Monday, December 13th, 2021

Verse of the Day

“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.”
— Hebrews 4:14 —

The Great High Priest is JESUS

The most important spiritual leader in Israel was the high priest. Of all the priests and rulers of the nations, the high priest was the only person that could enter the Holy of a Holies, he could only enter it once a year on the Day of Atonement. On that day, he would offer sacrifices for the sins of the people.

The high priest had special directions that had to be followed before he could go behind the thick veil that separated the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies. Prior to entering ceremonial cleaning of his own sins had to be completed. Upon entering he would offer the blood of a goat on the golden mercy seat that sat atop the Ark of the Covenant, this would cover the sins of Israel for another year.

This system of sacrifices and the old priesthood was not meant to last forever. God gave them to Moses and the Israelites to foreshadow their fulfillment in Jesus. Jesus’ death on the cross made final atonement for our sins and abolished the priesthood and sacrifice system once and for all.

When the high priest would disappear from people’s view when he entered the Holy of Holies, so Jesus passed through the heavens into sanctuary of God. Jesus is the One to hear our prayers because He entered the Holy of Holies in heaven.

Throughout history many high priests, death prevented them to continue in office, but because Jesus lives forever, he is the permanent priesthood. He remains to this very day the enduring High Priest who is alive and able to fulfill that role.

“Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood.” ~Hebrews 7:23-24

Jesus is the blood sacrifice, he gave himself for the atonement of all. He sits on the great throne of grace, ready to hear our prayers and assist us in our time of need.

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are —yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
— Hebrews 4:15-16 —

Because Jesus is our High Priest, we have direct access to the Father through Jesus. Jesus is available to us at any time to help us in our hour of need.

“Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” ~Hebrews 7:25

CHALLENGE

We are so very privileged to have direct access to God, this was not possible for the Israelites all those years before Christ was born in a manger, grew into adulthood and was crucified for our sins and rose again. Jesus is our High Priest, now and forevermore. The old priesthood may seem strange and unsanitary compared to todays standards; but understanding the priests’ role in offering sacrifices helps us rejoice in the finished work of Jesus. As we approach the throne of grace, let us do so in full confidence that we are able to pour our hearts out to God, knowing we will not be turned away.

Prayer ~

Dear Jesus, you came and became the High Priest for each of us. We have the privilege to come to you at any time, anywhere knowing you will always be there. You torn them curtain that separated us from the presence of God. Forgive us for neglecting this privilege, rekindle in us the desire to spend time with you. You desire connection with us, you love us unconditionally. In Jesus name, Amen.

➡️ • ➡️ • ➡️ • FOR FURTHER STUDY

Leviticus 16:1-34 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Leviticus%2016:1-34&version=NIV

1 Timothy 2:5 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Timothy%202:5&version=NIV

Hebrews 4:14-16 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hebrews%204:14-16&version=NIV

Hebrews 6:19-7:28 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hebrews%206:19-7:28&version=NIV

1 John 2:1 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20John%202:1&version=NIV

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Sunday, December 12th, 2021

“I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”
— Luke 2:10 —

Prayer ~

Dear God, calm our hearts and our thoughts so that we may experience your joy. Fill us with your spirit. Help us to recognize joy, receive joy, and share joy this advent season and the whole year long. Please bless the person reading this prayer and may they experience your joy in abundance today. In Jesus name, Amen.

The lighting of the first three candles of Advent.

Week One • HOPE

This candle reminds us of the promise that a Messiah would come, bringing peace and love to the world.

Week Two • PREPARATION

This candle reminds us that the prophets waited for a Messiah to come and save the people.

🕯 • 🙏🏻 • ✝️ • ✨ • 🪔 • ✨ • ✝️ • 🙏🏻 • 🕯

“Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright in heart. Rejoice in the Lord, you who are righteous, and praise his holy name.” — Psalm 97:11-12

Why Do We Light The Third Candle?

The third candle reminds us that Jesus’ birth brings joy to all who believe in Him, so we join all of creation in celebrating Him.

“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.”
— Matthew 2:10-11a —

The Christmas Story — Luke 2:1-7

“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.”

Discussion Questions:

1. When Jesus was born, God sent angels to announce Jesus’ birth and also a star to celebrate. The wise men saw the star and traveled a long way to find and worship Jesus. What do these acts tell us about God?

I believe God was incredible proud that His son was being born human and would bridge the divide between humanity and the divine. Jesus was born to do what no other human was capable of doing, save us. I believe the wise men came because they believe something wonderful was going to be happening.

The Greek word μαγοι (mάgoi) is translated as “wise men” or “magi” depending on the English translation. This word was originally meant to refer to a class of Persian wise men that were something like priests, interpreters of special signs, and especially astrology. *https://www.christianity.com/wiki/holidays/who-were-the-wise-men-of-the-christmas-story.html?amp=1

2. How does the birth of Jesus give us joy?

Jesus’ birth is cause for joy because He bore our sins and through His great sacrifice we are forgiven and have the assurance we will be with Him in heaven someday. My joy is I know that no matter where life takes me I am never alone. I know and trust that God created me on purpose and with a plan. I know that I am incapable of saving myself. “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

3. In what ways can we spread the joy of Christmas to others?

I am a firm believer in doing small things great instead of trying to do great things. Jesus loved the unloveable, goodness He loves me! A kind word or gesture often speaks volumes to someone who believes they are invisible. Our world is hurting in so many places and many are hanging on by a thread, simple kindness and respect go a long way in spreading joy. I find myself easily frustrated by the actions of others and the total disregard for others. Yes, I get very angry at times. Example, I came home tonight and at the entrance to my building is a fire lane/no parking…time and time again people park in the spot, oh this irritates me. The problem, well two problems…one no consequence or enforcement from building management and secondly, someone thinking they are above rules/laws. So my irritation lasted about 10 minutes, I have done my part and reported this behavior. It’s a matter of area of concern vs. area of control; I have no control in this matter, let it go and let God!

Friends, thank you for stopping by today, I wish you JOY today and throughout this third week of Advent. Peace~Joy~Love to you!

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

An Advent Devotional • Unwrapping the Names of Jesus by Asheritah Ciuciu

https://onethingalone.com/advent/

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.christianity.com/wiki/holidays/who-were-the-wise-men-of-the-christmas-story.html?amp=1

Saturday, December 11, 2021

Verse of the Day

A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.
— Isaiah 40:3 —

PREPARATION IN ACTION

The author of the book I’m reading through Advent gives the following suggestions to put our PREPARATION into action.

❄️ • ☃️ • 🌨 • ❄️ • ☃️ • 🌨 • ❄️ • ☃️ • 🌨 • ❄️

Make snowflakes by cutting out patterns on simple white paper. You can write prayer requests on one side and on the other write Bible verses. Decorate them around your home. While putting them up pause and pray for those things listed and recite a Bible verse that speaks to your heart.

Act out the nativity story either as a play, a musical or a puppet show. If you don’t have others to help or perform for, try putting yourself into the scenes, imagine what it was like for Mary, for Joseph, or for the kings that came from a far. This can help bring the story alive.

🎼 • 🎵 • 🎶 • 🎵 • 🎶 • 🎼 • 🎶 • 🎼

Sing gospel-center Christmas carols that center your heart and attention on Jesus. Find an old hymn or check out: https://onethingalone.com/advent/

🌟 Memorize a Christmas verse or a verse that features the of Jesus that stood out this week: Word of God; Truth; Lion of Judah; Holy One of God; Lord of Lords. Also find made-for-you memory cards at: https://onethingalone.com/advent/

🌟 Gift hand made nativity ornaments. Draw the nativity, a star or wrote out the name Jesus. You might even try drawing a lion, a lamb, a shepherd or vine. Or download coloring ornaments at: https://onethingalone.com/advent/

📝 • ✏️ • 📝 • ✏️ • 📝 • ✏️ • 📝 • ✏️ •📝

Write a letter to Jesus. Tell Him all you’ve learned it discovered this week. Thank Him for who He is, confess any sins to Him and ask for a deeper relationship with Him.

🌟 Play “traveling wise men” with your nativity set, set the scene up normally but instead of placing the wise men with the other figurines, place them in the furthest corner of your home and move them closer and closer each day until they finally reach Jesus.

BONUS CONTENT

Go to unwrappingthenames.com to download a free printable activity sheet and other fun resources to celebrate Advent.

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Friday, December 10, 2021

Verse of the Day

“—God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and might forever. Amen.”
— 1 Timothy 6:15-16 —

🎄🔴🟢🔵🟠🟡🟣✨✨🟣🟡🟠🔵🟢🔴🎄

Hello my dear, dear friends —

I hope you enjoyed the song and video about the song. I love that she quotes C.S.Lewis!

He wants them to learn to walk and must therefore take away His hand; and if only the will to walk is really there He is pleased even with their stumbles. Do not be deceived Wormwood. Our cause is never more in danger than when a human, no longer desiring, but still intending, to do our Enemy’s will, looks round upon a universe from which every trace of Him seems to have vanished, and asks why he has been forsaken, and still obeys.

—C.S. Lewis (The Screwtape Letter)

Jesus is the Lord of Lords! He Lord of all. Throughout history and in some parts of the world, lords still exist today; they are rulers who have control, authority and powers over others. In the case of Jesus, He is Lord He is the Lord of lords, the Lord of righteousness, and the Lord of glory. He is the Ruler of those who rule. By definition, lords have control, authority and powers over people, much like government/state laws require that all follow rules.

Have you ever given thought to referring to Jesus, as Lord. By calling Jesus, Lord we are placing ourselves under His rule…

I have to be honest, I know that there are things that I have not fully given to God for Him to rule. I’m sure that I’m not the only person who does/has done this, I am not saying that I blatantly say “No God” I want to keep control of this or that. Jesus cannot be our Lord if He does not have supreme authority to direct our actions, whether it is big things or the very small things in our lives. Our submission to Jesus is all of our being, not just parts. I am not saying this from a theological perspective, just a human one. As humans, we are weak and sinful and easily distracted. Indeed, Jesus deserved to rule our lives by virtue of who He is, but in this life, He does not impose that lordship upon us. For now, it is our choice to willingly acknowledge Him, but one day “every knee will bow…every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:10-11 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Philippians%202:10-11&version=NIV

When we choose Jesus as our Lord, rest assured we are in good hands, unlike earthly lords who are motivated by power, greed and pride. With Jesus, our best interests are intimately woven into His, so when we act on what He tells us to do, we inevitably do what will bring us into a more abundant life of joy. We live into the person and pathways that we were created for.

CHALLENGE

Think about and consider what parts of your life you are withholding from Jesus’ lordship. Does He have complete control of your time, finances, schedules, relationships, career and dreams? Take some time today evaluating your priorities and renewing your allegiance to your Lord. Bow your knees in worship to Him, and when He instructs you to do something, trust him and obey Him immediately.

Friends, I ask for your prayers to help me to open myself fully to God’s plan for my life and I will be praying for you. I love Jesus and want to serve Him and I want the same for you. Life is tough, some days are harder than others. Most of us do not set out to sin or disappoint God, it is our nature and this world is filled with so many stumbling blocks and when we are weak from a lack of spiritual nourishment we sometimes trip and fall. There is hope, our hope is Jesus, seek Him and you will find Him. Repent and you will be forgiven. Jesus loves you very much, He wants to be your Lord…trust Him today. ❤️

Prayer ~

Lord, I come to you, asking for forgiveness for the times I was selfish and withheld parts of my life that I thought I knew best. Teach me your ways, guide me to talk less and to listen more. Teach me to humble myself before you. Lord, you created me, you gave me purpose, help me to follow your will. Amen.

➡️ • ➡️ • ➡️ • FOR FURTHER STUDY

Jeremiah 23:6 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Jeremiah%2023:6&version=NIV

Acts 10:36 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Acts%2010:36&version=NIV

1 Corinthians 2:8 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Corinthians%202:8&version=NIV

1 Timothy 6:15 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Timothy%206:15&version=NIV

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Thursday, December 9th, 2021

Verse of the Day

“We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.”
— John 6:69 —

Hello friends —

Today we unwrap another name for Jesus, “Holy One of God.” Have you you ever been around someone famous, royalty or presidential? Most people get nervous when meeting someone that has been elevated in popularity whether by name or position. I have had the opportunity to meet a few people of celebrity and I remember being “star-struck” and a bit nervous, mostly excited. But thinking about being face to face with the “Holy One of God” I can’t imagine, Isaiah writes this:

“And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. “Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.” Now the house of David was told, “Aram has allied itself with Ephraim ”; so the hearts of Ahaz and his people were shaken, as the trees of the forest are shaken by the wind.” Isaiah 6:3-5,7:2 —

“There is no one holy like the Lord; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God.” —1 Samuel 2:2

We are made holy only through the blood that Jesus shed for us on the cross. Jesus paid the debt of sin for all people. Before Jesus came, the only person who could enter the “Holy of Holies” was the high priest. The high priest could only enter after a painstaking process to purify himself from any sin, known or unknown. (Exodus 19:21-22), further reading on the process of entering the Holy of Holies can be found by clicking this link: Leviticus 16:1-34 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Leviticus%2016:1-34&version=NIV

Exodus 19:21-22 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Exodus%2019:21-22&version=NIV

No one could have done what Jesus did, no one else in the entire history of humanity is holy, except for Jesus. He is morally perfect. He has never sinned. He has never tempted anyone else to sin. The writer of Hebrews refers to Jesus as “holy, innocent, unstained and separated from sinners. (Hebrews 7:26).

We do not need to fear. Jesus’ holiness does not threaten those who love him. In fact, it is His holiness that gives us hope. Jesus is able to clothe us in divine righteousness, this is not even possible on our own.

You and I, brothers and sisters have been made clean through the sacrifice of Jesus. Jesus, he knew no sin, became sin so we might become the righteousness of God, even as we grow in this holiness day by day through the power of the Holy Spirit.

“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” —2 Corinthians 5:21

CHALLENGE

Each time we confess our sins, known and unknown, we grow a little more into His holy likeness. Today, let us take time to meditate and confess any accumulated sins to Jesus. Thank Jesus for His faithfulness in forgiving and cleansing from all our sinful deeds, words and actions. Rejoice in the holiness Jesus confers to us, walking humbly in His holiness today and always.

Prayer ~

Jesus, you are indeed the Holy One of God! You are present to all who seek you. Lord, help us to see goodness today, give us patience as we may encounter annoyances and or problems. Help us to pause before speaking, texting, calling or emailing. Help us to extend the same mercy and forgiveness you give to us. You Lord Jesus are the Holy One of God, we pray in you name, Amen.

➡️ • ➡️ • ➡️ • FOR FURTHER STUDY

Leviticus 9:1-10:20 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Leviticus%209:1-10:20&version=NIV

Psalm 16:10-11 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%2016:10-11&version=NIV

Isaiah 41:14 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Isaiah%2041:14&version=NIV

Mark 1:24 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%201:24&version=NIV

John 6:69 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%206:69&version=NIV

Acts 3:14 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Acts%203:14&version=NIV

1 Peter 1:19 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Peter%201:19&version=NIV

1 Peter 2:22 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Peter%202:22&version=NIV

1 John 3:5 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20John%203:5&version=NIV

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Wednesday, December 8th, 2021

Verse of the Day

“Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.”
— Revelation 5:5 —

Hello friends —

Most of my followers know that I am a huge fan of C.S.Lewis. I was reminded today after reading my daily devotional “Unwrapping the Names of Jesus” of the beautiful stories of Narnia. The King of Narnia is Aslan and the name of Jesus for today is “Lion of Judah.” The stories of Narnia are filled with imaginative allegories of biblical truths and exemplifies many characteristics of Jesus. If you have never read the Narnia book series, I highly recommend them. Below is a video I found that beautifully and artistically explains Narnia and Aslan.

Jesus, the humble and gentle. That’s one way of describing him. A common picture displayed in church when I was a kid is Jesus standing at a wooden door, knocking.

Jesus is standing at the door, have you let him in? Jesus is gentle, kind, humble and loving, all the great qualities of a King, the King of Kings! The Bible tells of His fierceness when He cleared the temple of money changers and merchants.

Matthew 21:12-13, “Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. “It is written,” he said to them, “‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’ but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.’”

The truth is Jesus has restrained his power, the Lion of a Judah has been gentle and tame, He has already won the battle at the cross. The Lion of Judah will return to settle with the father of lies, the one who kingdom is darkness and will unleash His fury against all enemies. All who stand against the Lion of Judah will fall, all those who are gathered behind Him will rest in safety.

Isaiah 34:1-8, “Come near, you nations, and listen; pay attention, you peoples! Let the earth hear, and all that is in it, the world, and all that comes out of it! The Lord is angry with all nations; his wrath is on all their armies. He will totally destroy them, he will give them over to slaughter. Their slain will be thrown out, their dead bodies will stink; the mountains will be soaked with their blood. All the stars in the sky will be dissolved and the heavens rolled up like a scroll; all the starry host will fall like withered leaves from the vine, like shriveled figs from the fig tree. My sword has drunk its fill in the heavens; see, it descends in judgment on Edom, the people I have totally destroyed. The sword of the Lord is bathed in blood, it is covered with fat— the blood of lambs and goats, fat from the kidneys of rams. For the Lord has a sacrifice in Bozrah and a great slaughter in the land of Edom. And the wild oxen will fall with them, the bull calves and the great bulls. Their land will be drenched with blood, and the dust will be soaked with fat. For the Lord has a day of vengeance, a year of retribution, to uphold Zion’s cause.”

Jesus exhibits the sovereign power and position of a great Lion towering above his pride.

Many men and women throughout history have dedicated themselves to God’s Kingdom, we admire and appreciate these individuals. Only one is worthy of our worship, praise and adoration.

Philippians 2:9-11, “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

The title “Lion of Judah” reminds us of Jesus’ valor, sovereignty and His faithfulness. Throughout the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, it’s pages are filled with allusions to the Lion of Judah, each pointing to the one who would rule the nation. First, David and later Jesus, David’s descendant. God always fulfills His promises.

Jesus is the triumphant Lion of Judah.

His enemies scatter in fear.

We know, He is Good!

CHALLENGE

Is He safe? Have you adopted the cultural view that Jesus as “safe”? Today, take time to meditate of His power and glory as the “Lion of Judah.” Seek Him and ask that He awaken you to the reality of His grandeur and respond in humble worship.

Prayer ~

Jesus, you are the Lion of Judah. You are power, strength, and gentleness, You alone are worthy to be praised. Teach us again how awesome and majestic is Your name. May we respond to you with humility, praise and adoration. In Jesus name, Amen.

➡️ • ➡️ • ➡️ • FOR FURTHER STUDY

Genesis 49:8-12 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Genesis%2049:8-12&version=NIV

Psalm 2:10-12 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%202:10-12&version=NIV

Hosea 5:14 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hosea%205:14&version=NIV

Matthew 21:12-13 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2021:12-13&version=NIV

Revelation 5:1-14 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Revelation%205:1-14&version=NIV

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://anderson.edu/galleries/warner-sallman/collection/

Dear readers, I want to create a directory for my readers to connect with each other. If you would like to share your blog, please leave a …

Share & Promote Your Blog

Tuesday, December 7th, 2021

Verse of the Day

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
— John 14:6 —

So, What is Truth?

The BEST definition I found after reading several articles is this:

Truth is the self-expression of God.

I found this definition written by John MacArthur. *https://www.oneplace.com/ministries/grace-to-you/read/articles/what-is-truth-11521.html

As Christians, when we think of truth, it’s easy to say that God is TRUTH. We also easily think of Satan as the “father of lies.” But when thinking of these two examples of truth and lie, it would not be fair to say they are opposite of one another. Jesus/God is not the opposite of Satan, just as truth is not merely the absence of a lie. Truth is the construct that defines reality, this is a stark contrast to a lie. Truth can and does exist on its own. Truth does not need props or affirmations. A lie, and how Satan works at perpetuating lies is through twisting truth, casting shadows of doubt and whispering half truths in our ears such as ‘no one will ever know’ ‘no one cares, it’s just this one time.’ Satan will tempt us to question the very things we know to be true, his only goal is to simply to distract from God. Satan does not care about you, he only wants to hurt God. He’s a bully and thinks of himself to be better than God. When we have our eyes fixed upon Jesus it’s like seeing with new eyes, new glasses that gives us 20/20 vision. Satan on the other hand, passes out thrift store glasses with rose color tint and scratches on the lenses. When our gaze is on Jesus, we see life through the prism of reality, all that is true.

“The best defense is a good offense.” This was first said by George Washington in 1799, “…offensive operations, often times, is the surest, if not the only means of defense.”

The only was to recognize lies is to be intimately acquainted with TRUTH, much like connoisseur know something real from something fake. Only those who hone their skills can quick spot an imposter.

We must fill our hearts and minds with the TRUTH, envelop ourselves and all of life in God’s presence, so that we can immediately recognize Satan’s lies when he tries to deceive us.

It is Jesus, the TRUTH, who sets us free!

CHALLENGE

Are you battling lies today about God, yourself, emotions, work, children, relationships?

1. Write them on an index card.

2. Do some research and find scripture to find truth. Write the verse on the back of the index card.

3. Spend time reading the verse(s).

4. Pray and ask God to reveal His truth to you. Ask Him to transform the way you view this particular thing in you life so that you can walk in the freedom of truth.

Prayer ~

Dear God, thank you for being Truth, help us as we embrace your love and keep us ever so close. I ask for comfort and healing for those battling with lies, open their eyes to see you, to see Truth. Fill us with your Truth so that we are able to recognize the lies perpetuated by the father of lies. May your words of Truth be planted firmly in the gardens of our lives and bring forth hope, joy, peace and love to all we encounter. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

➡️ • ➡️ • ➡️ • FOR FURTHER STUDY

John 8:32 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%208:32&version=NIV

John 17:17 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2017:17&version=NIV

3 John 1:3 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=3%20John%201:3&version=NIV

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.oneplace.com/ministries/grace-to-you/read/articles/what-is-truth-11521.html

Monday, December 6th, 2021

Verse of the Day

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
— John 1:1 —

Just yesterday I had a beautiful conversation with a friend of mine about the verse for today. I am fortunate that I can also call my friend, a wonderful coworker. I had been reading and preparing for this post and I shared with him, “your favorite verse is the verse of the day in my blog.” He and I have talked about the power of this verse on many occasions, and today he helped illuminate my mind to even a deeper level of understand. So the verse today (John 1:1) tells us that from the beginning the Word was present. John 1:2, tells us “He was with God in the beginning.” And John also references “Him/the Word/Jesus as, “Light has come into the world.” (John 3:19). I unfortunately can not quote my friend word for word, about the Word 🙃 but I did find an article that is fairly close and I hope it helps to explain this better than I can properly articulate…Barry I may need a remedial lesson. 😉

✝️ • 💜 • 🛐

The Bible is the story of God’s plan to redeem His people. It reveals who He is and who we truly are in Him.

The whole of Scripture tells the story of Jesus Christ, the ultimate expression of God’s love for us. When John refers to Jesus as “the Word,” he speaks of the Word that was made flesh, and came to live among us (John 1:14). This Word, manifested in the person of Jesus Christ, is the fulfillment of the covenant God made with His people, giving them and all who believe the promise of life with Him.

“God is not a God of coincidence or chaos, and Jesus was no coincidence. John’s words show us that Jesus was with God in the beginning. He is God, one with God, and the life He came to live on this earth was a part of a glorious plan from the beginning.”

— Meg Bucher

CHALLENGE

Usually when we hear someone say they are “spending time in the Word” we generally think of reading the Bible. What if we took a more literal stance and actually spend time with the Word, much like we spend time with our friends (?). Simply speaking and mediating with Him/Jesus/the Word. I love studying the Word and learning from others about the Word and just as we like spending time with friends and family in fellowship, don’t you think Jesus/the Word wants that too (?). And most important of this interaction, actively listen to the Word, live into the things that the Word is teaching us to do. The best relationships work because both parties are actively engaged and keep the lines of communication open. Take time to actively communicate and actively listen during your devotions today.

Prayer ~

Dear God, thank you for the Word, please bless the person reading this prayer, I ask you to open our hearts to hear your Word, use our voices to spread the news of the Word, strengthen our sight to see beyond our own expectations and help us to hear your small still voice above all the noise that surrounds us. I ask these things in Jesus name, the name above all names. Amen

➡️ • ➡️ • ➡️ • FOR FURTHER STUDY

Genesis 1:3-31 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Genesis%201:3-31&version=NIV

John 1:1 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%201:1&version=NIV

John 12:49 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2012:49&version=NIV

Romans 1:20 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Romans%201:20&version=NIV

Revelation 19:13 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Revelation%2019:13&version=NIV

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.ibelieve.com/faith/in-the-beginning-was-the-word.html?amp=1

Sunday, December 5th, 2021

“Prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.”
— Isaiah 40:3 —

Prayer ~

Dear Lord, we ask that you quiet our hearts and mind as we prepare for this second week of Advent. Help us to empty ourselves of the noises that distracts us. May we be open to new discoveries of your love, grace, mercy and compassion. In Jesus name, the name above all names. Amen.

“In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:4-5

Why Do We Light The Second Candle?

The second candle reminds us that the prophets waited for a Messiah to come and save the people.

“A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all people will see it together. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”
— Isaiah 40:3-5 —

CHRISTMAS STORY • LUKE 1:26-38

“In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.” “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

🔘 God wanted His people to be ready for the coming Messiah, so He sent prophets throughout history to remind them to prepare their hearts. He also sent John the Baptist to prepare the people for Jesus’ coming. What does this tell us about God?

God is a relentless in His love for us. God loves all and wants all to be redeemed. God wants us to have every opportunity to know and experience His unconditional love. God has chosen to love us.

🔘 How can we prepare our hearts to celebrate the birth Jesus?

We can read God’s Word. Read both Matthew and Luke’s narrative of Jesus’ birth. Compare the things that are the same and those that are different.

Consider watching a movie or documentary of Jesus’ birth.

Listen to some Christmas music, try traditional and contemporary.

Go for a walk, talk with God. Spend time is quiet prayer and reflection.

🕯*As we continue to do daily devotion this week, light the first two candles and thank Jesus for being the Answers to our preparation. 🪔

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/