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.

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

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.

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.

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.

John 3: 16-18

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned.

Jesus,
My Divine Savior,

There is none like You. You are the Peace Prize of Heaven sent into the world as a generous gift from God who created me for eternity. No one - not my parents, my siblings, my spouse, my children, my pet - can love me like You do. You're extremely passionate about protecting and preserving me. Receiving the Peace of Heaven from Your great big, colossal heart guarantees that I will live happily ever after in the kingdom that never ends.

O Holy Justice, no matter what I've done, I don't have to be afraid of You. With confidence, I can confidently come to Your sacred throne fully expecting to receive infinite mercy and incomparable grace. Instead of punishing me to death as I deserve, in love, You'll pardon and release me to live with You forever because of the Peace of Heaven in my heart, purchased with Your priceless blood. Alleluia! Thank You, Jesus. Amen.

God's Word says there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1) God did not send His Son into the world to condemn it, but to save it!

Is any man condemning you; making you feel guilty for something you've done but have admitted and accepted responsibility for? Jesus said, "You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

The truth is: God absolutely loves YOU, your sins are forever forgiven and you are completely free to get up, go and LIVE in peace.

Romans 11: 33-36

Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable his judgments,
and his paths beyond tracing out!
"Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counselor?"
"Who has ever given to God,
that God should repay him?"
For from him and through him and to him are all things.
To him be the glory forever! Amen.

Wise and Knowledgeable King,

Please expand my view of You. From afar, You are an intriguing blip on the horizon. Reduced by distance, You are too manageable to be marvelous and too small to be significant. However, as I come closer, I am absolutely astonished by the vast view of who You are and what You have done for me.

I marvel at Your extravagance and generosity

I'm awestruck by Your wisdom and knowledge

I'm mesmerized by the hidden treasures in Your Word

I wonder at Your pathways that are too complex to chart

I'm amazed at Your never-ending brilliant mind

I'm captivated with Your constant rightness

I'm stunned at Your unlimited resources

Up close I can see and experience You as the Creator of everything. I can touch the power that makes all things exist. I can be certain that You intend all things for Your glory. Please dear Lord, draw me closer and keep expanding my view of You. I want to be obviously caught-up in knowing You deeply. As my view of You becomes greater, my view of my man will become smaller. Rather than living to please people, in view of Your grace and mercy I will passionately pursue a purposeful life pleasing to You. I will praise and adore You now and forever more. Amen.

What is your view of God? Do you see Him from a distance and unapproachable, or up close and touchable? Walk nearer to Him and He will expand Your view. One thing I see when I come nearer to God is ________________________________.

Psalm 40:1-3

I waited patiently for the Lord to help me,
and he turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the pit of despair,
out of the mud and the mire.
He set my feet on solid ground
and steadied me as I walked along.
He has given me a new song to sing,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see what he has done and be amazed.
They will put their trust in the Lord.NLT

Faithful God,

I praise and adore Your Holy Word. If I would just slow down and talk to You through prayer, You would faithfully listen to me! If I would just turn around and face You, perusing my Bible, You would speak to me! The problem is I'm too busy wallowing in the ditch of despair. Up to my neck in mud and muck, I'm constantly trying to pull myself out of sticky situations. Unfortunately, the harder I try, the deeper I sink.

I need You, Jesus, to come to my rescue! Come, pull me out of the hopeless pit! Set my feet on solid ground. Wash away the slime of sin. Cleanse me from the miserable mire of my mistakes. Rinse away the froth of fear. Breathe new life into me. Put a joyful song in my heart. Steadily and securely, I'll walk in Your ways, singing praises to the One who sought, found and saved me from severe destruction.

Please dear Lord, pay attention to my plea! Pick me up while I wait. Bless me with joy and peace to go where You send me in Your name, proclaiming the Way, the Truth and the Life. Amen

Are you despondent in the ditch of despair, exhausted trying to dig your way out? Stop digging and wait for Him. Peruse your Bible and pray, asking for His help. Then, He will:

1) Pay attention to your plea

2) Pull you from the pit

3) Plant your feet on solid ground

4) Protect your steps

5) Put a joyful song in your mouth

Waiting patiently on the Lord will pick you up from your despair, causing you to praise Him. It will make you shine like the Son, lighting the way out of the pit for others who are up to their necks in messy situations. In your current circumstances, are you grumbling or glistening for Him?




ME Princess on the Rock
BETH RUDY is a dynamic speaker with a passion that leads others directly to the throne of God. Utilizing her magnetic personality and natural ability to connect with people, Beth focuses her teaching on biblical truths for living a vibrant, godly life that will draw others to the King of kings. She brings God's Truth to life with captivating illustrations and entertaining stories that reveal the freedom and joys believers can experience as children of the Most High King.

Contact Beth about speaking at your next event prayerpal@comcast.net. For Beth's Treasure Trove of Topics Visit: www.dailyprayerpal.blogspot.com

1 Peter 1: 24-25

"All men are like grass,
and all their glory is like the flowers of the field.
The grass withers and the flowers fall,
because the breath of the LORD blows on them.
Surely the people are grass.
The grass withers and the flowers fall,
but the word of our God stands forever."

Glorious One,
Thank You for the beautiful lessons of autumn. With a gentle breath from heaven the dry, yellowed grasses wave impassively in the chilly fall air. The leaves, while glistening with dazzling colors, begin to crackle and drop from their branches, blowing here and there. The pretty pallet of posies that peeked in my window all summer has long since faded. As I reflect on the sights of the season, I'm reminded that life is short. Like the flowers, fame and fortune will fade. Good health will eventually wilt and wither. Beauty will flee like the falling leaves.

Only Your Word lasts forever. Your perfect promises are the same today as they were yesterday, and will be tomorrow. I've got to stop looking to people and possessions for pleasure. They could perish in a heartbeat leaving me disappointed and disillusioned. Instead, I need to focus on the power of Your everlasting promises. They are altogether trustworthy and all that I need to live happily ever after in the beautiful kingdom of heaven. Eternal glory is Yours because of Jesus. Amen.

Take a fresh look at the sights of autumn. Life too is fleeting. How will you spend it?

Romans 12:1

Give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice-the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. NLT

Thank You, Lord, for showing me the secret path to the high throne of heaven. It is not through weeping or working. It isn't through studying or serving. Offering my time without heartfelt devotion is inadequate. Presenting my talent without wholehearted dedication is insufficient. Halfheartedly giving my treasure out of obligation is inappropriate. You don't want religious ceremonies and showy performances. The only walkway to the peace, contentment and security of a throne-life is to follow You with all my heart.

It will please You when, by faith, I humbly come to the foot of the cross admitting my faults and failures allowing the bond of Your blood to fix and fortify me. Realizing the high price You paid to correct my defects will give me a deeper desire to walk Your way. I'll willingly give up family, friends and freedom in order to spend time getting to know You better. The more I know You, the more readily I'll abandon my ambitions in order to do Your will. Forfeiting my comfortable lifestyle and social status to suffer hardship will perfect my faith, make me shine purer and brighter, and draw others to You.

Believing that I am who You say I am: a chosen child who is holy and blameless in Your sight, today I choose to freely set aside my dreams and desires to follow You to the throne room of heaven where I'll have access to Your almighty power, divine authority and perfect guidance. Claiming my proper position beside You, my eyes will constantly be drawn to You, my strength will only come from You, and my actions will be wholly pleasing to Your name. Hallelujah! Amen.

God is ready and willing to show you the way to the throne room of heaven where you will find peace, contentment, and security in all circumstances. He promises to share the secret path with the humble. (Psalm 25:9, 14)

He doesn't care how much you weep or work; study or serve. He doesn't care how good or bad you've been. It doesn't matter if you're rich or poor; neat or unkempt. All He wants is your whole heart devoted to following Him wherever He goes at any cost.

David Wilkerson writes, "This is the sacrifice every believer must make if He is to know the mind of God. The Lord never shares his plans with those who hold onto their own devices. Why would He direct anyone who's determined to go their own way?"

"Dear saint, the throne room is now open to you. Accept what Christ has done, and boldly take your position with him, by faith. He accepts your resigned will. Now, ask Him to open the eyes of your understanding. And confess, 'I believe what the Lord says about me: that I'm a conquering prince. I also believe that I'm where He says I am: in the throne room of heaven. I'm sitting with Him in a place of authority over all of Satan's works. Hallelujah, Amen."

World Challenge Inc., Publications, Time Square Pulpit Series August 2, 2004

Phil 4: 11-13, 19

I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

Jehovah Jireh,
My Sufficient Supplier,
Thank You for showing me the secret to a satisfying life: Relying on your promises, looking for Your provision, and depending on Your power.

Satan tries to seduce me with human solutions to satisfaction, security and significance. Cleverly, he convinces me that I can't be happy without certain possessions. Subtly, he persuades me that I'm insignificant without a prominent position. Masterfully, he manipulates me to look for respect and approval from powerful people. Cunningly, He confuses me, complicating my problems by making them seem bigger than really are. Discontent with who I am, where I'm going, and what I have, it's tempting to reach into his bag of tricks for an instant, momentary solution.

The more I know You, the less likely I'll be to buy into his smooth sales pitch. Full of Your wisdom, I'll be wary of his gimmicks. Relying on Your promises, I'll have a clear perspective. I'll realize that trinkets and treasures can't buy eternal pleasure, only Your precious blood can. Prominent positions aren't as prestigious as they appear when I understand that all authority belongs to You. Suddenly, people I perceived to be strong will appear weak and unimportant. Abruptly, the dimension of my difficulties will diminish when I realize that they're part of Your plan to purify and perfect me for a greater purpose.

I need to hang out with You more frequently by reading Your Word, praying ceaselessly, and socializing with other believers. Then, I'll be able to rest on Your promises. Knowing who You are will supply me with the satisfaction, security and significance I'm seeking. I'll be content when I believe that I am who You say I am: Your beloved child, an heir to an unimaginable inheritance. I'll be satisfied knowing where You're taking me: heaven, my glorious, eternally beautiful home. And, while I wait, I'll be happy with what You've given me: peace, provision and a quiet place for my soul to patiently rest.

Please help me to be joyful and thankful in all circumstances believing that You'll generously supply all my needs in the name of Jesus, Your Son. Amen.

What are you relying on today for your source of satisfaction, security and significance?

Luke 13:14-19

Indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, the synagogue ruler said to the people, "There are six days for work. So come and be healed on those days, not on the Sabbath."

The Lord answered him, "You hypocrites! Doesn't each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or donkey from the stall and lead it out to give it water? Then should not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for eighteen long years, be set free on the Sabbath day from what bound her?"

When he said this, all his opponents were humiliated, but the people were delighted with all the wonderful things he was doing.

Then Jesus asked, "What is the kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it to? It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air perched in its branches."

Kind and Compassionate Healer of Hearts,

So often I miss the wonder and delight in Your marvelous work. Unhappy that someone undesirable has received an unfair advantage, I hurriedly stomp off in a huff. I'd be happier to see an animal untied, than an undeserving human set free. I'd be more contented leading pigs to pond water, than sin-scorched souls to the fountain of forgiveness. I worry more about feeding my Chia Pet protein enriched plant food, than I do about nourishing hungry hearts with eternally rich Bread of Life.

Lord, have mercy on me! I'm no better than the hypocritical religious leaders. When I consider my own lack of compassion, I'm left speechless and ashamed! A person of unclean lips, I'm unworthy of even carrying Your sandals. I need to turn around and look at You.

Please enlarge my heart and bless me with a burden for the hidden treasures of Your heart: the rejects of society. In the garden of my growing heart, plant a tiny, little seed of grace that will gradually develop into a strong limb for disadvantaged people to safely land. Perched on the firm branch of my faith in You, sin-scored souls will drink from the River of Life, Your love, flowing out of me. I'll generously feed their hungry hearts the Bread of Life, Your Word, coated with irresistible honey from the Rock. Nestled securely on Your life-saving limb, they will heal and become whole. Instead of resenting them, I'll rejoice when You restore and release them.

Please show me someone deemed unworthy by society and I'll offer them comfort on my sturdy branch of faith for the benefit of Your beautiful everlasting Kingdom. Amen.

Do you despise people who perpetually receive government handouts? Does it repulse you that your tax dollars pay to incarcerate prisoners? Do you resent when Jesus calls forward the unworthy and unattractive and offers them the same amount of grace He offers you? Do you think you deserve more than them because you have a job or have never been charged with an offense?

Listen to the words of Jesus. He says, "Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." He doesn't promise the kingdom of heaven to the rich and well-kept, but to the needy.

Admit your own hypocritical tendencies. Then, ask the Holy Spirit to enlarge your heart and bless you with a burden for the hidden treasures of His heart. Ask Him to give you the awareness of Christ to notice the undesirables; the compassion to speak to them and for them, and the power to heal them. Then look for an opportunity to let someone land and lodge on the life-saving limb of Your faith in Jesus Christ.

Is your faith strong enough to sustain their heavy load?

Psalm 77:13

Your ways, O God, are holy.
What god is so great as our God?

Isaiah 40:25
To whom will you compare me?
Or who is my equal?" says the Holy One.

Hosea 11:9
I am God, and not man-
the Holy One among you.

Holy God,

There is none like You! You are vastly different and far greater than Your creatures. Who can grasp Your unlimited wisdom? Who can comprehend the depths of Your love? Your awesome love and absolute justice are above my limited understanding; they are holy.

Your exquisite love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens; Your faithfulness to the skies. You sit enthroned above the earth. You stretch out the heavens like a canvas, making a gigantic tent for Your home. Gazing down on us from Your high and lofty view, we must seem like molecular organisms. Yet in Your vastness, nothing gets lost or goes unnoticed. I can't possibly appreciate Your astronomical loyalty.

Your power is that of the Almighty; it can be compared to no one else's. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains - unattainable, majestic, and beautiful. Your justice and mercy are deeper than the ocean - inaccessible, pristine, and titanic. In Your transcendence, You reduce princes to paupers. I stand in awe of Your magnificent holiness.

Please dear Lord, expand my view of Your preeminence. Gasping at Your supremacy, I'll tremble in Your awesome presence, fearing You and You alone because You alone are the Lord God Almighty, and You alone are holy, holy, holy. All glory, honor and praise belong to You, the One Great God, who rules and reigns over all the earth from heaven above. Hallelujah! Amen.

Take some time alone with God today, meditating on His holiness. Read Psalm 36:5-9 and Isaiah 40:22-26.

Revelation 7:14-17

They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore,
they are before the throne of God
and serve him day and night in his temple;
and he who sits on the throne will spread his tent over them.
Never again will they hunger;
never again will they thirst.
The sun will not beat upon them,
nor any scorching heat.
For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd;
he will lead them to springs of living water.
And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.

Promises, Precious promises, O how I delight in Your promises! O how I cherish the wonder working power of the blood of the Lamb.

You guarantee that in this world we'll have all kinds of trials and tribulations. We'd be naïve to believe that we won't be despised and disdained for faithfully following You. Afflictions, adversities and atrocities are bound to affect us. Yet, if we persist and don't give up, You promise we'll come through the tragedies with white-washed robes - bleached by the blood of the Lamb. Blessed assurance!

Dressed in white linen, we'll be led into Glory. Enthralled by our beauty, You'll endow us with the privilege of being priests in the Temple of Heaven. Delighting You day and night with songs of praise and the sweet scent of prayers will be enchanting. With my ear pressed close to my heart, I can almost hear the melodious music. With my nose in the air, I can almost smell the fragrance of prayer.

In the safe shelter of Your presence, we'll have access to Your boundless buffet. Our starved souls that insistently sought satisfaction will be content at last. Under the shade of Your canopy, the scorching sun will no longer sear our souls. You'll lead us to ceaseless streams of refreshing water. With a soft stroke of Your hand, You'll gently wipe every tear from our swollen eyes and we'll never again have reason to cry.

O Lord, why do I dread dying when You promise me all this? Please dear Lord, permanently paint a pleasant picture of Paradise in my mind to prevent me from discouragement and despair while I wait for You to return and take me to live with You there. Amen.

Ponder the promises of heaven, and ask the Lord to permanently paint them on your mind.

Are You Washed in the Blood of the Lamb

Elisha A. Hoff­man,Spir­it­u­al Songs for Gos­pel Meet­ings and the Sun­day School(Cleve­land, Ohio: Bark­er & Smell­ie, 1878)

Have you been to Jesus for the cleansing power?
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?
Are you fully trusting in His grace this hour?
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

Refrain

Are you washed in the blood,
In the soul cleansing blood of the Lamb?
Are your garments spotless? Are they white as snow?
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

Are you walking daily by the Savior's side?
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?
Do you rest each moment in the Crucified?
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

Refrain

When the Bridegroom cometh will your robes be white?
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?
Will your soul be ready for the mansions bright,
And be washed in the blood of the Lamb?

Refrain

Lay aside the garments that are stained with sin,
And be washed in the blood of the Lamb;
There's a fountain flowing for the soul unclean,
O be washed in the blood of the Lamb!

Refrain

Matthew 25:34

Jesus said, "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world."

Jesus, You are my Beloved King and Heavenly Father,

This sacred invitation makes me giddy with excitement! I can't wait for the Day when You open the Lamb's Book of Life, recognize me as Your blessed Bride and call me to come. Joyfully, I'll come to You, triumphantly claiming the vast inheritance promised me before the creation of the world - the kingdom of heaven!

I long for the Day when You will carry me away in the Spirit to a high and mighty mountain and show me the spectacular view of the Holy City coming down from heaven. Your glory shining more brilliantly than a very precious jewel will surely take my breath away. I'll marvel at the high jasper walls around the Golden City. The gates made of a single shimmering pearl will be stunning. The foundations of the City walls will be decorated with more priceless gems than I could ever dream of. The pure gold streets, translucent as glass, will lead right to Your magnificent throne at the City Center where people from every nation, tribe and tongue will be worshiping You with one heart. The very thought of the splendid scene captivates me!

From Your high and holy throne You'll make everything new. All of my defects and deformities will be made perfect. All my sin-seared scars will be removed. All my problems and pain will be gone. You will wipe every tear from my eyes. There will be no more death. No more crying. Never again will there be any darkness. Nothing dirty, defiled or deceitful will get into the City. Things will never be the same! In purity, splendor and safety, I will live and rule with You forever and ever.

I don't want to miss this promised place because I'm unprepared. Help me by Your Holy Spirit to pray, praise and persevere until I reach Paradise, the Promised Land. Hallelujah! Amen!

We ought to be eagerly preparing for this glorious Day when we will meet the Lover we've always longed for by purifying ourselves daily through prayer, praise and perseverance. He's going to come in a flash, at the twinkling of an eye, when we least expect it. The time to prepare for Paradise is now!

Ask the Holy Spirit to help you prepare. This is one invitation you don't want to miss!

Jesus promises, "He who overcomes will inherit all this, and I will be his God and he will be my son." Revelation 21:17

Luke 9:11

He welcomed them and healed those who needed healing.

Healer of Hearts,

How great You are! There is no Doctor like You in heaven or on earth! You compassionately and lovingly welcome the patients who persistently pursue You.

Thank You for my miraculous heart transplant. Through intricate surgery, You made a Most Holy Place in my heart for Your Name. When my heart was open, You placed Your tender heart in me. I rejoice that You will dwell with me forever.

Divine Doctor, as I spend time with You, examine my heart. Find the diseases that are devouring me. Make a diagnosis. Open my mind to receive it with acceptance. Then, let the medication of Your grace fill my sick soul. Breathe new life into me. Resuscitated, I'll follow Your prescription for healing:

Humbly admitting that I'm ill and in need of Your care.

Prayerfully asking You to wash my wounds and heal my hurts.

Continually seeking Your advice by spending time in Your Word, the Holy Bible.

Daily bringing my afflictions to You.

Then, You will faithfully hear my cries from heaven and cure my condition. Warmly welcoming me, You will heal me because of Your wonderful name, Jehovah-rapha, Lord Who Heals.

Thank You for the blessing of healing grace given to all those who joyfully, expectantly come! I am eternally grateful because of Jesus. Amen.

Jesus compassionately welcomes all those who persistently pursue Him for healing. Open your heart for examination, listen and accept the diagnosis, no matter how painful, and you will receive the healing balm from heaven.

Deadly Diseases from A-Z

Abscess of Anger, Arrogance, Adultery, Alcoholism
Blisters of Bitterness, Boasting
Cut of Criticism, Complaining, Complacency
Disease of Death, Deceit, Divorce, Disrespect
Epidemic of Envy, Evil Tongue
Fever of Fear, Fornication
Gash of Gossip, Greed, Gluttony, Gambling
Hemorrhage of Hate, Hypocrisy, Homosexuality
Irritation of Immorality, Impatience, Idolatry, Impurity, Irreverence
Joints that ache from Jealousy, Judging
Kink of Killjoy, Knavery
Lesion of Lying, Laziness, Lack of Love, Lust
Malignancy of Murder
Nausea of Nagging, Nastiness
Oppression of Oblivion, Obnoxiousness, Obstinacy
Pain of Praylessness, Procrastination, Pride, Pornography
Queasiness of a Quick Temper
Rash of Rebellion, Retaliation
Sting of Sorrow, Selfishness
Toxin of Temptation
Ulcer of Unforgiveness, Ungratefulness, Unbelief
Virus of Vanity, Vengeance
Wounds of Worry, Wrong Friends, Worldly Entertainment
Yaws of Yelling
Zits of Zero Time With You

Nahum 1:3, 7

His way is in the whirlwind and the storm.

The LORD is good,
a refuge in times of trouble.
He cares for those who trust in him.

O Wild and Wonderful One!

Your Word is both frightening and fabulous. It leaves me trembling and troubled, yet confident and courageous. It's scary to think You allow storms to rage, putting me in mortal danger. Fiercely determined to bring me to the end of myself, You want me to be fully dependent on You. When the sun is shining and the sea is calm I don't need a Savior.

You let the wild winds of the world whistle their threats to destroy me. Temptation sets my soul spinning like a tornado. Sucked into it, my heart is slammed, smashed and shattered.

Sorrow swirls around me bringing with it the gale winds of grief. Whirling and twirling, I'm consumed by its catastrophic cyclone. Confused by the chaos of uncertainty, I'm dizzy and disheartened.

You give sickness the right to swallow me like a titanic storm surge on the mighty sea. Sin is used to shake, quake and break the feeble foundation of my life. Hurricanes of hardship leave me destitute and devastated. Crippled and crying, I desperately need a Savior!

Divine Disrupter, in the midst of vicious whirlwinds, it's comforting to know that You care for me. In the center of problems and pressure, You are my Savior. Bringing me into the safety of Your presence, You shield me and heal me. Trusting You with my troubled soul, Your supernatural power rests on me. In Your strength I can stand firm through the fiercest storms certain that You are thoughtfully and thoroughly working out Your perfect plan for my life - a plan that will bring glory to Your Wild and Wonderful name. Amen.

Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble." God's way is in the whirlwind and the storm. Are the wild winds whistling their threats to destroy you? Are the storm surges swallowing your soul? Trust the powerful promise of God: He cares for you!

His word says all the days of your life were written in His book before even one of them came to be. (Psalm 139:16) He is the Author of your life story. He has a purpose and plan for every event in your life. He is not concerned about your happiness; He cares only about your holiness. Using hardships, He draws you nearer to His own dear heart.

Reflect on the lyrics of the age-old hymn: Near to the Heart of God

There is a place of quiet rest,
Near to the heart of God.
A place where sin cannot molest,
Near to the heart of God.

Refrain

O Jesus, blest Redeemer,
Sent from the heart of God,
Hold us who wait before Thee
Near to the heart of God.

There is a place of comfort sweet,
Near to the heart of God.
A place where we our Savior meet,
Near to the heart of God.

Refrain

There is a place of full release,
Near to the heart of God.
A place where all is joy and peace,
Near to the heart of God.

Refrain

Luke 18:18-23

A certain ruler asked him, "Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?"

"Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good-except God alone. You know the commandments: 'Do not commit adultery, do not murder, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother.'"

"All these I have kept since I was a boy," he said.

When Jesus heard this, he said to him, "You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."

When he heard this, he became very sad, because he was a man of great wealth.

Truthful Teacher,

O how honest You are! Your Word is sharper than the sharpest dagger, cutting swift and deep into my innermost thoughts and desires, exposing them for what they really are. Everything about us is bare and wide open; seen by Your ever-living eyes; nothing can be hidden from You to whom we must explain all that we have done.

Like the rich religious leader, we often come to You with zeal and determination to purchase our ticket to heaven. Recognizing that You are the Grand Ticketmaster, we politely approach You and smoothly ask, "Good Master, what will a ticket to heaven cost me?" Unimpressed with our performance, You slash right through the thick flattery and cut to the heart of the matter.

Rather than accepting our personal affluence and influence, You painstakingly point out the one thing we lack, demanding the high price of our personal security and identity. Freely, we can join You on the journey to heaven, but first we'll need to sell our creature comforts, investing the cash in the coffers of heaven - society's rejects - the undeserving, unattractive, and undesirables. Sadly, like the rich religious leader, we often turn and walk away without a word. The price is more than we're willing to pay.

Forgive me O Lord for being so short-changed and short-sighted. Please touch my lifestyle with Your love. Show me the possessions that possess me. Willingly and wisely, I'll sell them or give them away, to make a safe investment in Your heavenly kingdom. In return, You'll bless me with Your identity and the eternal security of living with You in heaven forever and ever. Amen.

This invitation to come is extended to anyone willing to get rid of anything that has become more important than God in their life. Few are willing to invest the high price.

What possesses you? Anything that preoccupies your time or thoughts will prevent you from accepting this gracious offer. With a joyful and triumphant heart throw off the things that are hindering you from faithfully coming to follow Him. He will show you where to invest the proceeds.

In the End: Don't Worry

1 Peter 4:7
The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear-minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.

Matthew 6:25, 27
Jesus said, "I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?" Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?

My Creator King,
You are Ruler of everything! Your name is renowned everywhere in all the world. Your majesty fills the universe! When I look at the heavens Your hands have made - the moon and stars set in place like brilliant diamonds in the sky - I wonder, "Why do You care about us humans who blaspheme Your name? Why are You so concerned about us weaklings?" Yet, You made us in Your image and crowned us with glory and honor, and let us rule over everything You've made - the birds in the air and the flowers in the fields.

Forgive us for our little faith! Times are turbulent and trusting You is tough as we watch our paychecks shrink and our savings shrivel. Naturally, we wonder how we'll eat and clothe ourselves this winter. Yet, You who made us and love us, command us not to worry! You are right; we can't add a single hour to our lives by worrying.

Lord, have mercy on us and help us to trust You day to day for our provision. Life is so much more than food and clothing. Now is the time to look at the birds. They don't plant, harvest or horde stuff in a storage shed. They simply depend on You day to day, and You faithfully feed them. We are more valuable to You than birds!

Why worry about what we'll wear? Look at the fabulous fields of flowers! They are decked out and more dazzling than royal robes! They don't work to make their appearance stunning. Your hand has clothed them splendidly! How much prettier will You dress us when we surrender our way to Your will?

Help me O Lord to keep my eyes on the sky and watch for You instead of worrying about what may not even happen. If I'm expecting You, I'll let go of my fears and be at peace, knowing that You'll give me everything I need today for the renown of Your majestic name. Amen.

Worry muddies our minds and prevents us from thinking clearly. It causes us to react irrationally inhibiting our self-control. With our eyes on our problems instead of God, our Creator, we're unable to persistently pray as we ought, according to His will. Worrying hinders us from loving deeply and serving spontaneously in the midst of the whole money mess in the world.

Jesus taught this lesson immediately following His instruction on serving God and Money.

Admittedly, letting go and trusting God isn't easy! But, with His help we are able. Pour out your anxious heart to God. Tell him that your mind is uneasy, and that anxiety is paralyzing your soul. Open your Bible and focus on His faithful provision in the past. Then, you will be well-fed and dressed appropriately for His return.

Magnify the Lord

Psalm 34:3
O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together. KJV

Sovereign God,

Hear the cry of my heart and expand my view of You today so that I can join with the heavenly hosts extolling You. O Lord, come nearer to me so that I can see You greater in size, status, and significance. I want to see you MAGNIFIED.

M - Mighty to save! Your strong hand shimmering with power, will guide my eyes to Your holy dwelling.

A - Arrayed in awesome, holy, majestic power, I will find peace and protection in Your presence.
G - Great is Your love, higher than the heavens, reaching out to show me the expanse of Your grace and compassion.

N - Name above all names, I will notice all created beings in heaven and earth lifting You high and honoring You, calling out in adoring praise that You are the Master of all the universe.

I - Incomparable wisdom, more solid than silver, more costly than gold, and more precious than rubies, I will see at once Your vast knowledge when my mind is open to the Truth found in Your Word, my Bible.

F - Faithfulness that reaches to the sky will irresistibly beckon me to come further in and climb higher up even when I'm afraid of new heights. With my eyes fixed on You, I will not falter or fall.

Y - Your strong hands and inconceivable mind that made the whole world formed me too! You, the Mastermind and Majestic King made me a masterpiece for the praise of Your glory!

Help me dear Lord, to look up at You, grasp Your unparalleled splendor, and declare Your matchless glory. When I see Your size, status, and significance I will humbly fall to my knees in reverential worship exalting Your name among the army of angels. To You be the majesty, the glory, and the power forever and ever. Amen.

To magnify means to see something greater in size, status, or significance. When we recognize God's size, status and significance, we suddenly see ourselves and our problems as very small.

What will you do today to magnify the Lord with me? Let us exalt His name together.

Remarkable Retribution

2 Thessalonians 1:6-7

God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you and give relief to you who are troubled, and to us as well. This will happen when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing fire with his powerful angels.

Just Judge,

You hold the keys of death and Hades. No matter what, You are the Author and Finisher of life.

Struggling to find meaning and hope amid a sea of hostility, Your Words comfort and commend me, giving me courage to continue on this hard road that ultimately leads to heaven. Along the way my faith is growing, along with my love for others. You're not surprised by the slander that comes from Satan's scoffers because I submit wholeheartedly to You. My afflictions and poverty don't alarm You. According to Your Word, these trials that test my faith are to be expected, and prove that I am worthy of Your kingdom. You promise if I am faithful, even to the point of death, I will receive the incorruptible crown of life. (Rev 2:8-10)

According to Your Word I will one day stand victoriously on the banks of the glassy sea with my heavenly harp singing:

Great and marvelous are Your deeds,
Lord God Almighty.
Just and true are your ways,
King of the ages.

Who will not fear You, O Lord,
And bring glory to Your name?
For You alone are holy.

All nations will come and worship before You,
For Your righteous acts have been revealed.

Then I will gaze in wonder, through Your blaze of glory, and witness seven stunning angels deliver seven horrific plagues from the golden bowls filled with Your holy wrath on those who caused me trouble. Blessed assurance, I will watch from the sidelines as they are punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from Your presence, power, and majesty forever and ever. (Rev 15)

According to Your Word, You promise to keep me from the hour of trial that is coming upon the whole world to test those who did not believe in You. Because I believe You are coming soon, I will cling tightly to my faith so that no one will steal my crown. If I stand firm, I will be given the right to sit with You on Your throne. (Rev 3:10-11, 21)

With my eyes focused on my fabulous future, I will walk through tough times in Your strength, with joy and thanksgiving in my heart so that You will be increasingly glorified in me, and I in You, according to Your grace and the Lord Jesus Christ, my Triumphant King for Yours is the Kingdom, the power, and the glory forever and ever. Amen.

If you are in the thick of the battle, severely suffering, ponder these true promises of the One who calls you by name. Read what is to come for those who are troubling you.

Read Revelation 14:14 - 16, 19-20

No wonder God tells us to pray for those who persecute us!