Journey Devotional | December 2012 sample
Journey ®
A WOMAN’S GUIDE TO
Heartfelt Christmas— The Deliverer Arrives
Reach Out WWW.LIFEWAY.COM
and Touch Him DECEMBER 2012
U.S.A. $3.95
INTIMACY GOD
WITH
Journey
®
Contents
V O L U M E 1 9 , N U M BER 1 2 DECEMBER 2012
Journey devotional magazine equips women to develop a daily walk with God and to serve Him in their homes, churches, and communities.
Editor’s Notes 6 12 18 34 42 4
Devotionals Week One Week Two Week Three Week Four Week Five
etc. Christmas Shopping
5
Going Beyond Reach Out and Touch Him
11 Great Prayers of the Bible Check us out on Facebook at facebook.com/journeymagazine. Production & Ministry Team Pamela Nixon Lead Editor Tammy Drolsum Paula A. Kirk Susan Nelson Donna Pennell Editors Chris Adams Lorie L. Keene Jennifer McCaman Contributing Editors Michelle Strickland Art Director Julie Tozer Aldrich Operations Manager for Publishing Chandra Bennett Editorial Project Leader Chris Adams Senior Lead Women’s Ministry Specialist
JOURNEY: A WOMAN’S GUIDE TO INTIMACY WITH GOD (ISSN 1073-4473; Item 005075231) is a Christian women’s devotional magazine published monthly by LifeWay Press®, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234, Thom S. Rainer, President, LifeWay Christian Resources. Copyright © 2012 by LifeWay Press®. How to Order Journey If you need help with an order, WRITE LifeWay Church Resources, Customer Service Center, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0113. For subscriptions, FAX (615) 251-5818 or E-MAIL [email protected]. For bulk shipments mailed quarterly to one address, FAX (615) 251-5933 or E-MAIL [email protected]. Order ONLINE at www.lifeway.com/journey. Mail address changes to Journey, same address. Subscription Pricing Annual individual subscription, $24.95 for one year (12 issues); $43.95 for two years (24 issues); $59.95 for three years (36 issues). Please allow 6-8 weeks for arrival of first issue. Bulk shipments mailed quarterly to one address when ordered with other literature, $1.60 each issue plus shipping. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2009 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers. Content is copyright © 2012 by Walk Thru the Bible Ministries, Inc. Contents may not be reproduced in any form unless authorized in writing. Printed in U.S.A. To investigate the possibility of advertising in Journey, e-mail [email protected]. Send questions/comments to: Editor, Journey • One LifeWay Plaza • Nashville, TN 37234-0175. Or make comments on the Web at www.lifeway.com. Cover photography © Getty Images. Devotional page art by Thinkstock. Backgrounds by Shutterstock and iStockphoto.
Simeon’s Prophetic Praise
17 Frazzled Female Delighting in God Today
20 Trapped in Egyptian Cotton Tempted to Sin
22 Girl Talk Budget-Friendly Christmas Gifts
26 Café Connection Impartial, Sincere Wisdom
31 Graceful Landings A Safe Harbor
32 Heartfelt Christmas Your Rescuer Arrives
39 The Dark Side of the Christmas Story An Act of War
40 Succeed by Taking Small Steps Giving Your Best Effort
{
For individual or gift subscriptions or church bulk orders, go to: www.lifeway. com/journey
Monday, December 3
Stuff [Jesus] then told them, “Watch out and be on guard against all greed because one’s life is not in the abundance of his possessions” (Luke 12:15).
L
ast year, I really wanted our family to focus on Christ during Christmas—not on all the presents they might receive. But it’s hard to focus on Jesus when everything in our culture is telling us we need and deserve more stuff. As I shopped in the mall and discount stores, I was saddened by the over-the-top displays with jolly Santas and pointy-eared elves. Some of the blinking lights flashed with such intensity that they reminded me vaguely of the Las Vegas strip. Where was Jesus? My two teenagers had their hearts set on the latest and greatest cell phones and other electronic gadgets, and my 10 year old had a list that was embarrassingly long. He had been sucked into Madison Avenue’s marketing plan to make him want everything he saw during commercial breaks. Even my husband, Matt, and I weren’t immune. He wanted a bigger big screen TV than we already had. And the more I watched TV and looked through home decorating magazines, my list of wants grew pretty long too. After the bills rolled in for all the stuff we’d purchased, we decided that in the future we would put a limit on gifts for family and friends and stick to it. We also decided we
6
would pray about what gifts Jesus wanted us to give to Him. Maybe it would be bringing a meal to an elderly neighbor, serving in our church’s food pantry, or purchasing livestock for a family living in poverty in India. This year, our giving will be more thoughtful, and we will have an opportunity to bless others who are in desperate need— people who can’t repay us for our gifts. And Jesus will be pleased. Happy Birthday, Jesus.
Christmas
has become so commercialized in our society. It’s hard not to fall into the trap of giving in to our greed. This year, ask the Lord how you can honor Him in your giving and serving. Check with your church about helping the needy, and get involved with a ministry that helps people in desperate poverty. Check out www.worldvision.org and www.compassion.com.
Steps of Faith Jesus, help me to honor You this Christmas in my Deeper giving and serving. Let me take time to rest Walk in Your presence and Ephesians kneel in worship at 5:1-5 the manger.
Tuesday, December 4
Someday Teach us to number our days carefully so that we may develop wisdom (Psalm 90:12).
Iin was watching a movie recently which the female character was telling the male character about all of the places in the world that she wanted to visit someday. He remarked, “Someday is just code for never.” That phrase stuck with me for several days, and I kept thinking how many times I either say it or think it: Someday I’ll get my house in order. Someday I’ll read through the Bible again. Someday I’ll take my husband away for the weekend. Someday I’ll learn how to swim. Someday I’ll write my parents a long letter that goes in an envelope with a stamp. Someday, someday, someday. My life is busy, just like everyone else’s. I have a full-time job, a husband and two teenagers, a house to take care of, and church commitments. My days are filled with things I have to do. I have yet to learn the fine art of balance between what I have to do, what I’m committed to do, what I want to do. But here’s what has stuck with me from that simple phrase from a fluffy movie: I may not have
tomorrow. Someday can turn into never pretty quickly because Scripture tells us, “You don’t even know what tomorrow will bring— what your life will be! For you are like smoke that appears for a little while, then vanishes” (James 4:14). I may never have another chance to tell that person “I love you.” I may never have the chance to establish a regular quiet time with Jesus. I may never be able to write a novel or learn how to swim. So Jesus, teach me to use my time carefully, purposefully, and in the way that You want me to spend it. Today is a gift, yesterday is gone, and tomorrow may never come.
What about
you? What are your “someday I’ll do” things? How can you spend the time God has given you in a way that glorifies Him and brings joy to the people you love?
Steps of Faith
Deeper Walk James 4:13-17
Father, thank You for the precious gift of time. Help me to spend it wisely.
7
Wednesday, December 5
Loving Your Neighbor “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39).
N
ot long ago, my husband and I noticed that we are the only people on our end of the street who go to church. We began to feel burdened for our neighbors, people who go about their daily lives so close to us, yet who don’t seem to know about the Lord. Over the past few months we have deliberately looked for ways to serve our neighbors, hoping that we can build a relationship with them and share Christ’s love. We’ve done simple yet deliberate things to serve them, like taking neighbors their mail, shoveling snow off their driveways, and returning their trash cans on trash day. At Christmas time, I decided to hold a brunch at my house and invite seven different ladies who live right around us, some who live by themselves, some who have families. We had a fun time together laughing and talking and sharing stories. When it was time to leave, one woman said with surprise, “It was so nice of you to do this. I thought you were going to be selling something at this party, but you did it just so we could all get to know each other!” Her remark showed me that people just don’t expect kindness and love from others; it’s not our
8
natural state. What a perfect way to explain Jesus’ love for us: no strings attached.
Whether you
live in an apartment complex or down a country road, there are people whom God has placed near you as neighbors. In a culture where many live isolated, independent lives, it’s easy to do our own thing and not even bother to get to know our neighbors. But every relationship is an opportunity for believers to share the love of Christ in word and in deed. Pray that God would open a door, maybe even a literal door, to a relationship with a neighbor in your life. Look for ways to serve that person and sow seeds of the gospel in their hearts.
Steps of Faith God, please use me as an ambassador for Your kingdom. Let me follow Jesus’ example of serving others.
Deeper Walk Matthew 5:13-16
Thursday, December 6
Be Slow to Click “Share” My dearly loved brothers, understand this: Everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger (James 1:19).
“R
achel had no business attacking you in a public forum like that,” Kelly said. “I’m sick of all the ranting and criticizing other people’s opinions on Facebook.” Ann looked around the teachers’ lounge to make sure they were alone. “Rachel texted me to apologize. We’re OK.” But were they really? Would she be under Rachel’s microscope now? Ann had innocently posted a favorite quote on Facebook, hoping her friends would be encouraged by it. Instead, Rachel posted a comment about the author’s unscriptural views, expressing her shock that Ann would read his work, let alone share it. Lord, I just liked the quote, Ann prayed. Maybe she should have done a little research before putting it out there. But Rachel didn’t need to respond so harshly. What was it about Facebook and Twitter that made grown women so impulsive? “Even if she did apologize, I think you should add something to that thread, defending your point-of-view. Or maybe I will.” Ann had already thought of that and said, “No, I’m going to delete the post when I get home.”
Realizing the anger that the scenario had stirred up in Kelly, she added, “I might take a break from social networking. Sometimes I don’t like what it brings out in people, including me.”
Sites like Facebook and Twitter
provide a convenient platform for exciting news, prayer needs, thoughts, and opinions. But how often does the share button trigger snap responses, unkind comments, and public tirades to those we call friends? How often do we really stop and think before posting? Applying James 1:19 to our online activity, whether it’s Facebook or blogging, can remind us to be slow to speak in all forms of communication, and stir us to represent Christ, even as we click “share.”
Steps of Faith Heavenly Father, I never want to use my words to hurt or offend others. Help me to keep my attitude in check in private conversations or public forums.
Deeper Walk James 1:19-25
9
Friday, December 7
Fighting for Joy Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:2).
Ionet justyearsortI heard of started building until myself mumble, “I hate this time of year.” Then I heard that voice, either my mother’s or God’s, saying that hate was a strong word. And then began the mental debate: But it’s a hard time of year. Too many unmet expectations, too many demands on schedules, too much money being spent, too many memories of loved ones passed. Sadly, the holidays have become a trial for me. Instead of a celebration, disdain. Instead of joy, sadness. Instead of focusing on the birth of Christ, I became a parent to a grumpy old woman in my soul. God, I don’t want to be depressed. This is a time to celebrate You, enjoy family, give back, and reflect. Then the tears started. I tried telling my heart to rejoice, but I was still dealing with loneliness and the difficulties of being a single mom two years after the divorce. After sharing with a friend over coffee and hearing her exhortation to fight what she believed was spiritual warfare, I decided to fight. I decided that if I believed in God, I had to take Him at His word— that I can be transformed by the renewing of my mind. I began using a devotional guide provided 10
by my church, prayerfully memorizing Scripture and listening for God’s voice when I prayed. I began stopping myself whenever my mind wandered to the dark side. The question, How can I think about this differently? is my motto. It’s a struggle, but God is teaching me to trust Him as my Defender.
The holidays are hard for a lot of
people for any number of reasons. As we seek the Father in Scripture and listen to His message for us, we begin to take the focus off of ourselves—what we’ve lost, who hasn’t met our expectations, who has more than we do, how things are “different” now—and direct our attitudes and hearts toward the One whom the season is all about. As Scripture says, “Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).
Steps of Faith Father, in spite of the busyness of this time of year, help me to reflect on the true meaning of the season. Turn my attitude and my heart to focus on You.
Deeper Walk Psalm 42
December 8 & 9
G r e a t
P r a y e r s
o f
t h e
B i b l e
© THINKSTOCK
Simeon’s
Prophetic Praise by Anne Alexander
We get a glimpse into the man, Simeon, in this passage. “
This man was righteous and devout . . . and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple. . . . Simeon took Him up in his arms, [and] praised God . . .” (Luke 2:25-28). From these few verses, we learn a lot about Simeon. He was a man of integrity who was humble and Spirit-led. If he had not obeyed and entered the temple when he was “guided by the Spirit,” Simeon would have missed seeing the infant Jesus. He also would have missed the experience of knowing that God fulfilled His promise. Simeon had waited his entire life to see the promised Messiah, and he lived each day in anticipation of the Savior’s coming. When at last he saw baby Jesus, Simeon’s immediate response was to praise God. Throughout the Bible, there is a consistent pattern in the prayers of God’s children—biblical prayers begin with worship. That’s a good pattern for us as well. As Simeon held baby Jesus he didn’t make a request or a confession. He praised the one true God for keeping His promise, and he acknowledged he was prepared to die. “Now, Master, You can dismiss Your slave in peace, as You promised. For my eyes have seen Your salvation” (Luke 2:29-30). Now that’s a life to imitate! Could the same things be said of you that were said of Simeon? Would people describe you as one who lives right—with integrity and humility? Are your ears attuned to the Holy Spirit’s promptings? Do you obey His promptings? Jesus is coming again. Are you living your life anticipating the second coming of the Lord? God always keeps His promises. He did for Simeon and He will for you!
Deeper Walk
Anne Alexander is the mother of two adult children and lives in Atlanta, Ga. She teaches, writes, and speaks to women’s groups and is a freelance editor.
Saturday: Luke 2:25-35 Sunday: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
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Discussion Guide
I
© THINKSTOCK
C a f é
C o n n e c t i o n
Impartial, Sincere Wisdom by Chris Adams
n this year’s Café Connection columns, we have discussed and seen the progression of gaining wisdom as each of the following attributes builds on the previous one: pure, peaceable, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit. This month, we will address the last two aspects of godly wisdom listed in James 3:17 (NIV): impartiality and sincerity. v Read James 3:17 once again. v Define these two words that describe godly wisdom: impartiality and sincerity. v Read Deuteronomy 1:17 and 10:17 and Proverbs 24:23. What do these verses say about partiality? v What was said about Jesus and partiality in Luke 20:21? v How does this world of privilege and status view impartiality (or conversely, favoritism)? v Have you ever been passed over for a promotion or a leadership position because someone else had the right connections even though you were better qualified for the position? We are to love and respect all people, not just those who can help us get where we want to go. v Compare sincerity with its opposite: hypocrisy. v Read 2 Corinthians 1:12 and 2:17. What do they say about sincerity? v What do Luke 11:37-42, Romans 12:9, and Matthew 23:28 say about hypocrisy? v Have you ever stated something about your faith and then lived differently (in other words, you didn’t walk your talk), or have you seen someone else do this? If so, what was the situation, and what were its consequences? Even Christian women are prone to wearing masks, but we should not pretend to be something we are not. We may be tempted to hide our true feelings and our thoughts when instead we need to be honest, open, and transparent—those attributes reflect godly wisdom.
Chris Adams is senior lead women’s ministry specialist at LifeWay Church Resources, Nashville, Tenn.
Weekend •
December 22 & 23
Heartfelt
Christmas Your Rescuer Arrives © THINKSTOCK
by Laurin Makohon
Recently I’ve been walking one of my best friends through a massive “I-feel-like-I’ve been-kickedin-the-gut” heartbreak. She’s one of the most wonderful, captivating people I know—she’s winsome, she’s witty, she’s kind. She sees life in this amazingly beautiful way, and my life is so much richer by seeing her view of things. She absolutely adored this man, but yet, to the shock of us all, after a few months shy of a year, he chose to walk
32
away. My theory is that he missed really, truly seeing her heart. Sure, they talked and spent time together, but he didn’t have the ability to see the depth of her, the beauty, the richness. He just missed her. And it has shaken her to her core. We’ve spent hours and hours grieving. She says that the ache feels like a black hole that threatens to swallow her up, and that it is, at times, almost unbearable. It has been tough for her to get out of bed and face each day.
While walking her through this I’ve become convinced that putting your heart out there for someone that you love and having that person reject you is the worst ache ever. While my friend’s grief is dark and sad and mournful, it has cast a beautiful light on Christmas. It has helped me see Christmas in an entirely new way. When Jesus came to earth, the God of the universe put Himself out there. He made Himself vulnerable to our rejection. His arrival and His life on earth announced to the world: “Here I am. This is Me. This is My heart. This is what moves Me to tears, what lights Me up with passion, what motivates Me to My core. I am here because I love you. Deeply. Will you love Me?”
His death and resurrection was our only hope. It’s true that God’s arrival on earth was a much-needed rescue. His death and resurrection was our only hope against the curse of death that our sin had placed us under. It’s true that Jesus came to show us who God is and what He’s like. And it’s true that Jesus’ arrival on earth was an invasion of the rightful King against the un-kingdom. It was all of those things. But it was also a gesture of complete vulnerability motivated by a deep, deep love. In a
way, Jesus coming to earth was God making this statement: “I am God. Here’s My heart. And I’m hoping that you will love Me.” What a great risk! God the allpowerful, God the invincible, made Himself vulnerable. His great love for us couldn’t keep Him away. The more deeply He loves us, the more He opens Himself up for rejection. And people do reject Him—He feels all that my friend has been feeling, and far more because His love is so infinite. Yet He pressed on and came anyway—for those of us who would turn toward Him, for those of us who would say yes. What a fearless, relentless pursuit. My prayer is that this Christmas, you’ll get a clearer glimpse of the deep, deep love that God has for you. My prayer is that His love for you will sink down into your heart— into those empty places where no other love can reach. Because God’s love for you is an I’m-coming-afteryou love. It’s a nothing-will-keepMe-from-you love. It’s never-ending, soul-transforming, wound-healing, insecurity-melting love. The God of the universe who is completely whole in and of Himself and who has no need for anything put His heart on the line for you. He came after you. He pressed through all obstacles. Because you are worth it to Him. Saturday:
Deeper Walk
© 2009 by Walk Thru the Bible Ministries, Inc.
John 3:1-21 Sunday: Romans 5
33
A WOMAN’S GUIDE TO
Heartfelt Christmas— The Deliverer Arrives
Reach Out WWW.LIFEWAY.COM
and Touch Him DECEMBER 2012
U.S.A. $3.95
INTIMACY GOD
WITH
Journey
®
Contents
V O L U M E 1 9 , N U M BER 1 2 DECEMBER 2012
Journey devotional magazine equips women to develop a daily walk with God and to serve Him in their homes, churches, and communities.
Editor’s Notes 6 12 18 34 42 4
Devotionals Week One Week Two Week Three Week Four Week Five
etc. Christmas Shopping
5
Going Beyond Reach Out and Touch Him
11 Great Prayers of the Bible Check us out on Facebook at facebook.com/journeymagazine. Production & Ministry Team Pamela Nixon Lead Editor Tammy Drolsum Paula A. Kirk Susan Nelson Donna Pennell Editors Chris Adams Lorie L. Keene Jennifer McCaman Contributing Editors Michelle Strickland Art Director Julie Tozer Aldrich Operations Manager for Publishing Chandra Bennett Editorial Project Leader Chris Adams Senior Lead Women’s Ministry Specialist
JOURNEY: A WOMAN’S GUIDE TO INTIMACY WITH GOD (ISSN 1073-4473; Item 005075231) is a Christian women’s devotional magazine published monthly by LifeWay Press®, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234, Thom S. Rainer, President, LifeWay Christian Resources. Copyright © 2012 by LifeWay Press®. How to Order Journey If you need help with an order, WRITE LifeWay Church Resources, Customer Service Center, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0113. For subscriptions, FAX (615) 251-5818 or E-MAIL [email protected]. For bulk shipments mailed quarterly to one address, FAX (615) 251-5933 or E-MAIL [email protected]. Order ONLINE at www.lifeway.com/journey. Mail address changes to Journey, same address. Subscription Pricing Annual individual subscription, $24.95 for one year (12 issues); $43.95 for two years (24 issues); $59.95 for three years (36 issues). Please allow 6-8 weeks for arrival of first issue. Bulk shipments mailed quarterly to one address when ordered with other literature, $1.60 each issue plus shipping. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2009 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers. Content is copyright © 2012 by Walk Thru the Bible Ministries, Inc. Contents may not be reproduced in any form unless authorized in writing. Printed in U.S.A. To investigate the possibility of advertising in Journey, e-mail [email protected]. Send questions/comments to: Editor, Journey • One LifeWay Plaza • Nashville, TN 37234-0175. Or make comments on the Web at www.lifeway.com. Cover photography © Getty Images. Devotional page art by Thinkstock. Backgrounds by Shutterstock and iStockphoto.
Simeon’s Prophetic Praise
17 Frazzled Female Delighting in God Today
20 Trapped in Egyptian Cotton Tempted to Sin
22 Girl Talk Budget-Friendly Christmas Gifts
26 Café Connection Impartial, Sincere Wisdom
31 Graceful Landings A Safe Harbor
32 Heartfelt Christmas Your Rescuer Arrives
39 The Dark Side of the Christmas Story An Act of War
40 Succeed by Taking Small Steps Giving Your Best Effort
{
For individual or gift subscriptions or church bulk orders, go to: www.lifeway. com/journey
Monday, December 3
Stuff [Jesus] then told them, “Watch out and be on guard against all greed because one’s life is not in the abundance of his possessions” (Luke 12:15).
L
ast year, I really wanted our family to focus on Christ during Christmas—not on all the presents they might receive. But it’s hard to focus on Jesus when everything in our culture is telling us we need and deserve more stuff. As I shopped in the mall and discount stores, I was saddened by the over-the-top displays with jolly Santas and pointy-eared elves. Some of the blinking lights flashed with such intensity that they reminded me vaguely of the Las Vegas strip. Where was Jesus? My two teenagers had their hearts set on the latest and greatest cell phones and other electronic gadgets, and my 10 year old had a list that was embarrassingly long. He had been sucked into Madison Avenue’s marketing plan to make him want everything he saw during commercial breaks. Even my husband, Matt, and I weren’t immune. He wanted a bigger big screen TV than we already had. And the more I watched TV and looked through home decorating magazines, my list of wants grew pretty long too. After the bills rolled in for all the stuff we’d purchased, we decided that in the future we would put a limit on gifts for family and friends and stick to it. We also decided we
6
would pray about what gifts Jesus wanted us to give to Him. Maybe it would be bringing a meal to an elderly neighbor, serving in our church’s food pantry, or purchasing livestock for a family living in poverty in India. This year, our giving will be more thoughtful, and we will have an opportunity to bless others who are in desperate need— people who can’t repay us for our gifts. And Jesus will be pleased. Happy Birthday, Jesus.
Christmas
has become so commercialized in our society. It’s hard not to fall into the trap of giving in to our greed. This year, ask the Lord how you can honor Him in your giving and serving. Check with your church about helping the needy, and get involved with a ministry that helps people in desperate poverty. Check out www.worldvision.org and www.compassion.com.
Steps of Faith Jesus, help me to honor You this Christmas in my Deeper giving and serving. Let me take time to rest Walk in Your presence and Ephesians kneel in worship at 5:1-5 the manger.
Tuesday, December 4
Someday Teach us to number our days carefully so that we may develop wisdom (Psalm 90:12).
Iin was watching a movie recently which the female character was telling the male character about all of the places in the world that she wanted to visit someday. He remarked, “Someday is just code for never.” That phrase stuck with me for several days, and I kept thinking how many times I either say it or think it: Someday I’ll get my house in order. Someday I’ll read through the Bible again. Someday I’ll take my husband away for the weekend. Someday I’ll learn how to swim. Someday I’ll write my parents a long letter that goes in an envelope with a stamp. Someday, someday, someday. My life is busy, just like everyone else’s. I have a full-time job, a husband and two teenagers, a house to take care of, and church commitments. My days are filled with things I have to do. I have yet to learn the fine art of balance between what I have to do, what I’m committed to do, what I want to do. But here’s what has stuck with me from that simple phrase from a fluffy movie: I may not have
tomorrow. Someday can turn into never pretty quickly because Scripture tells us, “You don’t even know what tomorrow will bring— what your life will be! For you are like smoke that appears for a little while, then vanishes” (James 4:14). I may never have another chance to tell that person “I love you.” I may never have the chance to establish a regular quiet time with Jesus. I may never be able to write a novel or learn how to swim. So Jesus, teach me to use my time carefully, purposefully, and in the way that You want me to spend it. Today is a gift, yesterday is gone, and tomorrow may never come.
What about
you? What are your “someday I’ll do” things? How can you spend the time God has given you in a way that glorifies Him and brings joy to the people you love?
Steps of Faith
Deeper Walk James 4:13-17
Father, thank You for the precious gift of time. Help me to spend it wisely.
7
Wednesday, December 5
Loving Your Neighbor “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39).
N
ot long ago, my husband and I noticed that we are the only people on our end of the street who go to church. We began to feel burdened for our neighbors, people who go about their daily lives so close to us, yet who don’t seem to know about the Lord. Over the past few months we have deliberately looked for ways to serve our neighbors, hoping that we can build a relationship with them and share Christ’s love. We’ve done simple yet deliberate things to serve them, like taking neighbors their mail, shoveling snow off their driveways, and returning their trash cans on trash day. At Christmas time, I decided to hold a brunch at my house and invite seven different ladies who live right around us, some who live by themselves, some who have families. We had a fun time together laughing and talking and sharing stories. When it was time to leave, one woman said with surprise, “It was so nice of you to do this. I thought you were going to be selling something at this party, but you did it just so we could all get to know each other!” Her remark showed me that people just don’t expect kindness and love from others; it’s not our
8
natural state. What a perfect way to explain Jesus’ love for us: no strings attached.
Whether you
live in an apartment complex or down a country road, there are people whom God has placed near you as neighbors. In a culture where many live isolated, independent lives, it’s easy to do our own thing and not even bother to get to know our neighbors. But every relationship is an opportunity for believers to share the love of Christ in word and in deed. Pray that God would open a door, maybe even a literal door, to a relationship with a neighbor in your life. Look for ways to serve that person and sow seeds of the gospel in their hearts.
Steps of Faith God, please use me as an ambassador for Your kingdom. Let me follow Jesus’ example of serving others.
Deeper Walk Matthew 5:13-16
Thursday, December 6
Be Slow to Click “Share” My dearly loved brothers, understand this: Everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger (James 1:19).
“R
achel had no business attacking you in a public forum like that,” Kelly said. “I’m sick of all the ranting and criticizing other people’s opinions on Facebook.” Ann looked around the teachers’ lounge to make sure they were alone. “Rachel texted me to apologize. We’re OK.” But were they really? Would she be under Rachel’s microscope now? Ann had innocently posted a favorite quote on Facebook, hoping her friends would be encouraged by it. Instead, Rachel posted a comment about the author’s unscriptural views, expressing her shock that Ann would read his work, let alone share it. Lord, I just liked the quote, Ann prayed. Maybe she should have done a little research before putting it out there. But Rachel didn’t need to respond so harshly. What was it about Facebook and Twitter that made grown women so impulsive? “Even if she did apologize, I think you should add something to that thread, defending your point-of-view. Or maybe I will.” Ann had already thought of that and said, “No, I’m going to delete the post when I get home.”
Realizing the anger that the scenario had stirred up in Kelly, she added, “I might take a break from social networking. Sometimes I don’t like what it brings out in people, including me.”
Sites like Facebook and Twitter
provide a convenient platform for exciting news, prayer needs, thoughts, and opinions. But how often does the share button trigger snap responses, unkind comments, and public tirades to those we call friends? How often do we really stop and think before posting? Applying James 1:19 to our online activity, whether it’s Facebook or blogging, can remind us to be slow to speak in all forms of communication, and stir us to represent Christ, even as we click “share.”
Steps of Faith Heavenly Father, I never want to use my words to hurt or offend others. Help me to keep my attitude in check in private conversations or public forums.
Deeper Walk James 1:19-25
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Friday, December 7
Fighting for Joy Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:2).
Ionet justyearsortI heard of started building until myself mumble, “I hate this time of year.” Then I heard that voice, either my mother’s or God’s, saying that hate was a strong word. And then began the mental debate: But it’s a hard time of year. Too many unmet expectations, too many demands on schedules, too much money being spent, too many memories of loved ones passed. Sadly, the holidays have become a trial for me. Instead of a celebration, disdain. Instead of joy, sadness. Instead of focusing on the birth of Christ, I became a parent to a grumpy old woman in my soul. God, I don’t want to be depressed. This is a time to celebrate You, enjoy family, give back, and reflect. Then the tears started. I tried telling my heart to rejoice, but I was still dealing with loneliness and the difficulties of being a single mom two years after the divorce. After sharing with a friend over coffee and hearing her exhortation to fight what she believed was spiritual warfare, I decided to fight. I decided that if I believed in God, I had to take Him at His word— that I can be transformed by the renewing of my mind. I began using a devotional guide provided 10
by my church, prayerfully memorizing Scripture and listening for God’s voice when I prayed. I began stopping myself whenever my mind wandered to the dark side. The question, How can I think about this differently? is my motto. It’s a struggle, but God is teaching me to trust Him as my Defender.
The holidays are hard for a lot of
people for any number of reasons. As we seek the Father in Scripture and listen to His message for us, we begin to take the focus off of ourselves—what we’ve lost, who hasn’t met our expectations, who has more than we do, how things are “different” now—and direct our attitudes and hearts toward the One whom the season is all about. As Scripture says, “Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).
Steps of Faith Father, in spite of the busyness of this time of year, help me to reflect on the true meaning of the season. Turn my attitude and my heart to focus on You.
Deeper Walk Psalm 42
December 8 & 9
G r e a t
P r a y e r s
o f
t h e
B i b l e
© THINKSTOCK
Simeon’s
Prophetic Praise by Anne Alexander
We get a glimpse into the man, Simeon, in this passage. “
This man was righteous and devout . . . and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple. . . . Simeon took Him up in his arms, [and] praised God . . .” (Luke 2:25-28). From these few verses, we learn a lot about Simeon. He was a man of integrity who was humble and Spirit-led. If he had not obeyed and entered the temple when he was “guided by the Spirit,” Simeon would have missed seeing the infant Jesus. He also would have missed the experience of knowing that God fulfilled His promise. Simeon had waited his entire life to see the promised Messiah, and he lived each day in anticipation of the Savior’s coming. When at last he saw baby Jesus, Simeon’s immediate response was to praise God. Throughout the Bible, there is a consistent pattern in the prayers of God’s children—biblical prayers begin with worship. That’s a good pattern for us as well. As Simeon held baby Jesus he didn’t make a request or a confession. He praised the one true God for keeping His promise, and he acknowledged he was prepared to die. “Now, Master, You can dismiss Your slave in peace, as You promised. For my eyes have seen Your salvation” (Luke 2:29-30). Now that’s a life to imitate! Could the same things be said of you that were said of Simeon? Would people describe you as one who lives right—with integrity and humility? Are your ears attuned to the Holy Spirit’s promptings? Do you obey His promptings? Jesus is coming again. Are you living your life anticipating the second coming of the Lord? God always keeps His promises. He did for Simeon and He will for you!
Deeper Walk
Anne Alexander is the mother of two adult children and lives in Atlanta, Ga. She teaches, writes, and speaks to women’s groups and is a freelance editor.
Saturday: Luke 2:25-35 Sunday: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
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Discussion Guide
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© THINKSTOCK
C a f é
C o n n e c t i o n
Impartial, Sincere Wisdom by Chris Adams
n this year’s Café Connection columns, we have discussed and seen the progression of gaining wisdom as each of the following attributes builds on the previous one: pure, peaceable, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit. This month, we will address the last two aspects of godly wisdom listed in James 3:17 (NIV): impartiality and sincerity. v Read James 3:17 once again. v Define these two words that describe godly wisdom: impartiality and sincerity. v Read Deuteronomy 1:17 and 10:17 and Proverbs 24:23. What do these verses say about partiality? v What was said about Jesus and partiality in Luke 20:21? v How does this world of privilege and status view impartiality (or conversely, favoritism)? v Have you ever been passed over for a promotion or a leadership position because someone else had the right connections even though you were better qualified for the position? We are to love and respect all people, not just those who can help us get where we want to go. v Compare sincerity with its opposite: hypocrisy. v Read 2 Corinthians 1:12 and 2:17. What do they say about sincerity? v What do Luke 11:37-42, Romans 12:9, and Matthew 23:28 say about hypocrisy? v Have you ever stated something about your faith and then lived differently (in other words, you didn’t walk your talk), or have you seen someone else do this? If so, what was the situation, and what were its consequences? Even Christian women are prone to wearing masks, but we should not pretend to be something we are not. We may be tempted to hide our true feelings and our thoughts when instead we need to be honest, open, and transparent—those attributes reflect godly wisdom.
Chris Adams is senior lead women’s ministry specialist at LifeWay Church Resources, Nashville, Tenn.
Weekend •
December 22 & 23
Heartfelt
Christmas Your Rescuer Arrives © THINKSTOCK
by Laurin Makohon
Recently I’ve been walking one of my best friends through a massive “I-feel-like-I’ve been-kickedin-the-gut” heartbreak. She’s one of the most wonderful, captivating people I know—she’s winsome, she’s witty, she’s kind. She sees life in this amazingly beautiful way, and my life is so much richer by seeing her view of things. She absolutely adored this man, but yet, to the shock of us all, after a few months shy of a year, he chose to walk
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away. My theory is that he missed really, truly seeing her heart. Sure, they talked and spent time together, but he didn’t have the ability to see the depth of her, the beauty, the richness. He just missed her. And it has shaken her to her core. We’ve spent hours and hours grieving. She says that the ache feels like a black hole that threatens to swallow her up, and that it is, at times, almost unbearable. It has been tough for her to get out of bed and face each day.
While walking her through this I’ve become convinced that putting your heart out there for someone that you love and having that person reject you is the worst ache ever. While my friend’s grief is dark and sad and mournful, it has cast a beautiful light on Christmas. It has helped me see Christmas in an entirely new way. When Jesus came to earth, the God of the universe put Himself out there. He made Himself vulnerable to our rejection. His arrival and His life on earth announced to the world: “Here I am. This is Me. This is My heart. This is what moves Me to tears, what lights Me up with passion, what motivates Me to My core. I am here because I love you. Deeply. Will you love Me?”
His death and resurrection was our only hope. It’s true that God’s arrival on earth was a much-needed rescue. His death and resurrection was our only hope against the curse of death that our sin had placed us under. It’s true that Jesus came to show us who God is and what He’s like. And it’s true that Jesus’ arrival on earth was an invasion of the rightful King against the un-kingdom. It was all of those things. But it was also a gesture of complete vulnerability motivated by a deep, deep love. In a
way, Jesus coming to earth was God making this statement: “I am God. Here’s My heart. And I’m hoping that you will love Me.” What a great risk! God the allpowerful, God the invincible, made Himself vulnerable. His great love for us couldn’t keep Him away. The more deeply He loves us, the more He opens Himself up for rejection. And people do reject Him—He feels all that my friend has been feeling, and far more because His love is so infinite. Yet He pressed on and came anyway—for those of us who would turn toward Him, for those of us who would say yes. What a fearless, relentless pursuit. My prayer is that this Christmas, you’ll get a clearer glimpse of the deep, deep love that God has for you. My prayer is that His love for you will sink down into your heart— into those empty places where no other love can reach. Because God’s love for you is an I’m-coming-afteryou love. It’s a nothing-will-keepMe-from-you love. It’s never-ending, soul-transforming, wound-healing, insecurity-melting love. The God of the universe who is completely whole in and of Himself and who has no need for anything put His heart on the line for you. He came after you. He pressed through all obstacles. Because you are worth it to Him. Saturday:
Deeper Walk
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John 3:1-21 Sunday: Romans 5
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