Author Archives: asimpleguy

As we begin to transition back to our everyday routines, many of us may find ourselves reflecting on the joy and warmth that the Christmas season brings. The extra holiday time with family comes to a close, presents have been unwrapped, wonderful meals savored, and the festive music has faded into the background. Yet, forContinue reading “Christmas Every Day”

Christmas is a season filled with many things, but at its heart, Christmas is about love—a love so deep, so unconditional, and so sacrificial that it changed the course of history. The true heart of Christmas is found in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, thatContinue reading “The Love of Christmas”

This Sunday, we will light the third Advent candle which represents Joy. Christmas is a season filled with reminders of joy, but it’s important to remember that the joy we celebrate during Advent is not the fleeting happiness that comes from gifts, gatherings, or even warm traditions. The joy of Christmas is deeper—it’s rooted inContinue reading “The Light of His Joy”

The Christmas season is a time of joy and celebration, filled with cherished traditions that bring warmth to our hearts. Many of us delight in decorating Christmas trees, stringing lights on our houses, and exchanging gifts with loved ones. These are fun and meaningful traditions that add to the festive spirit of the season.  Yet,Continue reading “The Christmas Season”

Yesterday was Thanksgiving—a day set aside to give thanks for all the blessings in our lives. But how many of us truly pause and take time to give thanks? If you did, way to go!  The truth is for many, Thanksgiving has become little more than an excuse to eat turkey, watch football, and planContinue reading “Choosing Gratitude”

In Matthew 5:1-2, it tells us: “Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them.” This passage introduces one of the most profound moments in Scripture: the Sermon on the Mount. And as Jesus begins to teach, there’s anContinue reading “Being His Disciples”

As we enter the rainy season in Oregon, it serves as a reminder of the natural rhythms God has woven into creation—not just in the changing weather, but in the patterns of our own lives. Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”  Each season,Continue reading “The Seasons of Life”

Today is November 8th, but I’m writing this devotional a week in advance because my wife and I are going away for a few nights to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary. So I’m actually writing this before the elections take place. Right now, I have no idea what the outcome will be, and it’s possibleContinue reading “Trusting God’s Plan”

In John 15, Jesus invites us into a life of deep, intentional connection with Him. “I am the vine; you are the branches,” He says in verse 5. “If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” This call to “abide” is notContinue reading “The Call to Abide”

Last week I spoke out of 1 Samuel where King Saul had been pursuing David, hoping to kill him. From the moment he was anointed by Samuel, David faced many challenges—none more daunting than being pursued by King Saul. Yet, despite the danger and uncertainty, David’s heart was anchored in God’s promises. He knew thatContinue reading “The LORD is My Rock”