Pain, whether physical or emotional, is a part of our human experience. And being a Christian doesn’t make us exempt. However, as followers of Jesus, we are not without hope. In the midst of our pain, we can find comfort in the love and presence of our Heavenly Father.

The Scriptures remind us that God knows our pain. In Isaiah 53:3, it says this about Jesus: “He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.” When we suffer, we can take comfort in knowing that we serve a God who understands our pain and struggles firsthand. We can find refuge in His presence, knowing that He is near to the brokenhearted and saves those whose spirits are crushed. (Psalm 34:18).

Additionally, our pain can and should draw us closer to God. When we experience pain, it is a sign that something is off, that something needs to be attended to. Our pain, whether physical or emotional, reminds us that we need help. And it’s in these times that we can turn to God in prayer, seeking His comfort and strength. Through prayer and spending time in His Word, we can experience His peace—A peace that passes all understanding, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).

Furthermore, our pain can serve as a powerful testimony to others. In 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, we read: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” As we walk through our own trials, we can offer empathy and encouragement to those who are hurting, sharing how God has sustained us in our darkest moments.

Consider the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis. Despite facing betrayal, slavery, and imprisonment, Joseph remained faithful to God. In the end, God used Joseph’s suffering to accomplish His greater purpose, saving many lives in the process. Similarly, God can use our pain for His glory, bringing beauty from ashes and working all things together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

So, as we journey through times of pain and suffering, remember that we are not alone. God is with us, surrounding us with His love and sustaining us with His grace. We need to lean into His presence, draw strength from His Word, and allow Him to use our pain to minister to others. May we all find comfort in knowing that our suffering is not in vain, but rather a part of God’s beautiful redemptive plan.

This week my wife shared a devotional for our church and I decided to share it here on my blog: 

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” -1Thessalonians 5:16-18

“The benefits of gratitude are astronomical, and there are no downsides.” –Tsh Oxenreider, FIRST LIGHT & EVENTIDE

It’s very easy to focus on the wrong things. It takes discipline to focus on what matters. We know that gratitude changes us, but it takes discipline and consistency to actually name the things that have brought us joy. 

In FIRST LIGHT & EVENTIDE, Tsh Oxenreider wrote the following, siting Robert Emmons, “Gratitude and Well-Being,” https://emmons.faculty.ucdavis.edu/gratitude-and-well-being/ :

“Studies have shown that people who keep gratitude journals also exercise more regularly and experience fewer negative physical symptoms, feel better about their lives as a whole, are more optimistic, are more likely to make progress toward important personal goals, report higher levels of alertness and energy, sense a greater feeling of connection to others, and even sleep better.

A few weeks ago, Darrin encouraged us all in the weekly devotional to remember God’s blessings. It is so important.

But, sometimes, we can allow the real and actual way that God wants us to live our lives seem like something kind of “out there” or hyper-spiritual or intangible and just out of reach. So let’s take his encouragement and refine it even more.

Today, I wrote in my gratitude journal that I’m thankful for Lady Grey tea. This is my favorite tea ever, and the warm drink, distinct-but-delicate flavor, and citrusy-bergamot aroma all bless me daily. It doesn’t sound very spiritual, but I think it might be better than only writing “I’m thankful for my salvation” every day. Because it’s authentic. It’s sharing a moment with my Father in Heaven and giving Him thanks for it.

God wants to BE WITH US. He wants to hear our sorrows. He wants to hear about what we love. And He wants us to choose to share it with Him. And when we practice bringing all the parts of our lives to God—even the unspiritual and tiniest parts—He enters in; He speaks to our hearts; He delights in us; He fills us with His love. And something really does change inside of us when we take note of “the feeling of petting the silky smooth fur on my dog’s ear” or “the gritty conversation that led to a deeper friendship” …or whatever has blessed YOU today. Because when we give thanks to God—specifically, daily, and in all circumstances—He multiplies the blessings: in our lives; in our hearts; and in our minds. He fills us to overflowing and His presence is the sweetest gift of all. Thank You, Jesus.

We all know that prayer is an amazing way for us to seek God and to give Him our struggles and desires. In Philippians 4, it tells us to make our requests known and, in James 2, it says we have not because we ask not. 

While this aspect of prayer is vital in our lives, there’s another dimension that is equally important—taking time to listen for God’s voice. True prayer is a two-way conversation, an exchange between our hearts and the heart of God. 

In Psalm 5:3 we read: “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” God wants us to pour out our hearts to Him in prayer. And I believe He graciously listens to every word—But He also desires to respond. Which is why it’s crucial for us to create space and time to listen for His response. 

In Psalm 46:10, He encourages us to: “be still, and know that I am God.” When we quiet our hearts and minds, it enables us to discern the still, small voice of God speaking to us. 

You may remember the story in 1 Kings 19 where Elijah heard the voice of the Lord. It wasn’t in the great wind, or in the earthquake, or in the fire—It was a gentle whisper. I believe we too can hear the whisper of God when we take time to quiet our hearts and minds in prayer.

Prayer should be a transformative encounter with our Creator. James 5:16 tell us that: “the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” It’s through prayer that we invite God to work in our lives, to mold us and to shape us according to His will. When we open our hearts to Him and allow Him to speak into our lives, He transforms us from the inside out.

Prayer is our connection to our Heavenly Father—a dialogue between our hearts and His. As we practice both speaking to God and listening for His voice, we deepen our relationship with Him and experience His transformative power in our lives. May prayer not only be a means to express our needs but also a pathway to intimacy with the Divine, where we find guidance, comfort, and strength for life’s journey. -Amen

As a part of God’s intricate design for our lives, He has placed a need within each of us for relationships. From the very beginning, God declared that it is not good for humans to be alone (Genesis 2:18). We were created for relationship—relationship with God and relationship with one another. This truth highlights the importance of community and our support for one another. 

Proverbs 27:17 talks about this: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” This scripture captures the heart of positive connections by comparing them to the process of sharpening iron. As followers of Jesus, we are called to understand the profound truth expressed through this metaphor and apply it to our daily lives.

Consider the nature of iron sharpening iron. It’s a process that requires motion, contact, and intentional effort. In our relationships, this speaks to the need for engagement and connection. We are not meant to live in isolation, instead we are designed to be dependent upon one another. Our lives are strengthened and sharpened when we engage with others, sharing our experiences (both good and bad), wisdom, and love.

The words we speak hold incredible power. I’ve been talking about this at church recently. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that: “the tongue has the power of life and death.” In the context of positive relationships, our words can either build up or tear down. As Christians, our speech should reflect the love and encouragement of Jesus. 

Ephesians 4:29 instructs us: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Imagine a world where our words are like a refreshing breeze, lifting the spirits of those around us. Our encouragement, kindness, and support can be a source of strength for others, helping them navigate life’s challenges. In the same way, when we surround ourselves with positive influences, we become better equipped to face the trials of life.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to be intentional about our relationships. Seek out fellow believers who can sharpen you, challenge you, and encourage you to grow in your walk with God. In the same way, we need to be a source of encouragement for others, reminding them of their innate worth and also their potential in Christ.

Let us be mindful of the words we speak, recognizing that they have the power to shape destinies. May our relationships be characterized by love, unity, and mutual encouragement, reflecting the heart of God who desires for us to be better together. As iron sharpens iron, may we embrace the beauty of positive relationships, walking hand in hand with our brothers and sisters in His love and grace.

This week as I was praying about what to write, the Lord led me to James 1:27 which says this: “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.”

This scripture actually gives us some amazing insight into the heart of true worship. It shows how God desires us to express our devotion by actively engaging in acts of compassion and righteousness. And to fully understand this scripture, we have to take a closer look at that word “religion”.

The Greek word used for “religion” in this verse, is the word “threskeia.” And Threskeia goes beyond the conventional understanding of religious activities. It’s this idea of expressing worship to God in every aspect of our lives. It encompasses a lifestyle that reflects our devotion to God in all we do, a worship that is genuine, pure, and untainted by the world.

The first aspect of true worship highlighted in James 1:27 is the act of visiting orphans and widows in their affliction. This is a powerful reminder of God’s heart for the vulnerable and marginalized. When we seek to care for the broken, we emulate the compassionate nature of our Heavenly Father, who faithfully cares for those in need. Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of caring for the least of these (Matthew 25:40), reinforcing this idea that our worship includes loving and reaching out to those society often overlooks.

The second aspect of true worship emphasizes the need to keep oneself unstained by the world. This involves living a life of righteousness through Jesus Christ. It’s seeking to pursue the things of God verses the things of the world. When we choose to walk in obedience, that’s worship. When we choose to show love, that’s worship. When we choose to bite our tongues instead of speaking harsh words, that’s worship. Romans 12:2 tells us not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. True worship involves a conscious effort to align our lives with God’s standards and to be a light in the midst of darkness.

James 1:27 invites us to redefine our understanding of worship. It challenges us to view worship not as something confined to the inside of a church building, but as a dynamic expression of our love for God in every aspect of our lives. As we embrace the marginalized and live holy lives, we participate in a worship that resonates with the heart of God. May our lives be a true reflection of pure and undefiled worship, a “threskeia” that honors our Heavenly Father in all we do.

Throughout this month our church family has been participating in 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting with our Foursquare denomination. I know many of us make prayer a regular part of our lives, but fasting is one of those things many of us read about in the Bible, but haven’t necessarily participated in.

Fasting is when we willingly abstain from something for a set period of time—maybe food in general or a specific meal or type of food, social media, or TV—to instead spend time praying and seeking the Lord. It’s a conscious decision to set aside worldly distractions and draw closer to God. When we fast, we create space for divine revelation, allowing God to speak to us in the stillness of our hearts.

In the fast-paced world we live in, it’s so easy to get distracted and to focus on anything and everything but God. Those distractions may start off small, but they have a tendency to take us farther and farther away from Jesus. Like using a compass, if our bearing is off by one degree, it may not seem like a big deal at first. But the longer we travel off track, the farther we get from our intended destination.

When we find ourselves off track, a great way to get back on track is through the spiritual disciplines of prayer and fasting. Consider a habit or routine that has subtly taken control of your life. Whether it’s the constant pull of social media, the comfort of indulging in certain foods, or the escape provided by television, these habits can become obstacles in our journey of following Jesus. Fasting from these distractions serves as a reset button, breaking those habits and bringing us back into right relationship with the Lord.

In Luke 4:1-2 we read: “And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And he ate nothing during those days.”

This account in Luke 4 reveals that even Jesus, the Son of God, engaged in a period of fasting. His example teaches us that fasting is not a sign of weakness but a source of spiritual strength. In the wilderness, Jesus overcame temptation and emerged stronger, ready to begin His ministry. I believe that times of prayer and fasting can do the same for us.

We don’t need a denominational campaign for us to pray and fast. We can do it anytime. Where are you in your relationship with Jesus? Do you feel far away from Him? Taking time to pray and fast is a great way to get back on track. And quieting some of our everyday distractions allows us to hear His voice more clearly as we seek Him and ask Him for guidance.

When I reflect on my life, it’s easy to see all the amazing blessings I have experienced from God. The problem, though, is that in the chaos of life, it’s easy to forget all the times and ways that God has come through for us. And when we experience challenges and difficulties, it’s hard to see beyond our immediate circumstances.

But I believe it’s in these times that we need to remember all that God has done. In the Bible, it talks about how the Israelites used to build altars as memorials to remember something significant or powerful that God had done. I believe we need memorials of our own to remember the moments where we’ve experienced God’s blessings.

The Psalms are filled with verses that encourage us to remember God’s goodness and blessings. Psalm 105:5 tells us: “Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced.”

When we take time to remember all the ways we’ve experienced God’s blessings, it strengthens our faith in the present and builds up our hope for the future. When we remember God’s answered prayers, when we remember how He’s provided in unexpected ways, or how He’s carried us through challenging seasons—these memories become our own altars, our own testament to God’s enduring love and grace.

My encouragement for all of us is that we take time to build our own altars of remembrance. It may not be physical stones but perhaps a journal, a note on the bathroom mirror, or a special token of some kind that reminds us of those moments. And I think it’s important to share these blessings with others, especially with those who may be walking through similar struggles. Our testimony can be a source of encouragement, pointing others to the beautiful blessings of our God.

Lord, we thank You for Your countless blessings. Help us to hold them tight and to continue to remember how they have so wonderfully impacted our lives. May they give us hope and courage as we continue to live our lives for you. Amen.

As we begin new year, we are confronted by a world filled with misinformation, confusion, and deceit. It seems that the truth is often elusive and obscured by the noise of the world around us. In such a time, it becomes increasingly crucial for us, as followers of Jesus, to anchor ourselves in the unchanging and eternal truth found in Him.

In John 8:32, Jesus declares: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” These words resonate with a timeless truth that holds the key to deliverance from life’s falsehoods. The world may offer its version of truth, but it is in seeking God’s truth that we find genuine freedom.

Imagine a ship navigating through a stormy sea. In the darkness, it is the lighthouse that guides and keeps the vessel safe from the treacherous rocks. Similarly, Jesus serves as our guiding light, illuminating the path of righteousness and revealing the pitfalls of the worlds lies. As we embark on this new year, let us commit to seeking God’s truth with enthusiasm, allowing it to be the compass that directs our steps.

In Psalm 119:105, the psalmist gives us some insight to walking in truth as he shares: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Just as a lamp guides one’s steps in the darkness, God’s Word provides clarity and direction in this often confusing journey of life. This is why it’s so important that week seek to immerse ourselves in Scripture, and find the eternal and unchanging truth that transcends our worldly understanding. 

James 1:5 encourages us, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you.” Prayer is our lifeline to God, a sacred space where we can talk with Him and seek His guidance. So as we seek God’s truth, let us also approach Him in prayer, asking for discernment and wisdom to navigate the complexities of our time.

Consider the story of Nathanael in John 1:45-49. When Philip invited him to meet Jesus, Nathanael doubted, asking: “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Yet, when he encountered Jesus, he marveled at the depth of Christ’s knowledge. Jesus responded, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” This revelation convinced Nathanael that Jesus was the Son of God. Similarly, as we seek God’s truth, we may encounter doubts, but God’s personal revelations in our lives affirm the authenticity of His Word.

So, let this new year be a season of intentional seeking – seeking God’s truth through prayer, studying His Word, and listening for His voice. As Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” May this year be marked by a relentless pursuit of God’s truth, bringing forth a harvest of wisdom, discernment, and a deeper intimacy with Jesus.

Psalm 9:1 says: “I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.”

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, I believe it’s important to reflect on the journey we have experienced over the past year. In the busyness of life, we often find ourselves caught up in our current situations, forgetting the importance of reflection. Yet, as followers of Christ, taking a moment to remember and recount God’s faithfulness in our lives is not just a suggestion, but a spiritual discipline that can strengthen our faith and deepen our relationship with Him.

In the midst of our reflections, it’s important to remember the countless moments when God’s goodness overshadowed our lives. His mercies were new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23), sustaining us through both joys and trials. And it’s important that we take time to express gratitude for His unwavering love, provision, and guidance.

The Apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 5:3-4 that “suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.” As we reflect on the challenges faced in the past year, let us recognize that God, in His sovereignty, uses difficulties to refine us. The struggles we faced were not in vain; rather, they contributed to our spiritual growth and equipped us for the journey ahead.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us that there is a time to laugh, a time to cry and a time to mourn. Reflecting on the past year allows us to discern the seasons of our lives—times of joy, sorrow, planting, and harvest. By learning from our experiences, we gain wisdom for the future. Let us not be forgetful hearers but doers of the Word, applying the lessons learned as we press on toward the upward call of God (James 1:22; Philippians 3:14).

Consider the analogy of a potter molding clay. In the process, the clay undergoes pressure, shaping, and refining. Similarly, God molds us, His children, through the pressures of life. The Potter’s hands skillfully craft us into vessels fit for His purpose. As we reflect, let’s appreciate the divine craftsmanship that has taken place, recognizing that each trial and triumph has contributed to our unique design.

Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your faithfulness, for being our constant in every season. May You grant us the wisdom to learn from the challenges and give us the strength to face the future with hope and trust in Your unfailing love. Amen.

As we journey through the season of Advent, we reflect on the profound meaning of Christmas—the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, the embodiment of God’s love. Over the last several weeks, we’ve focused on a different Advent theme: hope, peace, joy, and today, love. Love, the pinnacle of God’s character, is at the heart of the Christmas story.

In 1 John 4:7-12, we’re told: “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love…”

Love is the essence of Christmas, for in the humblest of settings, God expressed His unconditional love by sending His Son into the world. The birth of Jesus is the ultimate demonstration of divine love, a love that reaches out to the broken, the weary, and the lost. It’s a love that transcends time and culture, inviting us into a relationship with the One who is Love itself.

Consider the shepherds on that holy night. They were among society’s outcasts, yet the angels appeared to them first, announcing the Savior’s birth. God’s love broke through the darkness and touched the lives of those often overlooked. In the same way, God’s love seeks us out in the midst of our struggles and shortcomings, offering hope and redemption.

In Luke 2:10-11, it says: “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'”

The birth of Jesus brings not only joy but the assurance of God’s everlasting love. The angels proclaimed this good news to the shepherds, emphasizing that Jesus is not just a baby in a manger but the Savior, the embodiment of God’s love, who came to reconcile humanity to Himself.

In the Christmas story, we read of the Magi who traveled from the East, guided by a star. Their journey was an expression of love and devotion, as they sought the newborn King to offer Him gifts. In their actions, we see the response to the love that God initiated—a journey of faith and worship. Like the Magi, may our lives reflect a continual seeking and offering of ourselves to the One who is Love.

As we celebrate the Advent of Love, let’s thank God for the incredible gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. Let’s allow His love to transform our hearts and overflow into our relationships with others. And let’s learn to love as He loved, unconditionally and sacrificially. In this season of hope, peace, joy, and love, may we be beacons of His light, sharing the good news of Jesus with a world in need. Amen.