Another Country Church

Verse of the day
Deuteronomy 30:16 - For I command you this day to love the Lord your God and to keep his commands, decrees, and regulations by walking in his ways. If you do this, you will live and multiply, and the Lord your God will bless you and the land you are about to enter and occupy.

The blessings we receive come from loving God and following him by walking in his ways. Every day poses new exciting opportunities to follow God.

These opportunities might be helping others, experiencing God's beauty with a thankful heart or spending time in prayer.

Today let's give thanks for our many blessings.

Heavenly Father, I give thanks today for my many blessings. I have a roof over my head, food on the table and a family who loves me. Above all that I look forward to the salvation into your Kingdom. There is much peace looking forward to your return.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Catholic Ukrainian Rural Church

Verse of the day
Luke 16:10 - If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities.

When I worked as a manager in retail, training was crucial to have things done right. You also had to be aware of the employee's progress and skillset. I had to ask myself, could this employee handle the tasks I was giving and could they be trusted to get the job done.

As we walk with Jesus, God monitors how we are doing, what we can handle and what we can be trusted with. He knows us better than we know ourselves. He examines our faith and our faithfulness.

When we walk with God and are faithful in the small things, then larger opportunities will appear. This is how we grow as Christians. God needs to know we can be trusted to handle greater responsibility before He gives it to us. And sometimes, in our minds, we think we can do a lot more than we actually can.

God knows our minds and hearts. We may not get what we want because He knows we can't be trusted with such a responsibility. It is for our own good and aligns with God's will.

As a parent, we do the same thing with our children. We give them what we can entrust them with. Giving them too much responsibility can crush them, giving them too little can underdevelop their potential in adulthood.

The key to all of this is monitoring what is going on. How great it is that our Lord watches over us, giving us what we need. He provides opportunities of faith to see how we will handle situations. Will we panic and crumble or stand strong in the face of life's many obstacles. Will we rely on God's wisdom or our own strength.

The next time we face a struggle, crisis or tragedy, God is right there watching us with an open hand. Will we reach out to Him or let our problems take over our lives. As we trust more and more, his blessings become greater and greater.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for watching over me. Every time I stumble you are there to help me. I want my faith to grow and ask you to help me in all parts of my life. Help me to overcome any sin in my life, any mountains I need to climb or any vast valleys I need to cross.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Bridge Over Frozen Water

Verse of the day
James 1:19 - Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.

I heard a pastor once say, "God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason." And how true that is! We need to listen twice as much as we speak.

If we are not slow to speak, we may not control our tongue and blurt out the first thing that comes to your mind. How many have done that? I know I have - many times.

In fact, chances are, we end up saying something we'll regret later. The lack of self-control that comes with blurting out something often hurts others. Being slow to speak gives us time to get control of our minds so that we can speak with kindness, gentleness and purity.

There are two areas where I find it's most common to lose control of your mouth. The first is in a conversation within a small group. Sometimes conversations veer into ungodly territory. And the natural response is to contribute to the conversation.

But without pausing for a brief moment, we end up speaking about things that we would not normally talk about. We may end up gossiping, telling dirty jokes, using swear words - all things not of God.

The second area where your mouth can quickly get you into trouble is in a heated argument. Because emotions are running high, we tend to speak defensively. Ironically we want to protect our dignity and respect, so during a heated argument, we put others down with insults, slander or derogatory comments. These are not only disrespectful, but shows no dignity at all. This kind of talk is also not of God.

A quick note about anger. The dangers of anger go far beyond one's emotion. It can can lead to hatred, impure speech and a multitude of sins. We can murder in our minds with our anger. Living a life of anger does not show Jesus to anyone.

We cannot pass off our anger as something God knows about and will let happen. NO!  We need to have self-control. Anger that leads to sin over and over and over again without repentance, but rather a cavalier attitude that says, "That's just me - I can't help it," has no place in the Kingdom of God.

As the Book of James states, let us control our mouths by listening more, think before we speak and get control of our anger.

Heavenly Father, Forgive me for not listening first, and saying things that are hurtful to others. Help me to be slow to become angry. May people see You through my speech and through my conduct.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Too Cold For Hockey

Verse of the day
Colossians 3:15 - And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.

At times, I struggle with inner peace. I'm not sure exactly why that is. Perhaps it's me struggling with the plank in my eye as I see specks in others or maybe it's seeing evil running rampant in this world and many are embracing it, including our very own governments. Or it could be all of the news I watch.

Whatever it is, sometimes it can be overwhelming. There's some truth to the old saying, "Ignorance is bliss."

On the other hand, we as Christians should not be foolish or unaware of the things that are happening around us and the things to come. We just don't need to be engrossed in them.

Our main focus should be allowing Christ and his peace to dwell in our hearts. We do this by surrendering our minds to heavenly things rather than earthly things. We need to continually live a life of prayer and thanksgiving. Even in the darkest times of our lives, there are things we can give thanks for.

The peace we have inwardly should shine bright for everyone to see. The body of Christ is his believers. His church. We need to spread out peace with other believers in unity and love. We can do this by sharing and carrying each other's burdens.

I see the church today, as I do, struggle with peace. In fact, many smaller churches are struggling with attendance. Some are shutting down programs or even their doors, leaving many searching for other places to worship and fellowship.

We need a reawakening. We need to show our light in the community. We need to show the peace of Christ to those who struggle far worse than us, with things like addiction, depression and hopelessness.

Church cannot be on Sundays only. And the church should not only focus on reaching out to fellow believers (although that is important too). But we need to break the paradigm of Christians going to church to a belief that Christians ARE the church.

Let us spread the peace of Jesus to the world!

Heavenly Father, May I find peace in you. Let me not be consumed with this world but focus on you and the things of heaven. I thank you for your blessings. You have provided me with everything I need. As I live my life in you, give me the strength and opportunities to share your peace with others.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Frozen Forest

Verse of the day
Psalms 91:1 - Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

When we take on life our way, things can fall apart fast. When we become prideful and think our way is best, our lives become superficial. And when we lie to ourselves or live a lie, we become restless.

It's only when we throw our hands up in the air and surrender our lives to God will we live in peace. As we live and abide in God, he will give us rest.

This life can be tiring. We can get weary and may even find it impossible to go on, but we will find rest in Jesus.

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” - Matthew 11:28‭-‬30

Heavenly Father, Forgive me for trying to live my life alone without you. I need to give you everything. I lift my burdens up to you. I seek rest in your shadow. Thank you for lifting me up when I am weak. Your strength endures forever.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Morning Winter Skies

Verse of the day
Colossians 2:6 - And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him.

After that glorious day of accepting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior things can become difficult. You may find yourself feeling convicted of doing certain things that were ungodly and you struggle not to do them again.

Once we accept Jesus, we also accept his ways. We cannot go back living the way we used to. We need to give up our old ways and follow what Jesus teaches us in the Bible.

The Christian life isn't an easy life. You may feel like an outsider, it can be lonley at times and you will, at some point, be ridiculed or persecuted for your faith.

Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. - 2 Timothy 3:12

These are perfectly normal feelings and experiences. In fact, if we are a Christian and haven't experienced any lonliness, rejection or persecution, perhaps we're not following as close to Jesus as we need to be.

We need to decide who is the priority in our lives. Who do we please - man or God? Are we holding on to old ungodly habits? Are we practicing worldly traditions that we grew up with? Do we change who we are just to fit into a group or family? And do we sacrifice God's truth for worldly ways so that we don't offend anyone?

These are tough questions to ask ourselves, but they can determine how serious our relationship is with Jesus Christ. Jesus was the perfect example of following his father in the face of ridicule, persecution and even death. How close do we follow Jesus' ways?

But here is some Good News, we are not alone in our struggles. We can call out to God during our journey and He will help us through any difficult time. There is nothing we can't overcome or do with the power of Jesus.

For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. - Philippians 4:13

Heavenly Father, Help me to overcome any old ungodly habits or traditions that is not of you. Transform my mind into focusing on you and your ways. Thank you for your divine power that gives us strength in our times of need. I also pray for those that persecute me, that they may seek and find you.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Endless Snowdrifts

Verse of the day
Acts 2:21 - But everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

It is one of the most beautiful and reassuring things to hear that everyone can be saved. All they need to do is call on the name of the Lord - Jesus Christ.

Jesus Christ is the only way to be saved. The name of the Lord is above all names. Salvation cannot be bought with money or good works, nor cannot be found in any other god, nor any other name.

There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved. - Acts 4:12

Because salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, anyone wanting to be saved, regardless of their past, can be saved simply by calling upon His name.

If you are reading this and are asking yourself if you can be saved by a loving God, the answer is YES! Jesus awaits your response. He is ready to forgive any and all sin that you struggle with. All you need to do is call upon Him with a simple prayer.

Dear Jesus,
I confess that I am a sinner. Please forgive me of my sins. 

Today, I make you Lord of my life. I confess with my mouth and believe in my heart that you are the Son of God, that you are Lord and that God raised you from the dead. Come and cleanse my heart. Fill me with your Holy Spirit.

Thank you for your salvation and the gift of eternal life. Teach me how to live for you as you walk with me.

Amen.

If you prayed that simple prayer, you are saved! The next steps are to continue to grow in God through His Word and with fellowship of other Christians.

Steeple Through The Trees

Verse of the day

Galatians 6:9 - So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.

Let's face it. It's much easier to do something for ourselves or nothing at all than to do good for others. Doing good often takes sacrifice of time, effort and/or money. It can also be downright difficult if we're trying to do good to others that don't appreciate it or are hard to love.

The flip side is that doing good builds a harvest of blessing. One that we will reap if we don't give up. These blessings can be in the form of unspeakable joy that we experience as we do good. Or it might be healing we experience. Unexpected provision or God's hand guiding us in the right direction. Whatever the blessing, it can be reaped through doing good to others.

But there are times when we get tired. Weary. We try to do good, but nothing changes. Our struggles continue and there is no relief. Or we hoped that by doing good to others it may have set an example, but alas our good deeds have fallen on deaf ears. It can feel disappointing, hopeless and frustrating.

But God takes note of our perserverance. By not giving up and being faithful in doing good, God awaits His perfect time to shower us with His blessings. But I believe far too often we give up too early.

We live in a time of instant results. I want my food now and hot. I want to buy now and pay later. I don't want to wait for my app to download. I hate waiting to be served.

It reminds me of a song I heard on TV from the band Queen. The lyrics go like this:

I want it all (yes I want it all)

I want it all hey

I want it all and I want it now

We want EVERYTHING and we want it NOW. But, we need to have the mindset of a farmer or gardener. Not only do we plant seeds of faith to grow and mature in others, but we also plant seeds of blessings for ourselves. These seeds take time to grow and bear fruit. We need to be patient. As they grow, we need to take care of them. 

We need to persevere and keep on doing good in the tough times. Even when we're broke, tired, cranky or feeling selfish. If we give up, we may miss out on God's blessings.

May we be reminded that, even if doing good can be hard work, it's most definitely worth it in the long run.

Heavenly Father, Give me the strength to press on doing good for others even in the toughest times. I've seen and experienced your blessings when I faithfully perservere. Thank you for your many blessings and all that you provide.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Supermoon Drifting Away From Earth

Verse of the day
Isaiah 40:28 - Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding.

I enjoy watching Mythbusters. It's a show that uses science to disprove myths from everything from scenes in movies to old wives tales to events in history. And although the show is quite entertaining and the science looks cool, where does faith come in?

Science and faith don't always mix. There are some mysteries science cannot prove without some theory behind it. The laws science uses are natural laws. And we do live in a natural world, but our Creator is supernatural. That means God has powers much greater than the natural laws on earth.

So when it comes to the creation of earth, the worldly view looks through the eyes of science. But believers in God, look at creation through faith. We know God is more powerful than we could ever understand. 

God's recorded miracles defy science. They are mysteries of the supernatural. They go beyond science and no theory based on natural laws could ever prove the power of God.

No science could explain the parting of the Red Sea, walking on water, turning water into wine, healing the blind or resurrecting the dead. There are many more accounts of miracles too numerous to mention.

If we, as Christians, believe these miracles to be true, then we must also believe God created the earth in a supernatural way that science cannot prove. One of God's greatest miracle is the creation of earth.

It defies science how the earth was created so perfectly to sustain life. We live and thrive on a planet within a lifeless universe that is so vast we cannot comprehend its size. 

Sure we see can look to the stars and see God's creation as it He intended it to be. But no matter how much we want to find other intelligent life out in space, we will never find it. We're it - so let's give thanks to our Creator who gave us life abundantly on earth.

Heavenly Father, You are the one and only creator of earth. It did not happen by chance but by your divine purpose. Your power is beyond our understanding. Thank you for your creation (both big and small). From the largest star in the sky to the smallest insect, you created a wonderful universe filled with mysteries man will never solve. All praise to the creator of the Heavens and Earth!

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Simplistic Beauty

Verse of the day
Galatians 5:22‭-‬23 - But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!

When we allow our lives to be guided by the Holy Spirit, we start to transform and blossom into something beautiful. We start to do things we may have never done in the past. That is because we start to bear fruit.

Those who bear fruit, may find themselves being kind to those who are unkind. To love those difficult to love. They may find that they're more patient than ever before, especially in times that they would normally lose control and say something they would regret later. Others will find peace and joy in the most stressful situations.

And the Holy Spirit that dwells in us not only produces a fruitful life, but also reminds us when we fall short. We might hear that inner voice speak to us saying, "You probably shouldn't have said that," or "You need to calm down before things get out of control."

The fruits of the Holy Spirit are against no law. Meaning they are not bound and are free. There is no judgement in living out these fruits of the Spirit. God deemed these fruits to be good and intended them to be  poured out from having the Holy Spirit dwell in us.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for your Holy Spirit that dwells in my life. As I live my life guided by your Holy Spirit, I see good changes in my life that bear fruit. And when I stumble, your Spirit convicts me to come back to you with a humble heart and ask for forgiveness. I praise you for all your goodness!

In Jesus' name,

Amen.

Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Too

Verse of the day
1 John 2:15‭-‬16 - Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world.

When I was in high school, I dreamt of owning a Lamborghini Countach. It was love at first sight. I loved the cool design, the speed and the status symbol attached to it.

Looking back, that dream feels foolish and impractical. But being young, we don't always see with wisdom. Even today, I can get sidetracked by nice vehicles, houses, etc. But I know, I need to think on things above, not the things of this world.

I have to think in more realistic, practical ways to live on earth while keeping my focus on Jesus. Soon all this will be gone and none of the material things will even matter.

If we look at today's verse, the true test to see if we love the father is to examine our lives to see if we love the world. What is our main focus in life? What do we strive for? Who do we really serve?

The world is very flashy, entertaining and tries to appeal to all of our senses. It's easy to get tempted or distracted into things that take us away from God.

Let us pause each time a worldly thought or desire pops into our head and ask ourselves, "Does this serve God or me?"

Heavenly Father, I thank you for providing all of my needs. Forgive me for falling for worldly desires. My focus needs to be on serving You and others. Give me strength to resist temptations that will lead me away from you.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.