God is Gracious
The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. Genesis 2:15
Since creation, God has given us work to do. Knowing that God created work should shed new light on our approach to the work week. And, if we focus on this truth, it is possible that even the most difficult aspects of work can become a passion.
Are you passionate about your work? Do you strive for 110 percent or is complacency lurking in you? With the new year underway, take a look at what is being asked of you today and think of how God has been gracious to you. As He changes your heart and mind, you will have the ability to transform an undesirable or mundane task into one full of joy and excellence. Passion comes from the heart, a heart humbled by the knowledge of God’s grace and mercy.
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, Colossians 3:23
Because God is gracious, through Christ He can transform our hearts and enable us to serve passionately.
Friday, January 15, 2021
Friday, January 1, 2021
New Year’s Resolutions
God is Faithful
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 2 Corinthians 5:17
The New Year is about new beginnings, new hopes, new dreams, and sometimes new direction. It is about setting goals, changing habits, improving character. In our own strength, we often fail, even after our best efforts. But when we lean on God to help change us from the inside out, we can experience success in transforming the big and small things in our lives.
Through the Holy Spirit, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, all things are possible for those who believe. Remember, God is always at work, renewing our minds and refining our character – it is just that sometimes we don’t recognize Him or embrace His efforts. The bible tells us to have faith and trust God with everything. When we let go of our hurts, our struggles, and our desires to be in control, God will transform our hearts and perfect our character. What would you like to leave behind as you start the New Year and are you willing to trust God to help?
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
Because God is faithful, with Christ we can experience a changed life.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 2 Corinthians 5:17
The New Year is about new beginnings, new hopes, new dreams, and sometimes new direction. It is about setting goals, changing habits, improving character. In our own strength, we often fail, even after our best efforts. But when we lean on God to help change us from the inside out, we can experience success in transforming the big and small things in our lives.
Through the Holy Spirit, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, all things are possible for those who believe. Remember, God is always at work, renewing our minds and refining our character – it is just that sometimes we don’t recognize Him or embrace His efforts. The bible tells us to have faith and trust God with everything. When we let go of our hurts, our struggles, and our desires to be in control, God will transform our hearts and perfect our character. What would you like to leave behind as you start the New Year and are you willing to trust God to help?
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2
Because God is faithful, with Christ we can experience a changed life.
Thursday, October 1, 2020
The Second Mile
God is All Powerful
If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Matthew 5:41
The verse is based on an old tradition where Roman soldiers required locals to carry their load one mile. Jews would carry the bags two miles as a way to show Rome the power and goodness of God.
When at work or in any situation, why not go the second mile? Think of the impact it will have on those around you. Leadership like this may not be immediately rewarded, but knowing you are making a difference one day or one task at a time has its rewards. Draw your strength from God, who ultimately controls all things and rewards us accordingly.
i>Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. I Chronicles 29:12
Because God is all powerful, in Christ we can be extraordinary.
If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Matthew 5:41
The verse is based on an old tradition where Roman soldiers required locals to carry their load one mile. Jews would carry the bags two miles as a way to show Rome the power and goodness of God.
When at work or in any situation, why not go the second mile? Think of the impact it will have on those around you. Leadership like this may not be immediately rewarded, but knowing you are making a difference one day or one task at a time has its rewards. Draw your strength from God, who ultimately controls all things and rewards us accordingly.
i>Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. I Chronicles 29:12
Because God is all powerful, in Christ we can be extraordinary.
Tuesday, September 15, 2020
I’m Tired, Are You?
God is All Powerful
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30
Anyone tired? …tired physically, mentally, tired of waiting for circumstances to change… When life is tough, we can become so worn out that we are immobilized. Where do you turn? Modern medicine offers solutions; bad habits can keep us propped up for only so long.
Look up and lean on our eternal God. This is where you can be re-energized and restored. Exchange your ways for God’s ways. God’s promise for everlasting life through his son Jesus Christ offers peace and hope. It isn’t in the what and when of our circumstances, but rather in the who. Who is the focus of your life?
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:28-31
Because God is all powerful, we can rely on the Lord’s strength.
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30
Anyone tired? …tired physically, mentally, tired of waiting for circumstances to change… When life is tough, we can become so worn out that we are immobilized. Where do you turn? Modern medicine offers solutions; bad habits can keep us propped up for only so long.
Look up and lean on our eternal God. This is where you can be re-energized and restored. Exchange your ways for God’s ways. God’s promise for everlasting life through his son Jesus Christ offers peace and hope. It isn’t in the what and when of our circumstances, but rather in the who. Who is the focus of your life?
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:28-31
Because God is all powerful, we can rely on the Lord’s strength.
Tuesday, September 1, 2020
Out of Control
God is All Powerful
“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
We are taught to be in control -- to take control of our lives and our circumstances. Covid, lockdowns, rioting, unrest, and uncertainty in our economy do not align with dreams of an abundant life…. But what an eye opener when we understand who really is in control – an all powerful God who has the whole world in His hands! And with this revelation comes hope and a sense of freedom. We don’t have to fix everything. We can trust God, who is good and who has a plan for us.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
Because God is all powerful, we can trust that He is in control of all the circumstances in our life.
“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
We are taught to be in control -- to take control of our lives and our circumstances. Covid, lockdowns, rioting, unrest, and uncertainty in our economy do not align with dreams of an abundant life…. But what an eye opener when we understand who really is in control – an all powerful God who has the whole world in His hands! And with this revelation comes hope and a sense of freedom. We don’t have to fix everything. We can trust God, who is good and who has a plan for us.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
Because God is all powerful, we can trust that He is in control of all the circumstances in our life.
Saturday, August 15, 2020
Once Upon A Time
God Is Wisdom
My son, do not forget my teaching but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity.
Proverbs 3:1-2
Remember hearing childhood stories about princesses and super heroes?….Oh, what it is like to be a small child wrapped up in the arms of a loving parent while listening to fairly tales with happy endings! … We all wish for happy endings especially when it comes to our children. We do everything to protect them, to teach them, to warn them about poor choices, dangerous situations,...but we all know they don’t always listen.
Our relationship with our Heavenly Father is much the same….His word provides instruction to protect us, but we too sometimes don’t listen. No matter what we have done, however, His arms are always wide open for our return. He longs to comfort us, forgive us for our sins, and to give us the wisdom and strength to avoid future persuasion. And, it is in this context with Him that we can live …happily ever after!
For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate. Luke 15:24
Because God is wisdom, through Christ we can live a victorious life.
My son, do not forget my teaching but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity.
Proverbs 3:1-2
Remember hearing childhood stories about princesses and super heroes?….Oh, what it is like to be a small child wrapped up in the arms of a loving parent while listening to fairly tales with happy endings! … We all wish for happy endings especially when it comes to our children. We do everything to protect them, to teach them, to warn them about poor choices, dangerous situations,...but we all know they don’t always listen.
Our relationship with our Heavenly Father is much the same….His word provides instruction to protect us, but we too sometimes don’t listen. No matter what we have done, however, His arms are always wide open for our return. He longs to comfort us, forgive us for our sins, and to give us the wisdom and strength to avoid future persuasion. And, it is in this context with Him that we can live …happily ever after!
For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate. Luke 15:24
Because God is wisdom, through Christ we can live a victorious life.
Saturday, August 1, 2020
Everyday Struggles
God is Faithful
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6
Everyday newspapers and talk shows are full of stories of conflict, political battles, and struggles for social equality. And personally, we battle health issues, finances, relationships, poor choices…..
Some struggles are so enormous that we can’t face them alone. The Bible tells us that God never forsakes us. He is always with us in our struggles, providing strength for the next week, day or hour, and providing comfort, guidance, and rest when we think we can’t go on. God gave David the confidence to face a giant with only five smooth stones and a sling shot...and God the Father gave Jesus the strength to die on the cross for us and through His resurrection, declare victory over this world. Yes, everyday brings strife, but in Christ, we are given the strength to endure and the confidence in the outcome no matter what we face. By having faith in Jesus, we too are victorious over things of this world.
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33
Because God is faithful, in Christ we find hope for whatever challenges we face.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6
Everyday newspapers and talk shows are full of stories of conflict, political battles, and struggles for social equality. And personally, we battle health issues, finances, relationships, poor choices…..
Some struggles are so enormous that we can’t face them alone. The Bible tells us that God never forsakes us. He is always with us in our struggles, providing strength for the next week, day or hour, and providing comfort, guidance, and rest when we think we can’t go on. God gave David the confidence to face a giant with only five smooth stones and a sling shot...and God the Father gave Jesus the strength to die on the cross for us and through His resurrection, declare victory over this world. Yes, everyday brings strife, but in Christ, we are given the strength to endure and the confidence in the outcome no matter what we face. By having faith in Jesus, we too are victorious over things of this world.
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33
Because God is faithful, in Christ we find hope for whatever challenges we face.
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