The Joy Ahead Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. James 1:2-3 Why is this happening to me? When difficulties arise, that’s often the first question that enters my mind. According to James chapter one, difficulties have two causes: circumstances over …
Cross
Glory in the Cross? But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. (Galatians 6:14 KJV) The Mosaic law said, “Anyone who is hung on a pole is under God’s curse” (Deuteronomy 21:23). In the first century BC, Roman statesman …
Anoint, Part One
The Cleansing Blood and Anointing Oil See that you don’t tell this to anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them. Mark 1:44 Would you expect to find exciting news in Leviticus? That’s the book that prompts many of us to abandon our attempt to …
Do Not Be Afraid: Spread the Message
Unexpected Joy The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” Luke 2:10–11 The shepherds weren’t expecting a message from God. They were going about their normal …