Karen’s Korner
This is a weekly one minute video devotional to help inspire, engage and remind each of us of God’s presence and what He is able to do when we acknowledge his leadership in our lives. Many times, this devotional will be a resource for pastors, and leaders to use in the development of their sermons and Bible studies.
IN YOUR KORNER: 52 Weekly Devotional Thoughts by Karen Ming: Purchase on Amazon
Half Truth!
Have you ever received only a half-truth in instruction, or only half the story? The outcome and results look so different when compared to the whole truth.
In Proverbs 4:20-22, God’s words offer principles that bring complete wholeness into our lives.
MY DECLARATION: I can build my life on God’s word.
DISCOVER. “Listen carefully, my dear child, to everything that I have to say.”
DEPENDENCE. “Fill your thoughts with my words until they penetrate deep into your spirit.” We must intentionally feed our spirit.
DECLARATION. “For my words bring life to those who find them and radiant healing to their whole body.” I need this in my life today.
I think there are times when we settle for believing in only a fraction of what we need and what God has promised us. He has promised us real life and full health.
REFLECT: Are you settling for less?
TRUTH: If we need more, keep believing. Trusting Him is our only choice.
PRAY: Lord, I want all you have for me.
I Took A Detour!
I don’t like detours. Even though we are followers of Christ, we can still get on a detour! When we face tough situations—and especially when we are not feeling well, we can easily be driven by how we feel. But Proverbs 4:24–28 became my scripture this week.
MY DECLARATION: When we worry, we are in control.
DESTINY: “Set your gaze on the path before you, with fixed purpose, looking straight ahead.”
DISTRACTION: “Ignore life’s distractions, watch where you are going.”
DETOUR: “Don’t allow yourself to be sidetracked for even a moment or take the detour that leads to darkness.”
How can we take that detour? The battlefield is in the mind. Stick to the path of truth, God’s word. What does God say about you and what you are going through?
REFLECT: Have I taken a detour?
TRUTH: His words impart true life and radiant health.
PRAY: Lord, thank you for showing me when I take a detour.
Always Working
There have been times in my life that I was always working and should have rested more and spent more quality time with family. However, our Lord is always working and He brings great results.
In Philippians 2, Paul is in prison, but he gives such tender advice to his friends and the church. God is working! Keep following my instructions as though I were there with you.
MY DECLARATION: God is working while we are waiting.
GOD WILL CONTINUE HIS WORK… “To revitalize you, implanting within you the passion to do what pleases Him.” God will never leave us alone in our struggles.
LIVE A CHEERFUL LIFE. “Without complaining or division among you.” This is the secret of a changed life.
We are not in prison but can be imprisoned by our situations. Our Heavenly Father is so ready to show you, His power. I know God is always working in my behalf.
REFLECT: Do you need that special touch?
TRUTH: God’s word is alive and changes our attitudes.
PRAY: Lord, keep working in me.
What’s In Your Home?
We just moved. We felt His direction for the right house, location, and time. I want our home to look “pretty,” but there are three important factors I want as a priority (John 14 – 17).
MY DECLARATION: Our home must be a safe and peaceful place.
HOUSE OF PRAYER: Before Jesus died, He told His disciples, “Ask the Father directly and He will grant your request because you use my name.”
HOUSE OF PEACE: “The peace which is in me will be in you and will give you great confidence as you rest in me.” Despite struggles, you can have peace.
HOUSE OF HIS PRESENCE: Psalms 56:13, “I will walk in your presence, O God.”
We see turmoil, strife, and stress. Our homes can be full of prayer, peace, and His presence. People will know it as they visit you.
REFLECT: What is in your home?
TRUTH: Jesus said, “Take heart, I have overcome the world.”
PRAY: Help me to have the right priorities in my home.
Always Good
If you are a parent, your goal is for your children to be good and show goodness. This week I was reminded of God’s goodness. I have been praying for a specific healing, but I kept thanking him for being so good to me in my life.
David felt this way in Psalm 145. One generation after another will declare His greatness and goodness.
MY DECLARATION: He is Always Good.
GOOD TO ALL “Everyone will share the story of your wonderful goodness.” We can never thank Him enough.
SHOWERS COMPASSION “He has compassion to all He has made.”
SLOW TO ANGER “The Lord is slow to anger and rich in love.”
It is so easy to be burdened down with our problems, but God is always GOOD. We must exalt and praise Him for who He is, not just what we believe for.
REFLECT: Do you praise Him in the good and bad times?
TRUTH: The Lord is near to all who call on Him.
PRAY: I will thank You, for You are good.
Is It Complete?
How many times do we give up—maybe on a project or even a prayer—before we have the desired results? I hate unfinished projects; I lay awake finishing them. This week I was reminded how important it is to keep believing and see our prayers answered. Mark 8 gives a beautiful example of completion.
MY DECLARATION: KEEP PRAYING, BELIEVING, AND CONFESSING.
BROUGHT TO JESUS: “At Bethsaida, some people brought a blind man to Jesus. They begged him to touch and heal him.”
TOUCHED BY JESUS: “Jesus took him by the hand, spat on the man’s eyes, laid his hand on his eyes and asked, ‘Can you see?’”
COMPLETED BY JESUS: The man said, “Yes, I see people; they look like trees walking around. He placed his hands on the man’s eyes again and his sight was completely restored.”
REFLECT: What do you need to be completed?
TRUTH: Jesus chose to do this in stages to show that some healings would be gradual.
PRAY: Lord, I believe you for my complete healing.
I Can’t Fix It!
I am a “fix ‘it” person. When I see someone hurting with a specific need I want to fix the problem. But I realize we face situations that only He can fix. This was the story of a desperate father in Mark 9.
MY DECLARATION: Jesus always has our answer.
BROUGHT TO JESUS: “Teacher, I brought my son so you could heal him.”
UNDERSTOOD BY JESUS: “Since he was a boy, an evil spirit has tried to kill him. Have mercy and help us if you can.” No one understands like our Lord.
HEALED BY JESUS: “Anything is possible if a person believes.” Jesus rebuked the spirit, took him by his hand, and he stood up healed.
Faith is misunderstood. Faith is not stored away like money but is a constant process of daily renewing our trust in Jesus. This is an amazing story about true faith and how we have everything we need through Christ.
REFLECT: What do you need fixed?
TRUTH: Nothing is too difficult for him.
PRAY: Lord, help my unbelief.
A Special Encounter!
This week is a very personal testimony! Maybe you can look back at your life to when you met "someone special" who made a great impression on you. Or perhaps you remember a special encounter with our Lord.
MY DECLARATION THIS WEEK: Call on me and I will answer you.
I WAS HOMESICK AND LONELY. I had gone away to our Bible college, Southern Bible College, which was 1,400 miles from my home. I thought I was a "big girl," but that first Thanksgiving, I felt so lonely.
I KNEW WHAT TO DO. After a nice dinner, I found a small closet and sat on the floor and began to cry and tell him how I felt.
I HAD THAT SPECIAL ENCOUNTER. The Holy Spirit filled my heart, my mind, and the room with His presence. From that day on, I never doubted I was in the right place.
REFLECT: Do you feel lonely?
TRUTH: John 14:27 says: "I leave the gift of perfect peace with you—my peace.
PRAY: Lord, let each one have a special encounter.
It’s Not The Way It Looks
It is easier to put our faith in the physical things that we can see instead of seeing invisible things of the spirit. There are examples of people who put their faith in God despite never seeing him. The writer of Psalm 44:1–8 remembered what God had done for his people.
Declaration: 2 Corinthians 5:7 We will walk by faith and not by sight.
RADIANT PRESENCE. “Our forefathers did not win against their enemies by their own strength, skill and strategy, but by your radiant presence.”
THROUGH GOD’S MIGHTY POWER. “They did not conquer by their swords, but God’s right arm and strong power.”
THROUGH GOD’S LOVE. “You loved to give them victory, and you took delight in them.”
Have you felt surrounded and felt there was no way to go? This is an opportunity to put our faith in the invisible and God will show up.
REFLECT: What victory do you need today?
TRUTH: Oh, God, we give you the glory all day long.
PRAY: Receive your miracle by faith.
A Special Dream
I have never had many God dreams but last night I was speaking and this was the message. It felt so real, and I want to share what I feel someone needs to hear today.
NEVER STOP LISTENING
It is so easy to get caught up in our own lives and tune out others—and our Lord! It is vital that we listen. God always listens!
NEVER GIVE UP
We can give up on people and projects and become so tired that it feels difficult to go on. Remember: "Winners never quit; quitters never win."
NEVER STOP PRAISING
Psalms 34:1 says, "I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth." It is easy to praise when all is well.
Maybe you are at your lowest moment right now. I encourage you that God is speaking to you now. You can make it, continue to praise the One who makes "all things work together for our good." (Romans 8:28)
PRAY: Lord, speak to your sons and daughters right now!
Most Powerful Force
In our lives as Christ’s followers, we are encouraged to pray and read God’s word. For many years, I prayed, but I never read God’s word with love and fervor. There came a time when I had nothing to stand on but God’s word. His words became a powerful force in my everyday life.
MY DECLARATION THIS WEEK IS: Isaiah 55: God’s word has our answers.
ALWAYS PRODUCES. God says, “I sent it out and it always produces fruit, which is growth in our lives.”
ALWAYS ACCOMPLISHES. “It will accomplish all I want it to.” God has plans, and the answers to your search are in his word.
ALWAYS PROSPERS. “It will prosper everywhere I send it. You will live in joy and peace.”
I am not sure we understand the powerful force of His word! These words become our very source of life and existence.
REFLECT: How much do you read God’s word?
TRUTH: No judgment here, just know God’s words will change your life.
PRAY: Lord, help me to know the power of your
I’ve Got This
My five-year-old great-grandson, Harvey, gave me a thumbs up and said, “Nana, I’ve got this.” They were planning a trip to California to visit us and the beach, and he knew this was going to happen. When I left my son and family in Texas this week, I was sad. But the Holy Spirit spoke and said, “I’ve got this.”
MY DECLARATION FOR THIS WEEK: Isaiah 55. God always has the best plan; let’s trust Him.
COME TO ME… With your ears wide open, listen and you will find life. I will have his life today and every day.
CALL ON ME… While I am near. God never goes home or moves away. We can move from His plan, but He remains.
KNOW MY THOUGHTS AND WAYS… I will continue to be beyond anything you can imagine. Whatever you need, He has.
I decided a long time ago not to follow my plan, but God’s plan. This must be intentional.
REFLECT: Are you struggling with your life?
TRUTH: Our heavenly Father “has got this”!
PRAYER: Lord, you have the plan.
Are You Depressed?
None of us like to admit that we struggle with moments of being depressed. Depression has been around for a long time. The writer of Psalm 42 was discouraged and depressed because of being exiled far from Jerusalem and the temple. But there was an answer.
MY DECLARATION THIS WEEK: God sees our true feelings and always gives us hope.
I AM DEPRESSED AND SAD. “Why would you be depressed and sink into despair?”
THERE IS ALWAYS HOPE. “Keep hoping and waiting on God, your Savior.” This is an intentional decision for all of us in the moment.
SING PRAISE. “I will sing praise, for living before His face is my saving grace.” This can be learned as it is scriptural and developed with benefits.
We have all faced these moments. The antidote for depression is to read and meditate on the record of God’s goodness.
REFLECT: Are you struggling with depression?
TRUTH: Focus on the thoughts of God’s ability to help you.
PRAYER: Lord, we turn to You for healing and hope.
Who Sees Me?
We all have memories and I remember my boys used to say, “Mom, you have eyes in the back of your head, we can’t do anything wrong.” Well, it seemed I knew when they were struggling but I am so thankful our heavenly Father watches over us in the good, bad and struggling times of our lives. Psalms 121:5-8.
MY DECLARATION THIS WEEK: God sees me all the time and knows what I need.
WATCHES OVER YOU. “Jehovah himself will watch over you continually.”
ALWAYS AT YOUR SIDE. “The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade keeping you from all harm.”
KEEPS YOU IN HIS PRESENCE. “To shelter you safely, when you leave your home and return.”
Only God is all powerful to watch over us now and forevermore. Nothing diverts our defers Him.
REFLECT: Do you realize the importance of God watching over you?
TRUTH: We will never outgrow our need for God’s untiring watch over our life.
PRAYER: Thank you Lord for your care and watchful eyes!
Dread to Delight
There are moments in our lives when we feel overwhelmed by the tasks that await us. This is how I felt recently as we moved back to Valencia/Santa Clarita. In Psalm 59, David describes his feelings of dread when facing those who wish to harm him. However, there is delight in recognizing God’s role as our safety, unfailing love, and strength.
My declaration this week: God is our source.
O My Strength: "I sing with joy Your praises." I know what happens when we declare and sing (sometimes by faith) for strength in our tasks.
O My Stronghold: "I will sing with joy Your song. You have been my refuge and place of safety."
O My Savior: "I sing with joy the lyrics of Your faithful love to me." I have lived this out in my time of need.
Reflect: What stresses in your life might be transformed today if you made them a starting point for praising the Lord?
Truth: I know this works! He is our source.
Prayer: Lord, You are the strength of our lives.
BEST FRIENDS
Statistics say, “most people can count their best friends on one hand.” I always say Jesus is my best friend, then my husband, my family followed by a few close friends. What makes a best friend? (Proverbs 17:17, 18:24)
My declaration: Jesus to be my best friend.
NO MATTER WHAT
“A dear friend will love you no matter what.” This applies anytime and anywhere. Being available is the greatest gift we can offer in moments of personal struggle.
ALWAYS LOYAL
“A friend is always loyal.” The greatest evidence of genuine friendship is loyalty. I Corinthians 13:7: "Love never gives up."
ALWAYS CLOSE
“There is one loving friend who is joined to your heart closer than any other.” Jesus is always close.
Today, loneliness is everywhere; many people feel cut off and alienated from others. We all need friends who stay close, listen, and care.
REFLECT: What kind of friend are you?
TRUTH: We can look for this person, but we should also seek to become one.
PRAYER: Lord, we want you as our best friend.
WE MAKE IT TOO HARD!
There are many books and sermons on prayer and its importance. Most people pray in some way—at a meal, in a crisis, or by joining someone else in prayer. When it becomes your lifestyle, it fosters a relationship that transforms your life and everything around you. Jeremiah 33:3.
MY DECLARATION FOR THIS WEEK: Prayer is a privilege, not a duty.
CONVERSATION: It sounds simple, yet sometimes it is hard to communicate even with those we can see. By faith, we talk to an unseen God—but He is alive and understands us like no other.
COMMUNION: Prayer is communion with God. Jesus restored our fellowship with the Father when He sacrificed His life on the cross and rose again! Prayer goes beyond simple asking; we begin to truly enjoy His presence.
COMPANIONSHIP (RELATIONSHIP): Prayer is not a religious formality. Our Lord becomes our best friend, and being in His presence brings profound joy and peace. He loves, cares, and understands us deeply.
FINAL THOUGHTS
REFLECT: Do you struggle with your prayer time?
TRUTH: Learn to talk and learn to listen.
PRAY: “Lord, I want that close relationship.”
NO REASON TO BE AFRAID
There are many situations we face that can trigger fear: the unknown of the future, the weight of our own decisions, and the actions of others that change our lives. Now, there is even war.
When the angel at the tomb told the women not to be afraid, those same words were intended for us today (Matthew 28).
DECLARATION: We can experience His peace every day.
DON’T BE AFRAID. The reality of His resurrection brings joy, not fear. Whenever you feel afraid, remember the empty tomb!
HE ISN’T HERE. He has risen victoriously. He is not dead, he is alive and present today.
COME AND SEE. The women were invited to check the evidence for themselves. The tomb was empty then, and it remains empty today.
The women were commissioned to spread the joy of the resurrection. Jesus told them to rejoice and—once again—to not be afraid.
REFLECT: What makes you afraid?
TRUTH: Jesus says, “I am with you every day!”
PRAYER: Lord, we give our fears to You!
IS IT COMPLETE?
I am someone who sees a task and works until it is finished. I may be exhausted and wiped out for a time, but then I can move on.
When God starts a project, He completes it. It may look different than we expected, and the timing may be different. He uses assignments and many ways for our personal growth and plans.
My Declaration: Philippians 1:6 I am complete in Christ.
ALWAYS A BEGINNING: “I’m fully convinced that the one who began this glorious work in you...”
ALWAYS A CONTINUATION: “...will faithfully continue the work in us.” When we get discouraged, God is still working.
ALWAYS A COMPLETION: “He will put His finishing touches to it until the return of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
When we feel incomplete or distressed by a situation, remember God’s promise. Sometimes we only get glimpses of the answer or partial completion of what we have asked and his work.
REFLECT: Do you feel like giving up?
TRUTH: He keeps working; we keep trusting.
PRAYER: Lord, you will bring completion.
JUST STOP
As parents, we understand the clarity of telling our children, “Stop doing something.” Some things are difficult to just stop; worry is one of them. In all stages we worry about our jobs, our homes, our relationships, our health, and so much more.
My Declaration: Philippians 4:6–7 Stop worrying. Pray, praise, and I will have peace.
STOP: “Don’t worry about anything. Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing.” Instead:
PRAY: “Pray about everything when you start to worry.” Tell God everything you need.
PRAISE: “Praise Him for what He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace that transcends human understanding.”
I wish I could say, “I always accomplish this.” I still learn to say, “No, stop; it is time to pray and praise.” This peace is not found in positive thinking or the absence of conflict, but in knowing who is in control.
REFLECT: Need peace?
TRUTH: God’s peace will guard your heart and mind.
PRAY: I will not worry but pray!
WHERE ARE YOU GOING?
It would be foolish to go to the airport and buy a ticket if I didn’t know where I was going. Similarly, we can easily live our lives without seeking God’s divine plan. When He orders our steps, we will go where we need to go.
My declaration this week: My heavenly Father orders my steps. (Psalm 37:23)
HE DIRECTS: “The steps of the God-pursuing ones follow firmly in the footsteps of the Lord.”
HE DELIGHTS: “He delights in every step and detail of their lives.” God delights in the one who seeks to do His will.
HE LIFTS: “Though they stumble, they will still survive, for the Lord lifts them up.”
This is one of the greatest gifts of being a child of God. I can only see the present moment; He sees today, tomorrow, and everything that needs to happen. Miracles happen when he directs our steps.
REFLECT: Is Christ directing your life?
TRUTH: He will direct you if you give Him the chance.
PRAYER: Lord, show us the way.
DO YOU HAVE FAVOR?
What is favor? Favor is moving from a divine connection to a practical, earthly impact and has a powerful “ripple effect” that many people overlook in their daily lives. Joseph faced years of hardship, God’s favor wasn’t a “trouble-free- pass but His presence made a way where there was no way. Now I pray for favor always.
My declaration for this week: Proverbs 3:3-4
HOLD ON TO LOYALTY AND KINDNESS. “Be faithful to what you been taught.” Favor is not a reward for perfection, but a byproduct of relationship.
BE SHAPED BY INTEGRITY. “And let my truth be written upon your heart.
RECEIVE HIS FAVOR. “Then you will find favor and understanding with God and man. You will earn a good reputation.”
When we recognize that we are “clothed” in His favor, our posture changes from one of striving to one of receiving. We have seen God’s favor in many decisions in our lives.
REFLECT: Do you need God’s favor?
TRUTH: God’s favor is contagious.
PRAYER: Lord, we desire and look for your favor.
WORTH MORE THAN GOLD
Many of us have watched the Winter Olympics. It is so amazing to see the commitment, effort, and strength that each person exerts to receive the gold, silver, or bronze medal. It is entertaining, and we can truly appreciate hearing their stories.
I read this week in Proverbs 8 that God’s wisdom is worth more than silver or gold. A medal is nice, but we need His wisdom to live daily, and we can live by it.
My declaration for this week: I will receive God’s wisdom.
MY WORDS ARE IMPORTANT. “Listen to me, I have important things to tell you. Everything I say is right.”
MY WORDS ARE WHOLESOME. His wisdom should affect every aspect of one’s life from beginning to end.
MY WORDS GIVE INSTRUCTION. “Choose my instruction rather than silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold.”
The finest gold is nothing compared to God’s revelation knowledge. It changes everything.
REFLECT: Do you need God’s wisdom today?
TRUTH: Psalm 12:6 Every word God speaks is sure.
PRAY: Lord, I love your word.
TURN ON YOUR PHONE
I forgot to turn my phone on, only to realize that I missed an important call. I also learned that if I keep my heart ready to listen, I can receive special messages from my Lord.
After three tiring and frustrating weeks, He gave me a special message: “No one understands you like I do.” It sounds simple, yet it was a living word for me.
This Week’s Declaration: I can hear from God.
I UNDERSTAND THE GOOD AND THE BAD. Isaiah 45:7 says, “I send good and bad times. Both experiences are necessary for us to grow spiritually.
I UNDERSTAND DOUBT, FAITH, AND EVERY EXPERIENCE. We may have moments of doubt, but they do not have to control us. Faith increases as we trust.
I UNDERSTAND YOUR DESIRES AND DEEPEST LONGINGS. Psalm 38:9.
I love receiving phone calls, and love when my Heavenly Father speaks to me. God hears and speaks.
REFLECT: What do you need to hear today?
TRUTH: Our Shepherd hears his sheep.
PRAY: Lord, I am listening to You.
IT IS TOO HEAVY?
Sometimes I think, “I can carry more bags of groceries at one time than necessary.” I always try to do “too much.” I am learning that when the load is too heavy, that is my own doing!
Here is my Declaration: 1 Peter 5:7
GIVE YOUR WORRIES AND CARES AWAY. Another translation, “Pour out all your worries and stress and leave them there in His hand.” This speaks of action, our action.
GIVE THEM TO GOD. This is intentional, and it is so much easier when we have a relationship with our Lord. He is always ready to help us.
GIVE THEM TO HIM, FOR HE CARES ABOUT US. He is always watching over you and your situation with tender care.
I can complain and handle my stress myself. This felt very real to me this week. I had to choose to get rid of it.
REFLECT: Is your load too heavy?
TRUTH: Psalm 55:22 — Leave all your cares at the feet of the Lord.
PRAY: We give our load to You, Lord.
CAN I DO EVERYTHING?
Many times, we feel overwhelmed, thinking, "How?" "There’s no way," "It’s too much," or "I can’t." Many struggles with these thoughts, but God changes our perspective as we know Him and He becomes our best friend.
My husband is recovering from a knee replacement, which requires consistent exercise and care. Both of us are standing on the declaration found in Philippians 4:13:
I CAN DO: He does not grant us superhuman abilities to accomplish tasks; but the strength to have faith for each task.
I CAN DO ALL: We all face troubles, pressures, loss, health issues, and trials. There is a solution:
I CAN DO ALL THROUGH CHRIST: Only Christ can give us the specific strength and help we need.
"All" may mean something different for each of us, but daily, we have His help to meet the challenge.
REFLECT: What is the "ALL" that you face today?
TRUTH: We stand on God’s Word, not our own ability.
PRAY:Lord, we declare “I can do all things through You.”
YOUR THOUGHTS
The enemy of our souls seeks to plant negative thoughts, even when we are children of God believing for the best. We can say we have faith when allis going well.
This week I underwent Mohs surgery on my nose for the third time. I’ll admit, I began to feel low and started throwing myself a pity party. That night, God gave me a powerful word: “You need to be declaring the things I gave you throughout your life and ministry.” I realized I had been neglecting those declarations. He continued, “I want you to share them on Karen’s Korner once a week. They have blessed you: now they will bless others.” Declaration One:
I AM THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD IN JESUS CHRIST THAT IS WORKING ON THE INSIDE COMING OUT. II Corinthians 5:21. (I belong)
WHO GOD IS. He made Christ, who never sinned, to be an offering for my sin.
WHAT GOD DID. He takes all our sin and made us right with God.
WHAT I DID. I accepted his life and his righteousness for the rest of my life.
I declare all my sins were left and forever gone! Someone needs to hear this today!
REFLECT: Have you received your “righteousness” from God? Life changes forever.
What is next?
DO THIS FIRST!
At the beginning of the year, we often find ourselves thinking and talking about "firsts." This is a season where we evaluate our habits and make changes that truly matter. Jesus often condemned empty "religion," instead emphasizing a "relationship" with Him and what should truly come first in our lives. Matthew 23:23 teaches us to:
Walk in the Love of God. Jesus said that while paying tithes on even the smallest herbs in your garden is fine, you must not ignore your most important duties. In the original Hebrew context, these duties include justice, loving-kindness, truth, grace, and faith.
Display Mercy to Others. We are tested daily to show mercy and loving-kindness to our families and to everyone God places in our path.
Live in Integrity. We are called to be genuine, loyal, and honest in all we do. We might call this being “the real deal.”
As I think about the New Year, I feel we should be most concerned with putting these three things first in our daily lives. Everything else flows from loving God!
REFLECT: Who and what is first in your life?
TRUTH: "He is a shield to those who walk in integrity." — Proverbs 2:7
PRAY: Lord, I want to put You first.
DO THIS FIRST!
At the beginning of the year, we often find ourselves thinking and talking about "firsts." This is a season where we evaluate our habits and make changes that truly matter. Jesus often condemned empty "religion," instead emphasizing a "relationship" with Him and what should truly come first in our lives. Matthew 23:23 teaches us to:
Walk in the Love of God. Jesus said that while paying tithes on even the smallest herbs in your garden is fine, you must not ignore your most important duties. In the original Hebrew context, these duties include justice, loving-kindness, truth, grace, and faith.
Display Mercy to Others. We are tested daily to show mercy and loving-kindness to our families and to everyone God places in our path.
Live in Integrity. We are called to be genuine, loyal, and honest in all we do. We might call this being “the real deal.”
As I think about the New Year, I feel we should be most concerned with putting these three things first in our daily lives. Everything else flows from loving God!
REFLECT: Who and what is first in your life?
TRUTH: "He is a shield to those who walk in integrity." — Proverbs 2:7
PRAY: Lord, I want to put You first.
YOUR NEXT STEP?
In the New Year, many feel the need to make a change. What does that process look like? In Matthew 20, two men were desperate for a fresh start.
WHO DO YOU FOLLOW? “As Jesus approached Jericho, a huge crowd followed Him. Two blind men were sitting by the road.” They were in the right place at the right time.
WHO DO YOU HEAR? “When they heard that it was Jesus passing by, they shouted.” Many people hear sermons and podcasts and feel a glimmer of hope, but do they truly believe?
WHO DO YOU BELIEVE? “The crowd told the men to be quiet, but they cried out even louder: Lord, have mercy on us!”
Jesus stopped and asked, “What do you want me to do for you?”
They answered, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.” He had compassion and touched their eyes. He told them, “Your faith has healed you.”
REFLECT: What is your next step?
TRUTH: Instantly, they could see. He has your answer.
PRAY: Help me to take the next step.
IT’S NOT OVER!
Maybe you are someone who is glad when Christmas is over so you can go back to what we call "normal." As a child, I used to rewrap my one or two gifts and put them back under the tree just to keep the feeling alive. Even today, I feel a sense of sadness when the last gift is opened, the leftovers are put away, and especially when I have to say "goodbye for now" to my children.
But it is not over.
GOD CONTINUES TO GIVE US HIS LOVE. For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that no one would have to perish. This is the heart of Christ: a love that keeps on giving.
GOD CONTINUES TO GIVE US HIS PEACE. Christmas can be stressful. Schedules fill up, expectations run high, and our joy can easily get lost in the shuffle. Yet the promise remains: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men" (Luke 2:14).
GOD CONTINUES TO SHARE HIS PRESENCE. He is "God with us"—before Christmas, during, and long after. Focus on gratitude as you face each new day.
We have a perfect Savior who came into an imperfect world to give lasting love, peace, and joy.
REFLECT: What are your thoughts about the days "after"?
TRUTH: Each day, He is with us.
PRAY: Lord, help me each day to keep my focus on You.
ENJOY, ENJOY
I love Christmas decorations, lights, stories, and the season is magical. However, there is stress, deadlines and sometimes extensive travel. Mary faced these but let’s see her actions in Luke 1.
MARY AROSE. After the angel gave her the news that changed her life forever, “Mary arose and hurried off to the hill country of Judea to visit Zechariah and Elizabeth.”
MARY WAS BLESSED. Elizabeth told Mary, “You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said.” Is it possible we miss our blessing because we have doubts instead of faith?
MARY PROCLAIMED. “My soul is ecstatic, overflowing with praises to God. My soul bursts with joy.”
Mary believed and praised her God before she held her baby. Whatever you are asking for, believe today. “He is working in your behalf” and rejoice in him and we can enjoy life!
REFLECT: Are you enjoying your life?
TRUTH: The child was born: your answer will come! Rejoice now.
PRAY: Lord, help me to enjoy you and my life!
I CAN ENDURE
Last week we talked about God equipping us for our task, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t moments of “just plain endurance and surprises”.
Mary’s favor would lead to much pain: her peers ridiculed her, her fiancé nearly left her, and her son would eventually be ridiculed and murdered. But through her endurance, her son would arrive as the world’s only hope. Luke 1.
I AM A VIRGIN. “How can this happen? I am a virgin.” She never fully understood the plan or miracle, but she endured what seemed impossible.
I AM THE LORD’S SERVANT. Mary responded, “This is amazing, I will be the mother of the Lord.” Sometimes we do not know what we are signing for.
I WILL ACCEPT EVERYTHING. “May everything you have told me come to pass.”
Mary has been praised by countless generations for her submission and obedience. If sorrow weighs you down and dims your hope, think of Mary. We can endure and see God’s plan.
REFLECT: Do you need help with your task?
TRUTH: You can tell Jesus how you feel. He gives you strength.
PRAY: Lord, we will endure with your help.
ARE YOU EQUIPPED?
We can go to church but still not understand that we can be equipped for everyday life and its challenges. At this Christmas season, I was beginning to stress and feel “I can’t do all I need to do”. I was reminded “I am equipped for each day.”
Mary was visited by an angel, but this was not enough for her to immediately accept the challenge. Luke 1.
THE NEWS. “Grace to you, young woman, for the Lord is with you, and you are anointed with great favor.” You are going to be a mom! (My words)
THE QUESTION. “Mary was deeply troubled over the words of the angel. “How can this happen?” Ever felt troubled over some news?
THE DELIGHT. “Do not yield to your fear, Mary, the Lord has found delight in you. The Holy Spirt power will come and overshadow you.”
Mary was equipped only by God. Today, you can be equipped by God for every task.
REFLECT: Are you feeling overwhelmed?
TRUTH: God delights in you.
PRAY: I accept your help.
HOW CAN I BE THANKFUL
In our culture, Thanksgiving Day is a time to be with family, eat, laugh, and share together. We enjoy our blessings. We can have this perspective because our heavenly Father knows us, our value, and our future. (Matthew 10)
ALWAYS AWARE. "Not even one sparrow falls from its nest without our God knowing or being aware." This is quite amazing.
ALWAYS VALUABLE. "You are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows." You are so valuable that God sent his Son to die for you so you could have true life.
ALWAYS CALM. "So don't worry." Your Father cares deeply about every detail of your life. Wow, this is our choice.
You may feel fearful and anxious, even in special moments. God will not take away all of your troubles, but he will help you hold up under the wear, tear, and stress of everyday life.
REFLECT: Are you having trouble being thankful?
TRUTH: God places special value on knowing you. Know this today.
PRAY: Lord, we choose to trust and be thankful.
IMPOSSIBLE
Sometimes we get in a situation where it looks like there is no hope. There is no answer; it is impossible without a miracle.
In Matthew 9, Jairus, a leader of the synagogue, did not come to Jesus until his daughter was dead. It was too late, but:
JESUS SCATTERED THE CROWD. “When Jesus entered the home of Jairus, he saw a noisy crowd of mourners, wailing and playing a funeral dirge.” Jesus had to get rid of the fearful and faithless.
JESUS GENTLY TOOK THE DAUGHTER’S HAND. Jesus always goes personal to the one in need. Knowing the right response, he took her hand. He is a personal God.
THE GIRL STOOD TO HER FEET. “She immediately stood to her feet.” Jesus brought life when it seemed too late for anyone to help.
If your situation looks hopeless, remember that sets the stage for Christ to do the impossible.
REFLECT: What seems impossible in your life?
TRUTH: She had a new life. The report of this miracle swept through the countryside.
PRAY: Lord, help me believe for the impossible.
WE ARE HOME!
Many of you followed my trip to Kenya.
My son, Brian, and I taught at a two-day Pastors and Leaders Conference. It was a blessing to see over 300 men and women encouraged and challenged to move forward.
Then, I partnered with Windy Rhodes and her team for our second Medical Clinic. It was one of the most amazing mission trips yet! In four days, we saw approximately 1,700 patients, ministered to 500 children, and saw 203 souls won to the Kingdom of God, 5 healings, and 3 deliverances! We also held a day of street ministry and visited a children's home.
Lives were changed forever. Friendships began and strengthened. Many went into this as strangers and came out as family.
Thank you to all who supported and prayed for our team. We truly could not have done this without you. Many gave, many prayed, and we were chosen to go. Our God is always so faithful.
We are already planning the next clinic. Please click below if you would like to make a gift!
WHAT DO I DO?
We all need to know “what to do” in all our life situations. Regardless of your age, we face challenges and decisions that can come with help to “know what to do”. Because of who I am in Christ, I can stand on his promise in Psalm 32:8.
CLOSENESS. “I hear the Lord saying, “I will stay close to you.” Yes, He understands what we need to do.
INSTRUCTION. “I will instruct and guide you along the best pathway for your life.”
GUIDANCE. “I will advise, watch over you and guide you with my eye.”
We can stubbornly leave God only one option, let us go our way. God longs to guide us with love and wisdom and teach us the best way to go. You can trust his hand to lead you.
REFLECT: Do you need help with what to do?
TRUTH: “Don’t make me tug you and pull you along, just come with me.”
PRAY: Lord, I surrender my heart to you and please tell me what to do.
FULLY RESTORED
One of the greatest stories we can share is a miracle of “healing”. We know it is supernatural. I can share that I have been healed many times. One time I had Bell’s palsy in my face, and I was completely healed in two weeks with no side effects.
David in Psalm 30 was fully restored.
YOU HEALED ME. “Oh, Lord, my healing God, I cried out, for a miracle and you healed me.”
YOU BROUGHT ME BACK. “You brought me back from the brink of death, from the depth below.” Sometimes we can feel we are falling into a pit of death.
YOU RESTORED ME. “Now here, I am alive and well, fully restored.”
I have seen so many cry out for help, desperate to be restored. I am so sorry if you are going through this type of situation. But there is hope!
REFLECT: Do you need healing today?
TRUTH: Through Christ, you have access to healing that makes you whole in every way.
PRAY: As your child, I can be fully restored.
