Banquet With The King

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

Sing for Joy!

Meditate. Get ready to shout for joy!

Shout to the LORD, all the earth; break out in praise and sing for joy! Psalm 98:4

The Lord really likes to hear us sing to Him—joyfully. There are over sixty verses about singing with joy. Here are a few:

- But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread your protection over them, that all who love your name may be filled with joy. Psalm 5:11

- I will be filled with joy because of you. I will sing praises to your name, O Most High. Psalm 9:2

- Let the godly sing for joy to the LORD; it is fitting for the pure to praise him. Psalm 33:1

Liberty, in preschool, joyfully singing to the Lord!

Joyful, joyful we adore, Thee/ God of Glory/ Lord of Love. Familiar words to a refrain that is going through my head as I blog this. It was written in 1907 by Henry J. van Dyke and is in the public domain. Sing away! It is a joyful song—not really a Christmas season song—but one that expresses the joy in my heart. Does this Christmas season make you want to break out in praise and sing for joy? Christmas music has that effect on me. The music draws me into the Christmas mood. I love to listen to it while driving about town, working in the kitchen, wrapping gifts, or doing some crafty project with my grandkiddos. This is a joyous time of the year. Set aside the worries of the world. Choose to have joy in your life. Get ready to shout and sing for joy.

Prayer ~ Lord…But as for me, I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress. O my Strength, to you I sing praises, for you, O God, are my refuge, the God who shows me, unfailing love. Psalm 59:16-17

Verse of Salvation ~ Come, let us sing to the LORD! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Psalm 95:1

Unless otherwise noted, all scripture is quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT).

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Tuesday, December 14, 2021

Joy in the Presence of God

Meditate.

Now all glory to God, who is able to keep you from falling away and will bring you with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault. Jude 1:24

The Word of the Lord is the key.
It is God's very presence in our lives.
Hide His word in your heart.
He is always with you.

Imagine being in the very presence of God. Actually, we are constantly in the presence of God. He has promised to always be with us—to never leave us or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6). He will bring you with great joy into His glorious presence. God provides us with so many great promises—if we just look and listen. Here is another one. God is able to keep you from falling away. Consider that the falling is translated as “stumbling” in the King James Version and the Strong’s definition in the Blue Letter Bible and actually not falling is not sinning. What a great promise for us all.

Prayer ~ Lord, thank you that You will keep me from stumbling. Holy Spirit--continue to guide my thoughts, words, and actions that I would not sin. May I continue to find joy in Your presence Lord.

Verse of Salvation ~ Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Do not banish me from your presence, and don't take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you. Psalm 51:10-12

Unless otherwise noted, all scripture is quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT).

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Monday, December 13, 2021

Good News of Great Joy

Meditate. When was the last time you received a joyful message?

That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. "Don't be afraid!" he said. "I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! Luke 2:8-11

Sheep grazing in Israel.
Do they bring their Shepherds great joy?

The stars were shining brightly—glimmering in the cold night air. The shepherds may have been sitting around a fire—keeping warm while watching and guarding their flock that evening. That was their job to guard the sheep against prowling wild beasts. Tradition says that these were Temple sheep that were being guarded and watched from a traditional shepherding tower. The shepherds would keep the sheep safe not only from beasts but from falling and hurting themselves. These lambs to be offered in the Temple as sacrifices had to be pure—no blemishes—no broken bones.

Then the sky opened up revealing a glowing, radiate angel who gave them a message of hope. I imagine they were shaking in their sandals—overcome with fear! At least, they must have felt a little overwhelmed seeing and hearing an angel speak to them—but they were receiving Good News. The shepherds were not well respected in society, but they were devoted Jewish men who knew the scripture and the hope of the Messiah. How privileged they were! Here was the Messiah—born just a couple of miles away. Then there were more angels. Wow-what an evening! This was the greatest event of their lifetime! Possibly the greatest event of all of human history.

Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, "Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased." When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, "Let's go to Bethlehem! Let's see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." Luke 2:13-15

This was something they wanted to see with their own eyes. The Savior. The Messiah. Would you personally want to see this event? I certainly would. That night of Good News brought great joy!

Prayer ~ For my fellow believers…I pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light. For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins. Colossians 1:11-14

Verse of Salvation ~ As for us, we can't help but thank God for you, dear brothers and sisters loved by the Lord. We are always thankful that God chose you to be among the first to experience salvation--a salvation that came through the Spirit who makes you holy and through your belief in the truth. He called you to salvation when we told you the Good News; now you can share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14

Unless otherwise noted, all scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT).

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A devotional to start now...why wait for the New Year?

Sunday, December 12, 2021

Joy at Advent Time

Meditate. This begins the third Sunday of Advent. Light a candle for Joy.

Praise the LORD! Let all that I am praise the LORD. I will praise the LORD as long as I live. I will sing praises to my God with my dying breath. Don't put your confidence in powerful people; there is no help for you there. When they breathe their last, they return to the earth, and all their plans die with them. But joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper, whose hope is in the LORD their God. He made heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them. He keeps every promise forever. He gives justice to the oppressed and food to the hungry. The LORD frees the prisoners. The LORD opens the eyes of the blind. The LORD lifts up those who are weighed down. The LORD loves the godly. The LORD protects the foreigners among us. He cares for the orphans and widows, but he frustrates the plans of the wicked. The LORD will reign forever. He will be your God, O Jerusalem, throughout the generations. Praise the LORD! Psalm 146:1-10 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Rejoice – be glad or have joy overflowing.

This is the day the LORD has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

This is a day—Sunday—in which Christians normally attend church and worship the Lord. It is not only a day that the Lord has made…it is the Lord’s day. Rejoice. Let your joy show. Even from behind your mask—you can be filled with joy…and let it flow from your heart and soul.

Joy. There is a lot of “joy” in the Bible—in 260 verses in the New Living Translation. One of the most remembered verses for this time of the year is related to the birth of Jesus Christ. The wise men were filled with joy.

When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! Matthew 2:10

Even the camels probably rejoiced!
Camel at the Judean Desert - Israel.

The King James Version says that the wise men rejoiced with “exceeding great joy.” That is the feeling of real rejoicing—true joy. Exceeding great joy! Not a happiness kind of joy that we get with getting just what we want…but the joy of receiving the best gifts—salvation and eternal life. Those wise men had been following the star for probably months…and then they got to see the baby—Emmanual—God with us. They were very blessed…and they knew it. They were honored to be in the presence of the very God Almighty—in human form. Then Jesus grew into a young boy…and into a man. A man who was willing to lay down His life sacrificially for His friends…for all mankind. He was and is the Messiah—King of kings and Lord of lords. The amazing part of Jesus' story is that He didn’t stay in the grave—dead—after His crucifixion. He rose from the dead and is still living. He is the very living Word of God. Yes. He is God. Can you rejoice with me because of Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection? Personally, I am rejoicing with exceeding great joy because of the hope I have in Jesus. I joyfully serve a risen Savior. This is His day… every day is His day. Rejoice and be glad.

Prayer ~ For all who are reading this blog around the world…I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

Verse of Salvation ~ But may all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, "God is great!" Psalm 70:4

Unless otherwise noted, all scripture is quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT).

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://blueletterbible.org.

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Saturday, December 11, 2021

Where Do You Find Peace?

Meditate.

Then Peter replied, "I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right. This is the message of Good News for the people of Israel—that there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. Acts 10:34-36

Peace. Peace that comes from an assurance that knowing God…knowing that God offers us eternal life with Him. Sweet peace that comes from no favoritism—a love that is equal for all. Peace that comes from rest—with no fear. Peace.

Would you find peace...
...sailing on the Sea of Galilee?
Walking where Jesus walked?

Where do you find peace? Do you find it in relaxing music, beautiful scenery, moments in your relationship without hassles, escaping into movies or books, memories of parents, grandparents, or friends? Or do you find peace in reading God’s word and talking to Him about it? That is where I find peace…in the Lord. Seek first the Kingdom of God….

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, thank You for Your sweet peace in my life…not only during this Advent season…but all year.

Verse of Salvation ~ How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! Isaiah 52:7

Bible Trivia Answer to the Question: Our God is the great I AM. God told Moses to tell the Herew people that “I AM who I AM” sent him to bring them out of Egypt.

Jesus said, “I am the ____, the _____, and the ____. John 14:6 (fill in the blanks.)

Jesus said, “I am the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE. John 14:6

Bible Trivia Question for next week: Where were the shepherd and who told them about Jesus’ birth?

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Friday, December 10, 2021

Bread of Life

Meditate. Are you hungry or thirsty?

They (the Pharisees) answered, "Show us a miraculous sign if you want us to believe in you. What can you do? After all, our ancestors ate manna while they journeyed through the wilderness! The Scriptures say, 'Moses gave them bread from heaven to eat.'" Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, Moses didn't give you bread from heaven. My Father did. And now he offers you the true bread from heaven. The true bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world." "Sir," they said, "give us that bread every day." Jesus replied, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. But you haven't believed in me even though you have seen me. However, those the Father has given me will come to me, and I will never reject them. For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do my own will. And this is the will of God, that I should not lose even one of all those he has given me, but that I should raise them up at the last day. For it is my Father's will that all who see his Son and believe in him should have eternal life. I will raise them up at the last day." John 6:30-40

Everyone is looking for a miraculous sign—at least the Pharisees wanted one. Do you ever want a sign from Jesus? Maybe a wet or dry fleece like Gideon? A special star in the sky? A change in a traffic light? Just the right gift for a special person? A special loaf of bread? God gave the Hebrew people manna as they wandered in the desert—hungry. Do you ever wonder what it tasted like?

The Israelites called the food manna. It was white like coriander seed, and it tasted like honey wafers. Exodus 16:31

I’m sure God still has the recipe for manna…and will provide it for us if we are ever totally without food. With the supply chain issues occurring around the world, the lack of food resources could actually happen.

Jesus gives us the assurance that those who believe in Him…as Lord and Savior…will never be hungry or thirsty again. In His Sermon on the Mount we recall…

God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice (righteousness), for they will be satisfied. Matthew 5:6

Righteousness is a spiritual condition—one of right living—of wanting to live to please the Lord. Can you say that righteousness is something for which you are striving? I want to live to please God in all that I think, say, and do—but like Paul, I find that I don’t always do what I want to do…what I know is right.

So the trouble is not with the law, for it is spiritual and good. The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. I don't really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don't do it. Instead, I do what I hate. Romans 7:14-15

Is it a copout to say, “I’m just human?” We need to be accountable to God…and to each other. Seek God’s peace in your life and do what is right and pure…as Paul wrote.

Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:6-9

Peace to you on this blustery winter day. Peace in your heart and soul.

Prayer ~ Jesus…as You told Your disciples…"I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid. John 14:27. Thank You for that gift of peace.

Verse of Salvation ~ God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:8-10

Friday’s Feasting at the King’s Table

We can’t live on bread alone, although Jesus said He is the Bread of Life. He is our spiritual bread of life—providing eternal life to all who believe in Him. For our physical bodies…give us meat, veggies, some fruit, and of course, a scrumptious dessert. What do you suppose Jesus ate for dessert? Figs, pomegranates, raisins or dates. How about an apple or a Northwest Apple Cake?

Northwest Apple Cake
½ c oil or melted butter
2 eggs
2 c flour
2 tsp vanilla or grated lemon rind
4 c apples, unpeeled, coarsely chopped
1½ c sugar (use less if apples are very sweet)
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp salt
½ c chopped nuts – pecans or walnuts

Combine all ingredients, except nuts. Pour into a 9X13 inch pan. Top with nuts.
Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. This will store and keep fresh for a week or so.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Thursday, December 9, 2021

Are You Looking for a Peaceful Stream?

Meditate. Think about your favorite stream or river.

The LORD is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23:1-6

The Lord is promising here to lead us beside peaceful streams—in some translations that phrase is “still” waters. At any rate, the Lord, being our shepherd, is not going to put us in danger.

I myself will tend my sheep and give them a place to lie down in peace, says the Sovereign LORD. Ezekiel 34:15

Swift moving water is dangerous for sheep. If they are thirsty and attempt to drink from a swift-moving stream, they can very easily fall in and drown. They cannot swim well—although a couple of Google articles assured me that they can swim, they just don’t choose to jump into the water like a dog and swim. They are likely to lose their footing in swift-moving water and their wool will get very heavy when it is soaking wet. I think with the wet wool, it would be very hard to get out of the water, too. Peaceful streams would provide the freshwater which sheep need. That is just what you and I need, too. Fresh, clean, pure water—physically and spiritually. Jesus told the Samaritan woman at the well, His disciples, and us, that He is the source of living water…eternal life.

The woman was surprised, for Jews refuse to have anything to do with Samaritans. She said to Jesus, "You are a Jew, and I am a Samaritan woman. Why are you asking me for a drink?" Jesus replied, "If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water." "But sir, you don't have a rope or a bucket," she said, "and this well is very deep. Where would you get this living water? And besides, do you think you're greater than our ancestor Jacob, who gave us this well? How can you offer better water than he and his sons and his animals enjoyed?" Jesus replied, "Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life." John 4:9-14

All summer long I look for a peaceful stream—one that is perfect for kayaking. A little white water is good for some excitement, but a peaceful stream with lots of wildlife, birds, otter, and other critters, is the best way to spend a few hours on the water. Spiritually, that calm water from a fountain or deep well brings peace to my soul. The very words of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, give peace to my soul. Sometimes when I’m having a bummer of a day, or just out of sorts, I have to give myself a reminder to get back into His Word. He provides the peace that I need. If you are feeling stressed, out of sorts, or even overwhelmed—give peace a try. Find that peaceful stream of living water, close at hand, in God’s Word.

Prayer ~ LORD, you will grant us peace; all we have accomplished is really from you. Isaiah 26:12

Verse of Salvation ~ See, God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid. The LORD GOD is my strength and my song; he has given me victory." With joy you will drink deeply from the fountain of salvation! In that wonderful day, you will sing: "Thank the LORD! Praise his name! Tell the nations what he has done. Let them know how mighty he is! Isaiah 12:2-4

Unless otherwise noted, all scripture is quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT).

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Wednesday, December 8, 2021

God’s Mercy Guides Us to the Path of Peace

Meditate.

Because of God's tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace. Luke 1:78-79

Anne, Shirley, Vicki & Bob

This is the anniversary of the death of my sister, Shirley, her husband, Bob, and her two daughters, Vicki and Anne. It has been thirty-two years ago since we lost them in the ultimate domestic violence act. Time is relative…seems like yesterday…or last week. No, it was years and years ago. My nieces would likely have been married and had children of their own by now—but the shadow of death has overtaken their lives. As believers, we know they are not lost in darkness, but we will see them again one day in heaven. For now, all we can ask is that God, in His sweet and tender mercy, will continue to guide us—family and friends left behind—on the path of peace. God's peace is the only true and lasting peace.

The morning light from heaven in this Luke passage is referring to Jesus. These words were spoken by Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, and husband of Mary’s cousin Elizabeth. Whenever we have sunshine breaking through the morning clouds, my heart rejoices. Sunshine just makes me smile. Someday we’ll see sunshine breaking through the clouds…and it will be Jesus—the light of Heaven and earth—coming to call believers home to Heaven. What a glorious day that will be. I’m convinced that will happen, because of God’s tender mercy, in His time. So, we must patiently wait—and continue to seek His peace—knowing that He will guide us on His path of peace. Peace. No fear. No darkness, because Jesus is the light of the world.

Prayer ~ Lord God, I seek You and ask that You would guide me, my family, friends, and neighbors along Your path of peace. Fill us with Your peace…as well as hope, love, and joy during this Advent season.

Verse of Salvation ~ The LORD is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid? The LORD is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? Psalm 27:1

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Tuesday, December 7, 2021

Give You His Peace

Meditate. Peace.

Then the LORD said to Moses, "Tell Aaron and his sons to bless the people of Israel with this special blessing: 'May the LORD bless you and protect you. May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace.'” Numbers 6:22-26

Blessings are from the Lord. Blessings aren’t from angels or some sort of prosperity reward. Blessings are from the Lord whether we deserve them or not. This one recorded in fNumbers given to Aaron by Moses from the Lord is particularly heartfelt with blessings of protection, favor, and peace. It seems like a benediction, but when you read it in context—which is the way scripture should be read—it is instructions for Aaron’s sons, as priests, to use in blessing the Israelite men. By obediently giving this blessing, Aaron’s sons would be blessed by the Lord.

The Dove is symbolic of the Holy Spirit and Peace.

Peace during this season is a common wish. Check how many times it is written in Christmas cards. Peace, joy, love, and hope. The four cornerstones of Advent. Three of the four elements also are part of the Fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Peace is essential to the Lord…and to be blessed with His peace is a great gift. Personally, I highly value being blessed with peace in my life. Like many others, I’ve had some times that I didn’t have peace…and reminders of those times can be draining—sucking the peace right out of you…but God is good. He has consistently renewed my strength and my peace. What a blessing He is! What would I do without Him? If you are struggling with searching for peace—as well as joy, hope, and love—in your life, pray and ask God for a fresh infilling of the Holy Spirit and the Lord’s peace that surpasses all understanding. Search for Jesus—establish a relationship with Him—and be filled with the Lord’s peace.

Prayer ~ For all those reading this today…May the Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you always.

Verses of Salvation ~ The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls. This salvation was something even the prophets wanted to know more about when they prophesied about this gracious salvation prepared for you. They wondered what time or situation the Spirit of Christ within them was talking about when he told them in advance about Christ's suffering and his great glory afterward. They were told that their messages were not for themselves, but for you. And now this Good News has been announced to you by those who preached in the power of the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. It is all so wonderful that even the angels are eagerly watching these things happen. So think clearly and exercise self-control. Look forward to the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. 1 Peter 1:9-13

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Monday, December 6, 2021

Blessed with Peace

Meditate. Seek Peace.

A psalm of David. Honor the LORD, you heavenly beings; honor the LORD for his glory and strength. Honor the LORD for the glory of his name. Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness. The voice of the LORD echoes above the sea. The God of glory thunders. The LORD thunders over the mighty sea. The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is majestic. The voice of the LORD splits the mighty cedars; the LORD shatters the cedars of Lebanon. He makes Lebanon's mountains skip like a calf; he makes Mount Hermon leap like a young wild ox. The voice of the LORD strikes with bolts of lightning. The voice of the LORD makes the barren wilderness quake; the LORD shakes the wilderness of Kadesh. The voice of the LORD twists mighty oaks and strips the forests bare. In his Temple everyone shouts, "Glory!" The LORD rules over the floodwaters. The LORD reigns as king forever. The LORD gives his people strength. The LORD blesses them with peace. Psalm 29:1-11 (underlined for emphasis.)

What a great blessing—peace! During this season you see cards and signs of peace. Do you feel you have God’s peace? Just ask. He has promised that whatever we lack…and want, just ask.

Consider the voice of the Lord. When God created the heavens and the earth…and everything, He just spoke and it happened.

Then God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. Genesis 1:3

There is such power in just His voice. Remember when Jesus brought Lazareth back from the dead. He spoke…He shouted…and at the very power of His voice Lazareth was alive. Jesus offered a prayer of thanksgiving first to His Father…our Heavenly Father…so that people would believe in Him.

Then Jesus shouted, "Lazarus, come out!" John 11:43

David gives several examples of the power of the voice of God, but he also writes about how the Lord gives His people strength …and blesses them with peace. That is the sweet peace we can feel during this season of Advent…and all throughout the year…if we seek Jesus first in our lives.

So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today. Matthew 6:31-34

No worries…peace. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need. Peace.

Prayer ~ Dear God, I pray that You, God, the source of hope, will fill me completely with joy and peace because I trust in You. Then I will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

Verse of Salvation ~ How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! Isaiah 52:7

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Begin 2022 with this as your parenting devotional.

Sunday, December 5, 2021

Gift of Peace

Meditate. Consider peace in your heart.

I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid. Remember what I told you: I am going away, but I will come back to you again. If you really loved me, you would be happy that I am going to the Father, who is greater than I am. John 14:27-28

Question that came to mind as I woke up today…what do a fat lip and sin have in common…and how are they associated with a mask? Yep. I woke up with another fat lip. I think that it is somehow associated with an abscessed tooth that was extracted two years ago, but with Covid restrictions the dentist and oral surgeon offices were closed when I first had concerns about it not healing properly. The oral surgeon’s call center told to see my primary care doctor—who suspected that I had Covid. I didn’t. Then when I could and did see my dentist he assured me that there was no problem since teeth and jaws just take time to heal. Hmmmm. Now I’ve started getting a fat lip. Of course, no one sees it if I go out because I wear a mask. It is hidden. Just like sin—but everyone sins. Sin is easily hidden behind the mask of a smile and an answer…everything is OK. Yet is it? That is between each person and God. I can hide a fat lip behind a mask, but no one can hide sin from God. He sees everything. So, I’ll see my dentist soon—but the fat lip probably won’t be evident on that day…it comes and goes.

Does the sin in our lives ever go away? Sure. Because if and when we repent of our sin, the blood of Jesus washes away that sin…and gives us peace. As we allow Jesus to guide our lives and daily choices we become more like Him—holy. Sanctified. Filled with His peace. Peace in your heart, soul and mind.

Can you wrap up a gift of peace?

That is the greatest gift of this season…and of all time. Peace.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, thank you for the gift of peace. Please show me opportunities to share Your peace with others. We have hope…now give us peace.

Verse of Salvation ~ And Jesus said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace." Luke 7:50

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Saturday, December 4, 2021

Give an Explanation for Your Hope

Meditate. Consider the Hope you have in the Lord.

Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don't worry or be afraid of their threats. Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong! 1 Peter 3:13-17 (Underlined for emphasis.)

If you belong to Christ—you have a good reason for Hope! You have a secure future and are loved by an immensely loving God. Remember…

For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:16-17

That is love. That is the love that gives hope to those who believe in Jesus.

If you have love…you have hope! Tell others about the hope you have…why, when, and how.

Prayer ~ This is my prayer for each person reading this…Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal comfort and a wonderful hope, comfort you and strengthen you in every good thing you do and say. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17

Verse of Salvation ~ For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There's no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death. 2 Corinthians 7:10

Bible Trivia Answer to the Question: When as a baby, Jesus was taken to the Temple for His dedication, who recognized Him as the Messiah? Simeon – See Luke 2:25-35

Bible Trivia Question for next week: Our God is the great I AM. God told Moses to tell the Herew people that “I AM who I AM” sent him to bring them out of Egypt. Jesus said, “I am the ____, the _____, and the ____. John 14:6 (fill in the blanks.)

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Friday, December 3, 2021

Choose the Lord…Choose Hope

Meditate. Consider the choices you make every day.

This is what the LORD says: "Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans, who rely on human strength and turn their hearts away from the LORD. They are like stunted shrubs in the desert, with no hope for the future. They will live in the barren wilderness, in an uninhabited salty land. But blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit.” Jeremiah 17:5-8

Hope. It is what you make it. God offers us hope…but we have to claim it and make it our own. As Jeremiah the prophet wrote back sometime in 627-585 BC as the Lord told him what to say, blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. Can you say that you have made the Lord your hope and confidence? How do you do that? I think I’ve done that by surrendering my own will to the Lord. I want to live to please Him. It is sometimes a moment-by-moment choice. I want to do things my way…but I know that God wants me to put others first. So, I choose to do things the Lord’s way. It all comes back to those commandments that Jesus talked about…Love God. Love your neighbor as yourself.

The trees planted along the riverbank speak to my soul. When I was in about the eighth grade I was in a confirmation class at the church where I grew up. We had to memorize scripture, include Psalm 1. I still can recite that passage (well honestly—sort of) from the King James Version and I think that it has guided me through my life—seeking God and the right way to live.

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly,

nor standeth in the way of sinners,

nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water,

that bringeth forth his fruit in his season;

his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

The ungodly are not so:

but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.

Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment,

nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

Psalm 1:1-6 KJV

Do you see yourself like a tree planted by a stream of water? Are you producing fruit…like the fruit of the Spirit…love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23)? As always, it is our choice. Choose to have the Lord first in your life…and you will be choosing hope. Hope—not just for Advent, but for every day of your life.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, You are my hope…and I thank you for all that You have done for me—most of all for being the Lamb of God—the ultimate salvation for all mankind. You are like a tree planted by the river—the River of Life—providing eternal life for all who believe in You.

Verse of Salvation ~ We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans 5:3-5

Friday’s Feasting at the King’s Table

We can’t live on bread alone. Have some fruit and cheese with that bread. Consider the fruit of the spirit…and the fruits we have available in our stores today. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Oranges, apples, bananas, pomegranates, pineapples, pears, kiwi, grapes and lemons. The variety is endless depending on where you live. What’s on your plate today? As you eat the bounty of food God has provided for you, consider the Fruit of the Spirit, and give thanks for all that God has bestowed on you, your family, friends and neighbors.

Are you sharing of the wealth—the fruit—that God has supplied for you? There is never a time to be selfish. Share with others—the food and the hope.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Thursday, December 2, 2021

No Fear

Meditate. Breath. Relax. Feel the Lord’s presence.

Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you. Deuteronomy 31:8

Does this verse give you hope? The actual word “hope” is not there…but if there is no fear or discouragement and a promise that you are never alone, there is “hope”!

Do not be afraid or discouraged. Have courage—find the strength to not be afraid. Satan is the initiator of fear and discouragement. Don’t let him have a stronghold in your life. Let Jesus do as He said in the focus verse today. The Lord, Jesus, will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you. For me that is a great assurance. I know that I will never have to go out into the darkness…alone. After all, Jesus is the light of the world.

Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, "I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life." John 8:12

Lighthouse at Mulkilteo, WA
Let the light of Jesus shine in and through you.

What are you afraid of? Does knowing that Jesus is with you take away…or lessen that fear? You have a choice…choose to take a deep breath and let Jesus shine the light…take away the darkness and fear.

Prayer ~ Jesus, You are the light of the world. Shine in and through me.

Verse of Salvation ~ The LORD is my light and my salvation--so why should I be afraid? The LORD is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? Psalm 27:1

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Hope of Advent

Meditate on the Hope that Jesus gives you.

Love the LORD, all you godly ones! For the LORD protects those who are loyal to him, but he harshly punishes the arrogant. So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the LORD! Psalm 31:23-24

The first week of Advent is to focus on Hope. By lighting the candle of Hope on Sunday the weeks of Advent begin. We do have Hope in Jesus—in His coming as a baby to become the Lamb of God, the Messiah, and in His Second Coming as our King of kings, Lord of Lords—the risen Messiah.

Be strong and courageous. That assurance should give us hope. The Lord told Joshua to be strong and courageous. That message of hope was communicated to and through David who was under persecution from his enemies. That message…be strong and courageous…comes to us as we wait patiently for Christ’s return. Jesus said to be prepared…not to be afraid.

But Jesus spoke to them at once. "Don't be afraid," he said. "Take courage. I am here!" Matthew 14:27

The author of Hebrew tells us to encourage others.

You must warn each other every day, while it is still "today," so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God. Hebrews 3:13

So…I tell you today…be strong and courageous…put your hope in the Lord! Find a time and a place for Jesus in your life and in your heart. Then share Him with others...that is just what He wants us to do.

Prayer ~ Lord, I place my hope in you. You are the Way, the Truth and the Light. I look to You for guidance…for peace, strength and hope.

Verse of Salvation ~ We were given this hope when we were saved. (If we already have something, we don't need to hope for it. But if we look forward to something we don't yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.) Romans 8:24-25

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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