1/3/2024 0 Comments Keeping the FaithThe rich young ruler really wants to inherit eternal life, and he knows what the rules are. Jesus knows his heart and reminds him that following the commandments is part of the journey in being a follower of God. When we are not “feeling” it – not super inspired and in touch with the Holy Spirit – we can be extra intentional with the routines that we know build a connection with God, like praying or reading the Bible.
Questions for further thought: 1. Do you ever feel like you’re just “phoning it in” when you talk to God or read the Bible? 2. How much do you think it matters to have just the right attitude or to feel inspired when carrying out your day-to-day connection with God? Challenge: If you’re feeling lackluster about contact with God, try switching out some aspect of your prayer/Scripture routine. Maybe a different time of day or new study would work, or an audio/video Bible or prayer app. Just one change might make a difference!
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1/2/2024 0 Comments In the Bleak MidwinterAfter the glow surrounding Christmas, a cold, snowy January and February can feel even darker by contrast. Friends and family go home and decorations come down. It can be tough to sustain that feeling of God’s presence very near to Earth and to us. But if our God were only there when things are merry and bright, he wouldn’t be a very powerful God, would he? In fact, it’s often in darkness that his light shines brighter, even if we see it only after the fact.
Questions for further thought: 1. Do you find it hard to sustain the joy of Christmas after the New Year’s celebrations are done? 2. What do you do to help counteract the letdown after the “Most Wonderful Time of the Year”? Challenge: Notice and acknowledge any sadness you might feel when the holidays are over. Give yourself permission to take time to relax and not immediately jump into removing all traces of Christmas; after all, the 12 Days of Christmas actually last until January 5! God is still with us. 1/1/2024 0 Comments The Perfect PresentEmmanuel. God is with us! Even amid the shopping and endless stream of holiday parties, most believers find a moment when the wonder of the Light of the World, born in a stable, heralded by angels, brings peace to our hearts. Maybe it’s during the candlelight service or listening to Handel’s Messiah, or just a quiet night at home. It is OK to simply rest in the presence of God with us.
Questions for further thought: 1. Did you take time this Christmas to simply be in God’s presence? 2. Take a moment to truly identify what brings you into the peace of God’s presence at Christmas. Challenge: Now that you’re thinking about what brings joy, think about the things that bring stress. How can you clear space in your life to spend more time in joy? |
AuthorThis devotional is written every week by Hillcrest members. Archives
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