His word tells us, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬-‭18‬ ‭ESV).‬

When we share what God has done for us with others, we testify to His great power and love for those who belong to Him. Through our testimony, may others also seek Him.

Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” There is so much peace and hope in this verse. The Lord works for the good of those who love Him and belong to Him.

When silver is refined in the fire, it becomes reflective. May God’s faithful leading through seasons of refining cause us to reflect the very image of our Creator.

As we battle through each day and unaware of what tomorrow brings, may we desire the supernatural strength to fight. May we grasp the reality of our enemy and vow to pray and fight on our knees. It’s also important to include those we love and those we are called to reach in our prayer's. Our enemy is lurking, but our God is all supreme and not equal to anyone or anything.

Perhaps these men needed a reminder of their calling and that the Lord is the One who fully equips them to do what He has called to do.

One of the incredible truths His word reveals to us is just how intimately the Lord knows us and that the details of our lives matter to Him. His word speaks directly to His deep love and compassion and care for His people.  

Once we have surrendered our lives to Christ, we will willingly desire the things He desires.

Jesus is our perfect example. He has taught us how to obey, as He too obeyed the will of His Father.

The concept of needing an armor suit while we wage war here in the flesh is a very real necessity. It’s our prep, and the more equipped we are, the better we will fare.

We start on this road of life one way, and then undeniably meet Jesus, and we finish the road a very different person.

Reflecting on His goodness and His works in our life are biblical. This action and attention show we take delight in Him and it allows us to give Him praise and recognition for all He has done, yesterday, today and in the future.

As we consider all that a new year brings, let us find rest in Jesus, knowing salvation is in Him. Knowing He is faithful to His word, faithful to lead us, and faithful to teach us His ways.

As we begin this new year, let us focus on rejoicing in the Lord in all things. Let us rejoice in His great love for us, in His free gift of salvation, in His powerful word, and for His work and care in our lives.

Time and time again, the Bible shows us God moving among His people and His creation. We see His desire to have communion with the people He created, His involvement in the lives of His people, and His understanding and awareness of the things happening on earth.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given” (Isaiah 9:6). Pastor Richard shares an important reminder for this holiday season.

It does not matter what others say about us, or what used to be true of us and of our lives. The moment we come to Jesus, He changes our identity.

He kindly lets Moses know His plan because by faith, Moses believes God, but the communication with God brings confidence.

Thanksgiving comes from a heart of gratitude. My desire is to come before Him with a heart of gratitude. To praise Him for who He is and thank Him for all He has done, and because of these things, present my requests to Him.

We cannot understand this life on earth or the beautiful reality of eternal life with Him if we do not have His wisdom.