ONE MESSAGE. ONE FAITH.

image from web It's the timeless metaphor. You know the story: Coal.  Extreme heat.   Extreme pressure.   Glittery sparkling clear rock that bends and reflects light. And while that remains factually untrue (coal is not actually involved in natural diamond formation), the principle of the process manages to find it's way into the  hearts of the persevering, the aspiring, the goal-seeking, and the dream-chasing. There is something imprinted in the minds of men to rise up to challenges we face. Overcoming challenges results in accomplishment. Sense of accomplishment give us purpose. And purpose gives us life. So we rise. In the face of adversity we push, and if we must, we fight.  The saddest people in the world are not the poorest, but the one who has lost his will to go on, to fight- to live. It is in this vein the Lord speaks to us . It is to this appeal that He implores us: " diligently seek him" "search for m...

Easy yoke? Light burden? Easy is not usually the first word that comes to mind with the image of a  Yoke. But there it is in Matthew 11:29. "For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light"   Truth is, yokes are easy when the one you're yoked with is carrying the bulk of the load. Burdens become light when you are suddenly freed from carrying the load of guilt and condemnation on your shoulders alone.  So Jesus beckons us to take the load of the world off our shoulders and yoke up with him. Even when I walk      through the darkest valley, [ a ] I will not be afraid,      for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff      protect and comfort me. - Psalm 23:4

"When praises go up blessings come down."  I searched the bible and came up a little disappointed when this verse did not appear.  While I may not have found this specific scripture in the Word, I was instead reminded  that He is enthroned in the praises of his people (it says Israel in the bible).  Psalm 22:3. In other words, when I praise it results in an abiding place for the presence of God!  I believe wholeheartedly that God's presence is the greatest of blessings, and mighty things happen in the Holy presence of God. Paul and Silas can attest to what praises can do.  Acts 16:25-26. Indeed we can conclude,  miracles are blessings as well. So instead of focusing on praising God to get blessings (which we tend to denote as material or physical in many aspects) let's praise God for, or because of,  his blessings he's already given us: the blessing of new mercies,  unfailing love,  salvation through His name, and too many more to...

The reading for December 19 is Genesis 12 and Genesis 13.  Read my notes here: http://bible.com/n/1DEGb Full blessing with full obedience "Read your bible pray everyday,  and you'll grow,  grow,  grow." Warmest thoughts and prayers,  Chantel