God’s Promises

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.

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January 8th – Philippians 3:13-14

Philippians 3:13-14

One of my resolutions is to grow spiritually and deepen my relationship with the Lord. And that means getting into spiritual shape. Before running a race, an elite athlete puts in the work and dedication needed to condition their bodies, shedding any extra weight that will slow them down. We are elite athletes of God. And to make it to our finish line, we too must put in the work. That means shedding the mistakes and regrets that weigh us down. By having a heart willing to let go and let God, we’ll find the endurance to press on and release the weight of the past. To move toward the glorious future God has lovingly prepared for us of an eternal life spent by His side. And although moving forward isn’t always easy, it is always possible through the grace of Jesus. For in our weakness, He is strong. And it’s His strength which keeps us from getting stuck in mud of yesterday’s setbacks. So release the anchor of the past. And run with freedom, joy, and God’s wonderful promise of a hopeful and purposeful tomorrow.

 

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December 20th – Isaiah 40:31

Isaiah 40:31

In the hushed quiet of the Bethlehem night, the shepherds stood in the darkness, their watchful eyes scanning the starlit sky. Suddenly that darkness was shattered by the light of the appearance of God’s angels. A great host, announcing the arrival of the hope of the world with the birth of Jesus. A hope that filled the shepherds with great joy, and one they spread to all they met. For the promised Messiah, sent by God, proved that hope placed in the faithfulness of the Lord will always be rewarded. What a beautiful portrait of resilience and endurance. One that encourages us to place our hope not in the world, but in God. In the quiet moments and twinkling stars of the season, we can draw strength from God’s promises. And we can find comfort in the belief that even in the darkest nights of our lives, the dawn of hope is on the horizon. Christmas, at its core, becomes a beacon of hope, inviting us to trust in the God who renews and sustains us, enabling us to soar above life’s challenges with unwavering faith.

December 20th – Isaiah 40:31 Read More »

December 4th – Luke 2:10-11

Luke 2:10-11

The beginning of the Christmas season doesn’t officially start for me until the nativity scene is set up. I love gazing upon the stable as I place baby Jesus in His manager. And I can’t help but get caught up in the wonder of His birth. Because it’s in that manger of Bethlehem where we find not just a baby, but the source of unending joy. The birth of Jesus is a great gladness that transcends time and circumstance. For in that humble manger, joy was born anew. Inviting us to discover lasting happiness in the presence of the One who brings light to our darkest nights and comfort to our deepest sorrows. How can our hearts not overflow with joy at the fulfillment of God’s promise? A newborn King who would reconcile us back to our Heavenly Father. It’s a joy that comes from having God’s presence among us, promising peace and goodwill to all.  The great news declared by the angel is a reason for us all to abound in great joy. For to us a Savior is born. Messiah Jesus. King at kings and Lord of lords.

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November 26th- Hebrews 10:23

Hebrews 10:23

I read once that during times when our faith is tested and our convictions tried, Christians can find not only endurance but a radiant hope that shines brighter than the flames of adversity. How? By holding fast. To hold fast means to grasp firmly, to maintain a secure and unyielding grip on something. And as the days grow darker, gripping tightly to God is the best place for us to be. To stay rooted in His promises, allowing our hearts to be filled with enduring hope. Leaning on the Lord and His strength so we can preserve with steadfast faith, no matter what we face. Confidently we can stay the course because our endurance is sustained by the faithfulness of God. Ruler and Creator of all things. And the only One who holds the future. So we can boldly keep on declaring our faith in Jesus Christ. Keep on sharing the truth of His Word, and live a life that’s a beautiful testimony to the world and glorifies the Lord.

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November 18th – Hebrews 10:36

Hebrews 10:36

When Abraham was 75 years old, God promised to make him a great nation. The years came and went, and as each one passed no fulfillment of God’s promise came. But instead of giving up, Abraham endured and, “believed in the Lord.” (Gen. 15:6) Finally, at the age of 100, Abraham received the son he had waited for, his beloved Isaac. But then God asked the impossible. He wanted Abraham to sacrifice his son. I can’t even begin to imagine the confusion and sorrow Abraham felt because of God’s request. Regardless, Abraham continued to trust and place his hope in the Lord. And even though he didn’t understand, Abraham endured and obeyed. And because of his obedience, God blessed Abraham, and the world, mightily. What if God asked you to sacrifice what you love the most? Could you do it obediently and without hesitation? God wanted Abraham, and each of us, to learn to wait, trust, and hope in Him no matter what He asks of us. And when we do, God promises to bless our obedience greatly!

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November 13th – Hebrews 11:1

Hebrews 11:1

Solomon, the wisest of all kings, tells us a cord of three strands is not quickly broken. (Eccles. 4:12) That’s how it is with faith, hope, and endurance. Together they form an unbreakable chain that allow us to have unwavering trust in God and His promises. Even without physical proof or evidence. Having a confident faith in the Lord strengthens us. Providing a firm foundation which guides our thoughts, choices, and actions. Making sure all align with God’s will. And that faith leads to hope, the driving force behind endurance. This empowers us to keep going through the challenges and uncertainties of life. All with the confidence that what we believe in, though unseen, is certain and trustworthy. And God promises to reward such faith. Including the treasures of eternal life, peace that transcends understanding, and a profound sense of purpose and meaning. Although unseen, we can be assured of God’s love, protection, and a future beyond this life. One filled with joy, restoration, and an eternity spent as His side.

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November 5th – Romans 5:3-5

Romans 5:3-5

For Christians, hope is not wishful thinking but a robust, enduring virtue born from persevering through life’s trials. By lasting through the suffering and coming out the other side, our character is refined. And from this transformation, a resilient hope emerges. This hope is unshakable because it is rooted in the abundant love of God, which fills our hearts through the Holy Spirit. So rather  than seeing them as setbacks, we should view trials as opportunities for growth. A chance to develop a deep and enduring hope in God’s promises. Suffering comes for us all. Yet no matter what we face, we can embrace the challenge. Because every circumstance has the potential to shape us to to a better version of ourselves. And to strengthen our hope in God’s love and protection. It encourages us to glory in our sufferings. Because trusting in the process of endurance, leads to an ultimate outcome of hope that doesn’t disappoint. Because God never disappoints. And everyone of His promises are true.

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September 28th – Psalm 136:1

Psalm 136:1

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever.”

Psalm 136 is one of my favorites, because it’s a summary of the entire book of Psalms. And its message, repeated 26 times, is this. God’s lovingkindness is everlasting. What a beautiful promise we can carry in our hearts! And a powerful reminder that God’s goodness and love aren’t limited by time or circumstance, but are boundless and unending. Most wonderful of all, God offers His love and grace freely to all who call on Jesus as Lord. No wonder our hearts can’t help but sing His praises! For God’s lovingkindness is a profound expression of His goodness, compassion, and grace, inviting us to experience a deep and transformative relationship with Him. David was quite the poet. And this Psalm is no exception. It’s full of hope and comfort to a lost and hurting world. And contains the blessed promise that God’s love and mercy remain steadfast. Demonstrated most of all through His Son, Jesus Christ, who shed His precious blood to provide eternal life to all who believe in Him.

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September 12th – Psalm 46:2

Psalm 46:2

“Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,”

Natural disasters have been dominating the news. Between the recent fires, hurricanes, and earthquakes, people around the world have taken new interest in the climate. Scientists are searching for the reason why the increased frequency and strength of the disasters. But Christians already know the answer. Because in Luke 21:10-11 Jesus tells us that all of these things show that His glorious return is close. So while we may still experience fear, loss, and hardship during these “birth pangs,” we put our faith in God’s promises. Promises that give us with the inner strength and resilience needed to navigate any and all challenges. And an unshakable hope that providers resilience in the face of adversity. The days will only grow darker before Christ returns. But no matter the storm raging around us, we can find comfort. Through prayer, support from others, and the belief that, ultimately, God is in control, we can stand firm even as the world crumbles around us.

September 12th – Psalm 46:2 Read More »