John 16:33 “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (NIV)
Promise: Jesus promises peace in Him and that He will be victorious over all sin and oppression.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Peace, Hope, Conqueror, Omnipotent, Sovereign, Ruler, Victor and Lord of All.
Promise provides me with: assurance of peace for my mind, heart and soul in Jesus, eternal hope, knowledge that He will be victorious over all sin and will indeed overcome the world, assurance that in Him eternity is secure and that He is greater than any enemy we will encounter in this world and knowledge that though his death on the cross and resurrection from the dead He conquered sin and death for us.
For this Christmas Day, I chose John 16:33 because it is important for us to remember that Jesus did not stay in the manger but came with a purpose and mission to save us from our sins that included a trip to the cross. He made the ultimate sacrifice in leaving heaven to come down and become a man to be the perfect sacrifice for our sins. He was truly human in his suffering and yet truly God in his perfection and power to redeem us. When Jesus spoke these words to his disciples, he knew what lay ahead- the suffering and death on the cross and he knew the suffering and anguish his followers would face. He wanted his disciples and all believers to know that He would be victorious and that peace was to be had though faith in Him. As followers of Jesus, we too can have this confidence that He is stronger and more powerful than anything we can face today or tomorrow, that peace is available though faith in Him and that He will return as victor to totally defeat Satan forever. Philippians 2:8-11 describes it this way, “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death–even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.” Praise God this Christmas for his perfect gift to all mankind, Jesus who came to bring us peace and to save us from sin.
Merry Christmas!
Linda
Thursday, December 25, 2014
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
December 24, Seek Him and He will be Found!
Matthew 2:5-6 “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, ” for this is what the prophet has written: ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.’ “ (NIV)
Promise: God promised to send a ruler that would shepherd the people of Israel and He would be born in Bethlehem.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Sovereignty, Longsuffering, Patience, Eternality, Love, Omnipotent, Ruler, King and Shepherd.
Promise provides me with: knowledge that God planned Christ’s birth from the beginning of time, Christ is to rule over believer’s lives and be our shepherd, assurance that God loves us so much that He sent Jesus to redeem us.
These words were spoken by the Wise Men that came seeking the Christ child when they met with Kind Herod. They had seen His star in the east and knew the ancient prophesies written in the Old Testament about the coming Messiah. They knew that God was faithful and would keep His promise to deliver the Messiah who would redeem, shepherd and rule over his people. What about you? Are you seeking to find Jesus this Christmas? Is your answer the same as Peter’s in Matthew 16:15-16? “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am ?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the son of the living God.” Do you know why He came? Titus 3:4-7 puts His reasons for coming this way: “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.” Can you say with confidence that Jesus is the Christ and that He came to save you? God promises in James 4:8a “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” Call on the Lord this Christmas, come near to Him and He will come near to you.
Be wise and seek Him today!
Linda
These photos were taken in the stable/cave in Bethlehem where Jesus was born. As we gathered in this sacred place we sang ‘Silent Night’. It was a very moving experience.
Promise: God promised to send a ruler that would shepherd the people of Israel and He would be born in Bethlehem.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Sovereignty, Longsuffering, Patience, Eternality, Love, Omnipotent, Ruler, King and Shepherd.
Promise provides me with: knowledge that God planned Christ’s birth from the beginning of time, Christ is to rule over believer’s lives and be our shepherd, assurance that God loves us so much that He sent Jesus to redeem us.
These words were spoken by the Wise Men that came seeking the Christ child when they met with Kind Herod. They had seen His star in the east and knew the ancient prophesies written in the Old Testament about the coming Messiah. They knew that God was faithful and would keep His promise to deliver the Messiah who would redeem, shepherd and rule over his people. What about you? Are you seeking to find Jesus this Christmas? Is your answer the same as Peter’s in Matthew 16:15-16? “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am ?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the son of the living God.” Do you know why He came? Titus 3:4-7 puts His reasons for coming this way: “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.” Can you say with confidence that Jesus is the Christ and that He came to save you? God promises in James 4:8a “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” Call on the Lord this Christmas, come near to Him and He will come near to you.
Be wise and seek Him today!
Linda
These photos were taken in the stable/cave in Bethlehem where Jesus was born. As we gathered in this sacred place we sang ‘Silent Night’. It was a very moving experience.
Tuesday, December 23, 2014
December 23, Being Known by Faithful God
Isaiah 43:1-3a But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.” (ESV)
Promise: God promises to redeem me, be with me and not let circumstances overwhelm or consumed me.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Redeemer, Savior, Creator, Possessive, Personal, Faithful, Omnipresent, Omnipotent, Sovereign and Holy.
Promise provides me with: assurance that God knows me completely, assurance that God is always with me, that He watches over me and will not let life’s circumstances overwhelm or defeat me, knowledge that He knows me by name and that I am important to Him and assurance that I am redeemed from my sins though Jesus’s work on the cross.
These words were first given to the children of Israel to encourage them as they were facing exile in Babylon for their idolatrous behavior. God was assuring them that He loved them and would bring them back to their land. The promises given here from our faithful God are available to believers today. God loves and knows us by name, redeems and promises to be with us each day. God’s promises to those who love Him do not change. Hebrews 13:8 reminds us, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” I find great comfort in knowing that God knows me so well and that I can depend upon Him to be with me no matter what the circumstances. Matthew 28:20b reconfirms this in Jesus’ own words, “And behold, I am with you always, to then end of the age.” So take heart today and call upon God’s loving character and presence to help you to face the circumstances of your life with full assurance that Jesus is with you.
Be assured of God’s faithfulness today,
Linda
Promise: God promises to redeem me, be with me and not let circumstances overwhelm or consumed me.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Redeemer, Savior, Creator, Possessive, Personal, Faithful, Omnipresent, Omnipotent, Sovereign and Holy.
Promise provides me with: assurance that God knows me completely, assurance that God is always with me, that He watches over me and will not let life’s circumstances overwhelm or defeat me, knowledge that He knows me by name and that I am important to Him and assurance that I am redeemed from my sins though Jesus’s work on the cross.
These words were first given to the children of Israel to encourage them as they were facing exile in Babylon for their idolatrous behavior. God was assuring them that He loved them and would bring them back to their land. The promises given here from our faithful God are available to believers today. God loves and knows us by name, redeems and promises to be with us each day. God’s promises to those who love Him do not change. Hebrews 13:8 reminds us, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” I find great comfort in knowing that God knows me so well and that I can depend upon Him to be with me no matter what the circumstances. Matthew 28:20b reconfirms this in Jesus’ own words, “And behold, I am with you always, to then end of the age.” So take heart today and call upon God’s loving character and presence to help you to face the circumstances of your life with full assurance that Jesus is with you.
Be assured of God’s faithfulness today,
Linda
Monday, December 22, 2014
December 22, Dwelling with the Almighty
Psalm 91:1-2 and 14-15 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty, I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” ……. “Because he loves me,” says the LORD, “I will rescues him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation.” (NIV)
Promise: God promises a relation with Him will provide me with a permanent refuge close to Him. God also promises that loving Him will open a floodgate of blessings as He will rescue, protect, answer our prayers and cries for help, live eternally with Him and obtain salvation through Jesus.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Almighty God, Protector, Provider, Savior, Accessible, Rescuer, Omnipresent, Eternal, Trustworthy, the one who numbers our days, Hope, Promise Keeper, Caring and Merciful.
Promise provides me with: assurance that He will always provide me with a refuge in his loving care, that he knows what is happening in my life and is available 24/7 to hear my cries, that God is eternal and has a plan of salvation to rescue me from my sins and assurance that in response to my love for Him there will be great blessings and security.
I can not say that writing each day during Advent has been easy. However, it has kept me focused on His word and provided me with an awareness of how much I love sharing God’s word with you! I have a new book, Promises for Dynamic Living, that I will be publishing in 2015. For this advent calendar blog I have used only 1 verse from my upcoming book and that was by design as I wanted to challenge myself to look at new promises. Today’s verses are an example of definite hidden treasure within God’s word. There is such assurance and hope in these verses. God is a promise keeping God and what He says He will do for me- He will! When I read about God being my refuge, I know it is true as I have felt his loving arms around me in times of loneliness and trouble and his peace and comfort within my soul on a daily basis. For loving Him, I am showered with blessings for a life sustained and uplifted now and forever. Our lives should reflect his love and joy especially in this season. Glorify Him today and show His love to others.
Peace and Love to you today,
Linda
Promise: God promises a relation with Him will provide me with a permanent refuge close to Him. God also promises that loving Him will open a floodgate of blessings as He will rescue, protect, answer our prayers and cries for help, live eternally with Him and obtain salvation through Jesus.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Almighty God, Protector, Provider, Savior, Accessible, Rescuer, Omnipresent, Eternal, Trustworthy, the one who numbers our days, Hope, Promise Keeper, Caring and Merciful.
Promise provides me with: assurance that He will always provide me with a refuge in his loving care, that he knows what is happening in my life and is available 24/7 to hear my cries, that God is eternal and has a plan of salvation to rescue me from my sins and assurance that in response to my love for Him there will be great blessings and security.
I can not say that writing each day during Advent has been easy. However, it has kept me focused on His word and provided me with an awareness of how much I love sharing God’s word with you! I have a new book, Promises for Dynamic Living, that I will be publishing in 2015. For this advent calendar blog I have used only 1 verse from my upcoming book and that was by design as I wanted to challenge myself to look at new promises. Today’s verses are an example of definite hidden treasure within God’s word. There is such assurance and hope in these verses. God is a promise keeping God and what He says He will do for me- He will! When I read about God being my refuge, I know it is true as I have felt his loving arms around me in times of loneliness and trouble and his peace and comfort within my soul on a daily basis. For loving Him, I am showered with blessings for a life sustained and uplifted now and forever. Our lives should reflect his love and joy especially in this season. Glorify Him today and show His love to others.
Peace and Love to you today,
Linda
Sunday, December 21, 2014
December 21, Listening for the Shepherd's voice
John 10:27-30 “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.” (ESV)
Promise: Jesus promises that He is my shepherd, gives eternal life, protects me in His hand and that He and God the Father are one.
Why is it important that I know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Eternal, Shepherd, Guide, Accessible, Person, Protector, Faithful, Omnipotent and Sovereign.
Promise provides me with: assurance of God’s love and care for me, safety in Him for eternity, knowledge that I am a gift from God to Jesus, that Jesus and the Father are one, knowledge that through Jesus I have eternal life, and that as a believer I can hear God’s voice and will recognize His guiding in prayer and though His word.
I love this visual picture that Jesus uses to assure me that nothing can take me away from Him. I am held in His hands, cradled, cared for and protected against anything that may come in life. I am also assured that I will hear his voice and recognize Him. When I read the Bible and pray I can seek His guidance knowing that He hears and will answer. The answer can take several forms- yes, no or wait. I think ‘wait’ is the hardest as we do not know all the variables and can not see when things need to happen. This verse also assures me of eternal life though Jesus and reconfirms his equality with God the Father. Jesus has the power and authority to hold and protect me for eternity. If we listen, he promises to speak and guide us. Do you listen when you read the Bible for Jesus to speak to you? Do you take the lessons and truths in His word and seek to apply them each day?
Have a blessed day that is open to His voice,
Linda
Promise: Jesus promises that He is my shepherd, gives eternal life, protects me in His hand and that He and God the Father are one.
Why is it important that I know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Eternal, Shepherd, Guide, Accessible, Person, Protector, Faithful, Omnipotent and Sovereign.
Promise provides me with: assurance of God’s love and care for me, safety in Him for eternity, knowledge that I am a gift from God to Jesus, that Jesus and the Father are one, knowledge that through Jesus I have eternal life, and that as a believer I can hear God’s voice and will recognize His guiding in prayer and though His word.
I love this visual picture that Jesus uses to assure me that nothing can take me away from Him. I am held in His hands, cradled, cared for and protected against anything that may come in life. I am also assured that I will hear his voice and recognize Him. When I read the Bible and pray I can seek His guidance knowing that He hears and will answer. The answer can take several forms- yes, no or wait. I think ‘wait’ is the hardest as we do not know all the variables and can not see when things need to happen. This verse also assures me of eternal life though Jesus and reconfirms his equality with God the Father. Jesus has the power and authority to hold and protect me for eternity. If we listen, he promises to speak and guide us. Do you listen when you read the Bible for Jesus to speak to you? Do you take the lessons and truths in His word and seek to apply them each day?
Have a blessed day that is open to His voice,
Linda
Saturday, December 20, 2014
December 20, God is good!
Romans 8:28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. (ESV)
Promise: God promises that he can and does work all things for good to those who believe in Him.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Sovereign, Omnipotent, Good, Creator, Preserver, Savior, Merciful, Faithful and Trustworthy.
Promise provides me with: assurance that no circumstance is beyond God’s control, that God intends good for me, knowledge that God has a purpose for me and assurance that any event that God allows to enter my life can produce good for me and can mold and shape my character so that I can better reflect Jesus in all I say and do.
After reading this verse, a good question might be- what is God’s purpose for me? 1Corinthians 6:19b-20 says “You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” God desires that we live to glorify Him by showing the love of Jesus to the world. He wants the world to know Jesus and come to claim Jesus as their Lord and Savior. That helps to put our struggles in this sin-filled world into perspective as all the events or circumstances that come into my life can be used to mold and shape my character to better reflect Jesus and glorify God. We also need to remember Isaiah 55:8 says “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. We will not know until we get to heaven why the dark things God allowed to happen in our lives were as necessary as the bright and beautiful for molding and shaping us into the men and women He wants us to be. However, we can rest in the assurance of this verse in Romans that God can and does use all things to bring about good in our lives.
Live with the hope and knowledge that God is good!
Linda
Promise: God promises that he can and does work all things for good to those who believe in Him.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Sovereign, Omnipotent, Good, Creator, Preserver, Savior, Merciful, Faithful and Trustworthy.
Promise provides me with: assurance that no circumstance is beyond God’s control, that God intends good for me, knowledge that God has a purpose for me and assurance that any event that God allows to enter my life can produce good for me and can mold and shape my character so that I can better reflect Jesus in all I say and do.
After reading this verse, a good question might be- what is God’s purpose for me? 1Corinthians 6:19b-20 says “You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” God desires that we live to glorify Him by showing the love of Jesus to the world. He wants the world to know Jesus and come to claim Jesus as their Lord and Savior. That helps to put our struggles in this sin-filled world into perspective as all the events or circumstances that come into my life can be used to mold and shape my character to better reflect Jesus and glorify God. We also need to remember Isaiah 55:8 says “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. We will not know until we get to heaven why the dark things God allowed to happen in our lives were as necessary as the bright and beautiful for molding and shaping us into the men and women He wants us to be. However, we can rest in the assurance of this verse in Romans that God can and does use all things to bring about good in our lives.
Live with the hope and knowledge that God is good!
Linda
Friday, December 19, 2014
December 19, I am permanently His!
Isaiah 49:15-16 “Can a mother forget the baby at her breasts and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.” (NIV)
Promise: God promises He will not forget me, has me engraved on His hands and is always aware of where I am.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Longsuffering, Eternality, Personal, Caring, Protector, Compassionate, Omnipresent and Omniscient.
Promise provides me with: peace in His eternal care, knowledge that God loves me and knows who I am, knowledge that God is always aware of where I am and what problems I am and will be facing, assurance that He surrounds and protects me and knowledge that the God of the universe will never forget me-engraving is permanent, so I am permanently His!
I was involved in a study of Isaiah a few years ago and came across this verse for the first time. I was brought to my knees when I considered the enormity of God’s love and care. These verses show me a God that is personal and loves me so much that He has me engraved on the palms of His hands. Engraving is permanent so the picture here is one of God’s love that holds me forever in his hands. He cannot and will not let me go. But He does not stop there, He promises to always have his walls of protection around me and to go before me. What blessed assurances God gives us in His word! Be encouraged today as you consider our great God and how much He loves you!
May He be ever before you today,
Linda
Promise: God promises He will not forget me, has me engraved on His hands and is always aware of where I am.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Longsuffering, Eternality, Personal, Caring, Protector, Compassionate, Omnipresent and Omniscient.
Promise provides me with: peace in His eternal care, knowledge that God loves me and knows who I am, knowledge that God is always aware of where I am and what problems I am and will be facing, assurance that He surrounds and protects me and knowledge that the God of the universe will never forget me-engraving is permanent, so I am permanently His!
I was involved in a study of Isaiah a few years ago and came across this verse for the first time. I was brought to my knees when I considered the enormity of God’s love and care. These verses show me a God that is personal and loves me so much that He has me engraved on the palms of His hands. Engraving is permanent so the picture here is one of God’s love that holds me forever in his hands. He cannot and will not let me go. But He does not stop there, He promises to always have his walls of protection around me and to go before me. What blessed assurances God gives us in His word! Be encouraged today as you consider our great God and how much He loves you!
May He be ever before you today,
Linda
Thursday, December 18, 2014
December 18, Peace and Restoration
Psalm 23:1-3 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. (NIV)
Promise: God promises provision, guidance towards righteousness, good quiet places and restoration of my soul.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Sovereign, Provider, Restorer, Shepherd, Good, Guide, Caring, Comforter and Righteous.
Promise provides me with: assurance of restoration in Him when I am weary or discouraged, hope, provision of my needs, quiet rest for my soul- a refuge in a world of turmoil, guidance in His ways and teaching in righteousness, knowledge that my righteousness through Christ will bring Him glory.
For many people the 23rd Psalm is their favorite and one that many of us memorized when we were children. When you look at the promises it contains and the comfort it brings, it is not surprising that it is so cherished . God loves us and wants to provide for us whether it is guidance on how to live righteously or restoration from circumstances and problems. God is sovereign and He know the situations that will cause us to be weary and in his infinite mercy He promises to restore us. He desires that we walk and live righteously and is willing to teach us and lead us in His ways. Thank Him today for His great provision, care and love. As you meditate on this Psalm today, let God’s spirit of peace and restoration flow through you today towards those you meet.
Blessings,
Linda
Quiet places the Psalmist might have had in mind.
The Sea of Galilee at sunrise.
The Jezreel Valley from Mt Carmel.
Promise: God promises provision, guidance towards righteousness, good quiet places and restoration of my soul.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Sovereign, Provider, Restorer, Shepherd, Good, Guide, Caring, Comforter and Righteous.
Promise provides me with: assurance of restoration in Him when I am weary or discouraged, hope, provision of my needs, quiet rest for my soul- a refuge in a world of turmoil, guidance in His ways and teaching in righteousness, knowledge that my righteousness through Christ will bring Him glory.
For many people the 23rd Psalm is their favorite and one that many of us memorized when we were children. When you look at the promises it contains and the comfort it brings, it is not surprising that it is so cherished . God loves us and wants to provide for us whether it is guidance on how to live righteously or restoration from circumstances and problems. God is sovereign and He know the situations that will cause us to be weary and in his infinite mercy He promises to restore us. He desires that we walk and live righteously and is willing to teach us and lead us in His ways. Thank Him today for His great provision, care and love. As you meditate on this Psalm today, let God’s spirit of peace and restoration flow through you today towards those you meet.
Blessings,
Linda
Quiet places the Psalmist might have had in mind.
The Sea of Galilee at sunrise.
The Jezreel Valley from Mt Carmel.
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
December 17, Permanent Benefits
Psalm 103:1-5 Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits —who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. (NIV)
Promise: God promises benefits to believers- forgiveness, healing, redemption, compassion, to satisfy me with good things and to renew my strength and vitality.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Holy, Merciful, Compassionate, Redeemer, Good, Provider, Strong, Vital, Sovereign, Savior, Love, Omnipotent, Powerful, Almighty God.
Promise provides me with: a savior who redeems me and who knows the circumstances and problems of my life, assurance of his forgiveness, healing, compassion, provision, renewal in times of great weakness, hope and a vital, vibrant life in Him.
When you say the word benefits today, what comes to mind? Health care, retirement, provision of good things. God promises these and more! This is just a short list of all the benefits we have through Christ. God definitely wants us taken care of and where else can we receive forgiveness, mercy, compassion, provision, redemption and renewal? Ephesian’s 1:3 says “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” Through Christ we have everything God wants for us. Again we are reminded that Christ is the reason for the season and our blessed Hope. Reread Psalm 103:1-5 and thank Him for all the blessings He so richly bestows on us through faith in Jesus.
Live with hope and assurance today,
Linda
Here is the link to the radio interview I had yesterday. God is faithful. Even though I felt good about it – there was much I wished I’d said. The 15 minutes went by soooo fast! God blessedly gave me way more to say than I had time to express.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lifelessonsnetwork/2014/12/16/author-linda-knight-debuts-fearless-living-on-life-lessons
Promise: God promises benefits to believers- forgiveness, healing, redemption, compassion, to satisfy me with good things and to renew my strength and vitality.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Holy, Merciful, Compassionate, Redeemer, Good, Provider, Strong, Vital, Sovereign, Savior, Love, Omnipotent, Powerful, Almighty God.
Promise provides me with: a savior who redeems me and who knows the circumstances and problems of my life, assurance of his forgiveness, healing, compassion, provision, renewal in times of great weakness, hope and a vital, vibrant life in Him.
When you say the word benefits today, what comes to mind? Health care, retirement, provision of good things. God promises these and more! This is just a short list of all the benefits we have through Christ. God definitely wants us taken care of and where else can we receive forgiveness, mercy, compassion, provision, redemption and renewal? Ephesian’s 1:3 says “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” Through Christ we have everything God wants for us. Again we are reminded that Christ is the reason for the season and our blessed Hope. Reread Psalm 103:1-5 and thank Him for all the blessings He so richly bestows on us through faith in Jesus.
Live with hope and assurance today,
Linda
Here is the link to the radio interview I had yesterday. God is faithful. Even though I felt good about it – there was much I wished I’d said. The 15 minutes went by soooo fast! God blessedly gave me way more to say than I had time to express.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/lifelessonsnetwork/2014/12/16/author-linda-knight-debuts-fearless-living-on-life-lessons
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
December 16, Peace-filled Living
John 14: 25-27 “All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (NIV)
Promise: Jesus promised that God would send the Holy Spirit to teach, remind, comfort and bring His peace to me.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character revealed: He is a Promise Keeper, Faithful, Peace, Hope, Comforter, Teacher, Sovereign and the Source of Calm and Tranquility.
Promise provides me with: a sense of calmness and peace in my life, hope that I will learn and remember what God teaches me about himself, knowledge that God keeps his promises and did indeed send the Holy Spirit, availability of an inner spirit from God that I can access 24/7 and that God does not want me stressed, worried , afraid or discouraged.
These are some of the most often quoted verses when talking about peace. They are very reassuring and comforting as here God promises to be with us and provide us with the emotional support that we need to survive. God does not want us fearful, distressed or worried. He wants us to trust Him and allow Him to work in an though us in every situation. With God as our source of peace, we can focus on Him and His provision and set aside those things that cause us to lose trust in His ability to provide. This holiday season, don’t get caught up in the pressures of all the things you think you need to do. Take some time to ask the Prince of Peace to dwell within you and give you His peace.
Have a peace-filled day,
Linda
Promise: Jesus promised that God would send the Holy Spirit to teach, remind, comfort and bring His peace to me.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character revealed: He is a Promise Keeper, Faithful, Peace, Hope, Comforter, Teacher, Sovereign and the Source of Calm and Tranquility.
Promise provides me with: a sense of calmness and peace in my life, hope that I will learn and remember what God teaches me about himself, knowledge that God keeps his promises and did indeed send the Holy Spirit, availability of an inner spirit from God that I can access 24/7 and that God does not want me stressed, worried , afraid or discouraged.
These are some of the most often quoted verses when talking about peace. They are very reassuring and comforting as here God promises to be with us and provide us with the emotional support that we need to survive. God does not want us fearful, distressed or worried. He wants us to trust Him and allow Him to work in an though us in every situation. With God as our source of peace, we can focus on Him and His provision and set aside those things that cause us to lose trust in His ability to provide. This holiday season, don’t get caught up in the pressures of all the things you think you need to do. Take some time to ask the Prince of Peace to dwell within you and give you His peace.
Have a peace-filled day,
Linda
Monday, December 15, 2014
December 15, Rejoicing with the Angels
Luke 2: 8-12 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and laying in a manger. (NIV)
Promise: God’s promised Messiah, Christ the Lord, is the Savior of all mankind.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Faithfulness, Sovereignty, Eternality, Savior, Redeemer, Lover of all mankind, Promise Keeper and Joy.
Promise provides me with: assurance that salvation is for all who believe, knowledge that God has a plan of redemption to bring me into a right relationship with Him, joy in Christ’s coming as Savior and good news for all people everywhere.
The Bible shows how God planned the coming of Jesus from the beginning. His plan is detailed to the exact place of Jesus’s birth, his parents and his purpose in coming. It is indeed good news that Jesus came to save us from our sins as only He could. Acts 4:12 says “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” This promise is for anyone who will believe- any gender, race or creed- all mankind. The Apostle Peter wrote in 2Peter 3:9 ” The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise , as some understand slowness, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” The early Christian were anxious for Christ to return, but as Peter explained God has his own timing and wishes all to come to repentance. This Christmas don’t keep Jesus in the manger. Know that he came to save us and did so through his death and resurrection. We serve a risen Christ! Rejoice and tell others of our risen Savior. When we consider all the work Christ has done for us we too can proclaim with the angels , “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth ‘peace’ good will toward men.” Luke 2:14 (KJV)
Have a blessed day,
Linda
The Judean hills outside Bethlehem.
Promise: God’s promised Messiah, Christ the Lord, is the Savior of all mankind.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Faithfulness, Sovereignty, Eternality, Savior, Redeemer, Lover of all mankind, Promise Keeper and Joy.
Promise provides me with: assurance that salvation is for all who believe, knowledge that God has a plan of redemption to bring me into a right relationship with Him, joy in Christ’s coming as Savior and good news for all people everywhere.
The Bible shows how God planned the coming of Jesus from the beginning. His plan is detailed to the exact place of Jesus’s birth, his parents and his purpose in coming. It is indeed good news that Jesus came to save us from our sins as only He could. Acts 4:12 says “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” This promise is for anyone who will believe- any gender, race or creed- all mankind. The Apostle Peter wrote in 2Peter 3:9 ” The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise , as some understand slowness, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” The early Christian were anxious for Christ to return, but as Peter explained God has his own timing and wishes all to come to repentance. This Christmas don’t keep Jesus in the manger. Know that he came to save us and did so through his death and resurrection. We serve a risen Christ! Rejoice and tell others of our risen Savior. When we consider all the work Christ has done for us we too can proclaim with the angels , “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth ‘peace’ good will toward men.” Luke 2:14 (KJV)
Have a blessed day,
Linda
The Judean hills outside Bethlehem.
Sunday, December 14, 2014
December 14, Motives
Matthew 6:3-4,6,17-18 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you……..But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you……….But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. (ESV)
Promise: God promises to reward right motives and actions regarding giving, praying and fasting.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: Holy, Righteous, Judge, Just, Father, Omnipresent, Omnipotent, Guide and Sovereign.
Promise provides me with: guide lines for right living, knowledge that God knows my motives and desires me to be righteous, knowledge that God desires my actions towards others to be genuine and not full of pretense and self promotion, knowledge that God rewards (blesses) those who walk in His ways.
These verses are from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. He was instructing the people on how to live righteously without pretense. Even though others cannot or may not see why you do something, God knows your heart motive. He know if we are looking to better ourselves or if we are acting out of love for Him. This time of year many people give to be recognized as the ‘good’ person, generous, humble, righteous or gracious. God can see into our hearts and knows what is motivating our actions. Take a look at your attitude and actions and make sure you are giving, helping or thanking others for the right reasons and not just to further yourself. God rewards the truly humble and selfless giver with blessings beyond what we could ever imagine.
Blessings as you do, give and help others this season!
Linda
Mount of Beatitudes as seen from the Lake of Galilee. It is a beautiful pastoral setting that must have calmed and rested the crowds as they listened to Jesus teach them how to live rightly.
Promise: God promises to reward right motives and actions regarding giving, praying and fasting.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: Holy, Righteous, Judge, Just, Father, Omnipresent, Omnipotent, Guide and Sovereign.
Promise provides me with: guide lines for right living, knowledge that God knows my motives and desires me to be righteous, knowledge that God desires my actions towards others to be genuine and not full of pretense and self promotion, knowledge that God rewards (blesses) those who walk in His ways.
These verses are from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. He was instructing the people on how to live righteously without pretense. Even though others cannot or may not see why you do something, God knows your heart motive. He know if we are looking to better ourselves or if we are acting out of love for Him. This time of year many people give to be recognized as the ‘good’ person, generous, humble, righteous or gracious. God can see into our hearts and knows what is motivating our actions. Take a look at your attitude and actions and make sure you are giving, helping or thanking others for the right reasons and not just to further yourself. God rewards the truly humble and selfless giver with blessings beyond what we could ever imagine.
Blessings as you do, give and help others this season!
Linda
Mount of Beatitudes as seen from the Lake of Galilee. It is a beautiful pastoral setting that must have calmed and rested the crowds as they listened to Jesus teach them how to live rightly.
Saturday, December 13, 2014
December 13, Forgiveness
Micah 7:18-19 Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea. (NIV)
Promise: God promises to pardon my sin, forgive me and throw my sins into the deepest sea.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Mercy, Forgiveness, Holiness, Compassion, Omnipotence, Grace and Sovereignty.
Promise provides me with: assurance that God can and does forgive my sins, that God loves to show mercy and compassion, God has the power to put my sins far away and totally out of my reach or sight- never to be seen or heard from again, knowledge that God is holy and cannot tolerate my sin yet He will forgive me if I seek him with a repentant heart.
These verses never cease to amaze me. The grace of God is overwhelming when you consider our sin and the punishment we were due, yet God forgives and casts our sins into the deepest sea. Jeremiah 31:34b also adds “I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.” How is this possible for our Holy God to forgive and forget our sins? Romans 6:23 “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Only through the death and resurrection of Jesus are we forgiven and presented without sin before God. Praise God for Jesus’ work on the cross! Thank you Jesus for restoring my relationship with God the Father. As a believer we can claim 1John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” When we confess our sins, God buries them in the depths of the sea to be remembered no more. Why then do we torment ourselves over past sins? Why do we punish ourselves and dwell on past failures? That is not God but the work of Satan. God has forgiven you, so accept His forgiveness and look to the work He has for you to do. God loves us and we need to live each day claiming and proclaiming His grace and mercy.
Walk today in His forgiveness,
Linda
Promise: God promises to pardon my sin, forgive me and throw my sins into the deepest sea.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Mercy, Forgiveness, Holiness, Compassion, Omnipotence, Grace and Sovereignty.
Promise provides me with: assurance that God can and does forgive my sins, that God loves to show mercy and compassion, God has the power to put my sins far away and totally out of my reach or sight- never to be seen or heard from again, knowledge that God is holy and cannot tolerate my sin yet He will forgive me if I seek him with a repentant heart.
These verses never cease to amaze me. The grace of God is overwhelming when you consider our sin and the punishment we were due, yet God forgives and casts our sins into the deepest sea. Jeremiah 31:34b also adds “I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.” How is this possible for our Holy God to forgive and forget our sins? Romans 6:23 “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Only through the death and resurrection of Jesus are we forgiven and presented without sin before God. Praise God for Jesus’ work on the cross! Thank you Jesus for restoring my relationship with God the Father. As a believer we can claim 1John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” When we confess our sins, God buries them in the depths of the sea to be remembered no more. Why then do we torment ourselves over past sins? Why do we punish ourselves and dwell on past failures? That is not God but the work of Satan. God has forgiven you, so accept His forgiveness and look to the work He has for you to do. God loves us and we need to live each day claiming and proclaiming His grace and mercy.
Walk today in His forgiveness,
Linda
Friday, December 12, 2014
December 12, Where does my help come from?
Psalm 46:1-3 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with surging. Selah (NIV)
Promise: God promises to be my refuge and strength and to be available 24/7 to help me.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Accessibility, Omnipresence, Power, Might, Protector, Comforter, Sovereign, Love, Almighty and Hope.
Promise provides me with: assurance of His presence, access to Him day or night, knowledge that the creator of the universe desires to comfort and protect me, assurance that I can turn to Him and He will give me strength and courage, knowledge that God desires that I live a life without fear, knowledge and assurance that nothing I face is bigger than Almighty God!
I love these verses, in fact I chose them to be on the book marks I had made for Fearless Living. Reading them always bolsters my courage and makes me feel loved by God. Christmas is known to be a time of great stress, turmoil and heartache for those that remember former times in their lives, grieve for loved ones or feel a general hopelessness with their current lives. Jesus wants us to cling to Him and be surrounded by his strength and comfort. He is our refuge and will never leave us or forsake us. These verses tell us that NO MATTER WHAT God is bigger than anything we can ever face. Even if it looks like all is lost and falling apart, He stands eternal and will see us though. All we need to do is turn to Him and trust Him with our worries and problems. Be comforted and encouraged by these verses today and know He is the Source of all things and He stands ready to help you and answer your cries. Seek Him today and feel His love.
Blessings as you hide yourself in Him,
Linda
Promise: God promises to be my refuge and strength and to be available 24/7 to help me.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Accessibility, Omnipresence, Power, Might, Protector, Comforter, Sovereign, Love, Almighty and Hope.
Promise provides me with: assurance of His presence, access to Him day or night, knowledge that the creator of the universe desires to comfort and protect me, assurance that I can turn to Him and He will give me strength and courage, knowledge that God desires that I live a life without fear, knowledge and assurance that nothing I face is bigger than Almighty God!
I love these verses, in fact I chose them to be on the book marks I had made for Fearless Living. Reading them always bolsters my courage and makes me feel loved by God. Christmas is known to be a time of great stress, turmoil and heartache for those that remember former times in their lives, grieve for loved ones or feel a general hopelessness with their current lives. Jesus wants us to cling to Him and be surrounded by his strength and comfort. He is our refuge and will never leave us or forsake us. These verses tell us that NO MATTER WHAT God is bigger than anything we can ever face. Even if it looks like all is lost and falling apart, He stands eternal and will see us though. All we need to do is turn to Him and trust Him with our worries and problems. Be comforted and encouraged by these verses today and know He is the Source of all things and He stands ready to help you and answer your cries. Seek Him today and feel His love.
Blessings as you hide yourself in Him,
Linda
Thursday, December 11, 2014
December 11, A Recipe for Stress Free Days
1Peter 5:6-7 ” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (NIV)
Promise: God promises to lift me up, care for me and take my problems as his own.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Might, Sovereignty, Omniscience, Omnipresence, Accessibility, Care and Comfort.
Promise provides me with: assurance that He is in control of all circumstances that come into my life, God does not want me to be anxious or worried, God desires that I approach him with humility, ask him for help and then trust Him to take care of the situation.
I don’t know about you but my first reaction to a problem is often fret or worry. I have to say that I am getting better at this since writing and working though Fearless Living, but it is still a struggle. Why is that? My guess is that our independent spirit says ‘I can do this myself’ or “I want to be in control”. The first response God wants is for us to turn to him with an open and humble heart seeking his will and direction instead of worrying about things or people. We can’t change the outcome by worry but God can! Let your first response be prayer this holiday season as you run short of time, have way too many trips in traffic, puzzle over what to give or what to make, wait in long lines and perhaps need just that extra time to bake or wrap. God is concerned about our lives and wants us to live stress free. Seek him first with a humble heart and lay your concerns, even your schedule, before Him. Spending those few minute in prayer will open up your day and lead you to glorify him with all you say and do! Don’t be anxious, Be prayerful!
Blessings,
Linda
Promise: God promises to lift me up, care for me and take my problems as his own.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Might, Sovereignty, Omniscience, Omnipresence, Accessibility, Care and Comfort.
Promise provides me with: assurance that He is in control of all circumstances that come into my life, God does not want me to be anxious or worried, God desires that I approach him with humility, ask him for help and then trust Him to take care of the situation.
I don’t know about you but my first reaction to a problem is often fret or worry. I have to say that I am getting better at this since writing and working though Fearless Living, but it is still a struggle. Why is that? My guess is that our independent spirit says ‘I can do this myself’ or “I want to be in control”. The first response God wants is for us to turn to him with an open and humble heart seeking his will and direction instead of worrying about things or people. We can’t change the outcome by worry but God can! Let your first response be prayer this holiday season as you run short of time, have way too many trips in traffic, puzzle over what to give or what to make, wait in long lines and perhaps need just that extra time to bake or wrap. God is concerned about our lives and wants us to live stress free. Seek him first with a humble heart and lay your concerns, even your schedule, before Him. Spending those few minute in prayer will open up your day and lead you to glorify him with all you say and do! Don’t be anxious, Be prayerful!
Blessings,
Linda
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
December 10, Faith for Eternity
John 11:25-26 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
(NIV)
Promise: God promises that belief in Jesus gives eternal life and that physical death is not the end of our life.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Sovereignty, Creator, Hope, and Eternality.
Promise provides me with: assurance that there is life after death, knowledge that Jesus conquered death and that though Him we can too, that Jesus in the source of eternal life and that faith in him will give me eternal life.
I love this promise with it’s bold question about my faith. Jesus wants us to know that He is the source of eternal life and that it is available to us through faith in Him. He also states with certainty that He is greater than death and will provide life for me now and into eternity. In a day and age when doubt is king and absolutes are fuzzy, I take great comfort in knowing without a shadow of a doubt that God is in control and though his son Jesus I can spend eternity with Him. Do you have that saving faith? Know him today and seal your future for eternity. Check on your status with John 3:16, 1 John 1:9, and know 2Corinthians 1:21-22. Let’s move forward and face this day with saving faith in the assurance that God is with us and will be with us for eternity.
Blessings,
Linda
(NIV)
Promise: God promises that belief in Jesus gives eternal life and that physical death is not the end of our life.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Sovereignty, Creator, Hope, and Eternality.
Promise provides me with: assurance that there is life after death, knowledge that Jesus conquered death and that though Him we can too, that Jesus in the source of eternal life and that faith in him will give me eternal life.
I love this promise with it’s bold question about my faith. Jesus wants us to know that He is the source of eternal life and that it is available to us through faith in Him. He also states with certainty that He is greater than death and will provide life for me now and into eternity. In a day and age when doubt is king and absolutes are fuzzy, I take great comfort in knowing without a shadow of a doubt that God is in control and though his son Jesus I can spend eternity with Him. Do you have that saving faith? Know him today and seal your future for eternity. Check on your status with John 3:16, 1 John 1:9, and know 2Corinthians 1:21-22. Let’s move forward and face this day with saving faith in the assurance that God is with us and will be with us for eternity.
Blessings,
Linda
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
December 9, God's Rejoicing
Zephaniah 3:17 “The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.” (NIV)
Promise: God promises to be with me, provide salvation, take delight, quiet, love and rejoice over me.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Omnipresent, Savior, Creator, Love and Joyful.
Promise provides me with: assurance that God is always with me and that I can never be truly alone, knowledge that God has a plan to save me, hope as he takes delight in me, loves me and will quiet me when I am distressed or in need of peace, and I smile because God delights in me.
Can you even comprehend that the great God and Creator of the universe would take delight in you? That is what scripture teaches, that God takes delight in us. Wow! I feel so unworthy of his delight. I am also awed by his great care which He extends to us through His love, peace, comfort, joy, salvation and constant presence with us. James 4:8a says “Come near to God and he will come near to you”. Come near to God today. Look for his comfort, peace, presence, love and joy as you go through this day. Think about how you can appropriate his joy and peace today. You’ve got it so now give it out to others and let them see Jesus at work in your life.
Have a blessed day,
Linda
Promise: God promises to be with me, provide salvation, take delight, quiet, love and rejoice over me.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Omnipresent, Savior, Creator, Love and Joyful.
Promise provides me with: assurance that God is always with me and that I can never be truly alone, knowledge that God has a plan to save me, hope as he takes delight in me, loves me and will quiet me when I am distressed or in need of peace, and I smile because God delights in me.
Can you even comprehend that the great God and Creator of the universe would take delight in you? That is what scripture teaches, that God takes delight in us. Wow! I feel so unworthy of his delight. I am also awed by his great care which He extends to us through His love, peace, comfort, joy, salvation and constant presence with us. James 4:8a says “Come near to God and he will come near to you”. Come near to God today. Look for his comfort, peace, presence, love and joy as you go through this day. Think about how you can appropriate his joy and peace today. You’ve got it so now give it out to others and let them see Jesus at work in your life.
Have a blessed day,
Linda
Monday, December 8, 2014
December 8, Obedient Submission
Luke 1:28-33 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” (ESV)
Promise: God promised that the Messiah, Jesus, who was to reign forever was coming to earth through his servant Mary.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Omnipotence, Sovereignty, Compassion, Care, Knowledge of all things- Omniscience and His Eternal existence.
Promise provides me with: hope, salvation, assurance of God’s plan for the redemption of mankind, knowledge that God uses his people for his work and his glory, knowledge that God cares about me and wants me to be unafraid and knowledge that God keeps his promises as he sent Jesus just as He said He would.
I had the privilege last March to visit the Church of the Annunciation in Nazareth where the angel of the Lord appeared to Mary. It was a sobering experience to visit this site and imagine the young girl, Mary, and how she must have felt when confronted by an angel. The angel showed real compassion on her and told her not to be afraid. God does not want us to be afraid and assures us that He has a plan and purpose for our future just as he did Mary. God showed her favor and blessings as she obediently submitted to God’s will. Do you submit willingly or do you fight and struggle with a rebellious heart? Be like Mary, submit and open yourself to untold blessings this season as you get ready to receive the Christ child.
Blessings,
Linda
The home of Mary is now under the Church of the Annunication and below current ground level. Over the centuries the level of the city has risen as homes were built upon homes.
Promise: God promised that the Messiah, Jesus, who was to reign forever was coming to earth through his servant Mary.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His Omnipotence, Sovereignty, Compassion, Care, Knowledge of all things- Omniscience and His Eternal existence.
Promise provides me with: hope, salvation, assurance of God’s plan for the redemption of mankind, knowledge that God uses his people for his work and his glory, knowledge that God cares about me and wants me to be unafraid and knowledge that God keeps his promises as he sent Jesus just as He said He would.
I had the privilege last March to visit the Church of the Annunciation in Nazareth where the angel of the Lord appeared to Mary. It was a sobering experience to visit this site and imagine the young girl, Mary, and how she must have felt when confronted by an angel. The angel showed real compassion on her and told her not to be afraid. God does not want us to be afraid and assures us that He has a plan and purpose for our future just as he did Mary. God showed her favor and blessings as she obediently submitted to God’s will. Do you submit willingly or do you fight and struggle with a rebellious heart? Be like Mary, submit and open yourself to untold blessings this season as you get ready to receive the Christ child.
Blessings,
Linda
The home of Mary is now under the Church of the Annunication and below current ground level. Over the centuries the level of the city has risen as homes were built upon homes.
Sunday, December 7, 2014
December 7, Joy in the Sovereign Lord
Habakkuk 3:17-19 “Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign LORD is my strength, he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights.” (NIV)
Promise: God promises to be my strength, joy and enable me to endure life’s trials no matter what it looks like around me.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is pure Joy, Hope, Savior, Sovereign, Omniscient, Omnipotent, Protector, Provider, Pure energy and strength.
Promise provides me with: assurance that God is in control no matter what the circumstances may look like to me, joy, strength, hope, protection, salvation and will enable me to overcome with joy though dependence upon Him.
Habakkuk the prophet was trying to give a very bleak picture here of things that could go wrong and would go wrong in the Israelites agrarian society. We can easily translate those concerns into worries of our own- should the stock market crash, the floods, drought and storms increase, should I lose my job, not have enough money to buy food, suffer poor health…. our list can go on and on. Then Habakkuk gives us words of hope when he focuses on the strength to be found in the Lord. Depending upon the Lord is a surety and will produce joy, strength, hope and a way to rise above the trials that come into our lives. As we remember those that died in WWII and especially at Pearl Harbor today, we can depend upon the Lord to see us though difficult times and help us to rise above devastation. Look up today and see the possible heights God wants to guide you toward. God is sovereign and knowing that will give you peace,confidence and joy as you trust Him. Praise God!
Blessings,
Linda
Promise: God promises to be my strength, joy and enable me to endure life’s trials no matter what it looks like around me.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is pure Joy, Hope, Savior, Sovereign, Omniscient, Omnipotent, Protector, Provider, Pure energy and strength.
Promise provides me with: assurance that God is in control no matter what the circumstances may look like to me, joy, strength, hope, protection, salvation and will enable me to overcome with joy though dependence upon Him.
Habakkuk the prophet was trying to give a very bleak picture here of things that could go wrong and would go wrong in the Israelites agrarian society. We can easily translate those concerns into worries of our own- should the stock market crash, the floods, drought and storms increase, should I lose my job, not have enough money to buy food, suffer poor health…. our list can go on and on. Then Habakkuk gives us words of hope when he focuses on the strength to be found in the Lord. Depending upon the Lord is a surety and will produce joy, strength, hope and a way to rise above the trials that come into our lives. As we remember those that died in WWII and especially at Pearl Harbor today, we can depend upon the Lord to see us though difficult times and help us to rise above devastation. Look up today and see the possible heights God wants to guide you toward. God is sovereign and knowing that will give you peace,confidence and joy as you trust Him. Praise God!
Blessings,
Linda
Saturday, December 6, 2014
December 6, Faith Pleases God!
Hebrews 11:6 “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” (NIV)
Promise: God promises to reward my faith and diligence in seeking Him.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: Faithful, Rewarder, Self-Existent, Eternal and Sovereign.
Promise provides me with: the knowledge that my faith pleases God, that my faith is essential to a relationship with God, that I will be rewarded for my faith and that I must seek God with diligence.
Have you felt God’s reward in your life for your diligence in seeking him? I know I have as I read and study His word, go to Him in prayer, praise Him in worship and fellowship with other believers. God provides me with a fullness of life, a hunger for his word, peace in prayer and support from other believers. It is a rich relationship based on faith as I know He exists and cares for me personally. How about you? If your faith is shaky or you are doubting, why not seek Him diligently and ask Him to increase your faith, show you in His word His great promises and truths and be open to His rewarding. I am confident you will be rewarded for your seeking with greater knowledge and faith of our Almighty God. Seek him this season!
Blessings,
Linda
Promise: God promises to reward my faith and diligence in seeking Him.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: Faithful, Rewarder, Self-Existent, Eternal and Sovereign.
Promise provides me with: the knowledge that my faith pleases God, that my faith is essential to a relationship with God, that I will be rewarded for my faith and that I must seek God with diligence.
Have you felt God’s reward in your life for your diligence in seeking him? I know I have as I read and study His word, go to Him in prayer, praise Him in worship and fellowship with other believers. God provides me with a fullness of life, a hunger for his word, peace in prayer and support from other believers. It is a rich relationship based on faith as I know He exists and cares for me personally. How about you? If your faith is shaky or you are doubting, why not seek Him diligently and ask Him to increase your faith, show you in His word His great promises and truths and be open to His rewarding. I am confident you will be rewarded for your seeking with greater knowledge and faith of our Almighty God. Seek him this season!
Blessings,
Linda
Friday, December 5, 2014
December 5, Victorious Love
Romans 8:35-37 “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered. No in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (NIV)
Promise: God promises us victory though Christ’s love.
Why it is important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: Omnipotent, Sovereign, Love, Eternal, Immutable, Victor, Savior and Hope.
Promise provides me with: hope in the future, knowledge that I am his eternally, constancy of God’s love, his unchanging character that I can depend upon each day, knowledge that God is in control of all things that happen in my life, and I will always be victorious in and through Christ’s love and care for me.
I love this portion of scripture. Whenever I am plagued with doubt, fear or uncertainty, I feel renewed and encouraged when I read these verses. Paul knew what it was to stuffer for the Lord and he endured incredible hardships. See 2Corinthians 6:3-10. No matter what, Paul was convinced that nothing could ever separate him from Jesus’ love. We know God does not change as Hebrews 13:8 reminds us that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” He is eternally true and faithful for God does not change with the times, trends or fashions. Jesus also said in John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. but take heart! I have overcome the world.” What better assurance can we have of victory though Christ’s love? Claim victory over your doubts, fears, pressing problems or seemingly unsolvable circumstances today in His name and and know that nothing can separate you from His love. Praise Him today for his victorious love!
Blessings,
Linda
Promise: God promises us victory though Christ’s love.
Why it is important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: Omnipotent, Sovereign, Love, Eternal, Immutable, Victor, Savior and Hope.
Promise provides me with: hope in the future, knowledge that I am his eternally, constancy of God’s love, his unchanging character that I can depend upon each day, knowledge that God is in control of all things that happen in my life, and I will always be victorious in and through Christ’s love and care for me.
I love this portion of scripture. Whenever I am plagued with doubt, fear or uncertainty, I feel renewed and encouraged when I read these verses. Paul knew what it was to stuffer for the Lord and he endured incredible hardships. See 2Corinthians 6:3-10. No matter what, Paul was convinced that nothing could ever separate him from Jesus’ love. We know God does not change as Hebrews 13:8 reminds us that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” He is eternally true and faithful for God does not change with the times, trends or fashions. Jesus also said in John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. but take heart! I have overcome the world.” What better assurance can we have of victory though Christ’s love? Claim victory over your doubts, fears, pressing problems or seemingly unsolvable circumstances today in His name and and know that nothing can separate you from His love. Praise Him today for his victorious love!
Blessings,
Linda
Thursday, December 4, 2014
December 4, God's Grace
Ephesians 2:8-10 “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared before hand, that we should walk in them. (ESV)
Promise: God promises that I am saved through faith in Jesus and not by any work I’ve done or will ever do.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Redeemer, Savior, Provider, Creator, Eternal and full of Mercy and Grace.
Promise provides me with: a way to salvation through Jesus, eternal plans for my life, work for me to do for Him, knowledge that I am a created work of God with purpose, that I am a recipient of God’s grace through Jesus, and the gift of salvation is free not something that I have to earn.
How have you appropriate God’s grace in your life? Have you accepted salvation through faith in Jesus? Have you acknowledged that God has a plan for your life and that He created you with purpose? Knowing Jesus as your Lord and Savior brings fullness, purpose and hope into your life. Knowing that I am valued by God and that He wants to use me is something that gives self-worth to my being alive and hope to my struggles each day. Knowing that I can’t earn God’s favor or save myself though doing good works leads me to Jesus. Acts 4:12 “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” As our verse says today, by his grace we are saved. Praise God for His wonderful grace!
I pray that God’s grace will fall afresh upon you today and that you will seek His eternal plan for your life.
Blessings,
Linda
Promise: God promises that I am saved through faith in Jesus and not by any work I’ve done or will ever do.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: He is Redeemer, Savior, Provider, Creator, Eternal and full of Mercy and Grace.
Promise provides me with: a way to salvation through Jesus, eternal plans for my life, work for me to do for Him, knowledge that I am a created work of God with purpose, that I am a recipient of God’s grace through Jesus, and the gift of salvation is free not something that I have to earn.
How have you appropriate God’s grace in your life? Have you accepted salvation through faith in Jesus? Have you acknowledged that God has a plan for your life and that He created you with purpose? Knowing Jesus as your Lord and Savior brings fullness, purpose and hope into your life. Knowing that I am valued by God and that He wants to use me is something that gives self-worth to my being alive and hope to my struggles each day. Knowing that I can’t earn God’s favor or save myself though doing good works leads me to Jesus. Acts 4:12 “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” As our verse says today, by his grace we are saved. Praise God for His wonderful grace!
I pray that God’s grace will fall afresh upon you today and that you will seek His eternal plan for your life.
Blessings,
Linda
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
December 3, The wings of HOPE
Isaiah 40: 28-31 "Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (NIV)
Promise: God promises that placing my hope in Him will result in renewed strength, the ability to soar above my problems and to be able to endure the path of my life without growing weak or fainthearted.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God's character is revealed: His strength, sovereignty, omnipotence, comfort, guidance, salvation, caring and his eternality.
Promise provides me with: courage, endurance, knowledge that God is greater than any circumstance I face, guidance in life, strength to live each day for Him, comfort and HOPE.
I love this image that God will help me to soar above the problems and stresses of life that would pull me down. He reminds me that his endurance is eternal and everlasting. I don't need to worry that God will run out of energy or grow weary of helping me. He wants me to live with hope in Him knowing that he cares for me. As you go though your day, keep the image of God enfolding you in his arms and lifting you above all your earthy concerns. Place your HOPE in Him and know his care today!
Blessings,
Linda
Promise: God promises that placing my hope in Him will result in renewed strength, the ability to soar above my problems and to be able to endure the path of my life without growing weak or fainthearted.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God's character is revealed: His strength, sovereignty, omnipotence, comfort, guidance, salvation, caring and his eternality.
Promise provides me with: courage, endurance, knowledge that God is greater than any circumstance I face, guidance in life, strength to live each day for Him, comfort and HOPE.
I love this image that God will help me to soar above the problems and stresses of life that would pull me down. He reminds me that his endurance is eternal and everlasting. I don't need to worry that God will run out of energy or grow weary of helping me. He wants me to live with hope in Him knowing that he cares for me. As you go though your day, keep the image of God enfolding you in his arms and lifting you above all your earthy concerns. Place your HOPE in Him and know his care today!
Blessings,
Linda
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
December 2, Peace from Thankfulness
“do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV)
Promise: God promises to give me peace, guard my heart and mind and relieve my anxiety when I pray with a thankful heart.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His accessibility, compassion, sovereignty, protection, peace and comfort.
Promise provides me with: peace within for both my body and mind, relief of anxiety, assurance of his sovereignty in all the circumstances I face, accessibility through prayer to the creator and God of the universe, and results.
So often in this hectic season, we crave just a little peace! I love this promise as it assures me that if I approach God with a heart filled with thankfulness I will receive peace. Why a thank filled heart? Thankfulness takes the focus off of all the needs and wants we are facing and retunes us towards God. He has made all that there is and knows what we are facing. Turning to God in thankfulness ‘reboots’ our hearts and minds to be open to his work and peace in our lives. Try it today- list things you are thankful for before you petition God for what is bothering you. He promises that it will result in peace of mind and body. Good news for this busy season!
Blessings,
Linda
Promise: God promises to give me peace, guard my heart and mind and relieve my anxiety when I pray with a thankful heart.
Why is it important to know this promise?
God’s character is revealed: His accessibility, compassion, sovereignty, protection, peace and comfort.
Promise provides me with: peace within for both my body and mind, relief of anxiety, assurance of his sovereignty in all the circumstances I face, accessibility through prayer to the creator and God of the universe, and results.
So often in this hectic season, we crave just a little peace! I love this promise as it assures me that if I approach God with a heart filled with thankfulness I will receive peace. Why a thank filled heart? Thankfulness takes the focus off of all the needs and wants we are facing and retunes us towards God. He has made all that there is and knows what we are facing. Turning to God in thankfulness ‘reboots’ our hearts and minds to be open to his work and peace in our lives. Try it today- list things you are thankful for before you petition God for what is bothering you. He promises that it will result in peace of mind and body. Good news for this busy season!
Blessings,
Linda
Monday, December 1, 2014
December 1, He is coming!
But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus. Matthew 1:20-25 (ESV)
Promise: God promised a savior would be born of a virgin, dwell with man on earth and save his people from their sins.
Why is this promise important?
God’s character is revealed: His sovereignty, omnipotence, love, compassion, forgiveness and hope.
Promise provides me with: forgiveness through Jesus, His desire for a relation ship with me (dwelling with me), knowledge that God has a plan to save me which is through Jesus His son and God’s control and planning of events are to result in my salvation and his glory.
December 1 has a special significance for me as on this day in 1982 my daughter, Liz, arrived from Korea. She was a long awaited and longed for child that has brought me much love and joy these last 30+ years. Just like the children of Israel, I did not think the day would ever come that I would hold my own child. They had waited centuries for the Messiah, Jesus, to come and save them from their sins. They expected a king not a humble baby and many of them missed his arrival and the work he did on the cross. Don’t miss His coming this year. Look for Jesus and claim the promise of a savior this advent season. Acts 4:12 “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.“
Have a blessed day!
Linda
Promise: God promised a savior would be born of a virgin, dwell with man on earth and save his people from their sins.
Why is this promise important?
God’s character is revealed: His sovereignty, omnipotence, love, compassion, forgiveness and hope.
Promise provides me with: forgiveness through Jesus, His desire for a relation ship with me (dwelling with me), knowledge that God has a plan to save me which is through Jesus His son and God’s control and planning of events are to result in my salvation and his glory.
December 1 has a special significance for me as on this day in 1982 my daughter, Liz, arrived from Korea. She was a long awaited and longed for child that has brought me much love and joy these last 30+ years. Just like the children of Israel, I did not think the day would ever come that I would hold my own child. They had waited centuries for the Messiah, Jesus, to come and save them from their sins. They expected a king not a humble baby and many of them missed his arrival and the work he did on the cross. Don’t miss His coming this year. Look for Jesus and claim the promise of a savior this advent season. Acts 4:12 “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.“
Have a blessed day!
Linda
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