God

Every believer needs a time of refreshment. The journey is long with many uphill climbs. Like the psalmist says, our soul thirsts for God “as in a dry and weary land where there is no water” (Psalm 63:1). There are days when we need renewal.

Years ago, I spoke at a Missions Conference and a missionary there gave me a guide for prayer that ended with—listening. For years I kept that guide in my Bible. So simple, yet such a great reminder that meaningful conversation is both speaking and listening. We are taught that in the Old Testament. 

As we begin a new year, let’s focus on learning how to talk with God. That’s what prayer is—simply talking with God. So, for the next thirty days let’s work together to develop a more powerful prayer life. I know that’s one thing I really need.

Before Jesus comes again, the world will experience chaos like never before. The Bible describes this time as the great tribulation, and this will be the beginning of the end. Those living in that terrible time will need a Deliverer.

Immanuel. God with us. What a powerful name! What a comforting name! At one point in history, Immanuel walked planet Earth and lived with man. Now, for the rest of history, he reigns from heaven, and his Spirit lives in us.

As we move through the week of Christmas, we are focusing on Jesus; the One Isaiah described as the “Everlasting Father.” 

We are sinners, and our sin separates us from God. The penalty of our sin is death. But driven by perfect love, the just God became the Justifier. Being fully God, Jesus was the only One who could provide a sinless sacrifice.

Then one day, studying Scripture, I learned that nothing could separate me from the love of God found in Christ alone. It was like a burden had been lifted from my shoulders. That day, on a hot parking lot in Dallas, Texas, I understood that I was a child of God and would forever be!

God loves us.  That’s an amazing truth, isn’t it? The eternal God has deep affection for you. He wants you to be his child. He longs to have a personal relationship with you. He desires to show you his great love.