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When we encounter Jesus, His presence changes us from the inside out. We are no longer who we once were—we are made new, restored, and deeply loved. In Him, we find healing, purpose, and the joy of being called His friend.
As we step into the new year, imagine what it would look like if the Church truly came alive! In the desolate places of our lives where we’ve felt stuck, God gently asks, “Can these dry places come alive?” Through the power of the Holy Spirit within us, the answer is a resounding yes—they can flourish and thrive!
Hearing God's voice may sometimes feel challenging, but it's not impossible. Though it might seem complicated, it's often simpler than we think. God promises that His sheep will hear His voice, and He is always faithful to speak to those who are listening. So take heart, lean in, and trust that He is ready to be heard.
As believers, we are not to be swayed by the changing tides of this world. Our hope is anchored in the unchanging nature of God and His eternal promises. And because they are solid and secure, we can offer hope to others by encouraging them. We can live boldly and courageously, shining the light of Christ in every corner of our lives so others will see the hope we have in Jesus.
As believers, when frustration weighs us down, we are invited to turn to the Lord, who tenderly listens to our cares and concerns. In moments of struggle, we can find comfort and peace by casting our burdens on Him, trusting that His grace and strength will sustain us. Remember, His love is a steady anchor in the frustrations of life.
Whether we realize it or not, we all look up to someone or something in our lives. God wants us to have leaders, but it's important that these leaders reflect the heart and values of God. King David was called a man after God’s own heart. Those we follow ought to have the same heart for the things of God.
We're reminded of God's unwavering faithfulness, like a garment that envelops us, like a parent’s teaching that guides us with love and compassion. God’s steadfast faithfulness guides us in every moment, anchoring us in peace.
The Cross, symbolizing sacrifice and redemption, finds its ultimate meaning through the resurrection of Jesus, signifying victory over death and the promise of new life. In embracing the transformative power of Christ's resurrection, believers are called to leave behind the burdens of sin and emerge into a renewed existence, filled with hope, forgiveness, and the abundant grace of God.
Have you ever been to a retreat or a training program where they had you do the trust fall? The trust fall is where you trust that when you fall backward the people behind you will catch you. It is hard to put ourselves completely into the hands of others, no matter what the situation is or who the people are. We like to be in control. But the Christian faith is fundamentally based on our reliance on another, Jesus, for our fiuture and our entire lives and our salvation.
Do you talk to God? Or Do you talk with God? Prayer is conversing with God in words, thoughts, and gestures. It marks a life with God, where we continually pay attention to God’s presence in this world and in us. Prayer builds a relationship with God as we respond to His self-giving love and mercy and to His commitment to lead us into truth.
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