Author: Pastor Ray Patrick

Evangelism. Outreach. Ministry. Pastor Ray Patrick is a R.E Teacher at The Eden School
Posted on

When Plans Fail 

man in black shirt and gray denim pants sitting on gray padded bench

What do you do when your plans fall apart? Where do you turn? Who do you run to for answers?  

In my life, I’ve had many plans fail. What about you? Have you ever had your plans fail? Have you ever made plans and had them changed on you at the last second? Have you ever planned something to work out one way, but it went the total opposite way? 

In scripture, Proverbs 21:30-31 says, “There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord. The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord.” When our plans fail, we can have hope because our God never fails. 

There is nothing wrong with planning and preparing in life. However, our plans are always subject to change. Solomon also tells us, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” If we are faithful no matter what happens in our lives, God’s purpose for us always comes through. 

Today, our heavenly Father wants what is best for us. We serve a great God who gives good gifts to His children. He loves us so much that He promises us an abundant life. So, we can trust that His plans are better than ours. And even when it feels like everything is going wrong, He is using those circumstances to bring us to where He wants us to go. So next time your plans fail, take hope in the truth that God’s purpose for your life will prevail. 

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank you for another year to serve you and be your hands and feet. I’ve made my plans for this year and now I lay them at your feet because you know best. 

If these are the things you want me to do, I pray that you’ll give me the energy, focus and discipline to get them done. God, I’ll trust you for the outcomes. Father, if you have other plans for me, change mine, rearrange them and blow mine up. I put my confidence in you. Your will, not mine. In Christ’s name Amen. 

In Reflection: 

When was a time your plans failed, but you eventually saw that where God was taking you was better than where you planned to go? 

How can remembering that give you hope the next time you see your plans start to fail? 

What is one way you can seek God when making your plans, so they more closely align with His plans for you? 

Posted on

Building Your Faith Through Community

Building Your Faith Through Community

When I was young, I played with building blocks. You could stack them one on top of the other to build a big tower, or you could put them side by side to build a wall. You could use them to build anything you desire. They couldn’t do much on their own, but together they could make something great. The same is true for each of us. Living in a community with God’s people, we can accomplish more things than we could alone. The Bible tells us to build our faith through prayer and community. Prayer is how we talk to God. As we communicate with God through prayer, we put our hope and trust in Him, and our relationship with Him and others grows deeper.

What does a community of faith look like? Community is made up of the relationships we make with other Christians. Community builds our faith by allowing us to encourage each other. Just like rubbing sticks together can start a fire; when people get together in a community, they fan the fire of each other’s faith.

Today, please realise following Jesus is a journey. Sometimes, we’re going to want to throw our hands up and quit. At other times, we’re going to be so excited we want to jump up and down and scream. That’s why it’s so important to persevere with the building blocks of prayer and community. Whether life is going great or not going at all, God has given us ways to draw strength from Him and from His people. So don’t do life alone. Start building your faith today.

“And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith” Matthew 21:22. 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I pray for our community.  Each one of us within the community is important to you.  Father, you died so that each of them could experience freedom and eternal life.  You desire for each of them to be saved. Now help us to raise up a team of people who will intercede for the community.  People who are willing to put feet to their prayers.  People who will work together to glorify you by showing love and care for their neighbours.  People who are eager to share how you are transforming their character and blessing their lives.  Lord, show us how you want us to work together so that “your Kingdom come; your will be done on earth as it is in heaven”, In Jesus’ name Amen.”

In Reflection:

What’s one way you’ve seen prayer build your faith?

Is there anything you need to take to God in prayer today?

Do you have a solid Christian community? Who do you turn to when you need help or want to celebrate?

Posted on

Parenting For Eternity

Parenting For Eternity If someone asked you what you wanted most for your children. Your automatic response would properly be, “Success!”

If someone asked you what you wanted most for your children. Your automatic response would properly be, “Success!”

As a follower of Christ, I’ve discovered things more important than success in and of itself.

Our time on earth is short, and eternity is sure to follow. James 4:14 describes life on earth as, “a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” This should help with the choices parents make.

Ways Eternity Should Change How We Think As Parent 

 

We Realize our kids are not our own. 

Being a parent naturally involves putting the needs of our kids above our own and sacrificing to provide for them. But ultimately, each child belongs to God. Psalm 127:3-4 says God gives them to us as a reward. When we think of children as solely “ours,” our goals and our desires for them become the focus. When we think of parenting as stewarding the gifts God gives us, it puts the focus back on what God wants for them, which may not always be what we want for them.

We will Have different priorities. 

To most people, wanting success for my children would be admirable, even expected. We’re called to teach our children there is more to life than the success the world tells you about. Knowing the love of God is the greatest thing we can desire for our children. Encouraging good grades and allowing kids to excel in sports is great. But teaching our kids to look for the lonely and the hurting, to love sacrificially, to forgive quickly, and to obey God’s Word is more important than anything else.

We will encourage and celebrate differently. 

The world tells us that our kids are defined by their accomplishments in school, on the playing field, and in comparison to others. But the Bible tells us to focus on their hearts, not their trophies. We’re to point our children to the love of God so much it becomes a way of life. They should hear about it day and night, they should see it in our houses and in how we live our lives. Our lives should be a picture of the Gospel, pointing others to Christ and celebrating when our children do the same. If someone asked me today what I want most for my children, my answer would be, “That they would love the Lord.”

Today, our children who love the Lord, whose confidence and trust are in Him, are blessed no matter what comes. “They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit” (Jeremiah 17:7-8). I can live in peace knowing that a child who follows the Lord will ultimately be blessed. Their roads may not look like I envision, but if they’re following God’s plan for their lives, I know it’s the best plan for them. Parenting with eternity in mind means remembering we have the opportunity to raise disciples who will make a difference in this world. We can leave a legacy that makes an eternal impact, one generation pointing the next generation to Jesus.

Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. ‘ (Prov. 22:6.) 

 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I commit my children unto you. Father, supply whatever is wanting in me, through frailty or negligence. Strengthen them to overcome the corruptions of the world, to resist all solicitations to evil, whether from within or without and deliver them from the secret snares of the enemy. God, pour your grace into their hearts and confirm and multiply in them the gifts of Thy Holy Spirit, that they may daily grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ both now and throughout eternity, in Christ’s name. Amen.

Posted on

How To Make Most Of The New Year

Blessed Are the Peacemakers

Many people give advice on how to make the most of the New Year. They may suggest a new diet, a new exercise routine, new learning programs, new money management, or new relationships, but there is something else we should consider. Something that includes all those areas of our lives and more.

God’s word! Read your Bible. It’s as simple as that.

The goal isn’t just to read some verses and walk back into the rest of your life unaffected. The goal of reading your Bible should be to know God better and do what He says. How will the Bible change our year?

God communicates His truth and love through the Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17). By reading the Bible, we are learning that God came to rescue us and give us what we need for our lives, through purpose and meaningful connections. When we experience the truth revealed in Scripture, we are given the opportunity to change. Since the Bible is full of truth, we have so many things to learn and ways to grow.

Scripture is a powerful tool God can use throughout our lives. Even if you’ve read the Bible for most of your life, there is always more to learn. Each time we open the Bible, God shows us something new and leads us further than we’ve been before.

Today, Jesus wants us to have a better New Year than we want for ourselves. The best way to discover what He has in store for us is to listen to Him and do what He says. That process begins with the instructions He has given us in His Word. As you move forward into this year, walk with Yahweh by reading the Bible and obeying Him. Scripture itself promises that God’s words would not return to Him void but accomplish what He desires (Isaiah 55:8-11).

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV) 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, as the dawn breaks on a new year, let us give thanks for all we hold dear: our health, our family and our friends. Father, help us release our grudges, our anger and our pains, for these are nothing but binding chains. Let us spend time daily in your word. Learning to live in the most loving and God-conscious way. Let us serve all who are in need, regardless of race, colour or creed. God may my year be filled with peace, prosperity and love. May blessings shower upon me and bestow upon each of us a bright, healthy and peaceful new year. In Christ’s name, Amen

In Reflection

Do you want to see how much your New Year and your life can be changed by God? Read your Bible and follow Jesus, step by step.

Posted on

Nia / Purpose: Seeking God First

GodInterest exists to welcome people of all faiths and backgrounds, equipping people with a faith that works in real life and sends them into a world to serve for God and humanity.

Principle 5 Nia / Purpose: Mathew 6:33. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Including our purpose. Mathew’s admonishment is relevant and instructive for a world, especially the “superpowers” and “economically developed” nations that are so consume by the profit and control. He suggests that the priority for nations should be morality, ethics, and righteousness. In pursuit of these high values, all other matters of importance-peace, global warming, nuclear disarmament, end of poverty and war will come.

How many times have you asked yourself, “What am I here for? What is my purpose in life?” There are hundreds, if not millions, of jobs in the world, but finding a purpose is not the same as finding a career. Scripture Says “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purposes.” —Romans 8:28 “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.” —Psalm 37:23. So our purpose is God Given and is based on love and God’s kingdom.

Everything has been created with a specific purpose in mind. In its simplest terms, purpose means the reason that something exists. For example, a chair exists so someone can sit in it. Likewise, we exist for a purpose that’s just as specific. In Scripture Jesus says He came to give us abundant life—one full of purpose. A carpenter creates a chair out of many pieces. Some of those pieces are pretty, like the intricately carved legs or the soft, cushy seat. Others are not so pretty, like the heavy-duty bolts that hold everything together. Regardless of its appearance, each piece is significant and helps the chair fulfil its purpose.

Today Nia teaches us that God created us with purpose and value. God is much like that carpenter because He takes every piece of our lives and fits them together perfectly to fulfil His purpose. In the book of Romans, God makes us the promise that He will work everything together for our good. He uses the good and bad stuff our victories, our good news, our celebrations, our struggles, our mistakes, and our challenges. Every detail of our life matters to God! And He uses every one of those details to give us a life filled with rich purpose that gives us a great reason to exist.

“The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.” —Psalm 37:23 

Let’s Pray

Yahshua, as we approach a new year, we pray that you would remind us that we are all a part of building and expanding your Kingdom. Father, today give us a fresh vision for your purpose for our lives. We ask that you open our eyes, our ears, our hearts, and our minds to your vision so that we can live out our purpose. Remove anything from our lives that hinders us from discerning your purpose. God, draw us closer to you as you bring us revelation to our purpose. Please reveal to us what we need to do today to not run ahead of you, but rather be focused on your divine vision. In Christ’s Name, Amen.

In Reflection

What are some ways that God can remind us that He created us for a purpose?

In what details of your life is it difficult for you to see your purpose?

What prevents you from trusting God with those areas of your life?

How do you need help to see that you can trust Him? Ask Him to show you.

Posted on

Ujima / Collective Work and Responsibility: Team Work

Ujima / Collective Work and Responsibility: Team Work

Principle 3 Ujima / Collective Work and Responsibility: 1 Corinthians 12:21-25. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honourable we treat with special honour. So that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. This verse reminds us that we are one nation, one people, and one world and we should be concerned for each other. How different society would be today if we extended the care and concern as in the bible. We certainly would have a different perspective on Refugees, poverty, domestic violence, Gun and knife crime, unemployment, and war.

 

As a fan of Chelsea, Golden State and The Vikings, I would hear the deafening noise of fans speaking as one. While watching on the sofa might give you a better view of the game, it’s never as exhilarating as cheering on your team from the stands. A special energy comes from being part of a shared mission, whether that mission is to win a game or to bring heaven to earth.

 

When we ask God into our lives, we give Him permission to reshape our values and our perspective. We put Him in charge. We join His team and His mission. He sends all of His people out to share the good news that He has set us free and He will set things right forever. We might seem like a makeshift bunch. But when it comes to this mission, no one is too old or too young. Wherever we’ve come from and whatever we’ve done, we all have a place on this team.

 

Today, Ujima says to us at times, we are going to get tired and want to give up but the same way a team feeds off the energy of its fans, we can draw strength from one another. When our minds are unified with Yahshua anything is possible. Scripture reminds us that there is a special power that comes through unity. “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of Yahshua”. He calls us to be one, working together for His glory. When we say yes to Jesus, we are clothed with His team jersey. And everyone regardless of skin colour, age, social status, or past life experience has a role to play.

 

The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honourable we treat with special honour. So that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 1 Corinthians 12:21-25

 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I thank you for the gift of being a part of your team. Father, may I be steadfast in working toward the goals and determined in my effort to grow together with this team and through this journey. God, grant me the grace I need to be a good teammate, so that my contributions to this team may make others better and that the experience may be more fruitful because of my participation. Lord give me the courage to sacrifice for the good of the team when necessary and the wisdom to know when to do so. May I follow the example of Christ as I interact with others every day. I ask this through Christ, our Lord and saviour, Amen.

In Reflection 

When was the last time you drew strength from someone else’s faith?

This week, is there someone you need to bear with or build up?

Is there anyone you have a hard time accepting as part of God’s team? Rather than hide that feeling, pursue unity by asking God to help you see that person through His eyes.

Posted on

Kujichagulia (Self-determination) True Grit

man reading a book

Principle 2 Kujichagulia / Self-determination: Philippians 3:13–14 “Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus”. Paul commands believers to possess the attitude of strong determination.

At a time when many people in Paul’s place would be looking back in regret, wondering what life would have been like in a different profession, Paul repudiates the past and looks with confidence to the future. His strong determination kept him focused on the ultimate goal of pleasing Christ all the way to the goal, even in his chains. It’s the picture of a runner running for the tape at the end of the race, straining forward in strong determination. Paul said, “I’m not looking back with longing. I’m stretching for the prize.” True grit.

No rusty Roman chains could deter Paul from reaching for the goal of pursuing the prize of Christ. He pressed on, determined to remain focused on his mission.

Today, I’m not talking about athletes, I’m talking about being a determined servant of Christ. There’s no easy route to spiritual maturity. It doesn’t happen overnight. Remember, it’s a gruelling journey at times. So, don’t bother to publish a pamphlet on all the obstacles you face. Don’t become famous for complaining. Forget the past, use what’s behind you as fuel and reach for the tape. Keep running no matter what as guided by God, remember it’s a spiritual race. Develop and maintain an attitude of strong determination.

“Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus”. Philippians 3:13–14 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I thank you for who you are, and for everything you have done in my life. Father, I ask you to make me a stronger person who can withstand all the setbacks that life throws at me. God, please make me a person with the courage to face life’s problems, enemies, and trials. Oh Lord give me a spirit of determination to fight and never stop running this Christian race until I win. Remove my obsession with the past. Thank you for listening to me in Christ’s name. Amen.

In Reflection 

When was the last time you had to show real grit and determination?

How did you get through?

When was the last time you prayed for more courage and determination? Why not pray now? God is waiting to hear from you.

Posted on

Umoja (unity) Christ Prayed For Unity

Let’s be clear, Kwanzaa is a cultural and not religious holiday created by an African American. However, the principles of Kwanzaa (from Swahili) can be found in scripture and can build and enhance families and communities and elevate the political dialogue on issues of importance to all.  Hence, 7 days before the start of the year, I offer this Kwanzaa perspective for Christians, as it relates to the Seven Principles of the first fruits (kwanza).

Principle 1. Unity/Umoja: Psalms 133:1. How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity. This bible verse reinforces the unity principle of togetherness and harmony and instructs that our speech, strategies, and behaviour should be directed toward bringing people together as opposed to the divide and conquer, demonize, and dominate approach that is all too present in our social relations and politics.

Politicians seem to thrive on division. Income brackets separate communities into one side of the tracks or the other. Even people who share the same beliefs bicker about how to live out those beliefs. Unity may seem far-fetched, but unity is what Christ prayed for before going to the cross. More than anything, His desire was for the church to be one because their uncommon unity would be a powerful witness of God’s love. (John 17:23).

Today Umoja (unity) teaches us with so much division in our world, Christians’ ability to be unified, even when we’re not the same, is what will set us apart. This kind of unity doesn’t happen naturally. It comes from God. As we experience God’s love for us, it leads us to love others with pure, unselfish motives. We stop trying to push ourselves to the top and begin submitting to God and one another. Just as God is unified, we are to be unified to bring God glory. We are His plan to reconcile people with Him. But reconciliation must start with us. When believers live in harmony, people take notice and get a glimpse of Christ’s love

 

How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity (Psalms 133:1).

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, when I think of places lacking in unity, the church is not the first thing I imagine. Yet today the church is full of division. Father, whether the topic is racial, same-sex relations, abortion or others, churches are not on the same page. God, how can we be of the same body but cling to so many different beliefs? We read the same text and have drastically different takeaways? Are we interpreting the Bible the way we want or are we genuinely confused? Whatever the answer, I pray that you would help the church find unity on various salvific issues. Please give us clarity on issues of culture or politics. I ask that you help us to be clear about what is most important to You in Christ’s Name, Amen!

In Reflection 

When you look at your relationships, how much unity do you see at home, at work, or at school?

What is one practical way you can build unity in the church and your community?

When is the last time you prayed for the church? Take a moment to follow Jesus’ example in praying for your church family. Pray that we would experience the same unity that Jesus had with God and the Holy Spirit.

Posted on

Speed Up Editing Sermon Audio & Generate Transcripts In a Flash

https://churchm.ag/editing-sermon-audio-generate-transcripts-pompom/Sermon audio sharing isn’t reserved for famous pastors like Tim Keller, John Piper, and Tony Evans.

However, editing sermon audio can be time-consuming, especially if you don’t have a dedicated staff person or a volunteer with relevant knowledge.

Thankfully, a new program is available for Mac and IOS that may help you quickly edit your sermons, get a transcript practically instantaneously, and produce shareable video clips. Pompom is its name.

Simply put, what is Pompom?
Pompom is a podcast editing tool for Mac and iOS that streamlines the recording, editing, and publishing processes. Pompom accomplishes this by combining AI and audio editing smarts to enable you make short modifications to your recordings before sharing them with the world.

Pompom, in contrast to the vast majority of today’s apps, is not browser-based but rather operates locally on the device, so you never have to worry about losing work due to a shaky internet connection or waste time waiting for a basic page vie

Posted on

When Life is Not a Christmas Card

people celebrating christmas online

In homes around the world at this time of the year, we see lights aglow, stockings hung with care and turkey baking in the oven – our lives can look like a Christmas card. But sometimes it looks like something else. It can look harsher, colder, and even very lonely. Sometimes, Christmas can be hard. It doesn’t look like a well-designed Christmas card or a happy ending Christmas movie.

 

What do we do when life is hard, and we don’t know what to do? We must hold tight to our faith and keep our trust in God. Sometimes, there are those things we can never fix and things that we can never change. Sometimes, there are circumstances and trials we’ll never understand, those things we’ll never know the reason why. Sometimes, we face situations that will test our faith and test our trust in God.

 

Today I want to remind you that, faith is trusting that God is there and knowing He is always in control. Faith is staying close to Him no matter what comes your way and believing He will meet your every need. Faith is knowing that He loves you and will never leave you or forsake you. Faith is believing that in all things He has a purpose and a plan. Faith is knowing… You don’t have to understand it all just keep trusting Him.

 

“So do not fear, for I am with you; Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.“ Isaiah 41:10

 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You, that You are my refuge and my strength in hard times and an ever-present helper in times of trouble. Father, help me to cling to You and this truth. God, I know that You are the only all-powerful God and that there is nothing that is too difficult in my life for You to deal with, nor is there any obstacle in my path that is so insurmountable that I cannot cross, knowing that You are by my side. Please give me Your strength through this season so I can face life, with confidence knowing that Your strength is made perfect in my weakness. In Christ’s name, Amen.

Posted on

The Message of The Advent is “Fear Not” 

How to Deal with Chronic Fear and Anxiety

In the story of the advent, again and again, we hear the phrase, “Fear not!” 

“Fear not Mary” (Luke 1:30); “Fear not, Joseph” (Matthew 1:20-23); “fear not shepherds” (Luke 2:9-12). Like Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds, we are so prone to fear. We’re afraid because we feel alone and forsaken, when we encounter the unknown, and when we face something bigger than us. 

The advent story teaches why we do not need to be afraid. When we feel alone and forsaken we need to remember the message of the Advent: a Saviour has been born to us…and they will call Him, Immanuel which means God with us. 

Because of Jesus God is approachable and very near—even holding our hands at times. 

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”(Isaiah 41:10). 

As we encounter the New Year let’s remember it’s not unknown to God. 

The future has its uncertainties, but we enter it every day, confident in the sovereignty and sufficiency of God. Our security is not in knowing where we are, but Who we are with! We are with God Who loves us and always wants the best for us. 

“God is faithful, reliable, trustworthy and therefore ever true to His promise and He can be depended on” (1 Corinthians 1:9 Amplified) 

Today as we face something bigger than us, let’s remember that God is bigger than the things that threaten us. He will do the impossible through us. In all these things (whatever we’re facing) we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For every day of the year, there is a “fear not” in the Bible. Do you have one for today? Try these three from the advent for the next few days, they will bring you Joy. “Fear not Mary” (Luke 1:30); “Fear not, Joseph” (Matthew 1:20-23); “fear not shepherds” (Luke 2:9-12). 

“The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear: The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid… In the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling.” Psalm 27:1,2,5 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, we thank You because You are with us and Jesus lives within us, we have nothing to fear. Father thanks for the reminder from the story of the advent. That I have nothing to fear. In Jesus’s Name. Amen 

Posted on

THE GIFT OF THE HOLIDAYS

women wearing brown dress close up photography

During the Holidays our days can be so busy that we forget how fragile life really is. It’s easy to allow little things to creep in and steal our peace and joy. Maybe something doesn’t go our way, or someone says something upsetting. Even traffic can cause us to lose focus if we let it. We have to remember that each day is a gift. If we choose to focus on what’s wrong during the holidays, we’ll miss the beauty that each day has to offer family, friends and the presence of God. 

Today don’t let these precious moments of life pass you by and don’t wait for holidays and birthdays to show people that you care. Remember, each day is unique and irreplaceable. You have been given time that can be invested or wasted; hours that can be used or misused. The prayer of the psalmist still applies, “teach us to number our days.” He was saying, “teach us to value every moment we’ve been given.” As you daily keep a proper perspective, you’ll gain a heart of wisdom. You’ll draw closer to God and experience the full blessings that He has for you each and every day!

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12, NIV)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for the gift of the holidays. Father, I choose to focus on the blessings of each moment instead of allowing the little things to steal my joy. God, keep me close to You always, as I submit every area of my heart and mind to You, in Christ’s name! Amen.

Posted on

Struggling Through The Holidays 

Ujima / Collective Work and Responsibility: Team Work

While the rest of the world around us becomes excited and enamoured with our culture’s celebration of the Christmas holidays, some of us struggle through the holiday season – overcome with clouds of depression, and battles with fear and dread. Fractured relationships, divorce, dysfunction, compromised finances, loss of loved ones, isolation, loneliness, and any number of other circumstances become even harder to navigate, due to the often unrealistic expectations of the holiday. For many years in my life, loneliness magnifies, stress accelerates, busyness intensifies, and sadness overwhelms. 

There is something about this holiday that intensifies all emotions. The hype begins in October and builds up in the weeks before Christmas and new year, often making it a very difficult time for those of us who have experience loss of any kind. If, like me, you find Christmas is a difficult time, then let’s see if we can figure out a better way of coping together. 

Today, I write this word from the depths of my own experience in hopes of helping those who struggle with this season for various reasons. God’s Word and His principles of love, power, and truth are woven into every element of encouragement. Practical suggestions and challenges are presented to help navigate this and every stressful and difficult season. My passion is to bring hope and healing to hearts that are hurting, helping them break free from the burdens of stress, depression and dread, and find a new way of joy and simplicity. 

 “The Lord is near the broken-hearted; He is the Saviour of those whose spirits are crushed down.” (Psalm 34:18 BBE) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I know only You can help this pain vanish away. Father, I plead for peace and serenity as I fight the pain I am feeling during this season. Send Your hand down to me, and fill me with Your strength. God, I cannot take this pain any longer without Your help! Release me from this hold and restore me. I trust in You to give me the strength to get through this time of the year. I pray that the pain will be gone! It will not hold me down, because I have the Lord on my side, in Jesus’ name! Amen. 

Posted on

Don’t Miss The Miracle 

silhouette image of person praying

No matter when you think Christ was born, you know God did something extraordinary. In the busyness and excitement of this time of year, we can sometimes forget this and lose the sense of wonder of the miracle. So let’s take a few minutes to reflect on what the first birth of Yahshua in Bethlehem really means for us. 

He gave up His comfort and glory in Heaven to come and live in our cruel, cold, harsh world. He gave up His pain-free home, and came to Earth in human form, able to experience pain like we do, to be ridiculed by those who didn’t believe in Him, to be betrayed and denied by His closest friends, to be condemned to death by those who, just a few days before, had been welcoming Him as He came through their streets. He left His heavenly Father, was born and laid in a feeding trough because his earthly parents couldn’t find anywhere else for Him to sleep. He left His throne in heaven and came into our world in the most humble and lowliest way imaginable. And He did it all for us. That’s how much God loves us. He willingly went through all of that, died on the cross, and paid the price for our sins, so that we could be saved. Hallelujah! 

Today, it’s impossible to imagine how much love God must feel for us. The Bible tells us that ‘neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor ruling spirits, nothing now, nothing in the future, no powers, nothing above us, nothing below us, nor anything else in the whole world will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.’  This holiday, don’t forget Him, He is the best gift we could possibly have. Take some time to remember just how much Christ loves us and what He’s done for us and thank God for the gift of His Son. 

‘Nothing…will ever be able to separate us from the love of God.’ (Romans 8:39 NCV) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Yahshua, our Christ, who has sacrificed all to save fallen man. Father, today I open my heart and mind to You, and declare that You are Lord over my life. God, fill me with Your peace and joy this holiday, as I keep my mind stayed on You. I pray I will never separate myself from You. I give You the gift of my life, take me and make me after Your will, in Christ’s name! Amen. 

Posted on

Born With A Purpose

grayscale photography of baby holding finger

The birth of Christ should give you true purpose and identity. Before you were ever born, before the very foundation of the earth, God chose you. He approved you and called you His own. You may have been overlooked by people in your life. Maybe you were passed up for a job, or overlooked by someone whose opinion you valued; but remember, God won’t ever overlook you. Through His birth and His death He shows He had you on His mind.  

In fact, He handpicked you. He chose you to be holy, or set apart, for Himself. Let that truth sink down in your heart today. You are God’s most valued possession. You are special. You are the apple of His eye. He knows everything about you; He even knows the number of hairs you have on your head. 

Today and throughout the holiday season, know He gave you the gifts and abilities you have for a purpose. You carry great value and significance. Don’t ever lose sight of the treasure He’s placed within you. He was born and died just for you. You are handpicked by God. Meditate on His goodness today, knowing that nothing can change His love for you! 

 “[In His love] He chose us [actually picked us out for Himself as His own] in Christ before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy…” (Ephesians 1:4, AMP) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank You for loving me. Father, thank You for coming to be born and allowing Yourself to die just for me. Help me understand Your love so that I can extend that love to those around me during this season. Let me see others as valuable – the way You see me. God, I admire You for handpicking me for Your glory, in Jesus’ name! Amen. 

 

As seen on