Monday, December 23, 2013

DAILY VERSE

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.

Isaiah 9:6-7

 

DEVOTION

The birth of Jesus Christ is an amazing testament to how humble and loving God is. To leave his throne in heaven to become subject to all of the pain and corruption a human being is subject to, to show his love in a way that would bridge the gap between creator and creation. He lived, he taught, he healed, and he suffered all of this for us. As we celebrate this act of love, we should remember what all of this means and be shining examples, a light to the world. God did not call us to be quiet about our faith, he called us to be champions of it. Be a voice for Jesus Christ, an example for all.

 

Friday, December 20, 2013

DAILY VERSE

His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.
2 Peter 1:3-4

 

DEVOTION

As believers, we no longer need to be shackled to this world and it’s sinful nature. We’ve been graced with God’s divine power to resist the pull of sin and live godly lives. God, with his infinite love for the people he created, has sacrificed so much so that we could have a close relationship with him. No one person should ever take salvation for granted, but should be that much more zealous to share their faith and the good news that it brings to the broken.

 

Thursday, December 19, 2013

DAILY VERSE

Wealth makes many “friends”; poverty drives them all away.

Proverbs 19:4

 

DEVOTION

I spoke about this earlier this week. It’s because my wife and I have gone through some intense struggles over the past two and a half years, during which, you see the true character of people you thought were your friends. When things are going great relationships thrive, but when you have to support your friends while they go through intense changes in their lives, the work begins. In turn, you would expect the same when you go through intense struggles in your own life, but that’s not always the case. All you can do is forgive and place your trust in the One who will always be there as a friend, Jesus Christ.

 

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

DAILY VERSE

Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold.

Proverbs 22:1

 

DEVOTION

So many people seem to weigh their success by how high their salary is. If they make a lot of money, drive an expensive car, and live in a nice house they consider themselves to be esteemed. If that’s you, you’re missing the mark. To have a good reputation, to be known as someone with a high level of integrity and character is priceless. Possessions are things, they will break down and waste away, but your reputation will last a lifetime. 

 

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

DAILY VERSE

Many will say they are loyal friends, but who can find one who is truly reliable?

Proverbs 20:6

 

DEVOTION

I believe friends are a true blessing from God. We may go through life taking them for granted, but throw in a huge time of struggle and you’ll find out who your “real” friends are. That’s where the rubber meets the road in a friendship. If they are true friends they’ll stick around, comfort, and encourage you. If they’re not they will loose contact with you as your struggles are too much for them to handle. Cherish the friends you have, thank God for them, and encourage them through times of struggle.

 

Monday, December 16, 2013

DAILY VERSE

Each heart knows its own bitterness,and no one else can fully share its joy.

Proverbs 14:10

 

DEVOTION

Have you ever held on to a hurt or unforgiveness? The longer we hold onto things the more bitter we can become. Bitterness leads to a hardened heart, which is much tougher to break through. Forgiveness will not only allow you to release past hurts, but will also allow you to experience the joy God wants you to have prevalent in your life.

 

Friday, December 13, 2013

DAILY VERSE

The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.

Proverbs 11:25

 

DEVOTION

Ever notice how simply doing something nice for someone else makes you feel amazing? Imagine if people put this into practice more often, say, on a daily basis. The world we live in would be a less petty place, and more people would feel necessary. As followers of Christ, we are also servants; we’re here to serve others and to be the salt of this earth. Go out of your way to serve someone today and enjoy God’s blessings.

 

Thursday, December 12, 2013

DAILY VERSE

Choose my instruction rather than silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold.
For wisdom is far more valuable than rubies. Nothing you desire can compare with it.

Proverbs 8:10-11

 

DEVOTION

Wisdom is a worthy attribute, something we should all strive for. Wisdom in all situations will give you discernment and allow you to navigate life with less negative outcomes. Being known as a wise person is an honor. God emphasizes the importance in reading his word. Wisdom is free, but you have to work to get it. 

 

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

DAILY VERSE

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6

 

DEVOTION

The amazing thing about the coming of Jesus Christ is that it’s foretold throughout the Old Testament. That God would come down to our level is the greatest act of humility and love. The Creator, so concerned with his creation, that he would endure humanity to reconcile us to him. Something to ponder as we draw nearer to the day we celebrate his birth.

 

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

DAILY VERSE

In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels when even one sinner repents.

Luke 15:10

 

DEVOTION

Sin is a scourge that plagues humanity, from the first sinful act of Adam to the present day. Our nature is sinful and it is only through Christ that we have redemption. For those that wonder how God feels about the human race he created, this verse gives us a hint. That the multitude would rejoice every time one sinner repents should give us comfort, the whole of heaven is mindful of every new believer.