New Day

Sometimes, we awaken in the morning with a sense of anticipation of good things. Christmas morning or the first day of a vacation cause our hearts to celebrate, and we look forward to the blessings of the day. But on some mornings, we awaken with a sense of dread or boredom in doing the same old things.

Psalm 40:3 says, “He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.” Let God put a new song in your mouth each day. Yes, we do do some of the same things and think some of the same thoughts every day. But God wants to give you new blessings and use you to bless others in new ways each day. Open your eyes to see, your ears to hear, and your heart to understand and receive God’s new blessings today and every day.

Who Am I?

We tend to define ourselves by whatever we are doing and, perhaps, by whatever people may say about us. We fear being rejected by people and, therefore, often seek to please others. Even in the best of times, we may be discouraged by who we think we are.

I Peter 2:4-5 says, “As you come to him, a living stone rejected by me but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” Those who trust in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord are chosen and precious in God’s sight. Let us be encouraged and strong in the knowledge that He is building us as living stones to be His temple for service unto Him. The temporary assessments about us from the world are meaningless in the face of God’s true love and acceptance when we become His children.

Prisoner Exchange

Every once in a while, we hear of a prisoner exchange. It could be the result of hostage negotiations or some political situation. The end results of these exchanges we don’t hear much about. History does record one prisoner exchange with eternal consequences. Barabbas was held in a Roman prison for murder and insurrection. Jesus was innocent of any crime or wrongdoing. But the Jewish leaders prevailed upon the Roman authorities to release Barabbas and to crucify Jesus.

Luke 23:18-20 says, “But they all cried out together, ‘Away with this man, and release to us Barabbas,’ a man who had been thrown into prison for an insurrection started in the city and for murder. Pilate addressed them once more, desiring to release Jesus, but they kept shouting, ‘Crucify, crucify him!'” Jesus was crucified and the guilty man, Barabbas, was set free. Jesus was sacrificed so that we, though also guilty, can be set free. A completely innocent Jesus died so that He could conquer death through His resurrection. His resurrection ensures that we might be granted eternal life through faith in Jesus, while also walking in freedom today.

What Are You Reading?

Reading provides innumerable benefits. It trains our minds and increases our knowledge. I read a lot of articles and books. Some offer thoughtful help, but many are useless and misleading. Where can we go to find trustworthy truth that benefits mind, body, and soul?

Psalm 1:1-2 says, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.” Fall in love with God’s Word and focus your mind on it. This is the way to reject walking in unwise counsel, staying on the path of evil, and abiding with those who reject God. God’s Word is truth. His Word provides light and power for life.

Limited Guarantee

We often buy things that offer a limited guarantee. The guarantee is only effective if certain conditions are active. Unfortunately, we do the same thing with love. We give love only when love is returned in certain ways. If the other person is not meeting our needs, then we withhold love. Fortunately, God does not offer limited love.

Psalm 86:5 says, “For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you.” God is always good and is always g oing good. He love for those who trust Him abounds and is steadfast, never changing, and always working the best for us.