Change

January 13th – Deuteronomy 1:6

Deuteronomy 1:6

Sometimes we find ourselves stuck on a mountain top, too comfortable or too afraid to come down. But if we really want to move toward something new, we need courage. Courage to step into the valley of change, where growth and new opportunities await. And although scary, if we descend with faith guiding our steps, we can find excitement knowing every slope leads to a new beginning. The Israelites found themselves stuck at Mt. Horeb, afraid to enter the land God gave them. Yet He called them to put aside their fear. To arise and claim His beautiful promise. And He calls us to do the same. He beckons us to embrace change, and embark on a fresh chapter in life under His loving care. To move forward with bravery and faith. In our own journey of moving from the mountain, Deuteronomy 1:6 serves as a wonderful compass. One that directs us toward uncharted territories. Amazing new places where God’s promises unfold, and the beauty of new beginnings await for those who trust in His leading.

January 13th – Deuteronomy 1:6 Read More »

December 30th – Ecclesiastes 3:1

Ecclesiastes 3:1

If there’s one thing that’s a constant in our lives, it’s change. And embracing that change takes an act of courage, a willingness to let go of the familiar and face the unknown. So as we stand on the threshold of a new year, it’s natural to reflect on the changes of the past, and wonder about the ones 2024 will bring. That’s why we are encouraged to start the year with a Christ-centered perspective, focused on using all change to transform us into the likeness of our Savior. The teachings of our Lord emphasize the importance of faith, hope, and love, and trust in Him to guide us through the ebb and flow of life’s transitions. And as we navigate the unknown terrain of the coming year, we can trust in God’s divine plan. Having confidence that even in the face of change, God’s purpose always prevails. Because when we do we discover that change is not merely a disruption, but a catalyst for growth and spiritual transformation. Inviting us to draw closer to the source of everlasting grace, Jesus Christ.

December 30th – Ecclesiastes 3:1 Read More »

September 27th – Joshua 1:9

Joshua 1:9

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

The story of Joshua is one of my favorites in the Bible. Imagine the weight of being called to take over for Moses and lead God’s people into their promised land. And as someone who doesn’t easily embrace change and is prone to fear, I can’t help but admire his strength. Because Joshua never let the unknown keep him from obeying the Lord. God often calls us to step out of our comfort zone, urging us to embrace change and growth. Because as our Heavenly Father, He knows us better than we know ourselves. And He sees the missed opportunities and experiences that come from always staying in our own little box. So God encourages us to break free from our self-imposed limitations, trust in His plan, and follow Him into the unknown with faith, courage, and excitement. If we want a personal transformation, a deeper understanding of our purpose, and a closer connection to God, that can only happen through leaps of faith. Times when we overcome our fears, and embrace the unknown.

September 27th – Joshua 1:9 Read More »

September 7th – Isaiah 43:19

Isaiah 43:19

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

Of the many tools of the Enemy, one is his ability to constantly remind us of our past mistakes. And he does so with the goal of keeping us from the forgiveness and grace offered through Jesus. That’s why it’s vital that as Christian’s, we know the difference between healthy remorse that leads to positive change and unproductive regret. And more importantly to remember the promises of God. Including making a, “way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” This means that no matter what we face, God has the power to provide a path forward. And we can trust in His ability to lead us through life’s wilderness moments and to quench our spiritual thirst in times of drought. The Lord invites us to let go of past regrets and be open to new beginnings. And He calls us to remain hopeful, knowing that He is continually working for our good, even when we can’t see it. This in turn inspires us to face life’s challenges with faith. Fully believing that God can transform even the most barren situations into opportunities for growth, purpose, and renewal.

September 7th – Isaiah 43:19 Read More »

September 6th – Ecclesiastes 3:1

Ecclesiastes 3:1

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens;”

I love a quote by Helen Keller which says, “To keep our faces toward change, and behave like free spirits in the presence of fate, is strength undefeatable.” No one likes change. Yet no matter how hard we try, nothing stays the same forever. That’s why Solomon teaches us about the seasons of life and the importance of embracing change. Today, in our fast-paced and ever-evolving world, this verse serves as a timeless reminder. It encourages us to recognize that change is a part of our existence. Just as the world experiences different seasons, our lives also go through seasons both joyful and challenging. Applying this wisdom means understanding that there is a purpose and a time for everything. It calls us to accept the inevitability of change, to cherish moments of happiness, and to endure through times of difficulty, knowing that they too shall pass. It encourages us to trust in God’s sovereignty and timing. To find contentment in every season and seeking His guidance in navigating life’s ever-shifting circumstances. And in doing so, we can find peace and purpose in the midst of life’s changes.

September 6th – Ecclesiastes 3:1 Read More »

August 1st – Colossians 3:16

Colossians 3:16

“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”

It doesn’t get much better than driving in your car, sun shining, windows down, and your favorite song blaring on the radio. Whether it be from the lyrics, the beat, or the melody, music can bring forth a variety of physical responses. Paul understood the capacity music has to change both hearts and lives. And so he tells us to use the songs we sing to both teach the Word of God, and to gently advise those who may need correcting. Always doing so with hearts of thanksgiving and with the goal of helping each other in our walk of faith. But most of all, to glorify God. The greatest purpose music can serve is when we use it as God intended, as a means to worship Him. The music we play and the songs we sing, are a testimony to both God and world around us. So let our song be one of devotion, thankfulness, and appreciation to the Lord. A melody of thankfulness that sprouts from deep in our hearts and brings a song of joy to our lips.

August 1st – Colossians 3:16 Read More »

May 16th – 2 Chronicles 7:14

2 Chronicles 7:14

As hard as it can be, change is a good thing. Especially when it comes to our walk with God. Even if at times it’s one step forward two steps back, our relationship with the Lord is to be one of perpetual motion. And repentance is just the thing to bring about growth and change. True repentance involves four things. First is humility. When we sin against God we need to come before Him with a truly sorry heart. One that hurts because it hurt God. Next is prayer. Jesus gave His life to provide an open line of communication between us and God. And we need to use it to confess the wrong we’ve done. Third is to continually seek God’s face. This means studying His Word and striving to live according to His commandments. Finally, we need to turn from our wickedness. It isn’t enough to just apologize for the sin we commit. We need to literally change the sinful behavior. If we take these steps, God promises to hear us, forgive our sins, and give us healing, change, and a deeper relationship with Him.

May 16th – 2 Chronicles 7:14 Read More »

May 14th – Colossians 3:10

Colossians 3:10

Author Robin Lee Hatcher said, “Following Christ is a lifelong journey. Christians are foot soldiers, so to speak. Always learning. Always growing stronger.” When we first receive Jesus as our Savior, we are born again babes in Christ feeding on milk. But we aren’t to be content in staying that way. Like children who grow and move on to solid food, we too need to move to the meat of God’s Word and truth. The Lord calls us to continually grow in our faith and deepen our relationship with Him. This involves moving beyond the basic teachings of the faith. And purposefully growing a deeper understanding of who God is, His word, and His will for our lives. For such growth leads to transformation. A transformation of becoming less like us and more like Jesus. One that involves a change in our character, attitudes, and behavior, as we become more loving, kind, and compassionate, like our Creator.

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May 6th – Isaiah 43:19

Isaiah 43:19

I love the quote by Joyce Meyer which says, “I may not be where I want to be, but thank God I’m not where I used to be.” Everyone has a past. One containing some mistakes and a regret or two. But God doesn’t keep score. For when He looks at us, He sees us through the righteousness of Jesus. And the righteousness of Jesus washes away the sins of the past. It declares us innocent and beloved by God. And because He loves us, the Lord refuses to leave us as He found us. The minute we receive Jesus as our Savior, God sends the Holy Spirit to indwell us. Immediately He gets to work doing something new and unexpected, bringing about a transformation in the lives of each believer. And the more we surrender to His awesome love, the more God is committed to continually work in our lives. The Lord wants us trust Him enough to throw away the old and let Him bring out the new. To receive His blessing of change and transformation. And to lead us on a new and exciting journey of faith!

May 6th – Isaiah 43:19 Read More »

May 5th – Philippians 3:13

Philippians 3:13

We can be our own worst enemies. Always replaying past mistakes in our head, never forgiving ourselves, and feeling too worthless for God. No wonder many believers seem to get stuck in the mud. Always spinning their wheels and unable to move forward. But Jesus made it clear that having a relationship with Him involves growth, change, and action. And the action needed is letting go of our past mistakes and instead focusing on our future. The glorious future planned for us as followers of Christ. We all sin daily, and need God’s forgiveness. And He’ll give it freely and generously when we come to Him in true repentance and sorrow. More than that when we confess, God promises to wipe our slates clean. He’ll remember our sins no more and remove them as far as the east us from the west. (1 John 1:9) So if God can forget our past, who are to remember? All we need to do is learn from our mistakes, and move forward with renewed focus and determination.

May 5th – Philippians 3:13 Read More »