December 2008
December 29, 2008
Romans 5:3a
... let us also be full of joy now...
First He gave the foundation for joy - the reason we have joy is that He dwells with us - Immanuel! He went on to explain the difference between happiness and joy; happiness being when external circumstances stir elation within the heart and joy being when those same beautiful emotions are stirred from within. Happiness depends on what's happening and joy is a deliberate choice to allow the spirit to touch the soul.
This revelation was good news to me. I had depended far too long on the energy I drew from from events and circumstances. I was continually trying to plan my life not realizing I was trying to manufacture the same blessing God had already deposited within me - joy!
God's joy, "the joy of the Lord", is permanently resident within our hearts as believers. Tapping into joy brings out all the sweetness and strength needed to flourish. Don't waste another day waiting for something or someone to touch your heart. Look to God, opening your heart to Him. Give thanks to Him for His amazing grace; be amazed again at all He has done for you. Tap into the joy God planted within you and be full of joy now!
December 23, 2008
Luke 17:21
... the kingdom of God is within you
"Joy to the World the Lord has come, let earth receive her king!" The words of a familiar caroll have been ringing through my mind several times this season. "Joy to the World"is not exactly going to be included in the headlines of the national news but never the less, it is the ageless heavenly announcement for mankind. The reason for this joy - "the Lord is come." Oh, that everyone would receive Him and really have that intended joy!
Those who do not have Christ lack that joy, but what about those who claim to know Him? Are you filled with joy? Are you filled with amazement and gladness at the thought of His presence in your life? He is with you! The joy of the Lord's presence in your life was deposited in your spirit when you accepted Him as your Savior.
Romans 14:17 tells us that the Kingdom of God (that is within us) consists of righteousness, peace and joy! Don't let another day go by without tapping into that resource of joy hidden deep within your being. God planted it there to give your life unending satisfaction and strength. Don't wait until December 25th - open the gift today!
December 18, 2008
2 Cor 2:14
But thanks to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him...
I don't know what you are facing right now, but I do know this: none of us have to look very far to see tragedy and sorrow on the earth; many times it's right next door. These are dark times for many and whether you are experiencing the hardship personally or observing it in the life of others, this is the time to cling to the truth of God's Word. His Word is the unshakeable rock we live on. When everything else cries out hopelessness, God's Word speaks of hope today that stretches into eternity.
We are not alone, left without help or hope. God is with us. He is not merely standing by observing; He is active and working on our behalf. His promise to us is that if we will follow He will lead us into victory. God is with you. Do not be afraid - He is close at hand. Listen for His voice of hope and victory and move towards Him. He is leading you in the right direction - straight into victory!
Let that hope calm your fears and become a beacon of comfort to those who are within your influence. May the fragrance of God's mercy on your life be sweet and draw many to trust God in the middle of their sorrow.
December 11, 2008
Matthew 1:23
... they will call Him Immanuel which means, God with us.
As we look toward the upcoming celebration of Christmas it's important to remember to budget well. I know, the first thing that comes to mind with that word "budget" is the notion of keeping the finances in order and that would be wise but I'm referring to a different area of management; the budgeting of time.
I want to encourage you this season to take in all of the wonder of Christmas by purposefully setting aside time of thoughtful reflection. Set aside one or several hours to think about the miracle of salvation; that the God of heaven and earth came down in the form of a human being so that He could set us free. This is truly amazing - He is not far off unaware of our lives. God is with us - Immanuel!
December 7, 2008
Amos 3:3
Do two walk together except they make an appointment and have agreed?
Agreement is a powerful thing; it's the decisive position that creates unity. So what is agreement? Contrary to common thought, agreement is not when we naturally think the same way; it can only occur when there is initially a difference of opinion. Agreement is an act of humility, when a person submits their way and right for the sake of a united position.
We live in a culture and generation that celebrates diversity; and in many cases diversity is a wonderful thing. When it comes to team work, vision and matters of relationship however, agreement wins the prize. This position doesn't happen without a deliberate decision; you will have to make a personal appointment.
Make an appointment for yourself today to walk in love, pursue peace and live agreeably. Your agreeable attitude will inspire an atmosphere of unity; and where there is unity God commands a blessing.
