What exactly does “in a nutshell” mean? And why talk about it as we approach the Christmas season? According to a phrases resource * I found, it means – “In a few words; concisely stated.” I suggest at this busy, exciting holiday time, getting Christmas in a nutshell might be helpful. So what does that look like?
As we enter the holiday seasons and the final portions of this year, most of us get pretty busy. Still, it’s essential to ask questions that matter most during these months of celebration. One question in particular often associated with Thanksgiving, affects life every day. What exactly is gratitude? Have you regularly asked yourself that question? I’ll throw in another question – “part B” to the first question. Are you “doing gratitude” each day?
Sometimes you just need a little pick-me-up! Days can get pretty tough as the years slip by. Yet – there is encouragement for the taking – all around you. Little things here and there. Have you found God’s little thing that encourages today?
I remember realizing years ago – it takes growing in alertness to notice God’s little thing that encourages. I’d like to share just a couple of examples from my life.
Most followers of Jesus have heard the dignified title “Savior and Lord.” I would like to suggest something about this title. Of course, it’s true, Jesus is Savior and Lord. But let’s consider two things. First, from the beginning, way back before anything was created – Lord is before Savior. And second, for every sincere Christian who lives their faith with resolve, consistency, and passion, this title starts to flip around – from “Savior and Lord” to “Lord and Savior.”
Approaching Christmas brings thoughts of a manger, a beautiful baby in white swaddles, Mary and Joseph, wisemen, shepherds, angels. Then add gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Now, pull this ancient beautiful story forward into the present and picture a bright, decorated evergreen tree, stockings at a fireplace hearth, goodies and wassail on a festive table. Family and friends are part of holiday plans – even during a pandemic. This year we add masks, social distancing, virtual visits for gift exchanges to share special moments. I’m sure you have explored creative options. Then there’s the beautiful Christmas music and cards or e-cards.
Do you stop to ponder what all this December celebration means and why you participate every year? Read More …
We bought a power washer. After borrowing one, we became instant believers. Gone was the greenish mossy mold on the house siding. The deck changed back to its natural wood color instead of the dingy gray-brown it had sported for a couple of seasons. Honestly, the difference was stunning. The cleaning power of water is pretty convincing. And power tools make life easier.
What would our lives be without power tools, not to mention our computers and technology gadgets? How would we ever function if there was a power blackout? We need power.
During this global COVID-19 pandemic, we should be reaching for God’s Power Tools often. His tool box is open with resources for every person. And His tools are free! No rental or purchase fees.
In this troubled, broken world, how encouraging to know God has a plan – a good, flexible, vast, yet detailed plan. God loves you deeply, and He has a plan for your life, too. This plan has encouragement, guidance, and hope. To discover this wonderful plan, you must decide what’s your number one. Depending how you answer that, it launches you into God’s good plan for your life – or not.
Recently, a short phrase in Scripture caught my attention as I was going through my quiet time book.* Stay. You don’t have to leave.
The disciples are in process of telling Jesus what to do. Imagine that! It has hit their radar that the crowd has been listening to His teachings all day. They did not bring any food. The obvious conclusion? “Send the people away to get food, Jesus.” They are being good disciples, don’t you think? They want to make Jesus aware, just in case He has missed something.
The Christmas holiday season is almost here! Many people are starting to get excited. Are you?
Have you wondered what the Advent season is about? What is the goal? Why do people participate? What value does it bring to your modern, extremely busy life – especially during a hectic month?
I’d like to tell you a bit more about Advent and why people still participate. Advent starts soon. It’s only days away.
This morning, I was thinking about something I don’t often. Foundations. I suppose engineers think a lot more about them. Apparently, the right foundation is everything. From your home to your fence to your raised flower beds, your career, your relationships, your health, your inner heart. Actually, your entire life structure needs a solid foundation. Read More …
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