Dec 23 2021

But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.

Adam and Eve allowed sin to enter the world, and humanity has suffered ever since. They chose to follow their own desires, instead of doing what God had instructed. Because of their actions our relationship with God was fractured, and it seemed like there was no hope. For centuries, the Jewish people offered sacrifices to atone for their sins. They followed the Law to its fullest, and still, there was a gap between man and God. We longed for a restored relationship with our Creator.

Ever since sin separated us from Him, God has continued to reach out to us. In this afternoon's verse in Galatians, Paul tells us that God had a plan that didn't happen until "the [fullness] of the time" had come. God knew precisely when Jesus needed to come to Earth and die on a cross. It wasn't haphazard; it was intentional. The end goal was for Jesus to redeem us from our sin, so we had the opportunity to become God's children.

Jesus's birth, death, and resurrection fulfilled more than three hundred prophecies that had been given over a span of centuries. Biblical scholars have concluded that the odds of anyone fulfilling that amount of prophecy is one chance in ten to the 157th power. Only God knew all that would be accomplished through Jesus's life.

God's great love for us can be seen throughout time. We are living right now and have the opportunity to know Him because of His plan. We can wholeheartedly choose to experience His love. What an amazing gift!

God, I'm so grateful that you sent Jesus to Earth. It was your plan that He would be born, live as an example to us, die, and then resurrect from the dead. You loved me so much that you spared no expense in sending your Son to save me. I am so glad that you wanted me to be your child. I didn't deserve your sacrifice, but you came willingly, at the exact moment you knew it needed to happen. Everything you say is true. Help me to believe in you like never before. Thank you for your perfect timing in everything you do. In Jesus's name, amen.

Dec 22 2021

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. :

Medicine can heal our physical body, but it can't heal our soul. So, it's interesting that this afternoon's verse says a "merry heart doeth good like a medicine."

Laughter and joy can bring healing to our hearts. In contrast, the next portion of the verse says, "a broken spirit drieth the bones." That means when our soul is suffering, it affects our whole being deeply, down to our very bones.

How we feel on the inside is often reflected in our countenance. If we allow negative attitudes to consume our hearts and minds, then it has the potential to steal our smile. Although a happy face is not always an indication of what is happening in our hearts, a frown almost always is a direct link to our emotions. We know that whenever we are weak, God can show His strength.

When our heart overflows with happiness, it is contagious to those around us. Joy can bring healing. And there are so many people who desperately need someone to share joy with them. God can use our lives to carry His joy to others.

When our spirit is crushed, and we can barely hold our heads up, we need the love and healing of Jesus that is expressed in the lives of others. That's one of the reasons it is so important to have people who will encourage us when we are struggling. Through faith and prayer, God can restore our joy and renew our minds.

Lord, there are times when I allow situations in life to steal my joy. I confess that I let things affect my emotions when I should be trusting you. I know that real happiness can only come from you. Please bring healing to the dry places in my life. Let my smile reflect the change that has taken place in my life since I have known you. Help me to enjoy the life that you have given to me. You are all I need to be fulfilled. Fill me with your love and grace. In Jesus' name, amen.


Add to Favorites

← View Last Verse View Next Verse →