Scripture: Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David. – Luke 2:4 (NASB) Genealogy was very important to the Jewish people. Beginning with Abraham, the list included well-known individuals such as Isaac, Jacob, […]
Scripture: As for you Bethlehem Ephrathah, too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you One will go forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His goings forth are from long ago, from the days of eternity. – Micah 5:2 (NASB) From a place too small to be listed among the clans […]
Scripture: The voice of the one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make ready the way of the Lord, Make His paths straight.’ – Mark 1:3 (NASB) Advent means “approaching.” It is the period of preparation for the birth of Jesus, the coming of the Messiah. Today begins the first day of Advent. As we begin this […]
Scripture: We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God; we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. – 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NASB) Anxiety, worry, and fear are the product of thoughts not captive to the obedience of Christ. How do we capture our thoughts and […]
Scripture: Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus. – 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV) Sometimes it is difficult to be thankful for our circumstances. God desires for us to give thanks in ALL circumstances, whether happy or hopeless. Remember that God is working out a greater purpose. We […]
Scripture: Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. – James 1:17 (NIV) Thank God for every good gift that He has given you. List all your blessings and ask God’s help to see gifts you have overlooked or […]
Scripture: I will praise God’s name in song and glorify Him with thanksgiving. – Psalm 69:30 (NIV) God delights in the praise of His people. If you want to be closer to God and feel His presence, offering praise is a good place to start. Sing a song that praises God. If you can’t think […]
Scripture: He leads the humble in justice, and He teaches the humble His way. – Psalm 25:9 (NASB) Do you long for every step of your life to be in perfect synchrony with the Lord’s will? As you reflect on this passage and focus on the Lord, ask Him to grant you a humble heart […]
Scripture: Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. – Hebrews 12:28 (NIV) When we come to Christ, we are transformed from the kingdom of darkness to the Kingdom of light. The heavenly Kingdom begins in our hearts at […]
Scripture: Search me, God, and know my heart; put me to the test and know my anxious thoughts; see if there is any hurtful way in me, and lead me in an everlasting way. – Psalm 139:23-24 (NASB) God is the best therapist. He can help us understand what is in our hearts, the truth […]