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Friday, February 21 2025
It's TGIF Friday!!! Thank God I'm Forgiven!
Good Morning Forgiven Much and Thankful Children of God! Spend some time worshiping and praising today. We do have so much to be thankful about! PTL! Yes, rejoice! Keep building those gratitude lists! Get creative for our God is a creative God! The Connection blog is below to pray through and start your praise and prayer time. God gave me this creative idea for building my gratitude list! Have a worshipful day!
I am thankful for my S-A-L-V-A-T-I-O-N!!!
S-Savior and Shepherd Jesus! He is my Savior and Good Shepherd
A-Alive in Christ...I have been made new and am truly alive in Christ!
L-Love of God...He loves me so much that He sent His Son for me!
V-Victory in Jesus! I have it! PTL!
A-Atoned...His death has paid the price for my sin--I am cleansed and forgiven!
T-Triumphant...I am because He is!
I-Innocent--that's how God sees me in Christ! PTL! I have been washed white as snow!
O-Overcomer...I am more than an overcomer because he lives in me!
N-Nothing...can separate me from God's love because of my faith in Christ and all he has done!
What love and blessings we know in Christ! Thanks Lord! Who needs to hear about your changed and thankful life? Share the love today!
Connection Blogs:
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February 7 - Will You Go to the Upper Room?
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Revival is not subtle – it is simple. Revival truth is the plainest truth in Scripture. All backsliding is from plain Scripture, not from all the prophetic mysteries we do not understand. Let us not complicate the message of revival!
The devil has decimated and all but devastated the prayer life of Christians and of their homes and of their churches. Many churches still don’t have prayer meetings. And where they do, they usually are the weakest, most anemic of all the many meetings.
But the Lord is changing this. Thank the Lord for the many new movements of prayer. We are on our way back to the Upper Room, back to the real, normal pattern of the Spirit-filled life for every Christian and for every church.
The Upper Room is God’s own master plan to bring revival. That plan has not changed; it is still God’s plan today. Will you go to the Upper Room?
Father, the prophet Zechariah spoke of a spirit of grace and supplication that will be poured out on Israel. Make Your Church jealous to see this powerful spirit of prayer in our midst, in our day! Revive Your people for the glory of Your Name, and so that all nations will bow before the Lord Jesus Christ! Forgive us for our half-hearted attempts at corporate prayer and fill us with a deep desire to seek Your face and to dwell in Your Presence. Wake up Your Church and set us on fire as we gather together in the upper room once again!
--Adapted from The Upper Room: God’s Revival Model by Armin Gesswein. His book With One Accord is available at prayershop.org. Use the code CONPSP3 at checkout to receive an additional 10% discount.
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Praying through the President’s First 31 Days
Day 19
Pray that our president would enact policies and encourage legislation that protects the traditional family, empowers parents, and upholds a biblical standard of righteousness.
If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord (Joshua 24:15).
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- Praise the heavenly Father, who has become your Father through Jesus Christ.
- Give thanks that in Jesus Christ you have been given a heavenly citizenship.
- Confess those habits which draw you from his love.
- Commit yourself to finding all that you desire in the Lord.
- Ask to be delivered from the power of the evil one.
- Pray that family members and friends will reflect the lordship of Christ in their daily schedules, and that relationships will not be neglected.
Prayer Pointer
“The right way to pray, then, is any way that allows us to communicate with God. For prayer is not a ritual; it is the soul’s inherent response to a relationship with a loving Father.” —Colleen Townsend Evans
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Prayer Points taken from Patterns for Prayer by Alvin VanderGriend. This book is available at prayershop.org. Use the code CONPSP3 at checkout to receive an additional 10% discount.
Connection (Devotions for Everyday Life) © 2025 is a free devotional published daily by OneCry Prayer. Find more resources at www.onecry.com
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Friday, February 21 2025
Updates:
Today is Doris Hausman's viewing and service at 10 and 11. Pray for safety in travels, for her memory to be honored and for peace and strength for the family.
Yvonne Muik had oral surgery yesterday and came home to find husband Chris needing to go to the ER for his foot. Pray for healing and for God's peace.
Visited Winnie Iobst yesterday in Lehigh. He is recovering from heart issues and hopes to be home by the weekend once more fluid is drained. Pray for healing and wisdom for staff.
Be advised! We anticipate being Zoom only on Sunday due to snow and ice storm coming. We will make the final decision by Sat. at noon. Watch for updates and one call notices. We always want to err on the side of safety! Read ahead as we will cover Acts 6, 7 and beginning of 8. What's God saying to you? How does He organize His Church? What's your part?
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Good Morning Resting in the Lord, Trusting and Joyful, Friends of God! Amen! Right? If God is for us, who can be against us? Well, the church answer is no one of significance for Jesus has overcome the world. BUT...well, you know, sometimes we allow ourselves to get tangled up in doubt, fear, chaos and drama and Satan loves to pounce on any opening in our armor. BUT GOD!!! He is with us always, for us always, and always working all thigs together for our good and according to His perfect plans. Sometimes those storms are to test our faith and sometimes used to stretch and grow us towards our fuller potential in Christ. And sometimes they are just a product of the fallen world we live in. The question is can you always choose to trust God and choose joy? Can you surrender yourself to Him and His refining fires? Do you know and believe the truth that He will redeem whatever interferes with his best. Be still and know that He who created you is calling you by name. he has redeemed you and will redeem situations. he is at work always working all things together for the good of those who believe and are called by His name! PTL! and Amen!
So, as a friend of God, you are able to choose trust and even joy in the storms because of who He is and who you are in Christ. Eph. 2:10 reminds us that we are His masterpieces, made new in Christ and that He does have great plans for us since before we were born that will come to life as we turn off the noise, die to self and allow Him to lead and redeem. Amen! Meditate on that today. Romans 12:12 came up in one of my devotionals today (they are below for you to meditate on during this ice storm day) it says, "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer." Get out those gratitude lists and refocus to God in praise and prayer, choose joy always and be patient in whatever you are facing because God is with you and for you! Amen! Maybe find a partner or two to travel this journey with and to uphold each other and spur each other on. Partners really do help! Who are yours?
Last night we had almost 30 join us for dinner huddle. Some come just to eat but all experience the love and fellowship we are known for as we gather around the dinner table. Plan to join us soon! Last night we were reminded that Jesus called demon possessed Mary of Magdalena by name and reminded her that He not only created her, but He knew her and her circumstance and came to deliver her from evil. He redeemed her. He is calling you by name and wants to bless, deliver and redeem whatever you are facing. Will you trust Him and open your heart? Mary said in the Chosen when asked what happened, "I was one way and now I am another and what happened in between was Him." He is wanting to lead us from one way to his better way. Will you allow that and receive Him and His healing, delivering, redeeming love? I did and I keep growing from one way to a better way because of Him in my life! PTL! try it! He is calling you by name...God led Elijah out of his depressive funk by whispering to Him and revealing his next assignment which was to go bless others. Serving and blessing others helps us to redirect our thoughts from ourselves to blessing God and others and leads to continuing to build those gratitude lists. Who needs to hear some good news today? Reach out and touch someone and you will bless God and yourself in the process. He is calling you by name, has redeemed you and has perfect plans for you for such a time as this! Amen! And rejoice!
UR: In the Storm
A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. - Mark 4:37 (NIV)
I sat alone at the kitchen table with an empty box of tissues. I’d been a Christian for years, but in that moment my heart doubted what my head knew. If God loves me, why had this happened?
As I pondered my tempest, I remembered another storm — a ferocious one, two thousand years ago on the Sea of Galilee. I realized that this story isn’t just about a storm but also a journey of trust. The disciples followed Jesus, but the storm still came. They shouted at Jesus, asking him the same question I often do: “Lord, don’t you care?”
Storms may cause us to question God’s care for us. We pray for healing, protection, and restoration — for the storm to pass. It’s not wrong to pray for that. But we must learn to value God’s presence in our trials more than we value respite from them.
Jesus calmed the storm on the Sea of Galilee. Sometimes he doesn’t calm our storms, but he guides us through them. When doubts arise, we can remember that Jesus is with us in the storm.
Today's Prayer
Dear Jesus, help us to trust you, especially during trials. Help us to remember you are always with us, no matter what we face. Amen.
ODB:
When we built our home, it stood on little more than a muddy, empty lot at the end of a gravel road. We needed grass, trees, and shrubs to match the surrounding Oregon foothills. As I got out my lawn tools and set to work, I thought of the first garden waiting for humans: “No shrub had yet appeared on the earth and no plant had yet sprung up, . . . and there was no one to work the ground” (Genesis 2:5).
The creation account in Genesis 1 repeats God’s assessment of creation: it “was good” or “very good” (vv. 4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25, 31). However, it wasn’t complete. Adam and Eve needed to cultivate the ground—to exercise stewardship of God’s creation (v. 28). They weren’t meant to live in an unchanging paradise but one that needed care and development.
Since the beginning, God has been inviting humans to partner with Him in His creation. He did it in the garden of Eden, and He does it with “the new creation” He makes of us when we put our faith in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Upon salvation, we’re not made perfect. As the apostle Paul says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world” (Romans 12:2). God works in us as we pursue a life pleasing to Him, “conformed to the image of his Son” (8:29).
Whether it’s caring for the earth or caring for our new life in Christ, God has given us a gift we need to cultivate.
By Matt Lucas
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What work do you enjoy most? What might God be calling you to cultivate in your community?
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SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
In Genesis 2, we’re given a description of the garden of Eden, where God placed the first humans so they could care for what He created (vv. 8, 15). The garden was delightful—God caused trees to provide fruit (v. 9) and rivers to water the ground (v. 10). He asked our first parents to care for it, but this request came with a commandment (vv. 15-17). This is a picture of how God continues to interact with humanity. He brings blessing but also gives us instructions in how to live. We’re given the choice to obey Him or not. We honor Him when we choose obedience as the Spirit helps us.
Matt Lucas |
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Chuck Swindoll
Sarah Young:
Joyce Meyer
TWFYT
Friday, February 21 2025
***Zoom Only Church Tomorrow*** Spread the word! With the impending snow, ice and below freezing temps up to worship time, we have opted for Zoom only worship tomorrow at 10. Thank you for understanding our wanting to always err on the side of safety and for spreading the news!
No matter what the weather on Wed. we will have donut day at the Bread Ministry 10-12. Keep watch for possible cancelation of Wed. evening dinner huddle due to predicted snow and ice.
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Good Morning Custom Made, Gifted, and Sent Salt and Light for Such A Time As This! Oh yeah baby. That's you, me and us as God's gathered and sent servants. We are His customized Good News Delivery Company that brings salt and light to the Lehigh Valley and especially Emmaus area. Amen! And we all get to do our part to allow God to expand His Kingdom and Love, just as we are, for such a time as this! Salt to season the area. Light to the darkness around us. And Love to shower over all who are being drawn and will come to God through you and us. Amen! Spend some time today asking God how to us you as you come with humble and available hearts and willing and moving feet and hands. We are created to be His vessels for today, as we are, where we are. What's your part? Who are your partners? He is manifesting His presence in you as you abide in Him and will overflow all He is through you, if you allow it. You are loved and He is calling you by name and sending you to love today! Amen! You matter! Thanks for being a part of His team that gathers as St. Matthews Fellowship of sent servants and worshipers!
Tomorrow we will discuss Acts 6 and highlight 7 and begin 8. Read ahead prayerfully. What's God saying to you? We will have space to discuss and process that during our Zoom gathering. What can we learn and apply to our church from the early church?
One thing we can be sure of...God has gathered, equipped and is sending us to make disciples for such a time as this. We are His Good News Delivery Co. And He has great plans for you and us to discover and carry out. We are His salt and light. Check out the flow through our devotionals below and the connection blog. What's God saying to you? He is calling you by name and speaking to your heart. He loves you beyond measure and has perfect plans just for you. So, rejoice, worship, trust and obey!
TWFYT
Chuck Swindoll
ODB
Ms. Charlene, my friend Dwayne’s mother, is ninety-four years old, under five feet tall, and weighs less than a hundred pounds. Yet this doesn’t stop her from doing what she can to care for her son, whose physical health prevents him from caring for himself. Visits to their two-story home often find her on the second floor, where she resides. Slowly, she descends sixteen stairs to the first floor to greet her guests, just as she does to assist in caring for the son whom she loves.
Ms. Charlene’s selfless determination convicts, challenges, and inspires me as she prioritizes her son’s well-being over her own. She models what Paul encourages in Philippians 2: “In humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others” (vv. 3-4).
Caring for those with health challenges or other needs can be costly. The demands of life can be all-consuming, and even those closest to us can be shortchanged if we’re not intentional about taking our eyes off ourselves. But humbly caring is what believers in Jesus are called to do (see vv. 1-4). When we give of ourselves, we follow the example of Jesus and help others in the process. The apostle reminds us: “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus” (v. 5).
By Arthur Jackson
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Who inspires you to be more caring and selfless? What obstacles might you have to navigate to meet others’ needs?
Dear Jesus, please help me to be more intentional in giving myself for the good of others.
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SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Paul’s call to imitate Jesus’ example of self-giving love (Philippians 2:5-8) begins with a call to unity: “Make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind” (v. 2). This kind of deep unity isn’t accomplished by a lack of differences but a willingness to surrender “selfish ambition” and “vain conceit” (v. 3) in order to see and serve others with a heart like His. When believers in Christ live out what He modeled—the humility and willingness to surrender for the well-being of others—unity is possible.
Monica La Rose |
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Joyce Meyer
Sarah Young
Connections Blogs:
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February 8 - The Life of God within Us
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For the eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His. (2 Chronicles 16:9)
God is not only the God of yesterday, but He is also the God of today. He is willing to manifest Himself to this generation or any future generation that will seek Him. Reading about His great deeds of past years is thrilling, but we must not forget that history is being made today. There is no difference between Luther, Wesley, Whitefield, Moody, or you and me. We were all formed from dust, and we shall return to dust. It is the life of God within us that gives us hope. His life not only gives us hope personally but also gives us hope for today. Christ can make a difference in this generation.
A few factors, however, are unique to this generation. For instance, we have the threat of terrorism mixed with nuclear weapons. Economic and environmental problems are mounting around the world. Entire nations are experiencing the results of their greed, financial gambles, and indebtedness. The ozone layer grows thinner. Famine threatens parts of the world. The fear of a deadly global pandemic stalks politicians and medical experts alike.
Yet the church seems to be asleep. A hopeless world cries for some sign of light in the midst of darkness and desperation. This should be a time when the church is shining her brightest. The world needs to see the glory of God in the hearts of the people of God.
A few signs of hope exist in this generation. The Christian church is having phenomenal growth in certain areas of the world. Revival of historic proportion exists among certain groups of people today. These great movements of the Holy Spirit stand as a witness that God has not forgotten us. He is still on His throne and ready to manifest His glory upon those who will seek Him.
Awesome Father, during these uncertain times, it is so vital that Your people wake up from their slumber and cry out to You! May we shine as beacons of light to our culture, and may we be diligent to raise up the generations after us to seek Your face! Flood the nations with Your holiness and pour out Your Spirit in the midst of Your people! Revive our hearts and set us on fire with Your glory for the sake of Your Name.
--Adapted from The Prayer Factor by Sammy Tippit. This book is available at prayershop.org. Use the code CONPSP3 at checkout to receive an additional 10% discount.
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Praying through the President’s First 31 Days
Day 20
Pray that the president would maintain the U.S. support of Israel and wisely handle the issues of the Middle East.
But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him (James 1:5).
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- Praise the God who cares even for the birds (Mt. 6:25-34).
- Give thanks that you can depend upon him completely to meet every need.
- Confess anything in your life which is rooted in pride and self-reliance.
- Commit yourself to not worrying about your life or about tomorrow.
- Ask the Father to help you to “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness . . .” (Mt. 6:33).
- Ask that unsaved persons around you will realize the folly of building their lives on foundations of sand. Pray that they will build on the rock, Jesus Christ.
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Prayer Points taken from Patterns for Prayer by Alvin VanderGriend. This book is available at prayershop.org. Use the code CONPSP3 at checkout to receive an additional 10% discount.
Connection (Devotions for Everyday Life) © 2025 is a free devotional published daily by OneCry Prayer. Find more resources at www.onecry.com
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Friday, February 21 2025
Good Morning Children of Peace and Peace Bringers! Amen! Yesterday we discussed here and the kids worked on the shoes of peace and how we are called to bring peace and Good News alive to others.f We are to seek peace, dwell in peace, follow peace and bring peace. Do we? Do you bring peace pr chaos? Are you able to turn off the noise and receive peace. We are promised peace beyond understanding and that peace bringers are blessed and will know peace. Let's pursue peace and being peace bringers. Pray into that and use the prayer starters below. Jesus is the Prince of Peace. Seek Him and abide in His love and peace today!
Been hearing great stories form Children's Church yesterday as the kids worked on the shoes of peace. PTL for lots of kids and pray for more to be sent our way! After worship I was sitting and playing around with Annabelle and Catalina. Cat asked for some more understanding about the shoes of peace. I explained how she is a peace bringer as she tries to be the big sister and cousin and how she is able to sometimes calm down the others. She agreed that was her. When I asked her about Anna being a peace bringer, she looked at me funny. I asked is Anna a chaos bringer? She laughingly said yes. So, I explained that God wants us to bring peace and how He loves to bring His peace to the chaos.
So are you a peace bringer or a chaos stirrer? Do you follow peace? Dwell in Peace. Strive to bring God's peace to the chaos? Turn off the noise Dwell in peace and ask for His help to bring it. God knows how much the world needs some peace today! Be blessed for bringing peace! Start with sitting at the Prince of Peace's feet and dwelling in His peace then go be like Him today. I'm praying for you!
Prayer Starter
- Give glory to God as the Lord of peace.
- Thank Jesus that he himself is our peace, breaking down the barriers and the dividing walls of hostility (Eph. 2:14).
- Confess any areas where you are not at peace with another believer or group of Christians.
- Commit yourself to making every effort to live in peace with all people (Heb. 12:14).
- Ask God to help you bear with others and forgive whatever grievance you have against them, forgiving them as the Lord forgave you (Col. 3:13).
- Pray that the church may “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:3), realizing that as members of one body we are called to peace.
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Friday, February 21 2025
Good Morning Servants of the Lord. Faithful Followers of Jesus! Is that you? I pray all the time that that would define my walk with Jesus. Surrendered, faithful, servant, walking in His ways. Amen! But what do you do when you grow weary? How do you overcome the drama a leader faces and find peace? Honestly, say what you want about any president, I'd like to have the backbone they have that allows all the junk being tossed at them to run off like water from a ducks back feathers! I allow Satan to take me too deep into my own thinking sometimes and allow Him to derail me from God's best. When that happens, I know in my heart of hearts that I need to strap on the armor and abide in Him and His protecting love, yet too often I let myself be sucked into that dark hole of depression or let the drama and noise lead me away from God's best. Can you relate? I know many of you can. I am praying His peace, like a river flowing over us. I'm praying we can turn off the noise and focus on Truth and the Way--Jesus. He brings life if we die to self and turn off the noise and allow it. Some days it takes all the strength you can muster just to get out of bed, right? BUT GOD! He is there and upholding you in His strong right hand and will strengthen and carry you if you allow. He is our Deliverer and our Strength! Get up, worship and don that armor. Sharpen that sword as you open and dwell in His Living Word. prepare for the day ahead. Watch for what God is doing and remind Satan that he's defeated and has no power over you! "Satan be gone!" Rise and shine! God's got great plans for you today! Rejoice!
Check out the flow through our devos for today. Turn off the noise. Fix your attention on Jesus and load up and follow well. I'm praying for you! Let His Light shine! Think about the importance of Proverbs 3:5-6! Stop leaning on your own understanding. Focus on God and allow Him to direct your steps and lift your attitude.
ODB:
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June’s eyes were fixed on the gray car beside her. She had to change lanes to exit the highway, but each time she tried to overtake the vehicle, the other driver seemed to speed up too. Finally, she managed to cut in front. Smug in her moment of triumph, June looked in the rearview mirror and smirked. At the same time, she noticed her destination exit passing her by.
With a rueful smile, she recounted: “I was so fixated on overtaking that I missed my exit.”
Such a slip can also happen in our desire to walk in God’s ways. When the religious leaders persecuted Jesus for not keeping the Jewish law (John 5:16), He warned that they’d become so fixated on studying and enforcing the law that they were missing the person the law pointed to: “These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life” (vv. 39-40).
In trying to be right before God, the religious leaders focused on following the Jewish law and making sure everyone else did too. Likewise, in our zeal for God, we may keep up with good things—church attendance, Bible study, charity work—and even get others to join us. But we can become so focused on them that we miss the person we’re doing them for—Jesus.
In all we do, let’s ask God to help us fix our eyes on Christ (Hebrews 12:2). He alone is “the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6).
By Jasmine Goh
REFLECT & PRAY
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What are you focused on today? What does it mean for you to fix your eyes on Jesus?
Dear God, thank You for giving me life through Christ. Please help me to keep Him at the center of all I do.
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SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
In John 5:39-40, Jesus acknowledges the importance of studying the Scriptures yet asserts that they ultimately point to Him. Both the Old and New Testaments declare Scripture’s impact. In 2 Timothy 3, Paul encourages Timothy to continue in the Scriptures, and he notes that “all Scripture is God-breathed” and trains and equips us for personal growth in holiness and to serve others (vv. 16-17). Before installing Joshua as the new Israelite leader, God urged him to “meditate on [the Law] day and night” so that he’d be “prosperous and successful” in leading the Israelites into Canaan (Joshua 1:8). In Psalm 19, David declares that the words of God refresh the soul, make wise the simple, and give joy to the heart and light to the eyes. By them we’re warned and find great reward (vv. 7-11). Through keeping and treasuring Scripture, God makes our way clear (Psalm 119:1-3, 105; Proverbs 2:1-5).
Alyson Kieda |
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UR: An Example to Follow
Love your neighbor as yourself. - Matthew 22:39 (NIV)
As I drove toward the entrance to the industrial park where I work, there was heavy traffic on both sides of the street. I saw a woman in another car who wanted to make a U-turn, but no one on my side of the road was allowing her to turn. At the risk of frustrating the drivers behind me, I decided to let her make the turn and signaled for her to go ahead.
I watched her make the turn, feeling good about my kind action and expecting she would wave to express her thanks, but she didn’t. My first thought was, What an ungrateful person! Then I paused to think more about what happened: Why did I let the woman make the turn? What was my motive for that nice gesture toward a stranger? Sadly, I had to admit that I had not acted out of generosity but rather to feel, if only briefly, the satisfaction of believing that I am a good person who did something good for someone. And I was waiting for acknowledgment in return.
How easy it is to love when others reciprocate. But it is quite another matter when love or kindness is not reciprocated. Jesus is our ultimate example of selfless love — he gave his life for us. Today’s scripture from Luke is a reminder and invitation to follow Jesus’ example without waiting for anything in return.
Today's Prayer
Continue to inspire and prompt us, O Lord, to follow your example and live out your commandment to love one another, not because of anything we might receive in return but simply because you loved us first. Amen.Sarah Young:
I'm watching you!
Friday, February 21 2025
Good Morning Worshipers! Get your worship on! It's time for us to get our hearts ready as we get to gather, worship, study and pray together! PTL! Worship and adore our King of kings and Lord of lords--Christ the King!
Today we collect for Everlasting Life Ministries.
Today our Children's Church kids continue their journey through building the armor of God with the shoes of peace. Do you walk in and bring peace? You can!
Today we will study through parts of Acts 4 and 5 as the church began to gather, form and come to learn what God expected as he led them.
The Bible talks about feet sometimes. I always think of Moses being told to take off his sandals because he walked on holy ground of God's presence. Sometimes I envision everywhere I step as holy ground because God is with me. Often, though, I fail to take off the sandals of self and do little to glorify God or honor Him or His presence. And that leads to a lack of peace in my life. Can you relate? As we trust, obey and seek to honor God each step of faith at a time, we bless Him and probably some others too. We bring God glory as we step out in faith and go to bring Him, His love, and hope and help alive. The Bible says, blessed are the feet that bring Good News. Do you have blessed feet? Do you bring peace wherever you go? That should be a question we process with God and few others. Do you have a blind spot where you stir the pot instead of bringing peace? Jesus said blessed are the peace makers for they will know peace. Want to know peace? Bring it to others? Trust God and walk with Him. Be His Good News and joy bringer! Amen! Ask God if you are a peace or strife bringer and for help to bring peace and repent of stirring to chaos instead of peace. Put on those shoes of peace and be blessed as you bring peace and the Good News to others. Amen!
Today we begin a few weeks (at least, maybe more) of walking through the book of Acts (of the Apostles). We will sort of just highlight and blitz through some of the history of the early church and the sent apostles as God's Church began, formed, and was sent to the world. What might we learn as we seek to be His Good News Bringers and Kingdom builders? We are sent to do so and custom made and gifted to do it well with the help of the Holy Spirit. We are gathered to learn, pray, encourage and go live and love and make disciples like Jesus. What's your part in His Good News delivery Co? Start by putting on those shoes of peace, praying for yourself, others and our church to go and bring peace, joy, love and the Good News alive together as one!
Prepare your hearts to worship, listen and follow well. God has great plans for you and us that include following peace and bringing it. Shalom shalom is a greeting often used by the early church. It means perfect peace and is used as a greeting and sending prayer. May God's perfect peace, a peace beyond understanding, guard your hearts and minds today and this week as we follow Jesus and seek to live and love more like Him! Peace is what He promises to leave with us. Step into it and bring it alive! Amen!
Friday, February 21 2025
Updates:
Today is Doris Hausman's viewing and service at 10 and 11. Pray for safety in travels, for her memory to be honored and for peace and strength for the family.
Yvonne Muik had oral surgery yesterday and came home to find husband Chris needing to go to the ER for his foot. Pray for healing and for God's peace.
Visited Winnie Iobst yesterday in Lehigh. He is recovering from heart issues and hopes to be home by the weekend once more fluid is drained. Pray for healing and wisdom for staff.
Be advised! We anticipate being Zoom only on Sunday due to snow and ice storm coming. We will make the final decision by Sat. at noon. Watch for updates and one call notices. We always want to err on the side of safety! Read ahead as we will cover Acts 6, 7 and beginning of 8. What's God saying to you? How does He organize His Church? What's your part?
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Good Morning Resting in the Lord, Trusting and Joyful, Friends of God! Amen! Right? If God is for us, who can be against us? Well, the church answer is no one of significance for Jesus has overcome the world. BUT...well, you know, sometimes we allow ourselves to get tangled up in doubt, fear, chaos and drama and Satan loves to pounce on any opening in our armor. BUT GOD!!! He is with us always, for us always, and always working all thigs together for our good and according to His perfect plans. Sometimes those storms are to test our faith and sometimes used to stretch and grow us towards our fuller potential in Christ. And sometimes they are just a product of the fallen world we live in. The question is can you always choose to trust God and choose joy? Can you surrender yourself to Him and His refining fires? Do you know and believe the truth that He will redeem whatever interferes with his best. Be still and know that He who created you is calling you by name. he has redeemed you and will redeem situations. he is at work always working all things together for the good of those who believe and are called by His name! PTL! and Amen!
So, as a friend of God, you are able to choose trust and even joy in the storms because of who He is and who you are in Christ. Eph. 2:10 reminds us that we are His masterpieces, made new in Christ and that He does have great plans for us since before we were born that will come to life as we turn off the noise, die to self and allow Him to lead and redeem. Amen! Meditate on that today. Romans 12:12 came up in one of my devotionals today (they are below for you to meditate on during this ice storm day) it says, "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer." Get out those gratitude lists and refocus to God in praise and prayer, choose joy always and be patient in whatever you are facing because God is with you and for you! Amen! Maybe find a partner or two to travel this journey with and to uphold each other and spur each other on. Partners really do help! Who are yours?
Last night we had almost 30 join us for dinner huddle. Some come just to eat but all experience the love and fellowship we are known for as we gather around the dinner table. Plan to join us soon! Last night we were reminded that Jesus called demon possessed Mary of Magdalena by name and reminded her that He not only created her, but He knew her and her circumstance and came to deliver her from evil. He redeemed her. He is calling you by name and wants to bless, deliver and redeem whatever you are facing. Will you trust Him and open your heart? Mary said in the Chosen when asked what happened, "I was one way and now I am another and what happened in between was Him." He is wanting to lead us from one way to his better way. Will you allow that and receive Him and His healing, delivering, redeeming love? I did and I keep growing from one way to a better way because of Him in my life! PTL! try it! He is calling you by name...God led Elijah out of his depressive funk by whispering to Him and revealing his next assignment which was to go bless others. Serving and blessing others helps us to redirect our thoughts from ourselves to blessing God and others and leads to continuing to build those gratitude lists. Who needs to hear some good news today? Reach out and touch someone and you will bless God and yourself in the process. He is calling you by name, has redeemed you and has perfect plans for you for such a time as this! Amen! And rejoice!
UR: In the Storm
A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. - Mark 4:37 (NIV)
I sat alone at the kitchen table with an empty box of tissues. I’d been a Christian for years, but in that moment my heart doubted what my head knew. If God loves me, why had this happened?
As I pondered my tempest, I remembered another storm — a ferocious one, two thousand years ago on the Sea of Galilee. I realized that this story isn’t just about a storm but also a journey of trust. The disciples followed Jesus, but the storm still came. They shouted at Jesus, asking him the same question I often do: “Lord, don’t you care?”
Storms may cause us to question God’s care for us. We pray for healing, protection, and restoration — for the storm to pass. It’s not wrong to pray for that. But we must learn to value God’s presence in our trials more than we value respite from them.
Jesus calmed the storm on the Sea of Galilee. Sometimes he doesn’t calm our storms, but he guides us through them. When doubts arise, we can remember that Jesus is with us in the storm.
Today's Prayer
Dear Jesus, help us to trust you, especially during trials. Help us to remember you are always with us, no matter what we face. Amen.
ODB:
When we built our home, it stood on little more than a muddy, empty lot at the end of a gravel road. We needed grass, trees, and shrubs to match the surrounding Oregon foothills. As I got out my lawn tools and set to work, I thought of the first garden waiting for humans: “No shrub had yet appeared on the earth and no plant had yet sprung up, . . . and there was no one to work the ground” (Genesis 2:5).
The creation account in Genesis 1 repeats God’s assessment of creation: it “was good” or “very good” (vv. 4, 10, 12, 18, 21, 25, 31). However, it wasn’t complete. Adam and Eve needed to cultivate the ground—to exercise stewardship of God’s creation (v. 28). They weren’t meant to live in an unchanging paradise but one that needed care and development.
Since the beginning, God has been inviting humans to partner with Him in His creation. He did it in the garden of Eden, and He does it with “the new creation” He makes of us when we put our faith in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Upon salvation, we’re not made perfect. As the apostle Paul says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world” (Romans 12:2). God works in us as we pursue a life pleasing to Him, “conformed to the image of his Son” (8:29).
Whether it’s caring for the earth or caring for our new life in Christ, God has given us a gift we need to cultivate.
By Matt Lucas
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What work do you enjoy most? What might God be calling you to cultivate in your community?
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SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
In Genesis 2, we’re given a description of the garden of Eden, where God placed the first humans so they could care for what He created (vv. 8, 15). The garden was delightful—God caused trees to provide fruit (v. 9) and rivers to water the ground (v. 10). He asked our first parents to care for it, but this request came with a commandment (vv. 15-17). This is a picture of how God continues to interact with humanity. He brings blessing but also gives us instructions in how to live. We’re given the choice to obey Him or not. We honor Him when we choose obedience as the Spirit helps us.
Matt Lucas |
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Chuck Swindoll
Sarah Young:
Joyce Meyer
TWFYT
Friday, January 31 2025
Thank God I'm Forgiven Friday! Yes! Thanks Lord!
Get out and keep building those gratitude lists. What about your salvation and/or new life in Christ can you add to that list and causes you to lift praise to God? Who needs to hear that story as we spread the fame and glory of God? Ask God to bring someone to mind that he is drawing or sending you to and for courage and wisdom to go love on them as you share your story and God's love. Maybe some day they will celebrate TGIF!
Good Morning Known, Loved, Redeemed, Called and Sent Disciples and Apostles of Jesus! AMEN! Praise and pray into that salutation and ask God to fill you to overflowing with His Love and Spirit and to direct your steps to His plans for you today! he does have great plans! Seek and follow well today my friends! I'm praying for you. Maybe take some time with the devos below to draw close, listen, receive, and prepare to go live and love like Jesus today. Start with worship and go refreshed and ready! Amen!
Upper Room: God Is Working
Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. - Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)
I had registered for a professional examination that would be held outside of my town. I would need to travel, and the transportation fare was due one week before the examination day. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I had no money when it was time to pay the fare. However, I trusted that God would make a way for me, so I kept my faith alive. Surprisingly, just before the payment deadline, a friend called to check on me. She offered to cover all my expenses without asking for anything in return.
When we are close to giving up and feel like there is no way out of our situation, we do not need to despair. We don’t need to know how God will work things out for us. We just need to keep our faith alive and trust that God is working and can bring about good things.
Today's Prayer
Dear God, when we don’t see a way forward, strengthen our faith in you. Remind us of your goodness and provision as we pray the prayer Jesus taught us, “Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen” (Matt. 6:9-13, KJV).The Word for You Today
Sarah Young
Our Daily Bread
Compelled to Tell
I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes. Romans 1:16
READ Acts 20:17-24
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“You know Jesus loves you. He really loves you.” Those were the last words of John Daniels. Just seconds after he’d given a homeless man money and shared those parting words, he was struck by a car and instantly killed. The printed program for the service that celebrated John’s life included these words: “He wanted to figure out how he could reach more people, so on a Sunday afternoon, trying to help a man in need, God gave him a way to reach the world. All of the local TV channels carried the news, and it reached friends, family, and many others all over the country.”
Though John Daniels wasn’t a preacher, he was compelled to tell others about Jesus. So was Paul. In Acts 20, the apostle expressed his zeal for the gospel in his parting words to the church leaders at Ephesus: “My only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace” (v. 24).
The good news of forgiveness and new life in Jesus is too good not to share with others. Some believers are more skilled at explaining the gospel than others. But with the help of the Holy Spirit, all who’ve experienced its life-changing power can tell their story of God’s love.
By Arthur Jackson
REFLECT & PRAY
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Who do you know who needs to hear about God’s love and forgiveness in and through Christ? What’s keeping you from sharing His work in your life with them?
Dear Father, please forgive me for being hesitant to tell others about the new life that comes through Jesus and help me boldly share Your love.
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SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Acts 20:17-35 records the first part of Paul’s teaching to the elders of the church at Ephesus. He called them to meet with him in Miletus, a seaport on the west coast of Asia Minor about forty miles away. Not only had Paul been instrumental in the founding of the Ephesian church (see chs. 18-19), he’d spent extended time there teaching, mentoring, and raising up leadership (20:31). The resulting close relationship resulted in a painful, tearstained farewell as Paul informed his Ephesian friends that they wouldn’t see him again (v. 25). This speech, however, wouldn’t be the last apostolic communication that the church at Ephesus would receive. Other New Testament letters that were either written to or about the church in Ephesus include 1 and 2 Timothy and 1, 2, and 3 John. And in Revelation 2:1-7, Ephesus received a letter from the risen Christ Himself revealed in a vision of the apostle John.
Bill Crowder |
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Friday, January 31 2025
We have received word that our eldest member, Doris Hausman has stepped into the arms of Jesus. She lived her 104+ years well and now has completed her race. She was very ready for this day and now is fully healed and at peace. We can celebrate and we can mourn with, pray for and comfort the family, Sally, and her kids and grands.
Last evening we had about eight new people join our dinner huddle. We had great conversations, fellowship, prayer, study of God's Word and ate together. Could some of our 30 new attendees we are praying for be being led to our Wed. Night Church? Maybe close to half the attendees are not members. God is doing something as we gather. Consider joining us sometime and keep praying for God to draw and us to love like Jesus. Last night we discussed what it means to be a disciple or apprentice of Jesus and and Apostle or sent one at the same time. We are learning, gifted and sent to love like Jesus and grow His Kingdom just as we are in Christ. Amen! It's coming alive around the table just as in Acts 2:42. Keep praying into that!
Last night one of our conversations around one of the tables was about death and heaven and what transpires as we await our resurrection bodies and the new heaven and earth. That comes alive today as we think about Doris/Nana. She is in paradise in Jesus' presence in spirit right now awaiting that Great day of the Lord when we put on our new bodies and dwell in the House of the Lord forever. 2 Corinthians 5:8 reminds us that we can be confident that when we leave these bodies behind we will be at home with the Lord. In Isaiah 57:2 God says that if we continue to walk in His ways, we will rest in peace when we die. God is peace and love and we will abide in these--in Him forever. Amen!
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Good Morning Children of God! Yes you are, if you have received Jesus as you Lord and Savior--always and forever His child! You are created in God's image for His purposes which include loving as we are loved, walking in His ways, worshiping and abiding in His presence and as heirs of His Kingdom. You are His! He calls you by name, has redeemed you, gifted and empowered you and is with you always. All He asks is for your heart and to do what you can with who you are and how you've been created to love Him and others, glorify and worship Him, trust and obey and follow Jesus. You were created and then gifted in Christ according to His perfect plans for you and He does have great plans for you that He is working together. Then He has gathered you with other of His children to love each other, help each other and grow His Church. And Jesus' easy yoke for you involves being who you are created to be and walking with Him to His perfect plans for you and for His Body. Paul tells us that in this life Christ is all that matters and Solomon tells us in Ecclesiastes that Loving God and enjoying life are to be our focus. Micah reminds us what God expects of us and what is good...do right or be doers of His justice (good things/helping others), love mercy and walk humbly with our God. In reality, our life lived well in Christ is summed up in the Greatest Commandments: Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength and love others as you love yourself. When we are doing that we are worshiping, obeying, and blessed and a blessing to God and others (and even ourselves). May we always keep our focus there! Our goal is to learn to live and love like Jesus and do so more and more until He calls us home! Keep at it children! Eternity awaits as we complete our races well. What love, grace and mercy God showers over us--His faithful ones!
Check out the devos below speaking about God's love, grace and mercy and our walking humbly with God and loving well. he loves you--eternally and has created you for such a time as this and walks with you until that last breath here and then welcomes you as you take those first breaths of heaven in His presence. Yes He is Love and loves us so much! PTL! Some things we will never know or understand this side of heaven but we do have assurance of His eternal love and of being in His presence always from today through eternity! Amen
UR: Do You Talk to Jesus
[Jesus] took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them. - Mark 10:16 (NIV)
One morning after church, my pastor and I were discussing some church business when I noticed that my four-year-old granddaughter was not with me. As I looked around, I noticed her sitting in the doorway to the sanctuary, munching on her fruit snacks. I could see that she was talking to someone as well. I went up to her, knelt down, and asked, “Who are you talking to?” Pointing to a large stained glass picture of Jesus holding children on his lap, she said, “Jesus!” Then with the innocence of a four-year-old, she asked me, “Nana, do you talk to Jesus?” With a chuckle I told her, “Yes, all the time!”
In the Bible, God tells us that children are a blessing and a gift. Their spirits are filled with innocence and trust. But what a reminder to me that I too can talk to the Lord with that same innocence and trust. With childlike humility and faith, I can trust that God is listening and will not turn me away. God wants to hear from every child — no matter their age.
Today's Prayer
Loving Father, thank you for children and grandchildren, who remind us that we are all your blessed children. In the name of Jesus, who never turned the little ones away. Amen.
ODB:
“If Jesus were physically seated at the table with us this morning, what would you want to ask Him?” Joe inquired of his children at breakfast. His boys thought of their toughest questions. They decided they wanted to ask Jesus the most difficult math problems and have Him tell them how big the universe really is. Then his daughter replied, “I would ask Him for a hug.”
Can’t you picture the love in Jesus’ eyes for these children? I think He would be glad to comply with the requests, don’t you? I imagine Him bantering with the boys and opening his arms to the little girl. He might especially like the desire of Joe’s daughter for a hug, which seems to demonstrate a heart of love for Him and a desire for His love.
Children have a sense of their dependence, and they know that Jesus is strong and loving. He said, “Anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it” (Luke 18:17). Christ longs for us to recognize our need for His grace, forgiveness, and salvation. He enjoys humble hearts that long to be near Him.
Is there something you’d like to ask Jesus? We’ve certainly all had our questions! Or maybe you just want to be close to Him? Run to Him now for that hug and so much more that you need.
By Anne Cetas
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What do you think you will say or do when you first see Jesus? What does it mean to have the faith of a child?
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SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
The parable of the tax collector (Luke 18:9-17) was specifically told to those who, like the Pharisee, were confident in their own righteousness. It wasn’t a warning against being righteous but against trusting in our righteousness, thinking that doing certain things or following certain rules puts us in correct standing with God. Jesus says the opposite is true. God looks with grace and mercy upon those who in humility recognize their need of Him, regardless of their actions. James reminds us of this same truth: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up” (James 4:10).
J.R. Hudberg |
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Sarah Young
Chuck Swindoll
Joyce Meyer
Friday, January 31 2025
Today: Zoom Huddle 10-11
Wed:
bread 10-12; Dinner Huddle 6-7:30
Sat. Clothing Closet 10-1
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Good Morning Praying Brothers and Sisters in Christ--Co-Laborers! Amen!
Yes I am still on a personal spiritual retreat as I stilling myself, turning off the noise and chaos and abiding in God's loving presence. I am being restored, redeemed and reloaded. I still expect to have some space to choose to do a blog or not for at least a season. These started with the intention to not be daily, but it seemed like God has been speaking daily and wanting to share some thoughts with you about our devotionals, walk and/or church through these blogs. And so, in obedience I allow God to write through me. Sometimes though, it may not be obedience to something revealed, just my thoughts I feel compelled to share. I have become weary and may even be striving in my own strength or thinking. Prov. 3:5-6 keeps rattling around in my head--Don't lean on your own understanding acknowledge God and allow Him to direct my steps, types, words and choices. That requires following Jesus' command to die to self, take up cross as I crucify some things and begin to follow Him purified and ready. That is part of what this retreat is about. The other part is that I have these very high expectations for me, you and our combined efforts. I keep espousing how healthy we are as a Body and celebrating our unity, love, joy as we gather, serve and go to live and love like Jesus. However, there is a hiccup in some of that unity, love and joy. (Satan keeps whispering to me, "Are we really healthy?") So, I am taking a step back away from the chaos, noise and disappointment to seek God and sit at His feet and allow Him to reveal His will and plans for me, you and us. And He is faithful to do so! PTL! It takes being humble, humbling and dying to self and abiding to hear His teaching and receive His loving affirmation or corrections. And so, here I am and writing from this time with Him this morning.
I pray in the absence of the blogs that you are still having your own quiet time, seeking God, listening, being still and knowing that He is God. He loves you and is speaking and wanting to lead you all the time! He is always with you and has great custom made plans just for you as well as us as His Body. Let us commit to dying to self, taking up cross daily, seeking, abiding and following earnestly individually and as His Good News Delivery Co.
Today God reminded me and wants to remind you that He is the Rock we build upon. Our sure foundation. He is God and we are not. Amen to that! Sometimes there are some "cracks" in our foundations that need His mending or strengthening. Do you have any cracks? (I kid often of the cracks in my head) Cracks can come as we stray from God or His commands, get mired in some hard things, do our own thinking and thing, or just out of neglect because things have been swell for a season. (It is swell with my soul!) That hymn, It is well with my soul, was written in the hardest of times of loss and sorrow. Are you at a place where you can sing that and allow God to mend those cracks? I'm working on that right now. Start with praise even in hard times. It is called a sacrifice of praise for a good reason! And God does inhabit our praise! PTL! Start there. I am. Check out ODB about this. Then Sarah Young reminds us of God's ever-present love with us. Meditate on that devo and receive His love and comfort and help to move on. And then the UR reminds us we need to get up. Faith grows as we take each next step with God from the cracked foundation. He is a helping, redeeming, always with us God. Abide in Him and His Word and wisdom as you offer your heart in praise and obedience. Get up from the abiding and follow God to His best and perfect plans for you. Turn off the noise. Be still. Invite in. Worship and then trust, obey and take that next step of faith. He is with you--always! And He is working all things together for good. he made you for His special purposes for such a time as this. Don't allow Satan to steal these. Cover each other, help each other, step out in faith. Then watch and see what He will do and has planned just for you. He's allowed this season for a reason. He knows, cares, and is with you--always! He is preparing you for your assignment.
God has also called us to become His people of prayer--a House of Prayer for the Nations. Check out the Harvest prayer stuff at the bottom. We need to start and build with prayer and then allow prayer to lead us and to release God's direction and blessings as He steers us through prayer. Pray without ceasing is a command! He will teach you and us to pray. And fruit, good and lasting fruit, buds from prayer, is fertilized with pray, grows with prayer, and then matures through prayer. Amen!
See you here the next time God says to write. Until then, I am seeking Him, interceding for you and our Body, and allowing Him space to speak, work, heal, and lead. Try it! Amen! In my absence think about and answer these questions: What is a disciple of Jesus? Am I one? How can I make disciples of Jesus? What's my part? Give some examples of how God has used you in the past year. Is there a time that I said "NO" to God? How do you want the Lord to use you? That should be a great time processing with God and some friends! He wants to reveal these type of things to you, mend the cracks and lead you forward. Will you allow Him? Start with praise and abiding prayer and see where he leads you! It will be great!
ODB
God—Our Sure Foundation
He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge. Isaiah 33:6
READ Isaiah 33:2-6
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With a crumbling kitchen and sagging floors, our house needed renovation. After large sections of it were demolished, builders began digging a new foundation. Then things got interesting.
As the builders dug, shovel loads of broken plates, 1850s-era soda bottles, even cutlery emerged. Were we built on an old garbage dump? Who knows, but as a result, our engineer said our foundations would need to be dug deeper or else cracks would appear in our walls.
Good foundations make for strong houses. The same is true of our lives. When the Israelites were shaken by their enemies, Isaiah prayed for them to stay strong (Isaiah 33:2-4). But their strength wouldn’t come from bravery or weapons, but by building their lives on God. “He will be the sure foundation for your times,” the prophet said, “a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge” (v. 6). Jesus said something similar, teaching that those who built their lives on His wisdom would withstand life’s storms (Matthew 7:24-25).
A sure sign our foundations need tending is when cracks like aggression, addiction, or marriage problems appear in our lives. When we seek security where it can’t be found or follow the wisdom of this age alone, we’ll be on shaky ground. But those who build their lives on God gain access to all His strength and treasures (Isaiah 33:6).
By Sheridan Voysey
REFLECT & PRAY
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What “cracks” in your life might reveal a faulty foundation? How is your foundation looking this week?
Father God, I praise You for being the surest foundation for my life.
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SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
The Hebrew word Yeshu’ah (“salvation,” “deliverance,” “rescue”) is a key word in the book of Isaiah. Noun and verb forms appear numerous times. This word occurs in the prayer in Isaiah 33:2: “Be . . . our salvation in time of distress.” It’s also used in verse 6 as a pronouncement about God: “He will be . . . a rich store of salvation.” In his commentary Isaiah: God Saves Sinners, Raymond C. Ortlund Jr. summarizes the book’s message with these words: “God is announcing to us through Isaiah: The Lord, for all that he is, saves, for all that’s worth, sinners, for all that we need. This truth is better than we give it credit for.” Isaiah 33:22 captures this truth well. “The Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; it is he who will save us.”
Arthur Jackson |
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SY:
UR: Get UP!
Jesus said, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” - Mark 2:11 (NIV)
“Ring!” goes the alarm. It is a sound most of us do not like much because it marks the time to leave a soft, warm bed to get up and start a new work day with its daily responsibilities. And yet, we get up and begin the day.
The Gospels offer several examples of how a command from Jesus is the impetus to go forward. To the paralyzed man who was carried by friends and lowered through the roof of a dwelling, Jesus said, “Get up, take your mat and go home.” To the deceased young daughter of Jairus, the synagogue leader, Jesus said, “My child, get up!” (Lk. 8:54).
“Get up!” What an empowering statement from our Savior to motivate us. Throughout the Gospels, the Lord calls people to active service: “Go . . . and preach” (Mk. 16:15); “hand over your coat” (Matt. 5:40); “give to the one who asks you” (Matt. 5:42); “make disciples of all nations” (Matt. 28:19). However we serve, the Lord promises always to be by our side in our journey. All we have to do is follow Jesus’ command and get up!
Today's Prayer
May your words continue to inspire us, O God, as we engage in active discipleship for the good of your kingdom. Amen.
Harvest Dave's blog:
Partnering with God
January 28 - He Is All You Need
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The road to true biblical Christianity isn’t easy. Going against the tide is beyond difficult. Persecution can be deadly. Standing firm to the end is what few will do. Life on the rocky Narrow Road is lonely; most take up residence on the sandy Wide Road. No, true biblical Christianity isn’t easy, but is made possible by Jesus’ death, burial, resurrection, and ascension.
It’s important to note that John never left the desert. Even when God launched his prophetic ministry, he remained in the desert. He was fully alive there. He didn’t stay because he was a social outcast, but because the desert gave him an intimacy with God he never wanted to lose. He didn’t leave the desert until he was carried to jail and killed. There’s life in the desert with Jesus. There’s death in the world without Him.
In the desert, all you have is God. He is all you ever need.
So what does a personally revived Christian look like? They’re pure, devoted, and fearless. They’re loyal to God and keep His commands. They cling to the cross and long for the return of Christ. While others let their love for the Lord, their brothers and sisters, and their enemies wax cold, they love with intensity.
They love truth, speak truth, and stand for truth. They stand stalwart against doubt and unbelief. They walk by faith and not by sight. They’re militant against lies and deception. They courageously swim against the tide of the world’s philosophies, movements, and culture.
While others are asleep to prayer, they’re mighty prayer warriors. They’re awake when others are asleep—and hungry for God when others don’t care. They pursue lives of holiness when other believers are steeped in compromise.
Father God, I would rather travel with You through the desert than settle into the comfort of the world. Shape me into a pure, devoted and fearless follower, loyal to all of Your commands. Show me how to continually love, speak and stand for Your truth! Teach me to pray, Lord! I want to be a mighty warrior for Your kingdom’s sake! Create in me a pure heart…to live a life devoted to holiness.
--Adapted from Thirsty: A 31-Day Journey to Personal Revival by Jamie Morgan. This book is available at prayershop.org. Use the code CONPSP3 at checkout to receive an additional 10% discount.
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Praying through the President’s First 31 Days
Day 9
Pray that the president would respect law and order in the U.S., especially as it relates to our first responders.
Every person is to be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a servant of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a servant of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for the sake of conscience (Romans 13:1-5).
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- Praise God as the only true God who has revealed himself to you in his Word and through his Son.
- Give thanks for the Bible through which God reveals himself and his will for your life.
- Confess any failure to use and respond to that revealed Word.
- Commit yourself to meditating on the Word and allowing it to dwell richly in your heart (Col. 3:16).
- Ask that you may remain in Christ and his words in you, so that you can bear much fruit to the Father’s glory (Jn. 15:7).
- Pray by name for unsaved friends and neighbors that they may know the love of God, may believe in his Son Jesus Christ, and will not perish but have everlasting life (Jn. 3:16).
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Prayer Points taken from Patterns for Prayer by Alvin VanderGriend. This book is available at prayershop.org. Use the code CONPSP3 at checkout to receive an additional 10% discount.
Connection (Devotions for Everyday Life) © 2025 is a free devotional published daily by OneCry Prayer. Find more resources at www.onecry.com
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