Morning Scripture Reading - Galatians 6:1-5

Galatians 6:1-5 American Standard Version

Brethren, even if a man be overtaken in any trespass, ye who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; looking to thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. For if a man thinketh himself to be something when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. But let each man prove his own work, and then shall he have his glorying in regard of himself alone, and not of his neighbor. For each man shall bear his own burden.

Evening Scripture Reading - 2 Corinthians 5:16-21

2 Corinthians 5:16-19 American Standard Version

Wherefore we henceforth know no man after the flesh: even though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now we know him so no more. Wherefore if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature: the old things are passed away; behold, they are become new. But all things are of God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and gave unto us the ministry of reconciliation; to wit, that God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself, not reckoning unto them their trespasses, and having committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 60:5-12

Psalm 60:5-12 American Standard Version

That thy beloved may be delivered,
Save with thy right hand, and answer us.
God hath spoken in his holiness: I will exult;
I will divide Shechem, and mete out the valley of Succoth.
Gilead is mine, and Manasseh is mine;
Ephraim also is the defence of my head;
Judah is my sceptre.
Moab is my washpot;
Upon Edom will I cast my shoe:
Philistia, shout thou because of me.
Who will bring me into the strong city?
Who hath led me unto Edom?
Hast not thou, O God, cast us off?
And thou goest not forth, O God, with our hosts.
Give us help against the adversary;
For vain is the help of man.
Through God we shall do valiantly;
For he it is that will tread down our adversaries.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 30:21-23

Proverbs 30:21-23 American Standard Version

For three things the earth doth tremble,
And for four, which it cannot bear:
For a servant when he is king;
And a fool when he is filled with food;
For an odious woman when she is married;
And a handmaid that is heir to her mistress.

Morning Scripture Reading - Romans 8:28-30

Romans 8:28-30 American Standard Version

And we know that to them that love God all things work together for good, even to them that are called according to his purpose. For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren: and whom he foreordained, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.

Evening Scripture Reading - Galatians 3:26-29

Galatians 3:26-29 American Standard Version

For ye are all sons of God, through faith, in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ did put on Christ. There can be neither Jew nor Greek, there can be neither bond nor free, there can be no male and female; for ye all are one man in Christ Jesus. And if ye are Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, heirs according to promise.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 60:1-4

Psalm 60:1-4 American Standard Version

For the Chief Musician; set to Shushan Eduth. Michtam of David, to teach; when he strove with Aram-naharaim and with Aram-zobah, and Joab returned, and smote of Edom in the Valley of Salt twelve thousand.

O God thou hast cast us off, thou hast broken us down;
Thou hast been angry; oh restore us again.
Thou hast made the land to tremble; thou hast rent it:
Heal the breaches thereof; for it shaketh.
Thou hast showed thy people hard things:
Thou hast made us to drink the wine of staggering.
Thou hast given a banner to them that fear thee,
That it may be displayed because of the truth. Selah

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 30:18-20

Proverbs 30:18-20 American Standard Version

There are three things which are too wonderful for me,
Yea, four which I know not:
The way of an eagle in the air;
The way of a serpent upon a rock;
The way of a ship in the midst of the sea;
And the way of a man with a maiden.
So is the way of an adulterous woman;
She eateth, and wipeth her mouth,
And saith, I have done no wickedness.

Morning Scripture Reading - 1 John 4:4-6

1 John 4:4-6 American Standard Version

Ye are of God, my little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world. They are of the world: therefore speak they as of the world, and the world heareth them. We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he who is not of God heareth us not. By this we know the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.

Evening Scripture Reading - Matthew 18:19-20

Matthew 18:19-20 American Standard Version

Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father who is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:17

Psalm 59:17 American Standard Version

Unto thee, O my strength, will I sing praises:
For God is my high tower, the God of my mercy.

Mid-Week Message - When Your World Shakes

 "For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him.  He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.  On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God."  Psalm 62:5-7  (ESV)  

Our little dog, Jack, is terrified of storms.  When he hears the wind pick up, heavy rain begin to fall, the thunder clap, or when he sees lightning, he starts to shake and needs to be near one of us with our hands on him.  Still, even though he is beside us, he looks at us for reassurance that he will be okay.  

The other evening I was having a discussion with a friend about tornadoes and earthquakes.  Being a Texas girl, I am quite familiar with tornado watches and warnings.  I have never been in one, thank the Lord, but I have been near enough to feel some of their power.  As frightening as they can be, if given the choice, I would choose to live where there might be a tornado rather than where there might be an earthquake because the thought of the earth moving under my feet is more than I can handle. 

Life is full of events that can shake our world, isn't it?  When a loved one is diagnosed with a deadly disease or when we deal with the grief of a death, we wonder how we can possibly take the next step.  Many things may occur that can make the ground under our feet feel uncertain and most of us have been through plenty of them.  

I would love to deliver an encouraging message and say that those times are over.  But they aren't.  Yet.  As long as we live on this tiny orb in space we will face hardships and trials and many of them may take our breath away as we wonder how we can cope, how we can go on.  

Gratefully, the Bible reminds us that there is a place to run to for refuge.  There is only One who cannot be shaken and that is the Lord Himself.  In Him alone will we find hope.  Only by His side will we find the peace that will allow us to continue the journey set before us.  He is the only One that knows the future.  He has already walked the pathway we are on and will take us by the hand and be our guide. 

I know several who are walking through valleys right now.  To them I want to say that there is no place where God cannot go.  There is no situation that He is unaware of or that is too difficult for Him.  Though your world seems dark and unsure, He is the light and He is steadfast.  He will never leave you nor forsake you.  He knows where you have been and where you are going and He will remain by your side, not only during this difficult time, but forever.  Run to Him and allow Him to be your refuge, your fortress.  There you will find security.   

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 30:15-17

Proverbs 30:15-17 American Standard Version

The horseleach hath two daughters, crying, Give, give.
There are three things that are never satisfied,
Yea, four that say not, Enough:
Sheol; and the barren womb;
The earth that is not satisfied with water;
And the fire that saith not, Enough.
The eye that mocketh at his father,
And despiseth to obey his mother,
The ravens of the valley shall pick it out,
And the young eagles shall eat it.

Morning Scripture Reading - 1 Corinthians 2:6-10

1 Corinthians 2:6-10 American Standard Version

We speak wisdom, however, among them that are fullgrown: yet a wisdom not of this world, nor of the rulers of this world, who are coming to nought: but we speak God’s wisdom in a mystery, even the wisdom that hath been hidden, which God foreordained before the worlds unto our glory: which none of the rulers of this world hath known: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory: but as it is written,

Things which eye saw not, and ear heard not,

And which entered not into the heart of man,

Whatsoever things God prepared for them that love him.

But unto us God revealed them through the Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.

Evening Scripture Reading - Matthew 5:43-48

Matthew 5:43-48 American Standard Version

Ye have heard that it was said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy: but I say unto you, Love your enemies, and pray for them that persecute you; that ye may be sons of your Father who is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sendeth rain on the just and the unjust. For if ye love them that love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the Gentiles the same? Ye therefore shall be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:16

Psalm 59:16 American Standard Version

But I will sing of thy strength;
Yea, I will sing aloud of thy lovingkindness in the morning:
For thou hast been my high tower,
And a refuge in the day of my distress.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 30:11-14

Proverbs 30:11-14 American Standard Version

There is a generation that curse their father,
And bless not their mother.
There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes,
And yet are not washed from their filthiness.
There is a generation, oh how lofty are their eyes!
And their eyelids are lifted up.
There is a generation whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives,
To devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men.

Morning Scripture Reading - Luke 16:10-12

Luke 16:10-12 American Standard Version

He that is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much: and he that is unrighteous in a very little is unrighteous also in much. If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another’s, who will give you that which is your own?

Evening Scripture Reading - Hebrews 5:5-10

Hebrews 5:5-10 American Standard Version

So Christ also glorified not himself to be made a high priest, but he that spake unto him,

Thou art my Son,

This day have I begotten thee:

as he saith also in another place,

Thou art a priest for ever

After the order of Melchizedek.

Who in the days of his flesh, having offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and having been heard for his godly fear, though he was a Son, yet learned obedience by the things which he suffered; and having been made perfect, he became unto all them that obey him the author of eternal salvation; named of God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:15

Psalm 59:15 American Standard Version

They shall wander up and down for food,
And tarry all night if they be not satisfied.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 30:10

Proverbs 30:10 American Standard Version

Slander not a servant unto his master,
Lest he curse thee, and thou be held guilty.

Morning Scripture Reading - Ephesians 3:20-21

Ephesians 3:20-21 American Standard Version

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus unto all generations for ever and ever. Amen.

Evening Scripture Reading - 2 Timothy 3:10-17

2 Timothy 3:10-17 American Standard Version

But thou didst follow my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, patience, persecutions, sufferings; what things befell me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: and out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yea, and all that would live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and impostors shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. But abide thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a babe thou hast known the sacred writings which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. Every scripture inspired of God is also profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for instruction which is in righteousness: that the man of God may be complete, furnished completely unto every good work.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:14

Psalm 59:14 American Standard Version

And at evening let them return, let them howl like a dog,
And go round about the city.

Sunday Praise & Worship Message - Pursue Righteousness and Unfailing Love

During the course of our lives, we set goals for ourselves to pursue. We want to do our best and be our best as we meet the challenges of trying to achieve whatever goal it is. Boys and girls alike may want to excel in sports or academics. When I was growing up, excelling in debate was my ultimate goal. No matter what the goal, we dedicate ourselves to doing our best to achieve whatever goal we set for ourselves.

As time goes on, we change our goals and pursue other things. Most of the time, it is pursuing something material like a new house or a brand new car. In some cases, it is to have both. We push ourselves harder and harder to achieve our goals and forget about those things that truly make a difference in our lives.

In chapter twenty-one of the Book of Proverbs, the author writes, “Whoever pursues righteousness and unfailing love will find life, righteousness, and honor.”

If we choose to pursue righteousness and unfailing love, we will be blessed by God and we need not worry about the other things in life. God will bless us in accordance with His will and plan for our lives. When we seek those things that are higher and nobler, God will bless our lives with abundance. But, we need to remember, blessings come in different forms and may not be material.

God provides for our needs daily. He is our daily bread and we are sustained by His strength. When we begin to change those parameters and turn God into some sort of spiritual vending machine, we begin to see Him in a different light. We no longer serve Him; He serves us. We dictate to God what He is to provide. There are pastors who will go out of their way to feather their own nests and tell you that God will give you more wealth if you just give to them. They will tell you that your donations will prove to God how dedicated you are to Him. It does not work that way and it will only lead to disappointment. 

The key to all of this is righteousness and love. By doing all those things that are good in the eyes of the Lord, you will be blessed. By showing love to all including your enemies, you are showing God’s love to the world. As the scriptures tell us, God is love. When we show kindness and compassion to others, we live a life of love that is guided by righteousness. Pursuing those two things in life and dedication to achieving them will bring blessings.

Life itself is a blessing. I am not talking about just life here. I am also talking about eternal life. Living a life filled with meaning and purpose brings great joy to each of us. When we pursue righteousness and love by serving God, we find that we are happier. Every study that I have ever read that looks at people who are Christians versus those who are not show that Christians tend to lead happier lives and see a life of service rather than burden.

In chapter eleven of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

By living a life that pursues righteousness and love, we are happier and we truly feel fulfilled. We actually find rest with the Lord. His yoke truly is easy to bear and He gives a light burden. Our days are filled with humble service to God and with opportunities to share the Good News of salvation and grace. Those two things give us the meaning and purpose we are looking for in our lives. 

As we do those things, God will shower us with blessings of prosperity, but that prosperity may take different forms. We may receive material wealth that is not to be spent in frivolous ways like buying fancy clothes, cars, bigger homes, yachts or jet airplanes. All of those items will rust or decay and nothing will remain of them. Even if they withstand the test of time, you won’t. In time, we all have an appointment with physical death and we cannot take our toys with us. Prosperity is more than just physical items; it is spiritual prosperity. The gift that can easily stand the test of time is eternal life in Heaven with God. That prosperity is priceless.

The blessing of honor is also given to us by God. It is the respect and admiration from others and is also self-worth and self-respect. It means that people see more than just another person. They see a person who has put God and others above themselves and they lead a life devoted to service. When you ask people about something they did that saved lives, each will tell you the same thing. They did it out of service for others and weren’t looking for rewards or accolades. They did what they were called to do with their lives.

When we pursue righteousness and love, God showers us daily with wonderful blessings. The one big blessing that comes readily to mind is the next heartbeat and breath He gives us. The average heart, I am told, has about one billion beats in it over a lifetime. Sometimes people get to live a ripe old age while others may only have a short time, but in both cases, it is not the time, but how they spend their lives that matters. Life means little if you are depressed and disappointed. If you live a life devoted to pursuing righteousness and love, you will have lived more than just life here on Earth. You will also live eternity with the Father. Living a life of true fulfillment and happiness gives us the ability to stand firm in His grace.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 30:7-9

Proverbs 30:7-9 American Standard Version

Two things have I asked of thee;
Deny me them not before I die:
Remove far from me falsehood and lies;
Give me neither poverty nor riches;
Feed me with the food that is needful for me:
Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is Jehovah?
Or lest I be poor, and steal,
And use profanely the name of my God.

Morning Scripture Reading - John 13:34-35

John 13:34-35 American Standard Version

A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; even as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

Evening Scripture Reading - Philippians 2:14-18

Philippians 2:14-18 American Standard Version

Do all things without murmurings and questionings: that ye may become blameless and harmless, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom ye are seen as lights in the world, holding forth the word of life; that I may have whereof to glory in the day of Christ, that I did not run in vain neither labor in vain. Yea, and if I am offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all: and in the same manner do ye also joy, and rejoice with me.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:13

Psalm 59:13 American Standard Version

Consume them in wrath, consume them, so that they shall be no more:
And let them know that God ruleth in Jacob,
Unto the ends of the earth. Selah

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 30:5-6

Proverbs 30:5-6 American Standard Version

Every word of God is tried:
He is a shield unto them that take refuge in him.
Add thou not unto his words,
Lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

Morning Scripture Reading - Ephesians 5:1-2

Ephesians 5:1-2 American Standard Version

Be ye therefore imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, even as Christ also loved you, and gave himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for an odor of a sweet smell.

Evening Scripture Reading - 1 Peter 1:13-16

1 Peter 1:13-16 American Standard Version

Wherefore girding up the loins of your mind, be sober and set your hope perfectly on the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as children of obedience, not fashioning yourselves according to your former lusts in the time of your ignorance: but like as he who called you is holy, be ye yourselves also holy in all manner of living; because it is written, Ye shall be holy; for I am holy.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:12

Psalm 59:12 American Standard Version

For the sin of their mouth, and the words of their lips,
Let them even be taken in their pride,
And for cursing and lying which they speak.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 30:1-4

Proverbs 30:1-4 American Standard Version

The words of Agur the son of Jakeh; the oracle.

The man saith unto Ithiel, unto Ithiel and Ucal:

Surely I am more brutish than any man,

And have not the understanding of a man;

And I have not learned wisdom,

Neither have I the knowledge of the Holy One.

Who hath ascended up into heaven, and descended?

Who hath gathered the wind in his fists?

Who hath bound the waters in his garment?

Who hath established all the ends of the earth?

What is his name, and what is his son’s name, if thou knowest?

Morning Scripture Reading - Philippians 4:10-13

Philippians 4:10-13 American Standard Version

But I rejoice in the Lord greatly, that now at length ye have revived your thought for me; wherein ye did indeed take thought, but ye lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therein to be content. I know how to be abased, and I know also how to abound: in everything and in all things have I learned the secret both to be filled and to be hungry, both to abound and to be in want. I can do all things in him that strengtheneth me.

Evening Scripture Reading - Isaiah 1:16-17

Isaiah 1:16-17 American Standard Version

Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil; learn to do well; seek justice, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:11

Psalm 59:11 American Standard Version

Slay them not, lest my people forget:
Scatter them by thy power, and bring them down,
O Lord our shield.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 29:27

Proverbs 29:27 American Standard Version

An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous;
And he that is upright in the way is an abomination to the wicked.

Morning Scripture Reading - Jeremiah 17:10

Jeremiah 17:10 American Standard Version

I, Jehovah, search the mind, I try the heart, even to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.

Evening Scripture Reading - Matthew 3:13-17

Matthew 3:13-17 American Standard Version

Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to the Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John would have hindered him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? But Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffereth him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway from the water: and lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove, and coming upon him; and lo, a voice out of the heavens, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:10

Psalm 59:10 American Standard Version

My God with his lovingkindness will meet me:
God will let me see my desire upon mine enemies.

Mid-Week Message - Who We Are

"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears,[ we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is."  1 John 3:1-2  (NIV)

Who am I?  That is a question we all ask ourselves at one point or another during our lifetime.  As for me, I spent much of my life believing that I was who the world said I was.  I was the daughter of my parents, a sister to my siblings, an overweight child that was always nice to everyone.  I liked dolls and playing with my friends.  I was just one of the kids.  That's who I was, I thought, when I was a child.  

As a teenager I was a good student.  I did well in class and became the person that others came to if they needed to copy notes or get the answer to a homework question.  I didn't cause problems for any of my teachers and was generally obedient.  In the hallways, I was the person that was teased and mocked because, I thought then, that is just who I was.  I guess I thought I deserved it.  My shelter was my youth group at church where I was accepted as long as I kept my place in the hierarchy of personal relationships. 

Young adulthood brought more assurance that who I was had to do with my performance in college classes and jobs.  As long as I did what was expected, I was praised.  My identity became tied in with how well I carried out my duties.  It was sometime within this time frame that the Lord began working on changing my viewpoint of who I was, and more importantly, whose I was.

The world will define us as long as we allow it to.  Part of being in the world but not of the world is breaking the thought cycle that carries that characterization.  We are so much more than any earthly definition!  When we study the scriptures we find out that we were created with purpose by Almighty God who is without beginning or end.  He is the perfect Creator and chose to give life to each of us for His glory.  Imagine that for a moment - you and I are here because He desired us.  Before we were born, He already loved us and saw us as a part of Himself.  We carry His very breath inside of us.  

Brothers and sisters, that is who we are.  We are His children.  Sons and daughters of the great I AM!  He molded and made us and gave us life because He wanted us.  Can you grasp that?  We are not here to satisfy the world and its ideas of who it thinks we should be.  We are beings created to be with the Eternal Father forever.  Our time here is to be a beckoning to those that have yet to find Jesus.  In us they should see a holy difference that will draw them to the cross.  We are His children and we are His ambassadors.  How much more could we ever hope to be?  

I know we are all struggling with something.  However, this struggle, in view of eternity, is momentary.  We were made for so much more.  Let's fix our eyes on Him and ask Him to reveal to us His true self.  When we see Him as He is then we will be able to better understand who we are.  As we learn more of His Word and our relationship with Him grows stronger, the more confidence we will have in the royal and holy identity we were meant to have.  May you be blessed this week by His nearness. 

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 29:26

Proverbs 29:26 American Standard Version

Many seek the ruler’s favor;
But a man’s judgment cometh from Jehovah.

Morning Scripture Reading - Micah 6:6-8

Micah 6:6-8 American Standard Version

Wherewith shall I come before Jehovah, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt-offerings, with calves a year old? will Jehovah be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my first-born for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth Jehovah require of thee, but to do justly, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with thy God?

Evening Scripture Reading - Titus 2:11-14

Titus 2:11-14 American Standard Version

For the grace of God hath appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us, to the intent that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly and righteously and godly in this present world; looking for the blessed hope and appearing of the glory of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a people for his own possession, zealous of good works.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:9

Psalm 59:9 American Standard Version

Because of his strength I will give heed unto thee;
For God is my high tower.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 29:25

Proverbs 29:25 American Standard Version

The fear of man bringeth a snare;
But whoso putteth his trust in Jehovah shall be safe.

Morning Scripture Reading - Ezekiel 34:12

Ezekiel 34:12 American Standard Version

As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered abroad, so will I seek out my sheep; and I will deliver them out of all places whither they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day.

Evening Scripture Reading - Romans 12:1-2

Romans 12:1-2 American Standard Version

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service. And be not fashioned according to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:8

Psalm 59:8 American Standard Version

But thou, O Jehovah, wilt laugh at them;
Thou wilt have all the nations in derision.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 29:24

Proverbs 29:24 American Standard Version

Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul;
He heareth the adjuration and uttereth nothing.

Morning Scripture Reading - 1 John 2:15-17

1 John 2:15-17 American Standard Version

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the vainglory of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

Evening Scripture Reading - Titus 3:1-11

Titus 3:1-11 American Standard Version

Put them in mind to be in subjection to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready unto every good work, to speak evil of no man, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing all meekness toward all men. For we also once were foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another. But when the kindness of God our Saviour, and his love toward man, appeared, not by works done in righteousness, which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy he saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, which he poured out upon us richly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour; that, being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. Faithful is the saying, and concerning these things I desire that thou affirm confidently, to the end that they who have believed God may be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men: but shun foolish questionings, and genealogies, and strifes, and fightings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. A factious man after a first and second admonition refuse; knowing that such a one is perverted, and sinneth, being self-condemned.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:7

Psalm 59:7 American Standard Version

Behold, they belch out with their mouth;
Swords are in their lips:
For who, say they, doth hear?

Sunday Praise & Worship Message - Can’t Go It Alone

There have been many times when I have thought I was able to do something by myself and then when I tried, I ended up failing. This often occurs when I attempt to lift one of those boxes that clearly states that it requires two people to lift and move it. Those heavy boxes have that label for a reason, but I try to ignore those labels and attempt it anyway. I’m sometimes successful, but I do pay for it in the form of a strained muscle or back.

Like most people in similar situations, we overestimate our abilities and underestimate the recommendations of people who designed those heavy items. We think we know better and believe that those labels are for “other” people. When we start depending on ourselves, we tend to lose perspective and overestimate a lot of things in our lives.

The same holds true with our spiritual lives. If we tend to rely on ourselves, God is slowly moved out of our lives and we begin to see ourselves as important and God as inconsequential. We begin to ignore others as well. When problems come up that are outside of our control, we don’t seek help from other believers or from God. We try to weather the storm and do things that may even make the problems worse.

As Christians, we can go to the Father in prayer. Jesus is the bridge that allows us to go to Him in prayer and ask for wisdom and guidance. God gives us strength or whatever we need to get through the situation. The other thing to consider is the power of numbers of Christians coming together and praying for one another and building a hedge of protection around those in need.

When you look at nature, you see perfect examples of this. When a predator tries to attack a baby elephant for example, the herd surrounds the young elephant and protects it from attack. The same holds true in our spiritual lives. When we are facing problems, Satan will pounce like a predator. He is looking for those who have been spiritually and physically drained by their problems. In that state, a simple whisper from Satan may cause doubts and fears to pop up that may ultimately draw us away from God.

Jude, in the book bearing his name, wrote, “But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God’s love.”

Of all the items in our spiritual arsenal, prayer gives us the ability to ask God for help. It is one of the most powerful weapons we can use to combat Satan and it gives us strength to meet the challenges we face. I have personally experienced the power of prayer on many occasions. Things that I was unable to overcome by myself were brushed away by God’s mighty hand. Add the power of others praying for me and nothing stood in my way. Think of other Christians praying for you as a force multiplier. Your voice and needs are amplified by the voices of others. It is, indeed, an awesome sight to behold. I have seen whole church services become a prayer circle for those in need of help. Everyone in the congregation coming forward to pray for a person or family and laying hands upon them. That is why we come together as a family of faith. We support each other and give comfort to others. In time, we may find ourselves in need. It is so comforting to know that there are prayer warriors all around you ready at a moment's notice to pray for you and let you know you are loved.

The one thing that we must be on guard of is judging others who may have wavered in their faith and slipped a bit. We must show mercy and love for them and help them to get back on the path of righteousness. We all have our moments of weakness, but it is the help of those around us that gets us back on our daily walk with the Lord. 

Jude later wrote, “And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives.”

We are not to hate individuals who may have slipped a bit in their walk, but show mercy and compassion for them. We are to work tirelessly to help them with their wavering faith. Through love and understanding, we work to help them overcome whatever they are facing. We aren’t here to judge one another or hate them for showing weakness. We are to hate the sin that has engulfed their lives. We work to restore their faith and help them daily. 

Going back to the analogy of the elephant herd, any one of them could be the unwitting target of a predator. It doesn’t take much for the predator to shift gears and go after another elephant. The predator looks for those who are weak or injured. But, the herd works together as a single body to protect the young, infirm or injured. 

We must do the same things when it comes to our faith. We come together to pray for those in need and let them know that they don’t need to go it alone or feel that God isn’t listening. We show mercy to those who have slipped and help them get back on the path of righteousness. 

When we come together in faith and love, there is nothing that we can’t do together when we have God on our side. We can prevail over all when we realize that everything comes from the Father. Strength, wisdom, guidance and, most importantly, love all come from God through His son, Jesus. We have nothing to fear or doubt with God leading us through our darkest valleys. 

As you continue your journey with God in 2023, remember that you are not alone. God is there with you and you have a family of faith and prayer warriors ready to lend you their voices and help to see you through the toughest of times. Love and mercy will always be there so that you can stand firm in His grace.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 29:23

Proverbs 29:23 American Standard Version

A man’s pride shall bring him low;
But he that is of a lowly spirit shall obtain honor.

Morning Scripture Reading - Isaiah 43:16-21

Isaiah 43:16-21 American Standard Version

Thus saith Jehovah, who maketh a way in the sea, and a path in the mighty waters; who bringeth forth the chariot and horse, the army and the mighty man (they lie down together, they shall not rise; they are extinct, they are quenched as a wick): Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now shall it spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. The beasts of the field shall honor me, the jackals and the ostriches; because I give waters in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people, my chosen, the people which I formed for myself, that they might set forth my praise.

Evening Scripture Reading - 1 Corinthians 15:20-28

1 Corinthians 15:20-28 American Standard Version

But now hath Christ been raised from the dead, the first-fruits of them that are asleep. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. But each in his own order: Christ the first-fruits; then they that are Christ’s, at his coming. Then cometh the end, when he shall deliver up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have abolished all rule and all authority and power. For he must reign, till he hath put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be abolished is death. For, He put all things in subjection under his feet. But when he saith, All things are put in subjection, it is evident that he is excepted who did subject all things unto him. And when all things have been subjected unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subjected to him that did subject all things unto him, that God may be all in all.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 29:22

Proverbs 29:22 American Standard Version

An angry man stirreth up strife,
And a wrathful man aboundeth in transgression.

Morning Scripture Reading - 1 Peter 1:3-9

1 Peter 1:3-9 American Standard Version

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his great mercy begat us again unto a living hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, unto an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who by the power of God are guarded through faith unto a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, ye have been put to grief in manifold trials, that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold that perisheth though it is proved by fire, may be found unto praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ: whom not having seen ye love; on whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice greatly with joy unspeakable and full of glory: receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

Evening Scripture Reading - Colossians 3:12-14

Colossians 3:12-14 American Standard Version

Put on therefore, as God’s elect, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, longsuffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving each other, if any man have a complaint against any; even as the Lord forgave you, so also do ye: and above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfectness.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:6

Psalm 59:6 American Standard Version

They return at evening, they howl like a dog,
And go round about the city.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:5

Psalm 59:5 American Standard Version

Even thou, O Jehovah God of hosts, the God of Israel,
Arise to visit all the nations:
Be not merciful to any wicked transgressors. Selah

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 29:21

Proverbs 29:21 American Standard Version

He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child
Shall have him become a son at the last.

Morning Scripture Reading - Hebrews 12:1-3

Hebrews 12:1-3 American Standard Version

Therefore let us also, seeing we are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising shame, and hath sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that hath endured such gainsaying of sinners against himself, that ye wax not weary, fainting in your souls.

Evening Scripture Reading - Galatians 2:19-21

Galatians 2:19-21 American Standard Version

For I through the law died unto the law, that I might live unto God. I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I that live, but Christ liveth in me: and that life which I now live in the flesh I live in faith, the faith which is in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself up for me. I do not make void the grace of God: for if righteousness is through the law, then Christ died for nought.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:4

Psalm 59:4 American Standard Version

They run and prepare themselves without my fault:
Awake thou to help me, and behold.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 29:20

Proverbs 29:20 American Standard Version

Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words?
There is more hope of a fool than of him.

Morning Scripture Reading - John 14:1-3

John 14:1-3 American Standard Version

Let not your heart be troubled: believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I come again, and will receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

Evening Scripture Reading - Philippians 1:9-11

Philippians 1:9-11 American Standard Version

And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and all discernment; so that ye may approve the things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and void of offence unto the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are through Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:3

Psalm 59:3 American Standard Version

For, lo, they lie in wait for my soul;
The mighty gather themselves together against me:
Not for my transgression, nor for my sin, O Jehovah.

Mid-Week Message - Coming Through the Storms

"Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you."  Jeremiah 32:17  

It rained last night.  It rained hard.  We were under threat of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes part of the time.  The weather report said there could be high winds and tree damage.  Gratefully, though everything is very soggy, we came through the storms just fine.  

As I was listening to the pouring rain, I was thinking about life.  We all have times of hardship, or storms if you will, that we encounter. Like rain, some storms we can anticipate, but others seem to pop up out of the blue.  Someone gets gravely ill.  A job is lost.  The economy takes a downturn. Relationships end.  A child struggles with addiction or rebellion.  A loved one passes away.  The list is endless. Everyone encounters something in life that is difficult to make it through.

How should the storms of life be dealt with?  In a perfect world, we would go straight to the cross and dump those issues at the base, trust the Lord to take care of them, recover our smiles and go on. In a perfect world.  But since there are no perfect people, we do not have a perfect world.  We fight our humanness as we struggle to gain or maintain control.  We do the best we can as feeble beings who were never intended to carry the weight of these burdens.  Then, eventually, hopefully, we remember that we have a Holy Advocate who has all power and can calm our storm just as he calmed the storm for His disciples.  His words were, "Peace!  Be still."  The storm stopped raging and calm was restored.

One evening while scrolling through a social media site, I saw these words, "Don't tell God how big your storm is.  Tell the storm how big your God is!"  No storm, physical, mental, emotional or spiritual is too difficult for our Lord.  Not depression.  Not divorce. Not money problems.  Not addiction.  Not the loss of a job, the rebellion of a child, illness or the death of a loved one.  Nothing is beyond His ability to turn darkness into light, sadness into joy, or emptiness into the abundant life that He promised.  Nothing! 

So, what do we do?  Pray!  Tell the Father how we are feeling.  He delights in His children confiding in Him.  When Jesus was in the garden before His crucifixion, He was honest with His Father.  He admitted how He was feeling and asked God to take what was coming away from Him if there was any other way to accomplish His purpose.  Surely, if Jesus can do that we can too.  God didn't remove the storm from Jesus, and He may or may not remove ours. But look at what is available to us as His children because of what Jesus went through.  This is our assurance that the Lord will use our storms for our good if we will allow Him to.  

Are you facing a storm today?  Turn to the only One who can calm it then hang on for whatever comes next and know that on the other side of the darkness is the great light of His goodness, grace and mercy.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 29:19

Proverbs 29:19 American Standard Version

A servant will not be corrected by words;
For though he understand, he will not give heed.

Morning Scripture Reading - Matthew 11:28-30

Matthew 11:28-30 American Standard Version

Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Evening Scripture Reading - John 3:16-21

John 3:16-21 American Standard Version

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God sent not the Son into the world to judge the world; but that the world should be saved through him. He that believeth on him is not judged: he that believeth not hath been judged already, because he hath not believed on the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the judgment, that the light is come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the light; for their works were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, and cometh not to the light, lest his works should be reproved. But he that doeth the truth cometh to the light, that his works may be made manifest, that they have been wrought in God.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:2

Psalm 59:2 American Standard Version

Deliver me from the workers of iniquity,
And save me from the bloodthirsty men.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 29:18

Proverbs 29:18 American Standard Version

Where there is no vision, the people cast off restraint;
But he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

Morning Scripture Reading - Romans 8:26-30

Romans 8:26-30 American Standard Version

And in like manner the Spirit also helpeth our infirmity: for we know not how to pray as we ought; but the Spirit himself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered; and he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that to them that love God all things work together for good, even to them that are called according to his purpose. For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren: and whom he foreordained, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.

Evening Scripture Reading - Matthew 6:25-27

Matthew 6:25-27 American Standard Version

Therefore I say unto you, Be not anxious for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than the food, and the body than the raiment? Behold the birds of the heaven, that they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; and your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are not ye of much more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add one cubit unto the measure of his life?

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 59:1

Psalm 59:1 American Standard Version

For the Chief Musician; set to Al-tashheth. A Psalm of David. Michtam; when Saul sent, and they watched the house to kill him.

Deliver me from mine enemies, O my God:
Set me on high from them that rise up against me.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 29:17

Proverbs 29:17 American Standard Version

Correct thy son, and he will give thee rest;
Yea, he will give delight unto thy soul.

Morning Scripture Reading - Hebrews 10:8-10

Hebrews 10:8-10 American Standard Version

Saying above, Sacrifices and offerings and whole burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein (the which are offered according to the law), then hath he said, Lo, I am come to do thy will. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. By which will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

Evening Scripture Reading - 2 Corinthians 5:17

2 Corinthians 5:17 American Standard Version

Wherefore if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature: the old things are passed away; behold, they are become new.

Psalms Scripture Reading - Psalm 58:9-11

Psalm 58:9-11 American Standard Version

Before your pots can feel the thorns,
He will take them away with a whirlwind, the green and the burning alike.
The righteous shall rejoice when he seeth the vengeance:
He shall wash his feet in the blood of the wicked;
So that men shall say, Verily there is a reward for the righteous:
Verily there is a God that judgeth in the earth.

Sunday Praise & Worship Message - Hope in a New Year

As I write this message, several countries have already slipped from 2022 into 2023. Everyone around the world has high hopes for 2023. They are filled with optimism and looking forward to changes. Many have already written down their new year resolutions or, in some cases, already purchased exercise equipment to get into better shape. Each person who wrote down their resolutions or promised to get in shape for the new year is very hopeful, but then there is reality.

In recent surveys of individuals who started their new year with a goal, forty-three percent give up by February and only nine percent actually keep them all year. Each was enthusiastic and had every intention of making some sort of change in his or her life at the beginning of the new year. However, the resolution for eating better got thrown out the window when working late at night at the office. Instead of a healthy salad with a light dressing on the side, dinner became an order of leftover chips and salsa from the New Year’s party. The exercise equipment that we spent hundreds of dollars on is either collecting dust in the corner of the bedroom or has turned into a very expensive clothing rack. In time, it will soon find its way into a yard or garage sale with the owners lamenting that they only got a small fraction of what they paid for the equipment.

Am I pointing my finger at the people who made and failed to keep their resolutions? The answer is no. I have made resolutions before to make changes in my life. Like so many, my hopes soon ran into reality and I found myself taking down my list of items I wanted to change and sighing.

You may be thinking to yourself that you were hoping I would be giving an inspirational message that would help you to keep your resolutions. You will not find me giving those types of self-help messages to motivate you into exercising more or giving God tremendous amounts of money to ensure a big return on your investments. Nope, sorry. I won’t give you a message like that. But, I do give you messages of hope and help to strengthen your faith.

As we see a new year come and the torch passed from 2022 to 2023, there are things that you should commit yourself to doing in the new year. You should make yourself a spiritual new year resolution that involves going to church or worshiping with others, sharing your faith, showing God’s love to others and, of course, spreading the Good News to those who walk in darkness.

Going to church is uplifting. When believers come together, they share their faith and strength. Surveys have found that people who regularly go to church lead happier and more productive lives, because they have a purpose. So many just shuffle their way through life and ask the immortal question of why they are here. When you have Jesus in your life, you have a purpose of not only loving God, but also loving your family, friends, neighbors and your enemies. Many will volunteer to feed the poor and take care of those in need. All of those things are done out of Christian love.

Paul, in chapter three of his epistle to the Colossians, wrote, “Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.”

When we come together, our hearts are filled with joy as we worship together with thankful hearts. By living that way, we are truly God’s representatives to the world and we share that daily joy that we have as believers. It gives us a purpose in our lives that no job or earthly activity can provide. We worship together out of our mutual love for God and the desire to serve Him. That love is pure and comes from God, because God is love.

John, in chapter three of his first epistle, wrote, “If we love our brothers and sisters who are believers, it proves that we have passed from death to life. But a person who has no love is still dead. Anyone who hates another brother or sister is really a murderer at heart. And you know that murderers don’t have eternal life within them. We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person?”

If we say we are Christians and do not love those around us, then we haven’t been risen in new life and transformed. If hatred fills your life and you don’t care for those around you, you are not a believer. A true believer shows his or her love by being willing to do for others even if it makes a person feel uncomfortable.

In chapter five of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus said, “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect.”

As Jesus points out, it is so easy to say that you love someone, but putting that love into action and praying for your enemies is quite another. It is easier to hate and do only harm to others if they are your enemy. True Christian love knows no side. Loving those who love you is so very easy. The harder part is loving your enemies and helping them in their time of need. That is the true testament of faith.

For most, sharing their faith is a difficult thing. If you are living a Christ-like life, it shouldn’t be difficult at all. Your actions as a Christian speak louder than words. If you show love for others, many will ask why you are doing what you are doing. It doesn’t take a Biblical scholar to answer that question. 

In chapter two of his epistle, James wrote, “What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, ‘Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well’—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.”

It is not enough to say that you love someone and then not do anything to show that love for others. Wishing a homeless individual a happy new year while going to a party isn’t the action of a Christian. If your neighbors or your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. Love is more than a word; it is an action.

So, I ask each of you reading this message to add a few more items to your lists of new year resolutions and dedicate yourself to keeping these. You may not eat healthy or have muscles you can be proud of but keeping these resolutions of worshiping God, sharing your love and being there for others in need will certainly make you feel that God’s purpose for your life is being fulfilled and that you can stand firm in His grace. Happy 2023 and may God richly bless you every day of your life. 

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Proverbs Scripture Reading - Proverbs 29:16

Proverbs 29:16 American Standard Version

When the wicked are increased, transgression increaseth;
But the righteous shall look upon their fall.

Morning Scripture Reading - Isaiah 40:30-31

Isaiah 40:3-5 American Standard Version

The voice of one that crieth, Prepare ye in the wilderness the way of Jehovah; make level in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low; and the uneven shall be made level, and the rough places a plain: and the glory of Jehovah shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of Jehovah hath spoken it.