth take their stand
and the rulers gather together
against the LORD
and against his Anointed One.

Sovereign Lord who made the galaxies and grasslands; the ocean and every organism, You spoke through the mouth of David thousands of years ago words that permeate my mind in this present age:

Why do the nations conspire
and the peoples plot in vain?
The kings of the earth take their stand
and the rulers gather together
against the LORD
and against his Anointed One.

While Herod Antipas and Pontius Pilate, the Gentiles and the people of Israel plotted against Your Son, the Holy One whom You anointed, and Hitler and his henchmen hatched a horrific plan to annihilate the Jews whom You chose and blessed, they were only carrying out the plans you set in motion beforehand.

And, now the tyrants are at it again. Nations, under the domination of a fanatical group of radical Shiite Muslim clerics, have repeatedly expressed a desire to use nuclear weapons to wipe out the nation of Israel, and are on an accelerated course to build a bomb capable of incomprehensible destruction that will obliterate not only Israel, but also much of Europe.

Consider these threats, O Lord, and give Your faithful followers courageous confidence to compress our fears and do what we know is right during these terrifying times of conflict. Give us a holy boldness to sound the alarm and waken the sleeping Church. Surround our nation with an army of angels, and unite us in fervent prayer. Give our leaders godly wisdom as they face critical events in the weeks and months ahead.

Holy Spirit, swiftly sweep across the globe preparing hearts to accept Your Son and enter Your Kingdom before untold tragic events unfold. Change the hearts of ruthless leaders who wish to do harm to Your beloved people - Jews and Christians alike. O Lord, we urgently plead for the peace of Jerusalem through the name of Jesus, the King of the Jews, who will one day, possibly quite soon, establish his eternal empire on earth forever and ever. Amen.

We are living in frighteningly dangerous times, and sadly most of the Church is complacent and indifferent, just as much of the world was ignorantly unresponsive while Hitler was exterminating millions of God's people during World War II. Devastation is coming and most proclaimed Christians won't know what hit them. Instead of experiencing God's peace, they'll experience sheer panic because they're unprepared!

Prepare by reading the History Book, Your Bible, God's Word. Repent, seek God's face, and be proactive for the sake of righteousness. Above all let's raise our voices together in prayer!

Psalm 8:3-6

When I consider your heavens,
the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars,
which you have set in place,
what is man that you are mindful of him,
the son of man that you care for him?
You made him a little lower
than the heavenly beings
and crowned him with glory and honor.
You made him ruler over the works of your hands.

O Lord my God, how majestic is Your name in all the earth! The poet who wrote these verses years ago was properly dazzled by the night sky; however, if he could have looked through the Hubble Telescope for a scant ten minutes he would have undoubtedly fainted in wonderment. Even with our biggest and best telescopes directed at the stars that are billions upon trillions of miles away, we still can't see the outermost edge of the universe. It's mind-boggling to consider the cosmos as Your handiwork! I stand in reverent awe of Your enormous creativity.

What is man that You care so much for him? Compared to the cosmic galaxies, man is minuscule. Compared to You, we are nothing. If there is anything more stunning than the sheer scale and splendor of the universe, it's the revelation that in all of Your greatness, we really do matter. It's bewildering that You made us in Your image, crowning us with glory and honor. Though we're nothing in contrast to the magnificent magnitude of creation, we're extraordinarily valuable because we carry the signature of our Heavenly Designer. Because of our great worth in Your sight, You've assigned us the awesome responsibility of taking care of Your wonderful works.

Please dear Lord, give me a deeper understanding of who You are as the Divine Artist of the universe. Balance it with a healthy, humble view of myself as Your valued curator. With an accurate perception, I'll worship You rather than the works of Your hands. Appropriate insight, will make me more cognizant and appreciative of Your gloriously brilliant works of art. Mindful of Your priceless creation, I'll protect it, display it, and love it in honor of Your holy and majestic name, O Lord. Amen.

To respect God's majesty we must compare ourselves to His greatness. When we look at creation: the cosmic galaxy, mighty mountains, or titanic ocean we feel small. To feel small is a healthy way to get back to the reality that God is big and people are little. Humility, however, means proper respect for God, not self-worthlessness and self-depreciation.

God considers us highly valuable. He has chosen us to be the crown of His creation. He has entrusted us with His fine art. How do you treat God's creation? Use your resources wisely because He holds you accountable for your stewardship.

Psalm 20:7

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.

Almighty God-
You are my One and Only true source of escape and protection. Forgive me for relying on chariots and horses: family and friends, money and materialism, desires and dreams for security.

In times of distress, I need to run right into Your all-sufficient strong arms. Rather than collapsing during crisis and conflict I can stand firm with You. When inadequacy and insecurity immobilize me I can aggressively look them in the eye and boast in Your powerful name, declaring:

Jehovah-Jirah The Lord will provide
Jehovah-Nissi The Lord is my banner
Jehovah-Tsidkenu The Lord is my righteousness
Jehovah-Shalom God is peace
Jehovah-Rapha The Lord will heal
El Roi My God sees
El Shaddai My God is Almighty
Adonai Lord, my Master

I may lose my friends and family, money and materialism, desires and dreams but I will never, ever lose my relationship with You. Trusting in Your love, mercy and grace is my only source of hope, joy and peace in this troubling world.

Assured of the saving power of Your strong right hand, I will rejoice in You, celebrating the victory by singing the wonders of Your glorious name forever. Amen.

In these troubling days, who or what are you placing your trust in?

Proverbs 18:10-11

The name of the LORD is a strong tower;
the righteous run to it and are safe.
The rich man's wealth is his strong city,
And like a high wall in his own esteem. NKJV

O God Most High, You are my castle in the sky, my steadfast strength and my eternal security.

The rich rely on their wealth for cheer and comfort. Attacked by the law, they use their wealth to buy a defense. Insulted in the streets, the dignity of a thick wad of bills is their revenge. Should they become sick, they can afford the most prestigious healthcare. Pleasures and help are at their beckon call. Wealth is their shelter, strength and security - a citadel made of clapboard that crumbles when the financial market falters.

Prominent people flaunt their power, possessions, and positions. Condescending, contemptuous, and conceited they're driven by personal gain and recognition. Superiority, success and status rise up like tall walls around them to protect their egos - a refuge made of drywall that disintegrates on their big heads.

But Your name, O Lord, is a strong tower! Wisdom, truth, mercy, justice, power, eternity, and immutability are the granite pillars of grace that sure up our eternal security. When the hideous hounds of trouble and temptation terrorize us, and the wicked wolves of corruption and conflict are hot on our tails, the right thing to do is to drop everything and run for our lives straight through Your castle gate and into You where the brutal beasts cannot besiege us.

Give me courage to run, O God - run to You when things get tough. In the safety of Your presence, teach me about Your impeccable character. By faith, I will believe You. Trusting in Your magnificent name, I will learn to fully rely on You, the One and Only Strong Tower. Blessed be Your mighty name forever and ever. Amen.

In times of trouble do you depend on money or character to save you, or do you run into the Strong Tower of the Almighty? No amount of money on earth can keep you secure. Your name will never save you. Drop everything and run to Jesus - His salvation is sure.

Ecclesiastes 2:10-11

I denied myself nothing my eyes desired;
I refused my heart no pleasure.
Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done
and what I had toiled to achieve

My heart took delight in all my work,
and this was the reward for all my labor.
everything was meaningless, a chasing
after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun.

God Most High, You are supreme over all the earth; exalted far above all gods.

Thank You for the lessons we can learn from the wise King Solomon. He had it all - power, authority, prestige, money, success, wisdom, and knowledge - but in the end, it was all proven meaningless.

Lord, we too have passionately pursued pleasures - often denying ourselves nothing our eyes desired. Cheered by the wine of wealth, we've invested in folly by undertaking big projects: building extravagant homes, acquiring expensive treasures, and amassing a mountain of money. We've hired help and gone on exquisite excursions - refusing our hearts few pleasures.

Many of us enjoyed working hard with the wisdom, knowledge, and skill You gave us. We're thankful for the rich rewards we've received for our efforts. However, when tragedy strikes, we quickly realize the futility of our accomplishments. In a heart beat it could all be gone. A hurricane could destroy it. A fire could burn it. An earthquake could shatter it. Sickness could render it useless. An accident could end it all. A lawsuit could consume it. And, the stock market could crash it. In the end our work could be as pointless as chasing the wind or catching a cloud! Nothing would be gained from it.

Help me, O Lord who sees everything from the high and heavenly throne, to live my life on purpose in the present. I don't want to look back some day and realize that I've wasted it on empty activities. Show me what's important to You, and I will invest my time, talent, and treasure in it in order to gain everything under the Son. Amen.

What pleasures and treasures are you pursuing? If disaster were to strike you today, how would you respond to the loss of them?

In light of the incredible loss from the financial crisis in our nation, and the world, I encourage you to seek and understand the true meaning of life. Read, reflect and respond to Ecclesiastes.

Psalm 46:1-3

God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear,
though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foamand
the mountains quake with their surging.

King Over the Flood,
You are robed in majesty, armed in strength, and enthroned forever! High above the tidal waves of worry, You saw the earth quaking as millions of people watched in terror while their stock portfolios plunged in the wake of the nation's most momentous financial crisis since the Great Depression. The whole world was in an uproar as manmade mountains of money melted into the heart of the sea, and congressional leaders frantically battled the bail out bill.

Affecting everyone from Wall Street to Main Street, there was no escaping the horrendous flood that swept over this once lush land and its exaggerated economy. Facing a tempest of fear, we watched our wealth submerge into the foamy sea of uncertainty, and were confused about what to do to survive.

Yet, Your powerful and majestic Voice soars over the waters. Your thunderous promise is to be our refuge, strength and help in times of trouble. We need to open wide our Bibles and run into You! Your throne is firm, immovable and eternal. In You we will be blessed with peace and power when the rest of the world is plagued with panic and pandemonium. Knowing that You are the sovereign King over the Flood, we need to be still and know that You will be exalted among the nations.

Please dear Lord, give me ears to hear and faith to believe that You are who You say You are and You will do what You say You will do through every wild and roaring circumstantial storm to ascribe glory to Your holy name. Amen.

We are living in frightening times of uncertainty, but we're not without hope. We have God's great promises! He promises to be our refuge, our strength, and our help in times of trouble. Open your Bible and run into Him! In Him there's no reason to fear. He is the sovereign King over the Flood. Do you believe Him?

Psalm 29: 10-11
The LORD sits enthroned over the flood;
the LORD is enthroned as King forever.
The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.