Life in this fallen, sin-cursed world is packed with trouble and trials. Instead of pretending they do not exist, Scripture faces the hardships of life directly. God initially comforts His people by granting them forgiveness, salvation, and the Holy Spirit. Yet God not only promises comfort to those who follow Him in the future, but also in the trials and difficulties of this present life. IN the most beloved of Psalms, David wrote confidently “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for you are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4). As we enter a new year, we are reminded that it comes with the hope of things better, but it also comes with the struggles of things unseen. Through all the events that 2022 brings into our life, we can find peace and comfort in the reality that Christ’s presence is always with us. On the night before His death, Jesus addressed the 11 disciples in the upper room, and sought to comfort them in the face of His departure. And tells the disciples, “Let not your hearts be troubled, believe in God, and believe … READ MORE

God is working providentially to bring about His plan of redemption, and we have seen that whether we realize it or not, we are a part of His accomplishing that plan. As we approach the new year, ask yourself how is that plan working out in your life. Some things we do, simply because it is our responsibility. For example, in Luke 2 Joseph went to Bethlehem, because the governing body made it a requirement, yet according to Micah 5:2 that was the plan of God. Some things we do because we are able. We need to remember that God does not ask us to do anything that we are not capable of doing. If God wants us to do something, He also gives us the ability to accomplish what He places before us. The Bible is full of examples of God working in unique ways to accomplish His tasks, through the lives of those who are able. For example, in 1 Samuel 17, God used a young man to kill a giant, when no one thought it could happen. Sometimes, God places us in situations where we can only do what we have to do. These times usually require … READ MORE

When we think of the incarnation of God, we forget the tremendous sacrifice that was made by Joseph and Mary in this process. Yet, they did so willingly, because they were willing to follow God no matter what the cost. The virgin conception and birth seemed to be illogical to the world (and still does), yet they understood that “all things are possible with God” As we go about our lives, we need to recognize that following the plan and purposes of God can at times can be hard and difficult. Our enemies will often tempt us to take the “easy” path, but the way of the Lord leads to a peace and satisfaction that goes against the cultural direction of the world. Joseph and Mary followed the Lord willingly, because they understood that God always has a bigger picture than “me” in mind with what He allows in our lives. May we choose to willingly submit to the plan and purpose of God as we face the new year. … READ MORE