The JOY of the Lord is your strength!

The light of the world has come!

Jesus said that He is the light of the world (John 8:12) and He also said that we are the light of the world, Matthew 5:14. This is possible because those of us who trust in Him are one with the Father and the Son and His light shines through us. This was accomplished when Jesus returned to the Father and sent His Spirit to dwell in those of us who receive Him and obey His word. When we respond in love to those around us, His light pours out radiant joy, peace, and love to change hearts and circumstances and drive out darkness. Scripture references: Matthew 5:44-45; Ephesians 5:8; John 17:20-23; Colossians 1:13).

How can we please God?

In this episode, we look at examples of men and women who demonstrated great faith and we are told that they pleased God! As followers of Jesus Christ, we have the unlimited potential to see mountains move when we walk in faith. Jesus told His disciples that their “unbelief” kept them from experiencing victory in Matthew 17:20. Now th1at we have the promise of His Holy Spirit dwelling in us, nothing should be impossible. Let’s go boldly to His throne of grace and find help to walk in His victory over every work of the defeated foe! Scripture references: Hebrews 4:2-16; Hebrews 10:19-24; Hebrews 11:1-6; 30-35; Genesis 5:18-24; Matthew 17:20; Luke 17:6; John 14:12-14.

A wise woman.

In the scriptures we read that wisdom is not a matter of age, education, or the accumulation of knowledge. Wisdom is found in the person of Jesus Christ, in whom all true wisdom and knowledge dwells. To know Him through His word and spending time in His presence makes one wise. Scripture References: Psalm 111:10; Proverbs 8:17-21; Proverbs 28:5; 31:26; Matthew 13:11-17; 23; Hebrews 4:16; Ephesians 1:17; Colossians 2:2-3; James 1:5-8.

The JOY of the Lord is your strength!

One of the greatest blessings we share as followers of the Lord Jesus is JOY! This joy is not circumstantial; it is an experience that defies description and transcends all worldly happiness. It is found only in the pure light of His Presence. Jesus promised that no one can take the JOY that is found in Him. Let the JOY of the Lord be your strength! Scripture references: Nehemiah 8:10; John 15:11; 16:19-24; 17:13; Romans 5:11; 14:17; Galatians 5:22.

You are light!

The scripture reading today is from Mark 4 and describes four types of ground; however, only one is fruitful. In this episode, Karen shares a bit of personal application to encourage you in your faith journey when your work is not in the classical sense of “fulltime ministry”. Let’s raise the standard and reflect our identity in Christ through compassionate interactions, ethics, integrity and a firm commitment to excellence in our unique sphere of influence. Scripture references: Mark 4:13-23; Matthew 5:13-16; Proverbs 3:5-6.