Encouragement for Life

This time of year can be so painful for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one. If you haven't experienced the depth of such a loss, know what a blessing it truly is and how worthy it is of giving praise to God. This year, experiencing the grief and loss of a spouse will be the reality for so many. 

When Jim and I walked away from that ceremony we came away thrilled with all of the tradition and proud of the determination of those troops, but also sobered with the reality of what it means and looks like to be truly committed to something, a cause, a creed, a country — a set of beliefs. 

The holidays can be a special time to spend with family and friends, celebrating a common faith. But if you share the family table with unbelievers, it may be a difficult time - yet we can find peace and guidance in the Word of God. We are called to love (John 15:12-13). God Himself is love (1 John 4:8) and we are made in His image (Genesis 1:27). We are to walk as Jesus walked (1 John 2:6) and Jesus is one with God (John 1:18). The Bible is a blueprint for ministering to the lost and broken.

Prayer is the principle means by which man, created in God’s image, can communicate with Him. From the earliest times, prayer has been an integral part of the worship of God.

If you want to understand God's Word more deeply, start with today's devotion about the main themes of the book of Matthew. The gospel of Matthew tells us that Jesus has conquered the power of death, and promises that He is coming again!

Each new day presents opportunities to grow your faith, manage your work and goals, and make good use of the time God gives you. How can you effectively manage your time better tomorrow?

Everyone’s been in situations where there’s strife and malice with others. And it can be so easy to succumb to our negative emotions and actively engage in the conflict. Thank God for His peace!

Our thoughts and actions rely heavily on experiences. This is why it is important to live a life of gratitude and love. When we are bombarded with doubt, it helps to recall the blessings He has given us, the trials He has walked us through, and the stories of triumph He has given us in His Word.

 

It may take you a while to determine your areas of giftedness and learn how to best minister to the other members of your church. Follow these to help you identify your giftedness and begin serving God and others!

Paul knew the importance of strategic prayer in his own life and the lives of others. And he knew what to pray for. His prayers focused on spiritual issues. He knew that if those he was praying for were spiritually mature, they could handle anything.

You’ve probably experienced managing a household or making a plan. Well, my friend, God is the Master Manager, and He is organizing everything in your life according to His timing. This is a great comfort when managing life's pressures.

How’s your friendship with your beloved? Are you purposefully and willfully making time for fun? Here are several ideas to help kick-start good times again.