SUNDAY December 15, 2019

Praise God for His Mercy

Luke 1:50-51

Mary was a young woman who feared the Lord. She reverenced God and stood in awe of Him. She was chosen to become the mother of Jesus. Mary rejoiced in God’s mercy, not only shown to her, but to all who chose to fear Him from generation to generation. She greatly magnified the Lord with such a beautiful song––the Magnificat.

What does the Bible have to say about times of personal praise? Praise is beautiful! Psalm 33:1 tells us: Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous! For praise from the upright is beautiful. Psalm 147:1 continues that thought: Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and praise is beautiful.

We can praise God for the prophecy concerning Christ in Isaiah 61:1. It is a declaration of the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ. Jesus is the Savior of the world! The Spirit of the Lord God was upon Jesus during His ministry on this earth. He was anointed to preach good tidings to the poor––those who are spiritually bankrupt, dead in their sin, lost and without hope (Romans 6:23). He came to save us from our sins and give to us eternal life (John 3:16).

Perhaps this Christmas you find yourself downcast, melancholy, lonely, sorrowful, or even in despair. Contemplate the mercy, grace and love of God in sending His Son to be your Savior. Christ has been born! Begin to praise Him, and He will lift your spirit.

With Christ as your Savior and constant Companion, you too,
although alone, need never be lonely.
~Billy Graham~

 SATURDAY December 14, 2019

God My Savior

Luke 1:46-49

Mary responded to all Elizabeth’s words spoken to her; they confirmed all God was doing in her life. She spontaneously began to magnify the Lord in her sweet song of praise. Mary rejoiced in her mighty God; He had done great things for her. Mary was blessed beyond measure, and she praised His magnificent holy name.

Imagine, Mary, in sincere humility, recognized her poor estate. She was a lowly maidservant to be used in God’s mighty hands. Her life’s story as the mother of Jesus would be remembered for all generations. It is important to understand, this holy Child she carried would not only be the Savior of the world, He would be her own Savior, too. Mary, although pure, needed salvation herself. Even though blessed among women, she was not sinless like her Savior.

Mary saw herself in the correct light; she understood the profound truth of her insignificance compared to the greatness of God. But do we? Imagine, we are but a speck of dust in this vast universe, but God, in His love and affection for us, is mindful of us and gave us dominion over His creation:

What is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him? For You have made him a little lower than the angels, and You have crowned him with glory and honor. You have made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet… (Psalm 8:4-6).

When was the last time you worshipped the Lord for His magnificence, His Salvation and all the great things he has done in your life? Rejoice in God your Savior!

The Lord has done great things for us, and we are glad.
~Psalm 126:3~

FRIDAY December 13, 2019

Blessed Among Women

Luke 1:42-45

After the Angel Gabriel told Mary she would bear the Son of God in her womb, she hastened to visit Elizabeth, her relative. As Mary entered the house and greeted her, Elizabeth’s baby leaped in her womb. Elizabeth was instantly filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke a sure confirmation of everything the angel Gabriel had already told Mary. She was so humbled by Mary’s visit and commended her for her great faith. Chosen by God to be the mother of Jesus, Mary was blessed among women.

Notice Elizabeth words, she stated that the baby in Mary’s womb was “my Lord.” This Child would become Elizabeth’s personal Lord and Savior. Imagine, Mary stayed with someone within her own family who completely understood her situation. Mary may have felt alone as a young, unmarried, pregnant teenager, but she found solace with Elizabeth, an older woman in the family who embraced her. Mary was encouraged by Elizabeth’s words; she was a woman in tune with God’s purposes. Mary was assured by Elizabeth that all those things spoken by the angel would be fulfilled.

Can you, like Elizabeth, personally call Jesus, “My Lord?” If you do not know Christ as your Lord and Savior, all you need to do is repent of your sins and ask Him to come into your life. Then the Christmas story will take on a whole new meaning of love, joy, peace and forgiveness. You will know the real meaning of Christmas and become a blessed believer in Christ.

The Son of God became man to enable men to become sons of God.
~C.S. Lewis~

THURSDAY December 12, 2019

Delighting in Doing God’s Will

Luke 1:36-38

The angel Gabriel greatly encouraged Mary; the Lord had already been at work in the life of her relative Elizabeth. She had been barren, and yet God did the impossible; miraculously, she conceived a child. God did something far greater, in the life of Mary. As a virgin, she would carry the Son of God in her womb.

Mary, moved by faith, willingly agreed to be used by the Lord and voiced her full submission to God’s plan. Mary’s reaction to the angel’s words revealed her heart of faith, which was very different from Zacharias the priest. When he was told by the angel Gabriel that Elizabeth was to have a child, he questioned the possibility, thinking they were too old to have children. Zacharias was rebuked by the angel for his unbelief, but Mary, by faith, was delighted to do the will of God.

In Psalm 40:8, David expressed his attitude towards doing the will of God. He wrote: I delight to do Your will, O my God, and Your law is within my heart. This Psalm was also prophetic; it spoke of Christ and His willingness to do His Father’s will. Jesus said to the people who followed Him: “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me” (John 6:38). What was the Father’s perfect will in the life of Christ? He was to die for the sins of the world (John 3:16), to give salvation to anyone who believed in Him.

Do you delight in doing the will of God?

God hates sin and can never look with pleasure upon iniquity, but where men seek to do God's will He responds in genuine affection.
~A.W. Tozer~

WEDNESDAY December 11, 2019

Holy One––the Son of God

Luke 1:34-35

In awe and wonder, Mary inquired of the angel how this miracle of Christ’s conception would happen. She questioned, but never doubted God’s Word in unbelief. The angel answered her finite mind’s curiosity. The Holy Spirit, who is the third person of the Trinity, would come upon Mary, and the power of God would overshadow her. She would carry the precious Seed within her womb (Genesis 3:15). Jesus, the Son of God, would be born of Mary.

Throughout the Bible, the Trinity is seen––one God in three persons, all having the same divine attributes. God the Father is holy (Isaiah 6:3); Jesus, God’s Son, is holy (Acts 3:14-15); and the Spirit is called the Holy Spirit (Luke 11:13) On one occasion, an unclean spirit––demon––recognized Jesus as the Holy One and said: “Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God!” (Luke 4:34)

Understand, only a holy sacrifice could be sufficient for the sacrifice of our sins. The Apostle John confirms in 1 John 3:5, that Jesus had no sin: And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin. Jesus met the requirements to be a holy sacrifice for our sins:  

…knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot (1 Peter 1:18-19).

If the demons know the authoritative names of Jesus, how much more should we?
Christ was God, not because he was virgin born.
He was virgin born because he was God.
~Robert Clarke~

TUESDAY December 10, 2019

Joseph a Just Man

Matthew 1:18-19

Joseph was a carpenter, he worked skillfully with wood. Can you imagine the difficult dilemma Joseph was faced? Mary, the young woman he was betrothed to was with Child. It was God’s divine approval for Mary to conceive the Messiah––it was a miracle––a divine mystery.

The Scriptures reveal something about Joseph’s character, he was just. He would not publicly shame Mary. In deep love for her and in justice he would secretly hide her. The action Joseph was considering was to shield Mary from public disgrace and exposure. Secretly he would put her away so no gossip would circulate and he could protect her. He was a righteous man, he was going to separate from her. Joseph wanted to make sure things were right before God. Yet there was no sin to be found, what had happened was a part of God’s plan! (Deuteronomy 22:23-24).

As Joseph was restless and thought about these things, God was so faithful to reveal His plans to him, to confirm what was happening so there would be no confusion. He sent an angel of the Lord, who appeared to Joseph in a dream, to help him to understand His perfect will:

“Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.  And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:20-21).

Infinite and yet an infant. Eternal, and yet born of a woman. Almighty, and yet nursing at a woman’s breast. Supporting a universe, and yet carried in a mother’s arms, heir of all things, and yet the carpenter’s despised son.
~C. H Spurgeon~

MONDAY December 9, 2019

Son of the Highest

Luke 1:31-33

The angel Gabriel announced the miraculous birth of Christ to Mary, a young virgin. Cradled within her womb would be the long awaited Messiah. He will be great––called the Son of the Highest and yet be connected with an earthly king––King David’s royal throne.

Charles Spurgeon had these great insights:

The man Christ Jesus stooped very low. In His first estate He was not great; He was very little when He was upon His mother’s breast. In His later estate He was not great, but despised, rejected, and crucified… But the greatness of Christ in heaven—surely this is the grand sight for which we long to go to heaven—that we may behold His glory, “The glory which He had with the Father before the world was,” and the glory which He has gained by His service for the Father here below.

God sent His Son incarnate to earth for our sinful sakes. Jesus, Son of the Highest, came for a redemptive purpose––to die on the cross, so we could be forgiven of our sins and so we could spend eternity with Him (John 14:1-3). JESUS, pure, sinless and divine, was named the Son of the Highest; greatness preceded Him. He is the King of Kings and will reign forever and ever.

Christmas is a perfect time to reflect on God’s amazing plan of salvation. Why not accept JESUS as your Savior this Christmas? Then one day, you, too, will enjoy His presence in an everlasting, kingdom. His glory will be its light!

Death for the Christian is the doorway to heaven’s glory.
~Billy Graham~

SUNDAY December 8, 2019

His Name is Jesus

Luke 1:29-31

After hearing the salutation of the angel, Mary was troubled and unsettled in her thoughts. The angel Gabriel reassured Mary; she had found favor with God. Gabriel gave to her an amazing message: Mary, although a virgin, would conceive in her womb, a Son; and she was to name Him––Jesus. This miracle would be a fulfillment of Scripture found in Isaiah 7:14: Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel––God with us.

Imagine, humble Mary, a young teenager, had been chosen to carry Jesus in her womb. The Jewish people knew the Scriptures and understood by them, their Messiah would be born. In a part of the “Song of Mary” (Luke 1:54-55), we find that Mary knew of God’s prophecy: “He has helped His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy, as He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever.”

Mary’s child was to be called Jesus. In Hebrew His name was, Yehoshua, shortened to Joshua, which means “Yahweh is salvation.” What was the purpose of His birth? The name Jesus relates to us His mission––“for He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21).

Jesus did not come only to be the Savior for the Jewish nation, but for the salvation of the whole world. People should be filled with joy! Do you have room in your heart for Jesus? Receive your King!

The name [Jesus] is the highest, brightest and noblest of names. It is the glory of our Lord to be a Savior. To the best that was ever born of woman, God has given the best name that any son of man could bear. Jesus is the most appropriate name that our Lord could receive.
~C. H. Spurgeon~

 SATURDAY December 7, 2019

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

2 Samuel 1:25

On August 23, 1994, the United States Congress designated December 7 as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Today is the 78th anniversary of the surprise, aerial attack on Pearl Harbor, a naval base on the Island of Oahu, Hawaii.

The Japanese, who anticipated that the United States would enter into World War II, sent about 200 aircraft in a wave of attacks which killed 2,403 service members and civilians. In the attack another 1,178 were injured, two Navy Battleships sank, the USS Arizona and the USS Utah, and a total of 188 aircraft were destroyed.

December 8, President Franklin D. Roosevelt asked congress to declare war on Japan. The President gave a resilient speech condemning the surprise attack:

Pearl Harbor December 7, 1941, a date which will live in infamy… no matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people, in their righteous might, will win through to absolute victory… with the confidence in our armed forces –with the unbounding determination of our people – we will gain the inevitable triumph – so help us God.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt

The USS Arizona Memorial, located at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, Hawaii, commemorates the resting place of 1,102 of the 1,177 sailors and Marines killed on USS Arizona during the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

We resolve that our strength, our vigilance, and our devotion will forever keep America the land of the free and the home of the brave. We resolve that we will keep faith with those we have loved and lost. And we resolve that, always, we will remember Pearl Harbor.
~Ronald Reagan~

FRIDAY December 6, 2019

Rejoice, Highly Favored One

Luke 1:26-28

During the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, the angel Gabriel was sent by God to give another incredible message. This time, the angel went into the city in Galilee, to Nazareth, to a young virgin named Mary. She was betrothed––pledged to be married to a godly young man Joseph.

Mary must have been shocked to be approached by an angel with such an amazing salutation! The angel told her to rejoice! In God’s sight, Mary was highly favored; His holy presence was with her. Mary was blessed among women, but how would she be blessed? God had an amazing plan for her life––more than she could have ever imagined.

Although Mary did not yet fully understand the reason for the angel’s visit, the message of the angel would be in accordance with the prophecies recorded in the Old Testament Scriptures. She was to be a human vessel, chosen among all the women on earth, to perfectly fit into God’s plan. Everything was about to fall into place; she would soon understand.

Most Christians do not have encounters with angels; our life-changing experiences are usually based on God’s Word. He transforms our lives and uses us to do His will and work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). God, in His wisdom, often does not show us His entire plan for our lives––He takes us on a journey of faith, one step at a time. Even if we do not understand the path God is leading us on, we must simply trust and obey Him.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him,?and He shall direct your paths.
~Proverbs 3:5-6~

THURSDAY December 5, 2019

Turning People to the Lord

Luke 1:15-16

In these verses of Scripture, there is a prophetical glimpse into the call of Zacharias’ and Elizabeth’s child. An angel told Zacharias that his wife was going to have a son, even though she was past the age of childbearing. He was to name his child John. Later, while John was still within his mother’s womb, he leapt with joy at Mary’s announcement to Elizabeth that God had chosen her to bear the Son of God in her womb.

Later, when John began his ministry, he became known as John the Baptist, the messenger who would proclaim the coming of Jesus Christ––the Messiah. John preached a simple message, “Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” (Matthew 3:2)  John fulfilled the prophecy spoken by the prophet Isaiah: The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God” (Isaiah 40:3; Matthew 3:3). Elijah was a type of John the Baptist (Malachi 4:5-6), John would be God’s messenger who was to go before Jesus to prepare His people for their coming King.

After John’s death, Jesus said of him: “For I say to you, among those born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist…” (Luke 7:28). As ambassadors of Jesus Christ, we are to give the message of the Gospel to those who are perishing. God can use each of our lives to bring a message of hope that will turn people’s hearts to accept Christ this Christmas.

This Christmas, accept Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord. Give Him the gift that He wants––your heart, your soul, your life.
~Billy Graham~

WEDNESDAY December 4, 2019

Silence Was Broken

Luke 1:11-13

The Christmas story began when 400 years of silence was broken. Zacharias, one of the priests, performed his regular duties, burning incense in the temple, while the people prayed outside (Luke 1:8-10). They waited and marveled that he took so long. When Zacharias came out of the temple, he could not speak. The people supposed he had seen a vision in the temple. Zacharias gestured to them, but he remained speechless (Luke 1:21-22).

What had Zacharias seen? He had seen the angel Gabriel who brought him a message from the Lord. Zacharias’ wife Elizabeth, who was beyond the age of childbearing, would become pregnant. God had heard the prayers of this dedicated priest. The angel Gabriel told Zacharias to name his son John. The Word of the Lord had not been heard among His people. Imagine, at that very moment, 400 years of silence was broken!

As Elizabeth and Zacharias continued to serve God faithfully, obediently walking in all the Lord’s commandments, God’s plans and purposes were being fulfilled in their lives. Not only were they chosen to become the parents of John, they would hold a special part in the story of the Savior’s birth. John was Jesus’ cousin, and he would herald, “The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29).

Did you know that God has a purpose and a plan for each of our lives? As we walk with God in obedience to His Word, His plans will naturally unfold in our lives.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
~Jeremiah 29:11~

TUESDAY December 3, 2019

The Certainty of the Gospel

Luke 1:1-4

Luke was not an Apostle; he was a Greek who wrote the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts. He knew Theophilus––a great Roman governor. It is believed that Luke was a physician and the governor’s personal doctor. He took the opportunity to write and share with Theophilus an orderly account of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Understand, the Bible is not an ordinary book; it is God’s inspired Word. At this particular time in history, the voice of the Lord had not been heard for 400 years. From the last book of the Old Testament, Malachi, to the first book of the New Testament, Matthew––in-between those two books, the old and the new––there was nothing but silence for a four hundred year period. The Word of God had not been heard; God had not spoken to man. There had been no visions, no dreams nor angels sent with a message among His people. The Word of God had ceased, as God’s judgment came upon the nation of Israel.

Then, according to God’s plan, He began to reveal His light through a young man that would be born––John the Baptist. He would preach the straight forward message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ––repent! The people needed to turn from their sins and repent.

Like Luke, are you able to share the certainty of the Gospel, as seen in the Scriptures, with someone? It is important to study the Scriptures because it will bring conviction to people’s hearts and it can save them!

God is not silent. It is the nature of God to speak. The second person of the Holy Trinity is called ‘The Word’
~A.W.Tozer~

MONDAY December 2, 2019

Peace Without End

Isaiah 9:7

Solomon’s reign was peaceful, but after his death, his kingdom became divided. Rehoboam, his son, ruled over the southern tribes of Benjamin and Judah, while Jeroboam ruled the other ten tribes (1 Kings 12:16-17). Sadly, later in history, Solomon’s temple and the walls of Jerusalem would be destroyed. The people of Israel, along with Solomon’s riches, would be carried away into a long Babylonian captivity (2 Kings 24-25).

With this unthinkable devastation, how would God accomplish His promise to King David? Who would sit on the throne? Would there ever be a lasting, peaceful reign in the future? It is important to understand that, throughout the history of Israel’s kings, the royal bloodline of King David continued. In fact, the scarlet cord wove its way gracefully through the lives of five women. Tamar, who acted as a prostitute, Rahab a prostitute by trade, Ruth a cursed Moabitess, Bathsheba, referred to as, the wife of Uriah, and then Mary, a young, virgin maid (Matthew 1:1-6,16).

Mary, poor and humble, lived in the insignificant town of Nazareth. She was betrothed to Joseph, a lowly carpenter. Both Mary’s and Joseph’s families were linked directly to the lineage of King David (Matthew 1:1-17; Luke 3:23-38). Jesus, the Prince of Peace, would be born of Mary. He is God, the King of Kings, who will establish the throne of David forever (Luke 1:32).

Imagine, there are still so many wars troubling our world today, but, let us not be distressed. At the end of the age, Jesus Christ will reign, and there will be peace without end.

He shall judge between the nations, and rebuke many people; they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation,
neither shall they learn war anymore.
~Isaiah 2:4~

SUNDAY December 1, 2019

Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God

Isaiah 9:6

The prophet Isaiah also gave a prophecy concerning Christ’s birth. Included in the prophecy is a list of Christ’s incredible titles: Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. Christ as our Mighty God will be a great and just Ruler. Upon His shoulder would rest an eternal government.

What an amazing prophecy about our Savior! He came to us as an innocent Child; the Son of God was born in a humble shelter and placed in a manger, in the town of Bethlehem. Jesus came for one solitary purpose––the salvation of men. As the angelic host proclaimed, He came to bring: “…on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14)

Jesus was completely human, and yet He is eternal––God. Through His willingness to be obedient to the Father’s plan of salvation, He came to earth in the form of an innocent Babe. He was born with a mission––to die on the Cross for the salvation of all men: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16).

Imagine what Mary pondered in her heart as she held her Baby for the first time in her arms. She knew God’s Word, the prophecies about Him, and all that the angel Gabriel had revealed to her. When she cradled her Child, I think she must have considered all she was told. As she looked upon this defenseless Child, perhaps she thought, “How can He hold so much responsibility?” She must have been amazed.

The hinge of history is on the door of a Bethlehem stable.
~Ralph W. Sockman~

SATURDAY November 30, 2019

The One Ruler in Israel

Micah 5:2

The prophet Micah prophesied of the Messiah’s birth, in the city of Bethlehem, 500 years before it happened––amazing! How did Micah know about Christ’s birth? God had revealed it to him. Micah told the people of Israel that the Messiah would come from the small town of Bethlehem. He would be the One to be Ruler in Israel. He is God, from everlasting, yet He would come to earth as a small Child. Jesus would leave His heavenly home, His Father’s side, the throne of God, and come down to live among mortal men.

This one verse from the book Micah was used to tell God’s people that God was sending His Son to them. When Jesus was born, and He came among His people, He fulfilled this prophecy. It is hard to believe that many people did not recognize Him; they missed the miracle of Christ’s birth. Just as God used the prophets of the Old Testament to tell the people of the coming Messiah, God used John the Baptist in the New Testament to point people to Christ (Matthew 3).

Today we have the full counsel of God, the entire Bible from Genesis to Revelation, to point us right to our Savior. God is so good; in His Word, He has provided, not just one prophecy, but hundreds of prophecies concerning Christ’s birth, death, resurrection and even His return. Through the study of the Scriptures, everyone can have an opportunity to come to know Christ.

Christmas is a time to celebrate Jesus’ birth, but have you recognized Christ to be your Savior? Receive the eternal gift He brings to you—salvation!

Rejoice that the immortal God is born that mortal men
may live in eternity.
~Jan Hus~

FRIDAY November 29, 2019

True Faith Produces True Works

James 2:14-17

Some people believe doctrines that teach we are saved by works, but without faith, it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). When a person is really saved, faith and works come together as evidence that faith brings true works in your life.

The Apostle Paul and the Apostle James agree in their teachings with the same doctrine of justification by faith: For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). How can you really do true works without faith?

Whenever people would come to Jesus to be healed, what would He tell them? “Your faith has made you whole.” It is all through faith in Christ’s righteous, not their righteousness. The prophet Isaiah taught, our righteousness is as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6). It is important that this doctrine is taught correctly, because it can condemn and destroy people if it is not taught right, biblically, according to the grace of God.

I like the way Paul, in his epistle to the Romans brings up the subject of faith, and James balances it out by talking about true works––they complement each other. This is so beautiful––grace, faith and works.

One's faith is not genuine unless it moves him or her to action. Faith and works are necessary companions. The faith produces the works, while the works demonstrate the genuineness of the faith.
~Chuck Smith~

THURSDAY November 28, 2019

Thanksgiving

Psalm 68:19

David penned Psalm 68. In this beautiful song, he praised the Lord for His abundant blessings and His fulfilled promises. David paused to reflect on the Lord’s goodness. In your heart, answer the question presented in Psalm 116:12. Then think on the other incredible passages of Scripture. Why not write your own response to the Lord for His goodness upon your own life:

Psalm 116:12 ESV: What shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits to me?

Psalm 7:17 ESV: I will give to the Lord the thanks due to his righteousness, and I will sing praise to the name of the Lord, the Most High.

Psalm 100:4 NIV: Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name.

Psalm 107:8-9 NIV: Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.

God blesses each one of us individually with His grace, love, mercy and salvation––every single day! This Thanksgiving, as you gather with friends and family, take time to pause and thank the Lord for all His daily benefits that He has so generously bestowed.

“We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven; we have been preserved these many years in peace and prosperity; we have grown in numbers, wealth, and power as
no other nation has ever grown.” 
~Abraham Lincoln~

WEDNESDAY November 27, 2019

Mercy Triumphs Over Judgment

James 2:12-13

Who stands to be judged as under the Law? It is the non-believer, because they will not accept God’s grace freely given to them. When they stand before the judgment seat of God, they will be judged for their sins, according to the Law:

 Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. . .  And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books . . . each person was judged according to what they had done (Revelation 20:11-13 NIV).

What is the law of liberty? It is: Grace, mercy and peace will be with us, from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love (2 John 3 HCSB). God establishes the work of grace and truth in us through His Son Jesus Christ: For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ (John 1:17).

I know my mistakes and sins. That is why I like to show mercy and grace to others, because God has been so merciful and gracious to me. Christians should show God’s love to others––be compassionate and gracious. What we speak should be shown through our actions. May God help us to apply these things to our lives.

Take an examination of your life today. If you were to die and stand before God, would you stand before Him at the white throne judgment, or would you stand to receive His grace and mercy? (Matthew 10:32; Luke 12:8) If you are lacking God’s mercy, call on the name of the Lord and be saved!

God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith.
~Romans 3:25 NIV~

TUESDAY November 26, 2019

Guilty of All

James 2:10-11

James had a strong point to make. If a Christian tried to keep the Ten Commandments, but failed in only one area, then they would become guilty of all of them! We should know that! Trying to keep the Law would bring frustration. Knowing there is no way to live up to the Mosaic law, it now becomes like a schoolmaster to bring us to Christ:

Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.  But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster (Galatians 3:24-25 KJV).

The Apostle Paul teaches the doctrine of grace in such a simple way for all people to understand it:

 Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin.  But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference;  for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,  being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (Romans 3:20-24).

Concerning law and grace, we now understand that as a person can come to the foot of the Cross, where there is no longer any more condemnation (Romans 8:1). Through God’s grace, there is love, joy and peace.

Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God
and of Jesus our Lord…
~2 Peter 1:2~

MONDAY November 25, 2019

The Royal Law

James 2:8-9

What is the royal law? The Ten Commandments! James likened fulfilling the Law to what Jesus taught in the New Testament. Jesus summed up the royal law to a lawyer who questioned Him:

“ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 22:37-40).

Christians need the love of Christ in their lives––be Christ-like. We need to walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16, 22). James warned against partiality. It was a sin to be a respecter of persons. The Church is a spiritual hospital where many different people come to hear the Word of God. Whoever comes to church must be treated with respect.

There are people in different countries who have class systems in their societies. Chile is such a country, and among them are many Europeans. In Chile there are three very distinct classes: the upper class, middle class and lower class. The upper class will not associate or even sit at the same table with those outside of their own class. They can be a real hard group to minister to.

Many missionaries work among the poor people, and they always receive the Gospel willingly. Yet I was challenged to reach the rich with the Gospel. At first, working among the rich was difficult. So I asked the Lord, “How can this class barrier be broken?” The Lord ministered to me that it was only possible to reach them through the love of Jesus Christ. Christians need to have the law of love in every word and action so they can reach the lost.

Whereas obedience is righteousness in relation to God, love is righteousness in relation to others.
~A. Plummer~

SUNDAY November 24, 2019

Rich in Faith

James 2:5-7

James told Christians to really listen to his exhortation. God was not a respecter of persons! God has chosen the poor of this world. He loves the poor and has promised to give them an inheritance! They may have no money, but James knew they were rich in faith––they had an eternal inheritance!

This reminds me of the Sermon on the Mount, when Jesus taught His disciples: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). Jesus spoke of those who were spiritually bankrupt, but as they repented of their sins and accepted Him as their Savior, they became incredibly rich eternally. The prophet Isaiah felt unworthy in the presence of a holy God. He knew how wretched he was. He became poor in spirit, and, in humility, declared: “Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips…” (Isaiah 6:5).

James shared that the Gospel of Jesus Christ was for anyone who wanted to accept it, whether poor or rich. There are some Christians who judge people from outward appearances or get into titles: such as, reverend, pastor, rabbi or master. Yet we need to treat people equally.

I believe the Church needs to meet the needs of the community, not just cater to the rich and prominent. Christians cannot treat those who are rich like gold and the poor like castoffs. Jesus is our example. He did not have much materially in this world; in fact, He became poor so that we could become rich (2 Corinthians 8:9). Christians have become rich in the grace of God––more than millionaires in this world––amazing!

Do you dishonor the poor in the body of Christ? Are you guilty of being a respecter of persons by only catering to the rich? Think about it.

For there is no partiality with God.
~Romans 2:11~

SATURDAY November 23, 2019

Show No Partiality

James 2:1-4

The Apostle James, the half-brother of Jesus, gave insight to the deity of Jesus Christ––the Lord of glory. He makes it clear that anyone can accept Jesus whether poor or rich. So how should we treat people? James exhorted believers not to be respecters of persons. A rich person coming to church wearing gold rings should not be ushered into the best seat upfront. Neither should the poor be told to sit in inferior places––in the back. A Christian should never, ever be a respecter of persons.

We need to understand our humble position in Christ. When believers get into leadership, partiality can become a big problem. There are those Christians who will try to get close to important people, to those who are rich and who hold a place of prominence. Others try to get in with those who are popular in the Church. It is so easy to do.

If there is partiality, where is the love of Christ? Christians should treat all people the same way; there is no hierarchy in the body of Christ. We should respect one another and what God is doing in each other’s lives. It is important to be careful how we treat others. Christians should never be rude to people. Believers need to be loving, kind and respectful to all people in the Church. Make sure the love of Jesus Christ is extended to all people.

“ ‘You shall do no injustice in judgment. You shall not be partial to the poor, nor honor the person of the mighty. In righteousness you
shall judge your neighbor.’ ”
~Leviticus 19:15~

FRIDAY November 22, 2019

True Christianity

James 1:26

The Apostle James speaks to Christians very plainly. He helps us to understand that if a person cannot hold their tongue, having a lack of self-control, their religion is all in vain––useless. Their Christianity is merely an outward show––it is not genuine inwardly.

James goes on to say what a genuine reflection of a Christian should be like. It is a person who stays pure. A Christian is to be free from any type of sin. They keep well away from sin. A true Christian will have a genuine concern for those who are widows. As a Christian, if you have a grandmother, mother or aunt who is a widow, it is your responsibility to take care of them.

I believe with all my heart that if Christians would go out and minister to widows by making themselves available to cut their grass and clean their houses, they would be so blessed by God. Honestly, I think many of the widows are neglected. Those who are elderly may not be able to walk because they have arthritis. Their lives are very difficult, and they need to be taken care of. Yet the elderly are often placed in convalescent homes to die. Many old people are forgotten––sad.

It is the duty of every Christian to be Christ to his neighbor.
~Martin Luther~

THURSDAY November 21, 2019

Look into the Mirror

James 1:23-25

James separated the actions of doing from hearing the Word of God. This person is like the type of individual who spends time in front of the mirror looking at themselves, but as soon as they leave the mirror, they forget what kind of person they really are. They may look nice outwardly, but inwardly, they are a mess––they are not right with God.

We need to be real, genuine Christians, not hypocrites––actors. We need to practice what we preach. If Christians became doers of God’s Word, can you imagine what would happen? We would have a great revival! No one would be able to stop us––not even Satan. The reason that the Church cannot be effective in the world is because so many believers are hearing God’s Word, but they are not doing what God says. It is through God’s grace that we are enabled to obey Him. When we obey, His love, joy and peace will be evident to others, and we will have a strong testimony.

If we continue to obey God’s Word, James tells us we shall receive an incredible promise. We shall be blessed in all our work–– in everything we do. All we have to do is to seek first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). The Lord will honor us! If God is first in our lives, then we will be aligned with God’s perfect will. He will continue to bless us, and He will get all the glory.

Love for God is obedience; love for God is holiness. To love God and to love man is to be conformed to the image of Christ,
and this is salvation.?~C. H. Spurgeon~

THURSDAY November 21, 2019

Look into the Mirror

James 1:23-25

James separated the actions of doing from hearing the Word of God. This person is like the type of individual who spends time in front of the mirror looking at themselves, but as soon as they leave the mirror, they forget what kind of person they really are. They may look nice outwardly, but inwardly, they are a mess––they are not right with God.

We need to be real, genuine Christians, not hypocrites––actors. We need to practice what we preach. If Christians became doers of God’s Word, can you imagine what would happen? We would have a great revival! No one would be able to stop us––not even Satan. The reason that the Church cannot be effective in the world is because so many believers are hearing God’s Word, but they are not doing what God says. It is through God’s grace that we are enabled to obey Him. When we obey, His love, joy and peace will be evident to others, and we will have a strong testimony.

If we continue to obey God’s Word, James tells us we shall receive an incredible promise. We shall be blessed in all our work–– in everything we do. All we have to do is to seek first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). The Lord will honor us! If God is first in our lives, then we will be aligned with God’s perfect will. He will continue to bless us, and He will get all the glory.

Love for God is obedience; love for God is holiness. To love God and to love man is to be conformed to the image of Christ,
and this is salvation.?~C. H. Spurgeon~

WEDNESDAY November 20, 2019

Be Doers of the Word

James 1:22

James the Apostle urged believers to not only be hearers of the Word, but doers. There are those in the Church who have become Sunday Christians. It is very deceptive to hear God’s Word, but not apply it to their lives. Some people may believe they are Christians, but they are not. Why? They have listened to God’s Word, but they have never obeyed the Word of God.

Before you go to church, prepare your heart to receive God’s Word. How many times do you go to church to hear the Word, turn to another person, and say, “Hey, did you hear what the pastor said? That is for you!” However, you should go to church with your heart ready to receive what God has to say to you personally. Seriously, come to church and hear from the Lord! God can give you the grace to obey His Word.

There are times when Christians will bicker and nitpick with each other. They will even talk about people and judge them behind their backs. We do it! Yet when they see the person they really do not care for, they act as if they love them. We cannot be hypocrites. That is being two-faced, and God will not bless us. How can we say we love a person, when we do not? It is better to be honest before God, pray to Him, and ask Him to give us love for that person. We need to be genuine with each other.

Honestly, if you are not doing what the Word of God tells you, then you are only lying to yourself. You think you are a Christian, but you are not. If you are a person who goes to church all the time, thinking you are going to heaven, but you are not obeying the Word of God, you are not.

The Bible recognizes no faith that does not lead to obedience, nor does it recognize any obedience that does not spring from faith. The two are opposite sides of the same coin.
~A.W. Tozer~