Podcasts about your spirit

SCRIPTURE- Galatians 4:6-7"As proof that you are children, God sent the spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying out, 'Abba, Father!' So you are no longer a slave but a child, and if a child then also an heir, through God."REFLECTION- JeffMUSIC- "Ding Dong Merrily on High" by Celtic Vision- "Canticle of the Turning" by Liam Lawton & Theresa Donohoo- "Canticle of The Turning" (Guitar Instrumental) by Justin HattNOTES- Click here to watch  Lauren's children pray and draw the Joyful Mysteries of the RosaryPRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Send us your feedback — we're listeningProverbs 3:5–6 — Peace, Clarity & God's Guidance for New Decisions From London to Toronto, from Nairobi to Mumbai, from Sydney to Berlin — a global 12 P.M. New Year prayer within the DailyPrayer.uk 24-Hour Devotional Cycle. Scripture (NIV): Proverbs 3:5–6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart… and he will make your paths straight.” James 1:5 — “If any of you lacks wisdom… ask God, who gives generously.” Today global searches rise sharply around decision-making, clarity, peace for the year ahead, and fear of choosing wrongly. People are seeking wisdom, direction, and reassurance. God promises guidance that quiets anxiety and stabilises the heart. Prayer  Father, I bring every decision of this new year before You. Silence confusion. Remove pressure. Release Your peace that steadies my thoughts. Lead me with clarity, alignment, and divine timing. Where paths seem unclear, straighten them. Where I feel torn, centre my heart in Your wisdom. Lord, guide my relationships, work, finances, health, and commitments. Protect me from wrong steps, distractions, and fear-driven choices. Fill me with calm confidence and an inner knowing of Your direction. Let Your voice rise above every noise and Your Spirit guide my steps with certainty. In Jesus' name.Prayer Points: prayer for clarity, prayer for godly wisdom, prayer for peace, prayer for direction, prayer for new year decisions, prayer for calmness, prayer for spiritual guidance Life Application  Write down three decisions ahead and pray Proverbs 3:5–6 over each one. Ask God for one clear next step and wait quietly for His peace. Declaration: I declare God is directing my steps with clarity, wisdom, and peace. Call to Action: Share this 12 P.M. prayer with someone facing uncertainty. Visit DailyPrayer.uk for global devotional resources.Proverbs 3:5–6 prayer, guidance for decisions, christian wisdom prayer, prayer for clarity, reverend ben cooper, dailyprayer.uk, global prayer podcast, daily prayer podcast, prayer for peace24-Hour ARC Connector:Previous: 9 A.M. — Confidence & Courage to Walk into the New YearThis Episode: 12 P.M. — Peace, Clarity & God's Guidance for New DecisionsNext: 6 P.M. — Strength for the Evening & God's Presence Going Before YouSupport the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

SCRIPTURE- Jeremiah 29:11"For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope."REFLECTION- Jackson Jones (see "Team" menu on app for full bio and pic)MUSIC- PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.THE WORK OF CHRISTMAS by Howard ThurmanWHEN THE SONG OF THE ANGELS IS STILLED.WHEN THE STAR IN THE SKY IS GONE, WHEN THE KINGS AND PRINCES ARE HOME, WHEN THE SHEPHERDS ARE BACK WITH THEIR FLOCK...THE WORK OF CHRISTMAS BEGINS:TO FIND THE LOST.TO HEAL THE BROKEN.TO FEED THE HUNGRY.TO RELEASE THE PRISONER, TO REBUILD THE NATIONS, TO BRING PEACE AMONG OTHERS, TO MAKE MUSIC IN THE HEART.

SCRIPTURE- 1 John 2:17"Yet the world and its enticements are passing away. But whoever does the will of God remains forever.”REFLECTION- SarahMUSIC- He Is Born from Narada ChristmasNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Delivered by Johana from the Parish of Sacred Heart of Jesus Cathedral in the Archdiocese of Makassar, Indonesia. 1 John 2: 3-11; Rs psalm 96: 1-2a.2b-3.5b-6; Luke 2: 22-35.A FREE JOY The title for ourmeditation today is: A Free Joy. There were priests, religious men and women whoheld for the first time a reunion in their parish of origin. The celebrationand party were so lively and full of memories. One of the memories was thatthey met Aunt Maria, a childless widow who served as the sacristan in theParish church for decades. Many priests and nuns have known Aunt Maria assacristan since they were children. The reunion was truly a blessed moment forthe sacristan Maria. For Aunt Maria,working and serving in the Church for the rest of her life was an endless joy.This joy is free, because it does not need a complicated process, there are noapplications and recruitment tests. Someone needs only good will, joy,generosity, and faitfulness. This is also the experience of Simeon and Hannah,old man and woman who devoted their lives in the temple, in prayer andsacrifice. They found joy there. They hoped that one day salvation andliberation would come for the people of Israel. Both Aunt Maria and thosetwo old persons, they inspire us about joy as a blessing from God. According tothe Scriptures, grace is free and not to be puchased. What is really needed isour willingness to stay and serve God through the Church, so that grace andblessings will be poured out to us in abundance. Aunt Maria found the LordJesus through the meeting with the fruits of God's calling from her parish. Simeonand Hannah themselves met the child Jesus and believed that their lives werealready full and sufficient. We can learn fromthis inspiration. In this Christmas season, we at least find in Jesus Christ ananswer to our questions, doubts, searches or hopes. That answer can be either athanskgiving for a meaningful year 2025 that is going away or a meaningfulrealization of dreams in the coming year 2026. That is why we believe andunderstand that joy as the grace of God is gratuitous. It is good that everyone of us would mention one's own dream during moments of prayer and encounterwith God. Aunt Maria, Simeonand Hannah expressed their joy and gratefulness. They found the true meaning ofthe Gospel, which is God who came to find and give meaning to their lives. We hopethat we can also find such joy. The Gospel that opens its meaning and shapesour lives is the Gospel of life, therefore we call it the good news. We mustproclaim the good news of the Lord. Let's pray. In the name of the Father... O Lord Jesus Christ, bless us with the fullness of Your Spirit. May we everjoyful to give You thanks for all the goodness and successes that we haveachieved in each of our work and sacrifice. Give us also encouragement to workhard. Hail Mary, full of Grace ... In the name of the Father...

SCRIPTURE- Isaiah 9:1"The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; Upon those who lived in a land of gloom a light has shone.”REFLECTION- Sr. KaraMUSIC- CLICK HERE to hear Sr. Charlene's School Choir sing the GLORIA!PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 63:3-4"I look to you in the sanctuary to see your power and glory. For your love is better than life; my lips shall ever praise you!”REFLECTION- Sr. M. KarolynMUSIC- ADVENT WORD OF THE DAY- Write - Compose a short note of gratitude / kindness  / love / friendship…whatever you want to call it and send it to someone special in your life. NOT a text, no email. Write a note, lick the stamp and send it.O ANTIPHON- Latin: O Emmanuel, Rex et Legifer foster, exspectatio gentium, et salvator earum; veni ad salvandum nos, Domine Deus noster.- English: O Performed by Video: PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Presented by Melissa Heidy from the Parish of Christ the King in the Archdiocese of Makassar, Indonesia. 1 Samuel 1: 24-28; Rs psalm: 1 Sam 2: 1.4-5.6-7.8abcd; Luke 1: 46-56.PREPARATIONFOR BIRTH Our reflection today is entitled Preparation for Birth. The dayof the birth of Jesus Christ is very near. The most appropriate preparation forus is preparation for this birth. Our reflections over the past days haveprepared us for this very moment. Today we reflect on the birth of John theBaptist, who prepares the way for a birth far greater than his own. The twoinfants had already met in their mothers' wombs when the Virgin Mary visitedElizabeth. This meeting can be seen as a sign: John was born first to announceto the world that the birth of the Messiah would soon follow. Sacred Scripturetells us clearly that their births happened one after the other. The birth ofJohn the Baptist fulfills the prophecy of Scripture and God's plan. He wouldbecome a voice crying out in the wilderness, preparing the way for the comingof the Word. His birth also prepares the way for repentance and liberation fromdarkness, blindness, ignorance, and sin. This preparation begins with his ownfather, Zechariah, whose mouth was opened after a time of silence before hisson was born. The birth ofJohn the Baptist inspires us to be born anew before Christmas. Spiritually, weare called to be reborn. Our baptism is our new birth in Christ. Through thesacrament of Confirmation, we receive the Holy Spirit and are born in theSpirit. Each time we take part in the Eucharist, we receive new life as theWord of God becomes flesh. Our confession of faith in The Apostle's Creed, ourprayers and devotions strengthen our new life in Christ. All of these are meantto be lived faithfully and regularly. As Christmasis only a few days away, we should take time to reflect on our rebirth infaith. We remember how we have grown throughout this year. This renewal becomeslike a festive garment that clothes us, fills our minds and hearts, expressesour gratitude, and prepares us to be reborn.  It is rightand good for us to experience a beautiful encounter: an encounter with life. Weare reborn through the holy Church, through the eternal Word who became humanand was born of the blessed Virgin, and we enter the same Church. Let us pray. In the name of the Father… Merciful God, renewus by Your Spirit, so that we may be reborn and ready to welcome the birth ofJesus Christ, the Savior of the world. Hail Mary… In the name of the Father…

Send us your feedback — we're listeningPsalm 103:2–3 — Healing Prayer for Pain, Illness, Weakness and Full Restoration in Christ Welcome to Daily Prayer with myself, Reverend Ben Cooper, recorded live here in London, England, where the world gathers for five minutes of faith, hope, and strength. Sisters and brothers, we are straight in — no delay, no hesitation — straight into prayer in the mighty name of Jesus. “Praise the Lord… who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.” Jeremiah 17:14 — “Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved.” Father, in the mighty name of Jesus, we thank You that You are the God who heals, restores, renews and strengthens Your people. We lift before You every listener facing pain, fatigue, inflammation, chronic conditions, sudden illness or unexplained weakness in their body. Lord, You see the aches behind closed doors, the symptoms that are frightening, the medical tests, the appointments, the waiting, and the deep emotional weariness that physical pain brings — especially in this season of December when bodies feel low, tired, and overwhelmed. Lord, we speak Your Word of healing over every cell, every muscle, every joint, every organ. Let the balm of heaven flow. Let supernatural strength rise. Where fear has entered because of symptoms, replace it with Your peace. Where nights have been restless because of pain, give deep restorative rest. Where energy has drained away, breathe fresh vitality by Your Spirit. We pray for those waiting on doctors, treatments, surgeries, or diagnoses — surround them with Your power. We pray for those carrying silent pain while working, parenting, caregiving, or just trying to get through the day. Lord, lift the burden. Heal the hidden places. Restore the weary body. Jesus, our Healer, touch the body of every listener around the world from London to Sydney, from Cape Town to Toronto, from Singapore to São Paulo. Release healing, strength and renewal today. In Jesus' name. Amen.SEVEN PRAYER POINTSHealing for chronic painStrength for fatigueRestoration of the immune systemPeace over frightening symptomsSupport during medical appointmentsHealing rest at nightFull restoration in Jesus' nameSpeak Psalm 103:2–3 aloud today. Replace fear with scripture every time symptoms rise.healing prayer, prayer for sickness, Jesus heal me, miracle healing, Christian prayer podcast, strength inSupport the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

Send us your feedback — we're listeningColossians 3:15 — Peace for Family Tension, Emotional Strain and Christmas Pressure  From London to Sydney, from Nairobi to Chicago, from Belfast to Vancouver — we pray for peace in homes preparing for Christmas. Colossians 3:15 — “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…” Romans 12:18 — “If it is possible… live at peace with everyone.” In the days leading up to Christmas, global searches spike around family conflict, emotional strain, difficult reunions and fear of gatherings. Colossians 3:15 becomes one of the most-read verses for peace inside households facing tension. Prayer  Father, in the name of Jesus, we pray for every home feeling the weight of family pressure tonight. Bring peace where conversations are strained, calm where emotions flare and unity where misunderstandings linger. Lord, soften hearts that feel guarded, tired or easily wounded. Heal old hurts that rise during this season. Give wisdom to those navigating difficult relationships and strength to those trying to hold everything together. Let the peace of Christ rule over every home, meal, conversation and gathering. Replace fear of conflict with confidence in Your presence. Jesus, be the centre of every family moment. Bring harmony, patience, love and emotional steadiness through the power of Your Spirit. Prayer Points family tension prayer, christmas stress prayer, colossians 3:15 peace, strained relationships healing, peace in the home, jesus bring unity Life Application  Speak Colossians 3:15 aloud and ask the Holy Spirit to guard your tone, reactions and emotions as you interact with family this weekend. Declaration I declare the peace of Christ rules in my heart and in my home. Call to Action Share this prayer with someone dreading family pressures this Christmas. 24-Hour Arc ConnectorPrevious: 6 P.M. — Global Nations Prayer This Episode: 8 P.M. — Peace for Family Tension Next: 10 P.M. — Comfort for Loneliness & The Empty ChairThank you for praying with us today. For more daily devotion, follow us on all social platforms at DailyPrayer.uk. Support this listener-funded ministry for £3 a month: https://buymeacoffee.com/reverendbencooper colossians 3 prayer, christmas family tension, peace in the home, emotional strain prayer, reverend ben cooper, dailyprayer.ukSupport the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

SCRIPTURE- Revelation 7:17"For the Lamb who is in the center of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to springs of life-giving water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”REFLECTION- KyleMUSIC- O Come O Come Emmanuel by The Piano GuysADVENT WORD OF THE DAY- Laugh - Brighten the parts of the world you are in today by sharing a joke or funny meme with as many people as you can. Everyone is carrying a burden…lift it from them, if for just a moment.O ANTIPHON- Latin: O radix Jesse, qui stas in signum populorum, super quem continebunt reges os suum, quem gentes deprecabuntur: veni ad liberandum nos, jam noli tardare.- English: O Root of Jesse, you stand as a sign for the peoples, before you kings shall keep silence, all nations will seek you out: come to deliver your people and do not delay.Performed by the monks of the Saint John's Abbey Schola.Video: https://youtu.be/O75VBNAeMQg?si=mzbCkw4HGQjSy3vcPRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Send us your feedback — we're listeningRomans 12:2 — Healing for Overthinking, Mental Overload and Emotional Clutter in This December Season From London to Toronto, from Singapore to Nairobi, from Madrid to Sydney — a global 12 A.M. prayer within the DailyPrayer.uk 24-Hour Devotional Cycle. Scripture (NIV) Romans 12:2 — “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Psalm 46:10 — “Be still, and know that I am God.” Today, searches for “mental overload,” “overthinking,” “how to quiet my mind,” and “emotional clutter” are among the highest globally. This scripture is one of the world's most-searched verses for mental renewal, clarity and spiritual grounding. Prayer  Father, in the name of Jesus, we pray for every listener battling overthinking, emotional clutter and mental overload. Quiet the noise that drains strength. Bring order where thoughts feel scattered and overwhelming. Calm the spiralling ideas, fears and what-ifs. Renew tired minds with Your steady peace. Clear emotional fog and lift the pressure that sits heavy on hearts. Replace confusion with clarity, restlessness with stillness and anxiety with holy confidence. Transform thinking patterns and redirect wandering thoughts. Bring mental freshness, emotional balance and spiritual grounding today. Lord, renew minds by Your Spirit and restore peace to every listener now. Prayer Points prayer for clarity, prayer for mind renewal, prayer for peace, prayer for calm thoughts, prayer for emotional balance, prayer for strength, prayer for mental healing Life Application  Pause, breathe slowly and speak Romans 12:2 over your mind. Ask God to renew your thinking and bring order to your thoughts today. Declaration I declare that my mind is renewed and my thoughts are steadied by God. Call to Action Share this prayer and visit DailyPrayer.uk for global devotional resources.24-Hour Arc ConnectorPrevious: 10 P.M. — Comfort for LonelinessThis Episode: 12 A.M. — Healing for OverthinkingNext: 3 A.M. — Peace for Night RestlessnessThank you for praying with us today. For more daily devotion, follow us on all social platforms at DailyPrayer.uk. Support this listener-funded ministry for £3 a month:https://buymeacoffee.com/reverendbencooperromans 12:2, healing for overthinking, mind renewal prayer, emotional clutter prayer, clarity prayer, reverend ben cooper, dailyprayer.uk, global prayeSupport the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

SCRIPTURE- Luke 2:10-11"The angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all  people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord.'”REFLECTION- Mary EllynMUSIC- ADVENT WORD OF THE DAY- Clean - Not your room—your mind and spirit. Refrain from using any social media or phone apps (other than The God Minute, of course!) and give that attention to Jesus in the quiet. Just for today.O ANTIPHON- Latin: O Sapientia, quae ex ore Altissimi prodisti, attingens a fine usque ad finem, fortiter suaviter disponensque omnia: veni ad docendum nos viam prudentiae.- English: O Holy Wisdom, you came forth from the mouth of the Most High, and  reaching from end to end, you order all things with gentle strength: come and teach us the way of prudence.Performed by the monks of the Saint John's Abbey ScholaVideo: https://youtu.be/oRPNRHQL17E?si=0Hlr_SfAUMikxk4MPRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Wednesday, 17 December 2025   ‘These people draw near to Me with their mouth, And honor Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me. Matthew 15:8   “He neared Me, this people – the mouth, And the lips – he honors Me, And their heart, it distances far from Me” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus called the scribes and the Pharisees hypocrites. He then noted that Isaiah had rightly spoken of them. What Isaiah said is next cited by Jesus, saying –   “He neared Me, this people – the mouth.” The words begin the quote of Isaiah 29:13. It is what people do when they speak about, praise, thank, or petition the Lord. They will draw near to Him with the mouth. The words are in a common Hebrew form of speaking.   First, the people are referred to in the singular through a masculine verb, as if one man, “He neared me.” It is then explained by the words, “this people.” From there, the plural is given when speaking of the individual mouth of each person, “their mouth.”   The Lord acknowledges this form of expression. As a collective, the people truly near themselves to the Lord. And more, He acknowledges, “And the lips – he honors Me.”   It happened all over Israel as people would call out, honoring the Lord with their lips. One can think of any apostate church. They will draw themselves near to the Lord in their words. In those words, there will be great words of honor and adoration for God. However, it is all done falsely as Jesus next notes while still citing Isaiah, “And their heart, it distances far from Me.”   A new word is seen, the adverb porró, far. It is derived from the preposition pro, forward (as in proceed, project, etc.). Thus, it refers to something at a distance. The point is that even though the people openly draw near to the Lord, honoring Him with their lips, the true substance of who they are (the heart) remains a far distance from Him.   One can think of a church with a lesbian preacher or priest, such as is quite common in many mainstream denominations today. They stand in the pulpit, raise their hands, and say, “We honor You, Lord of the universe. We call on You to send Your Spirit upon us anew today.”   The fact is that if they were honoring the Lord, she wouldn't have been appointed, and she wouldn't be a lesbian. There is no heart for the Lord. Instead, there is a show-and-pretend religion. This type of pretense allows people to claim they are right with God when their lives and actions deny any relationship with Him at all.   One can see the patterns in Isaiah's words that are common in Hebrew writings –   “He neared Me, this people – the mouth, And the lips – he honors Me, And their heart, it distances far from Me”   Nearing and honoring are set in parallel and then contrasted to distancing. The mouth and the lips are set in parallel and then contrasted to the heart. At the same time, the first two clauses are reversed in order, though parallel in thought. In the third line, the word “far” is given to accentuate the truth of the matter. The structure calls out for thought and then an active consideration of the state of those it is referring to.   Life application: One of the joys of reading many different translations is that the mind can think differently when seeing things laid out differently. The translators of the LSV disagree, saying, “While some readers may prefer paragraph breaks in narrative and line breaks in poetic portions for the purpose of readability, it was the decision of the translators to mimic the style of the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek autographs in presenting God's word as a continuous text block. ... Furthermore, the modern trend even extended to differentiating the words of Christ in red letters, as if God's word should be divided in such a way. The LSV is the polar opposite, regarding the entirety of Scripture as God-breathed, with its different genres of literature resting on a level playing field.”   That is ridiculous. First, the translators admit that there are purposeful markers within the text that naturally break the flow of the reading for the mind of the reader. Why shouldn't such marks be variously employed for the modern reader in his own language?   But more poignantly, as noted above, there is almost no punctuation or capitalization in the original manuscripts. There are also no chapter or verse divisions. To use their logic in a consistent way would mean that they should do the same thing and have everything follow a simple block format with no other markings, including capitalization, punctuation, etc. It would be insane for an English reader to even bother reading such a translation, and so these changes are made.   A third point is that between the Old and New Testaments in their version, a painting is included in the hard copy translation. Where is that found in the original manuscripts? As nice as the painting is, was that painted by God as breathed out through His Spirit? Obviously not. It is a hypocritical thing to say one thing and do another. These and many other translational changes by them demonstrate that their words in the preface do not align with their translation at all.   As for the text itself with the various formatting differences, at what point does it become “wrong” to make a translation more understandable for the reader? This is the fallacy of the beard, and the LSV translators entered into it just when the beard was enough to tickle the faces of baby readers who first pick it up. Others have a beard a bit longer and can tickle even toddlers. While others choose for the beard to be fully grown and mature.   Don't get legalistic! Get into the word! How it is formatted is something each reader will find suitable to his own needs. So, look through the next Bible you want to read, see if it will help you in your reading, and buy that one.   Lord God, You have given us the freedom to translate Your word, highlighting nuances for the benefit of the reader, setting parts off for greater clarity and understanding, and so forth. Thank You for those who have done the hard work so that we can more fully appreciate this wonderful word You have given us. Amen.

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 122:1-2"I rejoiced when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the LORD.' And now our feet are standing within your gates, Jerusalem.”REFLECTION- Sr. KathleenMUSIC- "On Jordan's Bank" from The Hymn Channel- "Gather Us In" by Marty Haugen ADVENT WORD OF THE DAY - Share - Gather stuff from your closet(s) that are never worn and share them with those in need by dropping them off at the Society of SVDP Thrift Shop or Goodwill.NOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

This week, Pastor Jesse speaks about what it looks like to walk by the Spirit.   Main Scripture & Points: Galatians 5:16-26 POINT: To walk by the Spirit means that I am actively choosing to submit my thoughts, reactions, and decisions to the leadership of the Holy Spirit POINT: NOT BY IMPULSE BUT BY THY SPIRIT James 1:19-20 POINT: NOT BY MY PAST BUT BY THY SPIRIT 2nd Corinthians 5:17-18 POINT: NOT BY EMOTION BUT BY THY SPIRIT POINT: Emotions are wonderful companions in life, but they are terrible leaders in life PRAYER: Heavenly Father, Help me be led by Your Spirit today. When my impulses want to react, help me to pause. When my past tries to speak, remind me who I am in Christ. When my emotions run high, lead me into wisdom and peace. Help me to live: Not by impulse, Not by my past, Not by emotion, But led by your Spirit. In Jesus' name, Amen. Galatians 5:19-21 POINT: πράσσω, Pron: Prasso, Meaning: To practice, To make a habit of, To keep doing as a way of life Romans 1:32 POINT: For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery    *This episode was recorded on 12/14/25

Introduction: John 17:3 – And this is eternal life, that they may know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. John 1:18 – No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known. I Want to Know God (John 1:1–3): The REALITY: Jesus is GOD. Colossians 2:9 – For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily. Zechariah 12:10 – And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and pleas for mercy, so that, when they look on me, on him whom they have pierced… Acts 20:28 – Pay careful attention to yourselves... to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood. Hebrews 1:2 – But in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. The RESPONSE: FAITH in Jesus. Hebrews 11:6 – And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. How Can I Grow in Knowing Jesus? CONFESS with your mouth. Romans 10:9 – If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. HEAR the Word. Romans 10:17 – So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. KEEP His commandments. John 15:10 – If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Small Group DiscussionRead John 1:1-3What was your big take-away from this passage / message?Why do you think the deity of Jesus is denied by so many cults? Why is that such a common point of contention?How would you explain the Trinity to a 7 year old?Define “faith”. Why do you think faith is the God-ordained way of knowing Him?What's your favorite dinosaur?BreakoutPray for one another. AUDIO TRANSCRIPT Stegosaurus.Nobody asks, so I'm just going to tell you.Game show host.And gray.Oh, oh, and what I want for Christmas.I just want to know God.Did you ever ask for something, like for Christmas or whatever, and somebody got you the genericversion?Has that ever happened to anybody else?Show of hands.You wanted something and you got the generic version?That happened to me when I was a kid.When I was a kid, they came out with this wacky thing.It was called a pogo ball.How many people show of hands remember the pogo balls?Okay, a few of you.One person in the first service did.Or about half of the first service's attendance.Remember what a pogo ball was?If you don't know, just imagine like a snowman with the head cut off.It was that kind of shape, right?And it had this hard plastic ring that went in between these two balls that were kindof fused together.And you were supposed to like stand on the plastic disc and squeeze your feet on thattop ball and then you would bounce on the pogo ball.And the pogo ball would let you jump almost as high as you could jump if you weren't ona pogo ball.But it was the hot item the one year.And I wanted a pogo ball.You know what my parents got me?The Saturn ball.Pogo balls, generic cousin.The Saturn ball.And not only was it actually not fun to use, but my family was making fun of me when Idid use it.So if I would jump on it, they'd be like, "Here we go on our Saturn ball, our Saturnball, our Saturn ball."And that really hurt my feelings.So the Saturn ball got thrown into a closet and it's probably still there until today.But look, I know we've had this conversation before.But there's just some things you can't go generic, right?Like ketchup.Altars.Oreos.The generic's not the same.Don't try to tell me that it is because you're just lying to yourself.But nothing has been made more generic than God.We live in a culture that is okay with the generic concept of God.But when you get specific, people get squirrely about that.You're like, when people say, "God bless America.""God bless America."You know, you can ask, "Well, which God?"Do you mean the God of the Bible, the one who created us, the one who judges sin, theone who commands us to repent and believe, the one who calls us to live our lives accordingto his wisdom?And it's like, oh no, not that God.But we're just okay with the generic concept.But you see, the problem with that line of thinking is God isn't a generic concept.In fact, God's not a concept at all.God is a person.God is a specific person.And as we enter into the Christmas season, you know, we know the Christmas story fromMatthew and from Luke, right?We know that version of the Christmas story well with the census, and Bethlehem and Maryand Joseph and angels and shepherds and manger and the star and the magi.Right?Well, Matthew and Luke sort of tell the story of the incarnation like looking over people'sshoulders, right?But we're going to be looking at the Gospel of John because his Christmas story is a littledifferent.In John's Christmas story, we are looking over God's shoulder.That's really the theme of the whole book of John.And we studied this some years back.But the theme of John is this, "The God of the universe has revealed himself by cominginto this world as a man to not just save you, but to have a relationship with you."That God wants you to know Him.In fact, this is what Jesus Christ was praying.John 17.3, Jesus said, "And this is eternal life that they may know you."The only true God in Jesus Christ, whom you have sent, eternal life.Nothing's more important than eternal life because you are either going to live foreverwith God or you're going to die forever apart from God.So what do you want for Christmas?The top of your list should be eternal life.And according to Jesus, that comes from knowing Him, from knowing God.And I do have to remind you that knowing about God is not the same as actually knowing God.You realize those are two completely different concepts.Knowing about God and knowing God.Not the same.Think of it this way.Imagine a young man comes to church, a single man.And he's been coming here for a while when all of a sudden one day he notices there isa beautiful young single woman.And he's like, "I don't think I met her, but who is that?"But he gets his friend.He's like, "He found out who that girl is."And his friend comes back with the information.And he says, "Oh, you asked about that girl.Here's what I know.She loves missions."She loves working with children.She enjoys traveling.And get this, she's a big Steelers fan.But she also loves rom-coms.Now if this friend goes back to the dude and gives this report on what this woman is like,do you think this man would be like, "All right, now that I have the information abouther, I am satisfied.Thank you.That is all."Is that the end of the story?No, you see, now that he knows about her, that makes him all the more want to know herpersonally.You see, that's how it is with God.That's how it is with Jesus Christ.The more you know about Him, the more you want to know Him personally.The fact should lead you to the relationship.How do I know God personally?Well John 1.18 tells us that no one has ever seen God, the only God who has at the Father'sside.He has made Him known.And folks, this is a fundamental truth.That the only way that we can know God is He has to make Himself known.And that's what we celebrate every Christmas that God has made Himself known because Hedid it in the most personal way possible.He showed up and introduced Himself.So look at John 1.Picking up in verse 1.We're just going to get the first three verses today.This might feel more like a Bible study than a sermon.But these are important truths that we're going to wrestle down here.John 1 says, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word wasGod.He was in the beginning with God.All things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made."Notice that John in introducing our Lord, He's using this word, "Word" a lot.Why does He use the word "Word"?Well He doesn't really explain that.But I promise you that the audience that He wrote to in the first century would have knownexactly what He was talking about.Because John primarily would have been writing to the Greeks and the Jews.The word "Word" in the Greek is "Logos."And to the Greeks, the Logos was like this impersonal force, this impersonal energy source.Because the Greek philosophers were like, "Look, all of this had to come from somewhere.The world didn't happen by accident.There has to be some force out there that's behind the structure of the earth.All logic and reason."They had this idea, it was an impersonal force, and they called it the Word, the Logos.So John is writing to the Greeks, and he goes, "Hey, you guys talk about the Logos, right?Did you know the Logos is a person?"It's not a thing, it's a person.It's a person that was with God.It's a person that was God, and it's a person according to John 1.14 that became fleshand dwelt among us.So that's how the Greeks would have heard this.Do you know how the Jews would have heard this?And we probably don't have to guess, right?When the Jews would have heard the Word Word, what would they have thought of?They immediately would have thought of the Law and the Prophets, what we call the OldTestament.You see, you go through the Old Testament over and over and over.The Word of the Lord came too.The Word of the Lord came too.The Word of the Lord came too.And all of the Law and the Prophets, it's known as the Word of God.So the Jews would have picked up on this concept immediately.You know what the purpose of words is?Words are to communicate something.Words are to be deliberately chosen and used to convey information to another person.That's what John's saying to the Jews.The Word became flesh.Jesus Christ is God's communication to man.A living, breathing Word.So God isn't some impersonal force.God's not a generic concept.According to God's Word, He is a person.And He has revealed who exactly He is in Jesus Christ.Let's just pause for a second and ask that you would pray for me as we do this littlestudy together that I would accurately represent God's Word.Let me pray for you to have a heart open to receive this absolutely essential truth thatGod is teaching us today.So let's pray.Father in heaven, we live in a culture that is fine to think of you in general terms.But to call you a person, a father, the sovereign of the universe, it's tough for some peopleto grasp.And I just pray Father today, especially over these next few minutes, that we would reallyhave our hearts and minds open to what it is that your Word wants to teach us aboutthe way that you've revealed yourself through your Son.It's in Jesus' name that we pray.Amen.So on your outline, I want you to write some things down.I want to know God.Here's where it starts.Number one, the reality.This is the reality.Jesus is God.Let's look at these verses here.Look at verse one again.He says, "In the beginning was the Word, the Word was with God, and the Word was God."In the beginning.Is that something familiar at all?That phrase, "In the beginning."Where have we heard that?Genesis 1-1, right?That's how the whole Bible starts.And John is starting in the same place.John is saying, by saying in the beginning, John is saying, "Before anything was created,the Word existed."The Word.And notice he says two things about the Word.First of all, the Word was with God.And secondly, the Word was God.First of all, let's talk about the Word was God.This claim is nothing less than Jesus Christ is Almighty God.This is all through the New Testament.If we were to just do a Bible study today looking at the verses of the New Testamentto talk about Jesus being God, we would be here long after the snow melted.But the New Testament is so full of this truth.For example, Colossians 2-9 says, "For in Him, in Jesus, the whole fullness of Deitydwells bodily."Most concise statement of Jesus' Deity is probably right here in John 1-14.It says, "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, gloryas of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth."The Word became flesh and dwelt.That Word dwelt in the Greek is the word tabernacled.The Word became flesh and tabernacled among us.You heard the tabernacle?In the Old Testament, it was this portable structure that as Moses was leading the Israelitesout of Egypt, God told Moses to build this structure and it had this tent with the HolyPlace and the Holy of Holies.And this was the place where God's unique presence dwelt among His people.So when John says, "The Word became flesh and tabernacled among us," you know, if youwere in the Old Testament times, if you lived with Old Testament Israel and somebody said,"Hey, can you point to the place where God's unique presence lives on the earth?"You would point to the building, the tabernacle.You would say, "Yeah, God's unique presence on earth is right there."Fast forward to 2025 right now.If I were to say, "Can you point to the place where God's unique presence dwells on earth?"Where would you point?It's right here, right?Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit.The temple was just the permanent version of the tabernacle.This is where God lives.This is God's unique presence here.So what John is saying in John 1.14 is for about 33 years of earth's history, when youwould ask, "Where is God's unique presence on the earth?"You'd point to a man.That man's name is Jesus Christ.You would point to him and say, "Right there.That man is the unique presence of God on the earth.This is where he is."All right?Jesus is not an exalted angel.Jesus is not some special enlightened human.According to this verse, Jesus is the God.And every false religion denies this, by the way.And I can just tell you personally, you would be shocked at how many times I've had to havethis conversation with people over the course of my ministry, that people who actually say,Jesus never said He was God.You heard that argument?Jesus never said it.What the argument is this, that's something the church kind of came up with.We kind of, like some religions like us, we sort of hitched that idea onto Jesus.Did Jesus Himself, they say, "Oh, if you study the words of Jesus, He never said He was God."Well, do you remember back in Exodus chapter 3, God called Moses through the burning bush.You know, you're going to lead my people out of Egypt.You're going to lead them to the promised land.Do you remember Moses says to God, "Well, what if Israel asks who sent me?"What if Israel is like, "What is His name?"Do you remember in that moment, God told Moses what His name is?You remember?God told Moses His name is, "I am who I am."That's God's name.His name is, "I am."I love that.God didn't say to Moses, "My name is I was."Like Moses, like what's your name?And God's like, "Moses, I was.Oh Moses, you should have seen me back in high school.Oh Moses, I was so good looking and I was such a good athlete.Back in the day Moses, back in the day I was really something.No, he's not the I was.But nor did God tell Moses that he's the I will be."Right?Like Moses is like, "What's your name?"And God's like, "Well Moses, you tell the Israelites, I might not be nothing specialnow but I'm taking my vitamins and I'm drinking my milk and I'm doing my palates and I'm jumpingon my pogo ball and someday, someday I'm going to be something great.I will be."God's not the I was and he's not the I will be.God is, "He is I am."From eternity past, He is infinite, majestic holiness.He is the I am.And in eternity future, He will still be infinite, majestic holiness.He is the I am.You're like, "Well what does that have to do with Jesus?"Because Jesus repeatedly claimed that He is the I am.It's all through the gospel of John, what, like seven times.I am the bread of life.I am the light of the world.I am the way and the truth and the life.I am the good shepherd.I am the door.All through Jesus made this claim.John chapter 8, Jesus said before Abraham was, "I am."John chapter 10, Jesus said, "I and the Father are one."And in that moment the Jews picked up stones, they were going to kill them for saying that.Jesus says, "I did a lot of good works for which of them are you going to stone me?"And they said, "Oh no, you're making yourself out to be God the way you're talking."And you see, they knew exactly what He was saying.They knew exactly what He meant when He said, "I and the Father are one."Oh, and by the way, not only does the Bible say that Jesus is God, did you know that the Bible also says that God is Jesus?Here's what I mean.Look at Zechariah 12/10.This is before the incarnation, the Christmas story.This is before the baby in the manger story.This is Old Testament.Look at what God says.God says, "And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, a spirit of grace and please, for mercy, so that when they look on Me on Him whom they have pierced."Do you see how God identifies Himself?He identifies Himself as the one who was pierced and who was the one that was pierced.It's Jesus Christ on the cross.Do you see that?Do a little word study there.That's exactly what He's saying.They will look on the one whom they've stabbed.Right?It's also in the New Testament.God is Jesus.Look at Acts 20, for example.Paul says, "The Ephesians elders pay careful attention to yourselves to care for the church of God, which He obtained with His own blood."Who bought the church with His blood?He says God.You're like, "I thought it was Jesus that shed His blood."Well, Paul's saying that as Jesus shed His blood, that was God obtaining the church with His own blood.So Jesus is God, yes, and the Bible also says that God is Jesus.The word was God, but the Bible also says here that the word was with God.The word was with God.And in case you missed it, in case you didn't quite catch it in verse 1, verse 2, he just says the exact same thing.He was in the beginning with God.So somehow, Jesus is God, but being with God, somehow He is distinct from the Father.Like if I said to you yesterday, I was with my buddy Nathaniel, and I was my buddy Nathaniel.You would say, "Were you and Nathaniel smoking something? Like what was going on there?"That doesn't make sense, does it?How can you be with somebody and be somebody at the same time?But that's exactly what the Bible says about Jesus and His relationship with God.He's not only God, but He's also with God.And people want that explained all the time.Pastor Taylor had a couple of weeks ago, the little children back there had a Q&A thing with him.And one of the questions they were asking about, the trinity.And look, do you want to know about the trinity? Here's the reality.Nobody can figure that out. That's the truth.You can't do it.Because from the moment you were born, you've only ever known two things in your life.Your whole life, you've only ever known two things.And that's time and space.You can't fathom an existence outside of time and space.This is where we are.And now we have a God who lives and exists in rules outside of time and space.God is not bound by time and space.And somehow we think that we're going to be able to explain everything about Him.Here's what I know.The Word was with God and the Word was God.The Bible says God exists.He's one God, but He exists as three persons.Father, Son, Holy Spirit, Jesus is eternal, but distinct.And you don't have to explain it to believe it.I can't explain to you how my car works, but I believe that it does when I get in and drive it.Look at verse 3.He says, "All things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made."Okay, this is just theology 101. It's all through the Old Testament.God is Creator.And John here is saying Jesus is God, He's with God.And then John takes another step and says, "Jesus is Creator. He made all things."And somehow, again, the Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are all involved in creation at the same time.You're like, "Can you explain that?"I just told you I could not explain that.But somehow God, the Father created through God the Son, and the Genesis tells us that the Spirit of God hovered above the waters.All three members of the Trinity were involved.And somehow Jesus is the agent of creation.The Bible says in Hebrews chapter 1 and verse 2 that in these last days, God has spoken to us by His Son,whom He appointed the heir of all things through whom also He created the world.Through whom He created the world.That's all John's saying here in verse 3."Every living thing gets life from something else.A tree, a dog, a woodpecker, you. You got life from something else.The only person who has never received life from someone else is God Himself."That's what John's saying, since Jesus already existed before creation,and because Jesus didn't get His life from something else, then He must be God.Those are the biblical facts about Jesus.And listen, even if you're sitting here today or listening to the podcast later or whatever,even if you don't agree with that, can we take an honest look at what the Bible says and stop trying to twist it?Oh, it doesn't really say that.The Bible overwhelmingly says that Jesus Christ is God in the flesh.That's the truth that you have to reckon with.He is God.So if you want to know God, number two, the response.The response. You want to know God? The response is faith in Jesus.The reality is Jesus is God. The response is we have to have faith in Jesus.You see, God took the initiative.God did His part in revealing Himself as Jesus, so the question is, what's my part in knowing Him?It's faith.Faith is the only way to know God.Oh, and speaking of generic,not only do people use the name of God in a generic sense,but you'll find that people use the concept of faith in a generic sense.There is a true biblical sense and definition of faith,but we live in a culture that just throws that word faith around all the time and uses it in all kinds of ways.Here's what I mean.Some people use faith like it means a wishful thinking.Faith is just wishful thinking.Like, well, I just kind of have faith that everything's going to work out.Like, what does that even mean?For some people, they think faith is just the way of the ignorant.Like, well, you believe in science.Or you believe in faith, rather. I believe in science.And they're condescending. You're just some, you know, backwoods, redneck, you're ignorant.I believe in science, but you have your little fairy tale faith.And still other people look at faith as some kind of ambiguous spirituality.You hear people say, I'm a person of faith.Do you know who else is a person of faith?Literally everybody.Everybody believes in something.What is your faith in?Because you can have faith in the wrong thing.So listen, my friends, God is not a generic concept and neither is faith.Faith is a specific disposition towards a specific person.That's why Hebrews 11.6 says without faith,it is impossible to please Him for whoever would draw near to God.That's the knowing God piece.Whoever would draw near to God must believe that He existsand that He rewards those who seek Him.It starts with obviously an acknowledgement of His existence,but it doesn't stop there. You have to seek Him.You have a responsibility.God took the initiative. He revealed Himself in Jesus.What is my responsibility in this relationship?Or how can I grow in knowing Jesus?I want you to draw these three things down.How can I grow in knowing Jesus?Letter A, you have to confess with your mouth.Romans 10.9 says, "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lordand believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.And you are not going to grow in your relationship with Himif you don't have one to begin with."So have you made that confession?Do you believe that Jesus Christ died on the crossto pay the penalty for your sins, that He rose from the deadto give you eternal life? Do you believe that?Because people have this idea that, well, we're all children of Godand a creative sense, yes, but not in the adoptive sense.Yes, we do all have a relationship with Jesus.The question is, do you have a good relationship with Himor a bad relationship with Him?You have to confess with your mouth.Ask to start there, letter B, you have to hear the Word.You have to hear the Word.Romans 10.17 says, "So faith comes from hearingand hearing through the Word of Christ."The only way your faith grows is through the Word of God.Because this is the only truly reliable source of informationabout Jesus, because this is the source of informationthat was given to us by God.You have to be in the Wordif you're going to know Jesus.Any relationship involves time and communication.And some people, they spend no time in His Word,no time praying His Word and reading and studying and meditating.And they spend no time at all in the Word.And then they wonder why they feel so distant.Relationships grow when time is spent together.You need to prioritize spending time and praying the Word of God.Finally, letter C, keep His commandments.Jesus says in John 15.10, "If you keep My commandments,you will abide in My love just as I have kept My Father's commandmentsand abide in His love."That's how you abide. It's through obedience.Now listen, if you're a Christian and you're in sin,sin is not going to end your relationship with Jesus.But you're obviously going to feel distant from Godif you have unrepentant sin.Any area of disobedience in your life that you refuse to deal with,you're going to feel distant.And that's not on God. That's on you.God hasn't gone anywhere. You have.So what is it in your life right now that you're like,"I know that this is what God wants me to stop doing,or maybe something God wants you to start doing,but you know exactly what it is.You need to turn from that sin.You need to obey whatever Jesus is calling you to.And you're going to enjoy the freedomthat repentance brings in your walk with Christ."This is what keeps people from coming to Christin the first place, by the way.Jesus will take you just as you are,but He won't leave you that way.Jesus wants to transform you.He wants to change you.Some people just don't want to be changed.Keep His commandments.The Word became flesh.God became a man.Our worship team would come back up.You know, I came to Christ when I was 20.And it's an amazing thing to grow up in a churchas a kid.All those days, all those yearssitting in the church, how little I really understood.But when I was led to Christ, it was this whole newworld, right?And I remember I was trying to understand.And I had this Bible that my parents got me.You know, some Bibles have the little story inserts,little devotional things that kind of build into the Bible.Well, this Bible had this story in it.And the story goes something like this.There was this farmer and his wife, it was Chris Paseeb,and the farmer's wife was going to church.And she asked her husband if he wanted to go with her.He goes, "No, I don't get that church stuff.It doesn't, that makes no sense to me.You know, I'm not interested at all, but you go have fun."Well, she went to church.And while he was home, he saw that there were birds trying to getinto his barn.This really bad deep freeze came over, kind of like,"What happened here?"And these birds were trying to get into the barn,seeking shelter from the cold.The farmer says, "Well, I can help those birds."So he goes, "I'll just go out and open the doorand let them in the barn."And when he went out, you know what birds do, right?They just kind of scattered everywhere.The farmer's like, "Well, that sure didn't help anything."So he thought, "Well, maybe if I just leave breadcrumbs,I can like guide them in there somehow."Didn't work.No matter what the farmer did, he couldn't get the birdsinto the barn to get shelter.And as the story goes, I don't think it's a true story,but as the story goes, he stood and lookedout the kitchen window, and he saw the birds back flyingaround the outside of the barn not able to get in.And the farmer thought to himself,"Those birds are going to die."And as badly as I want to save them,I don't know how I can get them into the barn.But then the farmer had a thought.The farmer thought, "You know, if I could become a birdfor like five minutes, I could approach them,they wouldn't be scared of me, I could speak their language,and I could show them the way that they could be saved."And right when he had the thought, the story goes,"Off in the distance, he heard the church's bells ringing."And that's when it connected.It's a dumb story.Admittedly, what I'm going to tell you as a young Christian,when I read that, that's what made everything click for me.Yes, that's the purpose of the incarnation,that God became one of us to save us.So what do you want for Christmas?I want to know God, not the generic knockoff,but the real person.Because knowing God is eternal life.We're going to have our elders and members of our prayer teamup front here.And in just a moment, Ashley's going to sing a song over you.And we're going to have a good old-fashioned altar call.You can stay in your seat, you can pray right where you are.But I want you to know there's people that are up here that would love to pray with youand for you.So as Ashley sings over you, we're going to invite youto come. Maybe there's somebody herethat today you're like, "You know what? I don't really know God. I know about Him.But I don't really have a relationship with Him.Today's the day. Today's the day that you can go from knowing aboutGod to knowing God. So please come.Our Father in Heaven, we thank Youfor the way that You have demonstrated Your holiness and loveby taking on flesh and blood.Father, I pray against all of the distractions. It's that time of yearthat there's more to do than we have time to do.And there's so many things buying for our attention.Father, I pray that we would take a realclose examination at the person of Jesus Christ and examine our own hearts.Are we truly walking with Him? Do we trulyhave a relationship with Him that we're spending timetogether and knowing and growing?Or are we just churchgoers?Father, I thank You. You've revealed Your heart. You want us to know You.You've done everything and have just simply called us to receivewhat You have accomplished.Father, thank You. We praise You and ask that You would continue to manifestYour goodness and presence in us by the power of Your Spirit through the wisdomof Your Word. We praise You in the name of JesusChrist, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

The Christmas season offers countless distractions—from festive traditions to sentimental storylines—but Scripture reminds us that Christ desires to dwell at the very center of our hearts. In Ephesians 3:16–18, Paul prays that believers would be strengthened by the Spirit so their faith becomes firmly rooted, enabling them to grasp the immeasurable love of Christ. Like the deeply rooted Christmas tree in the devotional story, our faith grows strong when we remain grounded in truth and nourished by God’s presence. This season, we are invited to welcome Christ fully, stand firm in our faith, and radiate His love to others. Main Takeaways You’ll learn how Paul’s prayer in Ephesians encourages believers to root their faith deeply in Christ. Discover why spiritual stability comes from being grounded in truth and strengthened by the Holy Spirit. See how community and fellowship help us grasp the depth of Christ’s love together. Understand practical ways to welcome Christ into your heart during the Christmas season. Reflect on how to make Christ—not busyness or tradition—the focal point of holiday celebrations. Bible Verse References Ephesians 3:16–18 Your Daily Prayer God, as we enter this beautiful Christmas season, we welcome You into our hearts and our celebrations. Strengthen our faith through Your Spirit so that Christ may dwell in us fully. Help us stay rooted in Your truth, anchored in Your love, and attentive to the ways You are working around us. Give us soft, responsive hearts that reflect Your compassion, and make us ready to share the hope of Christ with those around us.In Jesus’ name, Amen. Want More? Subscribe to Your Daily Prayer for daily encouragement and Scripture-centered reflections. Leave a rating or review to help others discover the show. Visit LifeAudio.com for more faith-building podcasts. Explore more devotionals and Bible teachings at Crosswalk.com and Christianity.com. Relevant Links & Resources Explore articles about Christmas, spiritual growth, and faith at:Crosswalk.com – https://www.crosswalk.comChristianity.com – https://www.christianity.com Study today’s Scripture using BibleStudyTools.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

SCRIPTURE- Romans 14:17-19"For the kingdom of God is not a matter of food and drink, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the holy Spirit; whoever serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by others. Let us then pursue what leads to peace and to building up one another.”REFLECTION- JustinADVENT WORD OF THE DAY - Invite - Reach out to someone and invite them to something good — to pray, to worship, or simply to share a meal. Faith grows stronger when it's shared.MUSIC- "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" by The Piano Guys- "Let Us Break Break Together" by Music-Themes Group- "My Lighthouse" by Rend CollectiveNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Many Christians long to share their faith but struggle with fear, uncertainty, or a lack of confidence. Yet Scripture shows us that bold evangelism begins not with a strategy, but with a heart captivated by Jesus Himself. In Luke 2, the shepherds encountered the newborn Christ and immediately “spread the word,” becoming some of the first evangelists in the New Testament. Their example challenges us to consider what passionate witness could look like in our own lives. When we truly love Christ, we naturally want to talk about Him—and God uses ordinary people to make His extraordinary news known. Main Takeaways You’ll learn why the shepherds’ response to seeing Jesus models bold, joy-filled evangelism. Discover how passion for Christ fuels our desire to share the gospel with others. Understand why plans and formulas have value, but real witness begins with loving Jesus deeply. See how God consistently uses ordinary men and women—shepherds, fishermen, everyday believers—to spread His good news. Reflect on how your own enthusiasm for Christ can become an invitation for others to know Him. Bible Verses Referenced Luke 2:7 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/luke/2-7.html Luke 2:8–15 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/luke/passage/?q=luke+2:8-15 Luke 2:17–18 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/luke/2-17.html Matthew 28:5–7 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/matthew/passage/?q=matthew+28:5-7 Acts 10:39–40 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+10:39-40 Your Daily Prayer Lord Jesus, thank You for the incomparable gift of knowing You. Fill my heart with a deeper love for You—one that naturally overflows into conversations and actions that point others to Your grace. Make me bold like the shepherds who joyfully shared the news of Your birth, and like the disciples who testified fearlessly through the power of Your Spirit. When I feel uncertain or afraid, strengthen me. When I struggle for words, guide me in truth and grace. Let my life reflect Your goodness so others may be drawn to You.Amen. Want More? Subscribe to Your Daily Prayer for daily encouragement and biblical truth. Leave a rating or review to help others discover the show. Visit LifeAudio.com to explore more faith-building podcasts. Read more devotionals, Bible studies, and spiritual growth articles at Crosswalk.com and Christianity.com. Relevant Links & Resources Here are helpful resources related to the themes of today’s devotion: Articles on sharing your faith or evangelism atCrosswalk.com – https://www.crosswalk.comChristianity.com – https://www.christianity.com Explore Bible passages referenced using BibleStudyTools.com – https://www.biblestudytools.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

SCRIPTURE- Isaiah 55:12"Yes, in joy you shall go forth, in peace you shall be brought home; Mountains and hills shall break out in song before you, all trees of the field shall clap their hands.”REFLECTION- CherylADVENT WORD OF THE DAY - Hope - When negativity tempts you, name one blessing instead. Hope is not denial of hardship; it's the courage to see grace hidden within it.MUSIC- Lo How a Rose Er Blooming by Narada Christmas- God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen by Narada ChristmasNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- John 14:27"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.”REFLECTION- SarahADVENT WORD OF THE DAY - Offer - Offer a gift today — not just material, but personal: a listening ear, a few minutes of your time, or a gesture of compassion. Giving expands the soul.MUSIC- NOTES-Click here to read "Our Lady of Guadalupe: Mother of the Americas" on the TGM blog.PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Luke 1: 28-30"And coming to her, he said, ‘Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you.' But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.'”REFLECTION- GaryADVENT WORD OF THE DAY - Forgive - Bring to mind someone who has hurt you. Even if your heart isn't ready, say quietly, “Lord, I release them to Your mercy.” Forgiveness begins with willingness.MUSIC- "People Look East" by by Nichlas Schaal- "Immaculate Mary" by The O'Neill Brothers GroupNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Lord, fit my life for the altar, fit my life for purity and holiness, fit my life with evidence of Your salvation, fit and fill my life with Your Spirit so that others may see You.

ADVENT WORD OF THE DAY- Shine - Let joy be visible. Smile at strangers, greet others warmly, and carry yourself with the peace that comes from knowing you are loved by God.MUSIC- Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord from Godspell- Prepare the Way by Steph MacleodNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- John 4:13-14"Jesus answered and said to her, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again; but whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst; the water I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”REFLECTION- JenADVENT WORD OF THE DAY - Trust - When anxiety stirs, close your eyes and breathe deeply. Whisper, “Jesus, I trust in You.” Hand over what you cannot control.MUSIC- "Lo! How a Rose E'er Blooming" String Quartet arr. by Roger Wallace- "The Bells of St. Mary's" by Pianissimo BrothersNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE - Isaiah 40:31"They that hope in the LORD will renew their strength, they will soar on eagles' wings; They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint.”REFLECTION - Fr. JasonADVENT WORD OF THE DAY - Bless - Speak a word of encouragement or gratitude to every person you encounter. Let your words be a small echo of God's own blessing upon them.MUSIC - NOTES -PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God,into Your hands I surrender my life.Pour out Your Spirit upon methat I may love You perfectly,and serve You faithfullyuntil my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 62:6-7"My soul, be at rest in God alone, from whom comes my hope. God alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not fall."REFLECTION- Sr. CarolADVENT WORD OF THE DAY- Serve - Do one quiet act of kindness for someone today — hold a door, make a call, write a note — and do it without seeking recognition. Hidden love is powerful love.MUSIC- "My Soul in Stillness Waits" by Marty Haugen- "God Of All Possibilities" by Dunsin Oyekan  NOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- 1 Peter 1:3-4"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in his great mercy gave us a new birth to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you”REFLECTION- JeffADVENT WORD OF THE DAY- Listen - Begin this morning with five minutes of complete silence. Set aside your phone, your to-do list, and simply whisper, “Lord, what do You want me to hear today?” Let His still voice guide your steps.MUSIC- "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" by Michael WhalenNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 119:105"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."REFLECTION- PeggyMUSIC- "Impending Death of the Virgin Spirit" by Will Ackerman- "You Speak" by Audrey Assad- "Thy Word" by Amy GrantNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

CLICK HERE for Fr. Jim's reflectionREFLECTION- Fr. JimMUSIC- NOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Proverbs 9:10"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."REFLECTION- Sr. KaraMUSIC- "Stay in the Dark" by Paul Tony Lambert- "Blessed the People" Psalm 33 by Jeremy Mayfield- "How Great Thou Art" by bHp MusicNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Today we're stepping into one of the most critical, urgent, and often misunderstood parts of our walk with Christ:Unity.Not uniformity.Not agreement on every opinion.Not pretending everything is fine.Unity.The kind of unity Jesus prayed for in John 17 — the unity that tells the watching world, “These people belong to God.”But let's be honest…Church unity doesn't always come naturally.Personalities clash.Preferences collide.Opinions get sharp.Egos rise.Old wounds resurface.And if we're not careful, we begin treating each other like opponents instead of partners.I've lived through seasons where my words didn't unite — they divided.Times when I fought to win instead of fighting to love.Times when I viewed conversations like battlefields instead of opportunities for grace.And God had to whisper a truth that reset my heart:“Unity isn't losing — it's surrendering to My Spirit.”Let's unpack this.

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 6:2"Have mercy on me, Lord, because I'm frail. Heal me, Lord, because my bones are shaking in terror!”REFLECTION- GerryMUSIC- Holy, Holy, HolyNOTES- Click HERE to read Mary Ellyn's blog article.PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- James 5:16"Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective."REFLECTION- Sr. M KarolynMUSIC- "Crown Him With Many Crowns" by Jonathan Anderson- "Lift High the Cross" by The O'Neill BrothersNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Revelation 11:19"Then the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of his covenant was seen in the temple."REFLECTION- LaurenMUSIC- "Come Holy Ghost" by The O'Neill Brothers - "Mother Dear, O Pray for Me" by Coro Paulus- "Ave Maria" by Vince AmbrosettiNOTES- Click HERE for the post about Our Lady of La VangPRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You. 

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)YouTube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comII Peter 2 Peter warns that false teachers will arise among the people. These individuals will secretly introduce destructive heresies and deny the Lord who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves. Many will follow their shameful ways, and as a result, the truth will be maligned. These teachers are driven by greed and exploit others with deceitful words. Peter assures believers that God knows how to judge the wicked and rescue the righteous. He reminds them of past judgments, such as the flood and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. These false teachers are bold, arrogant, and corrupted by their sinful desires. They promise freedom but are themselves enslaved by sin. Peter exclaims it would have been better for them never to have known the truth than to malign it so sinfully.   We must remain alert and grounded in the truth of God's Word because false teachers still exist and can lead many astray. Their words may sound convincing, but their hearts are filled with pride and greed. We are called to test what we hear against Scripture and stay committed to sound teaching. We cannot follow the crowd or be swayed by messages that distort the truth. God is just and will judge those who corrupt His Word, but He also knows how to protect those who remain faithful. We must hold tightly to what is right, turn away from sinful desires, and live in a way that honors Christ. Our freedom is in Him, and we must never forsake our Savior.   Righteous Lord, guard our hearts against deception and help us stay anchored in Your truth. Grant us wisdom to recognize false teachings and courage to stand firm in what is right. Protect us from those who twist Your Word for their personal gain. Strengthen our faith so that we do not follow destructive paths but remain loyal to You. Assist us in seeking purity in our thoughts, actions, and desires. Lead us by Your Spirit so we may walk in truth and reflect Your holiness. Thank You for being just and for rescuing those who remain faithful to Your righteous way.   Thought Questions: -       How can you identify someone as a false teacher? Explain how it is about much more than just the accuracy of the message. -       What do the stories of Noah, Sodom and Gomorrah, and Lot teach you about the power and sovereignty of the almighty God? -       Is it possible to be entangled in the world and lost after being saved through Jesus? Why is that worse than never having obeyed at all?

SCRIPTURE- Isaiah 42:6"I, the Lord, have called you to demonstrate my righteousness.  I will take you by the hand and guard you."REFLECTION- Sr. CharleneMUSIC- "Be Thou My Vision" by David Im & Ethan Kim- "Lead Me, Lord" by Jay DeeNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You. 

CLICK HERE FOR GOD MOMENTS APPSCRIPTURE- Luke 17:2"It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a millstone around his neck than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin."REFLECTION- Mary EllynMUSIC- Mother of God, Here I Stand by Tavener- Good Morning by Alexi SurovykhPRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You. 

SCRIPTURE- Revelation 21:4"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."REFLECTION- JavierMUSIC- Ubi Caritas by Taize- Safe and Sound by Jay Stocker NOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You. 

SCRIPTURE- Ephesians 6:13"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."REFLECTION- Sr. KathleenMUSIC- "Aurora" by Gjeilo- "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" by Tiffany Cardenas ZunigaNOTES- Click HERE for the article about St. Elizabeth of HungaryPRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You. 

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 91:11"For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways."REFLECTION- JustinMUSIC- NOTES- Gentle Reflections by Reflections Media- All Good Gifts from Broadway play, GodspellPRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 27:1"The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?"REFLECTION- CherylMUSIC- "Holy Is His Name" John Michael Talbot Piano Cover by Peter Solecki- "The Tribute/Agnus Dei" by Michael W. SmithNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Jude 1:20-21"But you, beloved, build yourselves up in your most holy faith; pray in the holy Spirit. Keep yourselves in the love of God and wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.”REFLECTION- Fr. CarlMUSIC- Autumn Intro by VanzoNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

SCRIPTURE- Psalm 147:3"[God] heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds."REFLECTION- KyleMUSIC- "As the Deer" by David Im- "Peace Prayer" by The O'Neill Brothers GroupNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Garth Heckman The David Alliance TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com    Psalm 139:7 Where can I go to escape Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence?  8 If I ascend to the heavens, You are there; if I make my bed in Sheol- the grave, You are there. 9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle by the farthest sea, 10 even there Your hand will guide me; Your right hand will hold me fast.…   No matter what gets thrown at us.  No matter where we end up in life. No matter the ups and the downs the ins and the outs. No matter how backwards things end up or how the ending greatly and vastly is different from the beginning… He is always there.   If we end up as far from home as we could possibly be, if we are hopelessly alone, separated from family, friends, loved ones… if our job ends up being the worst thing in our life, or our marriage or our health. If everything we dreamed of, expected and even put our time and energy into… if it all blows up in our face and actually goes completely backwards from what we had planned… God is there.  You know what happens sometimes in life is that life happens sometimes. It happens to all of us. We tend to think that if bad things happen it was God who let it happen and if he let it happen then he surely can't be there with us… right? He is punishing us so why would he stick around to comfort us - what a terrible lie to believe in.  God took the punishment of sin and shame on the cross and he took it so that not only do we not need to take the brunt of it, but he took it so that he could comfort us during those times. I love this Psalm - much like I love Romans 8:35-39. Nothing can separate us from the love of God. But Psalm 139 says it like this - surprise im here. You find yourself in your bosses office losing your job and God says - hey Im here. You hear the dread words You have cancer… God says Im here! God is already there -  more than you might realize. I remember (and I'll admit this probably a terrible example) but an old corny horror flick when I was in High School where this woman kept seeing the eyes of a demon everywhere she went. Her day job, her car, her kitchen, her kids soccer game… they were everywhere… I know stupid, but thats God. He is actually waiting on you in your bosses office when you lose your job. The worst thing going on in your life…he is waiting there for you… he knows when it will take place and he is there just waiting. So don't forget to reach out to him. He is there! 

SCRIPTURE- Ephesians 3:17-19"[I pray] that you, rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the holy ones what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. "REFLECTION- JenMUSIC- "Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow" by David Nevue- "Love One Another" by Bob DuffordNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Love is the defining mark of a true follower of Christ — not just spoken love, but love that shows up in compassion, sacrifice, and everyday acts of care. In this touching daily prayer and devotional, Rachael Adams, host of The Love Offering, recalls the powerful example of love she witnessed while caring for her mother during a difficult hospital stay. Amid pain and uncertainty, she found beauty in the kindness exchanged between patients, families, and caregivers — living proof that love can flourish even in hardship. Jesus knew we would need each other. That’s why He gave His disciples this new command: to love one another as He has loved us. The early church lived this out so faithfully that they were recognized by outsiders for their radical generosity and unity (Acts 4:32–34). Their love wasn’t theoretical — it was tangible, visible, and transformative. When we choose to love others with that same self-giving, Christlike love, the world takes notice. Love is what sets us apart and points others to Jesus. Whether it’s a word of encouragement, an act of service, or simply showing up for someone in pain, every gesture of love testifies to the Gospel. The world is full of hurting hearts — people longing to know that someone cares. As followers of Christ, we have the privilege and calling to meet them with compassion, grace, and generosity. Love isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it — because through love, others see Him. Today's Bible Reading:“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” – John 13:34–35

SCRIPTURE- 1 Peter 1:22"Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart."REFLECTION- GaryMUSIC- Gather Your people by Sunday Night ChoirNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)YouTube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comHebrews 13The Hebrew letter concludes with practical instructions for Christian living. Disciples are urged to care for one another, extend hospitality to strangers, and remember those who suffer, including those in prison or facing mistreatment. The sanctity of marriage must be honored, and hearts should be free from the love of money, trusting in God's unwavering presence and provision. They are reminded to respect and learn from their spiritual leaders, recognizing that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Strange teachings should be avoided, and attention must remain on grace. Jesus cleansed them by His blood, and believers are called to praise God, do good, and share with others in Jesus' name. The message concludes with a prayer for peace and a call to live under God's grace. We are called to demonstrate our faith with love, consistency, and gratitude. We care for one another, greet others with kindness, and remember those who are suffering. We honor marriage, hold lightly to material things, trusting that God will always be with us. We look to our spiritual leaders as examples and follow their guidance as they direct us to Christ. Jesus never changes, and His faithfulness provides us stability in a shifting world. We remain grounded in grace, not in unbiblical teaching. We offer praise, do good, and share with others, as this pleases God. We strive to live with integrity, pray for one another, and carry the peace and strength that come through Jesus Christ into everything we do. Glorious Lord, we lift our hearts to You, our God and Father, the source of all wisdom and grace. Thank You for sending Jesus, our Savior and Shepherd, who is unchanging and remains faithful. Help us live with love, compassion, and integrity. Teach us to honor what is holy, serve others generously, and stay free from fear and greed. May we follow the example of Jesus and listen to the leaders You have placed over us. Strengthen us through Your Spirit, and help us live in a way that pleases You. May our lives always feature the grace of Christ. Thought Questions: What is the connection between hospitality to strangers, remembering prisoners, honoring marriage, and being free from love of money? How are you encouraged knowing “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever”? What does His presence mean to you? If you love and praise Jesus as the Good Shepherd, why must you also obey, support, and pray for local church shepherds?