Wrapping Up 2025 - Ready to Unwrap 2026

Romans 15:4-6, 13 (NIV)  For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. ... May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

            It is my sincerest hope that this devotional series of Brown Paper Packages has given you a new insight and perspective not just on gifts in general...but on our Gracious Heavenly Father who lovingly desires to bless us daily with his good gifts. On this last day of 2025, as we begin wrapping up the past year, recall the blessings God has given you. Make a list; it will amaze you.

            As far as the challenges, disappointments, mistakes, hurts and struggles of 2025—let it go. The past is called “the past” for a reason. Leave it there. Make today the day you settle your accounts with your Heavenly Father and begin anew. Once you have spent quality time in prayer, prepare yourself to unwrap 2026 with:

·         the gift of assurance             

·         the gift of guidance

·         the gift of endurance

·         the gift of promise

·         the gift of wisdom

·         the gift of discernment

·         the gift of calming peace

·         the gift of boldness

·         the gift of credibility

 

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            We come to you with humility and grateful hearts for all the good gifts you long to give us. We ask forgiveness for the many ways in which we have fallen short of your grace during 2025 and ask that you might create in us a clean heart and positive mind for 2026. We have no clue what the year will bring, but we trust you in all things.

                                                                        In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Wrapping Up 2025 – Ready to Unwrap 2026 appeared first on

Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain-Reference® Bible, New International Version® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1983 by Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

The Shepherds' Brown Paper Packages

           In all honesty, I believe the shepherds are my favorite participants in the original “Christmas” event. Culture and tradition reveal that sheep-herding was about the lowest occupation of the time and generally delegated to the youngest son. Big brothers had the better chores and little brothers were scooted outside to brave the elements and tend the sheep. Perhaps this is why Samuel had to wait for Jesse to bring his youngest son David in from the field; after all, how could Jesse imagine that scruffy young boy was to be anointed as a future king? (cf., 1 Samuel 16:1-13) Being a shepherd was also dangerous, especially during the dark evening hours full of hungry wild animals and ruthless thieves. It is in this setting we find the little band of shepherds.

Luke 2:8 (NIV)  And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.

            It was the little band of shepherds who opened at least three brown paper packages that night. Can you imagine how frightening it would be out in the darkest night when the first angel appeared and the brightness of the glory of God shone around them? No wonder they were terrified. Just as Mary had done, so too, the shepherds also unwrap their first package to discover the gift of calming peace as the angel brings good news full of joy. To the shepherds’ amazement, when the first angel finishes speaking, a great company of the heavenly host appears and together they sing praises: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests (vs. 13-14).”

            Now the shepherds unwrap their second package to discover the gift of boldness.

Luke 2:15-16 (NIV)  When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

           Finally, a third brown paper package is unwrapped by the shepherds. This gift is simply amazing. This little group of scruffy boys, most likely filthy and smelling somewhat like the flocks they tended, is given a precious package – the gift of credibility. Placed within a culture who generally despised them and dismiss their stories as incredulous; the shepherds are the ones chosen to sound the Good News—and the crowds believe them and are amazed!

Luke 2:17-18, 20 (NIV)  When they [shepherds] had seen him [Jesus], they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. ... The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

            In today’s world full of turmoil, we are given an inner calming peace. When our hearts shrink back for fear of what someone else might think, we are given boldness to proclaim the Good News. And most of all, there will be a day coming when all the world will realize our proclamation of Good News is credible for it will happen just as we have been told.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Thank you for the brown paper package of calming peace to quiet our fears. Thank you for the brown paper package of boldness to act upon the opportunities you give us to be the light that shines in darkness, and forgive our moments of hesitation. Thank you for trusting us with the brown paper package of credibility that the words we speak are true according to your Word.

                                                                        In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

The devotional The Shepherds’ Brown Paper Packages appeared first on

Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain-Reference® Bible, New International Version® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1983 by Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

 

The Magi's Brown Paper Packages

              In 1857, John H. Hopkins, Jr. penned the classic Christmas hymn “We Three Kings of Orient Are.” It is most likely this hymn in combination with three specifically mentioned gifts in the Bible—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—that establishes the image of three wisemen in modern day nativity sets. In truth, many biblical scholars believe the caravan of Magi to be as great as 200 in keeping with historical and cultural traditions of travel at that time.

            Ironically, the Magi are considered the premiere gift-givers of the original Christmas event. Their gifts were extravagant by the day’s standards, and to call their gifts “costly” seems somewhat understated. What possible brown paper packages could they receive? To the Magi, came two brown paper packages; the gift of wisdom and the gift of discernment. Both of which were greatly needed in order to avoid King Herod’s brutal schemes.

Matthew 2:11-12 (NIV)  On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.

            Some modern denominations today would distort discernment to be some type of prophetic pronouncements, sometimes referred to as “words of knowledge.” Yet holding to the basic definition of discernment indicates the ability to distinguish between two things (e.g., reality v. fiction; truth v. falsehood, etc.). The Magi were given the ability to understand that King Herod’s claim to “Go and make a careful search for the child.  As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him” (c.f., 2:8) was in fact, a falsehood. King Herod’s intention was not to worship but to kill the child for fear the child would become a king.

            All wisdom comes from God; and God will give wisdom liberally to any who ask of sincere motives. He gives generously and without reprimand. (c.f., James 1:5-8)

            Both gifts, the ability to distinguish between right and wrong, and the amount of wisdom needed for daily circumstances can be ours when we seek God with a sincere heart.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            When we are in need, we ask you to grant us the brown paper package of wisdom in the amount you trust us to handle correctly. In a world so full of misguiding information, thank you for giving us the brown paper package of discernment enabling us to stay focused on you.

                                                                        In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional The Magi’s Brown Paper Packages appeared first on

Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain-Reference® Bible, New International Version® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1983 by Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Simeon's and Anna's Brown Paper Packages

            Simeon was a righteous and devout man. His age is not mentioned although most biblical scholars agree he was in his advance years.

            Anna was a prophetess and the Bible does reveal her age. She had only been married seven years when her husband died, leaving her a widow until she was 84 years of age. We are told Anna worshiped and prayed night and day, never leaving the temple.

            Although they were two distinctive individuals, Simeon and Anna shared in the common bond of anticipation. They knew the scriptures foretelling the birth of The Messiah. Would they be able to live long enough to welcome the coming Messiah? Senior adults can identify well with all the aches and pains of the aging process that Simeon and Anna must have felt as they waited year after year. Pulling the string off their brown paper packages, they unwrapped the gift of endurance and the gift of promise.

Luke 2:26, 28, and 38 (NIV)  It had been revealed to him [Simeon] by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. ... Simeon took him [Jesus] in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation.” ... Coming up to them [Mary and Joseph with the infant] at that very moment, she [Anna] gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.

            Today, we are looking for the Second Advent of Jesus Christ. No matter your age, no matter the aches and pains of aging process you are adjusting to, we have the gift of endurance through the daily strength our loving Heavenly Father provides as we anticipate his coming gift of promise. As in the words of an old familiar hymn, strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            You see the struggles of aging each of your faithful ones endures. Thank you for providing us with the brown paper package of endurance combined with the brown paper package of promise. Thank you for the strength and bright hope we have in you.

                                                                        In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Simeon’s and Anna’s Brown Paper Packages appeared first on

Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain-Reference® Bible, New International Version® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1983 by Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Mary's Brown Paper Package

                Most scholars of biblical history believe Mary to be a young teenage girl, possibly as young as 13, and betrothed to Joseph according to Jewish customs of the day. One can only imagine the bewilderment gripping Mary as she realizes the enormity of the task facing her—the task of giving birth to and raising the Son of God. Mary has found favor with God. She unwraps her brown paper package to discover the gift of calming peace in the midst of perplexity.

Luke 1:30-31, 35 (NIV)  But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus.” ... The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.”

            Mary faced something uniquely challenging to only her, and our perplexities could never possibly draw comparison. Yet often we find ourselves in the midst of uncertainty and hesitation. These are the times when God lovingly longs to give us the gift of calming peace as we trust him.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Forgive us when we worry and stress over those things we cannot control. Thank you for providing us with the brown paper package of calming peace as we place our trust in you.

                                                                        In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Mary’s Brown Paper Package appeared first on

Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain-Reference® Bible, New International Version® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1983 by Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Joseph's Brown Paper Packages

           Joseph was a righteous man, unwilling to publicly disgrace his pregnant teenage fiancée. What should he do? He was a man full of uncertainty regarding the future. His first brown paper package contained the gift of assurance.

Matthew 1:20-21 (NIV)  ...an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”

            Joseph received a second brown paper package; the gift of guidance in the midst of danger.

Matthew 2:13 (NIV)  When they [the Magi] had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.”

            Today we learn the gift of assurance can be ours in the midst of whatever uncertainties or challenges we face. Our loving Heavenly Father is always as near as our next whispered prayer. His wisdom is far above our own, and we can find guidance when we turn to him in prayer and when we study his Word. He will never leave us nor forsake us.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Thank you for your loving watch-care over us. Thank you for providing us with the brown paper package of assurance during times of uncertainties and challenges. Thank you for providing us with the brown paper package of guidance as we seek you in all things.

                                                                        In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Joseph’s Brown Paper Packages appeared first on

Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain-Reference® Bible, New International Version® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1983 by Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

 

Christmas According to The Sound of Music

          The Christmas Story can be found Matthew chapters 1-2 and Luke chapters 1-2. You are most likely busily enjoying the wonderful holiday events and traditions of a joyous Christmas season. However, my challenge to you is that you would take time—make time—to read the entire account of the original “Christmas” story. Today, I am introducing a mini-series that will take us through this week and next week.

            However, I have another special request. I would ask you to join with me in prayer for our many friends and loved ones who struggle each year to manage what I call “The Holiday Blues”. They need our love and support especially at this time of year. Thank you!

            Perhaps you are familiar with the Broadway production of the 1959 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical The Sound of Music featuring Mary Martin as Maria. Or perhaps you are more familiar with the 1965 film version with Julie Andrews as Maria. One of the most iconic songs from that production is entitled “My Favorite Things.” Along with whiskers on kittens and warm woolen mittens, the character Maria finds comfort in the simple things; even something as simple as brown paper packages tied up with strings.

            It occurs to me that the original story of Christmas (Matthew 1-2 and Luke 1-2) includes the receiving of many brown paper packages. These little brown paper packages tied up with string—the less obvious, yet special gifts—are the ones we will try to discover as we explore the Christmas story for the next mini-series of devotionals. Starting tomorrow, we will look each day at one of the principal characters in the original Christmas story to see what gift they received, and what gift can be ours today.

            No matter what brightly colored presents adorn your tree this year, my greatest desire is that you will discover many brown paper packages in the original Christmas event that will bring you comfort, guidance, and assurance of God’s love for you.

John 3:16-17 (NIV)  For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

Romans 6:23 (NIV)  For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 10:13 (NIV)  Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

 

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Thank you for your great gift of love, and thank you the gift of salvation through Christ. Prepare our hearts to discover all the additional gifts you long to give us.

                                                                        In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Christmas According to The Sound of Music appeared first on

Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain-Reference® Bible, New International Version® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1983 by Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Christmas According to Credit Donkey

            If you have been a regular reader of my blog; you know I love to look at some of the more obscure details in life. You are familiar with my style of writing; perhaps not always grammatically correct, but more conversational in nature and function. You also know to start by reading the title as it often gives you a hint into the topic, and sometimes an interesting twist, as is the case today. I am also very well aware that most people do not carry a Bible with them; instead reading my blog via their phone, and because I believe reading the appropriate Scriptures is important for understanding; I will almost always print out the entire Bible text as a convenience to you. This brings us to today!

            Ah, yes! Christmas week! The season of holiday cheer, festive decorations, strings of bright lights, fancy wrapped packages with glittering bows, cookies, parties, shopping, shopping, shopping... It’s a wonderful time—a busy time—a time when, according to The Statistic Portal, Americans will spend an average of approximately $794 on Christmas gifts. Out of curiosity, I investigated another online site, CreditDonkey.com (yes, there really is such a site and it can be accessed at https://www.creditdonkey.com/gift-giving.html). It seems Credit Donkey polled 1,076 Americans age 18 and over during October 7-11, 2013, just over ten years ago. At that time, the following percentages were discovered:

·         Gift cards: 82% want to receive gift cards; 69% plan to give gift cards

·         Electronics: 76% want to receive electronics; 63% plan to give electronics

·         Clothing: 68% want to receive clothing; 59% plan to give clothing

·         Books: 62% want to receive books; 58% plan to give books

·         Toys: 56% plan to give toys; with 79% of parents planning to give toys

·         43% of those polled admitted they will get a gift for themselves

·         54% will return gifts given to them (unless it is a gift card)

            That was a little more than 10 years ago. I am certain the percentage of people wanting books now would be considerably reduced, especially given that most people if they read, use an electronic device.

            For the Christian, our perspective on Christmas gifts takes a different focus.

John 3:16-17 (NIV)  For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

Romans 6:23 (NIV)  For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 10:13 (NIV)  Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

            For us, the primary gift given on the very first “Christmas” day was the gift of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God. On that First Advent, he came as a baby to begin the plan of salvation that will eventually culminate in his Second Advent—the Blessed Hope for which we wait. No other gift to us, no matter how ornamentally wrapped, could ever compare with God’s gift of his Beloved Son.

 

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            While the frenzied shopping continues for just the right gift to give someone...we humbly and gratefully thank you for giving us the Perfect Gift. Help us to share the Good News of your Perfect Gift with others.                                               

                                                                        In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Christmas According to Credit Donkey appeared first on Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain-Reference® Bible, New International Version® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1983 by Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Christmas Simplicity

            If you are in any way familiar with my blog and style of writing, then you know the first place to start reading is at the title. It often provides a clue to the blog content. Okay, you’ve had a moment to glance back at the title “Christmas Simplicity” and by now you are thinking, “What an oxymoron!” [def. oxymoron: figure of speech in which contrary terms are combined] How in the world am I able to combine the word Christmas with any form of the word simple? It would seem, at least from the world’s view, that Christmas is utter chaos packed with shopping, parties, events, cooking, decorations—you name it, the list goes on and on.

            For me, Christmas is the simple reminder that God so loved me that He sent his One and Only Son to earth to bring me the free gift of salvation. In addition, endurance, encouragement, hope, joy, peace—these are all mine because God promised them to me if I will follow Christ Jesus.

Romans 15:4-6, 13 (NIV)  For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. ... May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

            To me, the simplicity of Christmas is this:

·         The Bible is truth. It is God’s Holy Word. I can fully trust its promises.

·         The Bible teaches me endurance (e.g., how to continue, persevere, remain steadfast, how to put up with, how to withstand pain, distress, fatigue). As I learn and practice Jesus Christ’s example of endurance, I find the promised gift of peace. Endurance leads to peace!

·         The Bible teaches me encouragement (e.g., hope, confidence, support). As I learn and practice Jesus Christ’s example of encouragement, I find the promised gift of joy. Encouragement leads to joy!

Christmas is a time to step back from the clutter, chaos, and hubbub of the secular interpretation of the season, and remember the TRUE reason for celebrating Christmas. The simple reason: Christ’s birth brings us salvation. Christ’s birth brings hope, joy, and peace. To me, this is the most amazing part of celebrating Christmas! It is our opportunity to glorify our Heavenly Father by showing Christ to the world so desperately in need of hope, joy, and peace!

Christmas Simplicity = The Birth of Christ = Glory to God!

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            We humbly thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ. May everything we think, say, and do—our primary focus—be reflecting the light of Christ to a world in desperate need of a Savior. Thank you for the promise gifts of endurance, encouragement, hope, joy, and peace.

                                                                        In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Christmas Simplicity appeared first on Write From My Heart at 

https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain-Reference® Bible, New International Version® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1983 by Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

 

Justified

Romans 5:1-2 (NIV)  Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.

            Many years ago as a teenager attending summer camp, I heard the best definition of being justified and it stayed with me all these years. I have no idea to whom credit should be given for this definition, but I share it with you:

Justified:  just-as-if-I’d never sinned 

            It is through faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior that we gain access to God’s peace and grace. Truly this brings joy when our hope is placed in God’s glory. Whether days may be bright or dreary, whether our current circumstances find good health or pain, no matter what the day brings—it brings hope and joy for those who place their faith and trust in God. Additionally, no matter what mistakes or wrongdoing we have done, nor how we have erred in the past; once we have been justified by God's grace, nothing from the past will drag behind us like a shadow. God is faithful to forgive us and we are justified through faith in Christ. We don’t deserve this, but it is graciously provided by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It is the sacrificial gift of Christ that frees us from all blame and guilt just-as-if-I’d never sinned; allowing us to find peace with God and hope in him.

Romans 5:1-2 (NLT)  Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Thank you for your great love and mercy. Thank you for the gift of salvation through the sacrificial gift of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Thank you for forgiveness that leaves us fully justified. May we never take this for granted. In you we find peace, hope, and joy.

                                                            In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Justified appeared first on Write From My Heart at  

https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain-Reference® Bible, New International Version® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1983 by Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Therefore I Have Hope

Lamentations 3:1-20 (NIV)  I am a man who has seen affliction by the rod of his wrath. He has driven me away and made me walk in darkness rather than light; indeed, he has turned his hand against me again and again, all day long. He has made my skin and my flesh grow old and has broken my bones. He has besieged me and surrounded me with bitterness and hardship. He has made me dwell in darkness like those long dead. He has walled me in so I cannot escape; he has weighed me down with chains. Even when I call out or cry for help, he shuts out my prayer. He has barred my way with blocks of stone; he has made my paths crooked. Like a bear lying in wait, like a lion in hiding, he dragged me from the path and mangled me and left me without help. He drew his bow and made me the target for his arrows. He pierced my heart with arrows from his quiver. I became a laughingstock of all my people; they mock me in song all day long. He has filled me with bitter herbs and sated me with gall. He has broken my teeth with gravel; he has trampled me in the dust. I have been deprived of peace; I have forgotten what prosperity is. So I say, “My splendor is gone and all that I had hoped from the LORD.” I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me.

            And we think WE have it rough? Most of us have never experienced true affliction as described by Jeremiah, and by God’s mercy will never be placed in that position. What we do experience are daily consequences of the aging process, or as my Uncle used to say, “the affects of accumulated birthdays.” What we do experience are results of living a Christian life in a world that seeks only self. What we do experience are temporary times of spiritual drought when we wonder why? what if? when? how? how long? Thankfully, Jeremiah not only defined true affliction for us, but he also defined the correct response.

Lamentations 3:21-26 (NIV)  Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope. Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Forgive us when we become disheartened by life’s circumstances. Remind us your mercies are new with each day and your faithfulness never ceases. Therefore we have hope.

                                                            In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Therefore I Have Hope appeared first on Write From My Heart at  

https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain-Reference® Bible, New International Version® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1983 by Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

 

Bezalel and Oholiab

Bezalel and Oholiab—sure, you remember them, don’t you? No, most of us do not remember their names, nor who they were, nor what they accomplished that placed their names in the Scriptures.

Exodus 31:1-6 (NIV)  Then the LORD said to Moses, “See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, with ability, and knowledge in all kinds of crafts—to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship. Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahishamach, of the tribe of Dan, to help him. Also I have given skill to all the craftsmen to make everything I have commanded you.” (c.f., Exodus 35:30-36:1)

            Bezalel and Oholiab were in charge of designing and making the Tent of Meeting, all its furnishings, even the priestly garments. Quite a long list of accomplishments!

            What does this have to do with us? Simply this: God furnished all the skill, talent, knowledge and ability for Bezalel and Oholiab to do the task he set before them. God will also furnish you with all the skill, talent, knowledge and ability to do whatever task he sets before you. The temptation is for us to view the skills and abilities of someone else, and then by comparison view ourselves as somehow inadequate or lacking. The key is to stop focusing on what others can do and start focusing on what God is leading you to do. Remember this; the disciples were fishermen; Paul was a tent-maker; Lydia sold purple dye; Dorcus made children’s clothing; Jubal was a musician; Tertius was a scribe. All of them were dedicated to doing the Lord’s work.

Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)  For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)  Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Thank you for the skills, talents, knowledge and abilities you have graciously gifted to us. Forgive us when we hesitate or whine about the tasks you set before us. Create in us a new enthusiasm for serving you in whatever capacity you require and let us work with confidence that your Presence will guide us.

                                                            In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Bezalel and Oholiab appeared first on Write From My Heart at  

https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain-Reference® Bible, New International Version® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1983 by Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

 

Anything That Disrupts Your Focus

Jonah 2:8 (NIV)  Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be theirs.

            I enjoy the story of Jonah, particularly because just as Jonah ran away from God (i.e., opposite direction); God delivered him to the exact place he should have been traveling all along. Too often we overlook the little golden nuggets of truth while getting caught up in the story line. Tucked away in the familiar story of Jonah is a small 13-word verse, but what a powerful and timely message it brings; especially during the rush of this holiday season.

            We commonly think about idols as being man-made objects and images to represent any number of false gods. True. However, by definition, an idol is anything which captures your attention, devotion, or admiration. In short, an idol can be anything that draws you away from focusing on God, his Word, or his plan for your life. When I (or we) allow anything to disrupt our focus on God, the consequence is clear—we lose the grace that could have been our during the time we allowed ourselves to be distracted. God grace is abundant and free to all who call upon him—to all who believe. How sad to forfeit even a brief moment of God’s unmerited love and favor because we are too busy with our own worldly agendas or prideful possessions. Both the Old Testament and the New Testament make it perfectly clear:

Exodus 20:3 (NIV)  You shall have no other gods before me.

Matthew 22:37-38 (NIV)  Jesus replied, “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.”

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Forgive us when we become so distracted by our calendars and possessions that we neglect our focus upon you. We humbly thank you for the grace you so freely and generously offer. As you redirected Jonah, we humbly ask you to redirect our focus upon you.

                                                            In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Anything That Disrupts Your Focus appeared first on Write From My Heart at  

https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Thompson Chain-Reference® Bible, New International Version® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1983 by Zondervan Corporation. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Those of Good Birth

Philippians 4:5 (NIV)  Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

            Quite frankly I have skipped over this verse enumerable times as I focus on the other exhortations listed in the fourth chapter of Philippians. And even when I did notice it, I just glossed over it thinking it just meant to be calm, not harsh or rude. Today, it stood out like a neon sign.

gentleness (def., having qualities considered appropriate for those of good birth; of the upper classes; refined; people of good birth)

            The thought came to me; What better or more noble birth could there be than to be a born again Christian?

John 3:3 (NIV)  Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.

            This, in turn, raised a barrage of questions:  When others see me, is the fact that I am born again through Christ evident to all? Do they see my Christian heritage by the way I live each day and by the way I react to daily circumstances? Does the nobility of Christ shine through me?

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Thank you for your forgiveness, for your mercy, and for your love. Thank you that in Christ I am a person born of nobility and good birth. I pray that in every circumstance the gentleness of Christ living in me might be evident to all.

                                                            In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Those of Good Birth appeared first on Write From My Heart at 

https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®, Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Calmly Tolerating Delay

James 5:7-8 (NLT)  Dear brothers and sisters, be patient as you wait for the Lord’s return. Consider the farmers who patiently wait for the rains in the fall and in the spring. They eagerly look for the valuable harvest to ripen. You, too, must be patient. Take courage, for the coming of the Lord is near.

            There are many definitions for the word patient. To be honest, I think that it is easier for me to be patient (i.e., endure without complaining) or to be patient (i.e., refusing to be provoked) than it is for me to be patient (i.e., calmly tolerate delay). Waiting for something is not in my strength toolbox. When it comes to waiting for the Second Coming of Christ, I used to pray “Lord, come quickly” reciting Revelation 22:20 (KJV) Even so, come, Lord Jesus. Then I discovered something that changed my perspective.

2 Peter 3:9 (NLT)  The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.

            Each day we calmly tolerate delay is another day for someone to hear the Gospel and accept Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. That makes the waiting totally worth it all. Now, when it comes to my thoughts about the Second Advent of Christ, I spend time in prayer for all those family and friends who may need time to renew their commitment to the Lord because his coming is surely near; his return is imminent. The best thing you can do as you calmly tolerate delay is to pray for others.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Thank you for each precious day you provide for others to hear the Good News and accept Christ as their Savior. Forgive our desire for haste. Thank you for the opportunity to pray.

                                                                        In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Calmly Tolerating Delay appeared first on Write From My Heart at  

https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked KJV are taken from The Holy Bible, King James Version (cum privilegio), undated, Cambridge University Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Let Intimidation Generate Determination

Nehemiah 6:8-9 (NLT)  I replied, “There is no truth in any part of your story. You are making up the whole thing.” They were just trying to intimidate us, imagining that they could discourage us and stop the work. So I continued the work with even greater determination.

            Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem...scoundrels, tattletales, schemers, and dissenters. Their target? Nehemiah. Why? The walls of the city of Jerusalem were broken down and the city was defenseless. It was Nehemiah who not only saw the problem, but stepped forward to do something about it. The whole story can be found in the first six short chapters of Nehemiah, and if you have not read the story recently, I would encourage you to do so.

            How ironic that Nehemiah had to deal with the “woke” culture of his day. There they were—the little handful of naysayers—chirping out their rumors and lies and doing their best to discredit Nehemiah. Their goal was a simple one of discouragement in the hopes of causing Nehemiah to lose confidence in his own ability to complete the task. [Sounds like it could be the front page of today’s news!] Here’s the bottom line and the lesson for us to contemplate: Nehemiah let intimidation generate determination.

            Perhaps you feel the Lord is leading you to be more active in your prayer life, your church life, or community involvement. For me, it was getting back to writing devotionals and posting them publicly. I have a dear friend who faithfully posts daily scriptures to a small group of women; a cousin who plays piano and posts daily hymns and uplifting music; and another cousin who faithfully posts daily scripture verses—all these efforts bring hope and encouragement to more people than any of them will ever realize! There will always be woke naysayers of some type in every generation. In spite of this, I ask you to join me in keeping your resolve firmly fixed on serving the Lord in whatever capacity he leads you. Nehemiah’s task was a difficult one and mine is minuscule compared to his. You may think your task is trivial. Just remember this, NO task is too small when it is dedicated to serving God!

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            You have called each of us to complete certain tasks according to the abilities you have given us. You also know when our hearts are discouraged by doubts or even the unkindness of others whether it is intentional or unintentional. Let the intimidation we sense create in us an even greater determination to serve you.

                                                            In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Let Intimidation Generate Determination appeared first on Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Anxiety Has a Remedy

Psalm 94:18-19 (NLT)  I cried out, “I am slipping!” but your unfailing love, O LORD, supported me. When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.

            Here we are during the holiday season and our hearts should be festive and merry. I’m not sure about you, but being joyful 24-7 is not an easy task. So many people deal with job stress, financial stress, health issues, family concerns, even world events...and none of those things take a break just because it’s the holiday season. However, there is one thing I know for certain. God’s love is amazing! God’s love is unfailing! God’s love is comforting! God’s love is renewing! God’s love is yours. 

Your Heavenly Father’s love is the remedy for any anxiety you may be experiencing.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            We thank you for the joy of the season in which we remember your ultimate gift of love; the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ—our Savior and Lord. You are always aware of our life circumstances and you see each stress, anxiety, doubt, or challenge we face. Remind us that your love is there to support us, comfort us, cheer us, and bring us hope.

                                                            In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Anxiety Has a Remedy appeared first on Write From My Heart at 

https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

TREASURE - something of great value

Malachi 3:16-17 (NLT)  Then those who feared the LORD spoke with each other, and the LORD listened to what they said. In his presence, a scroll of remembrance was written to record the names of those who feared him and always thought about the honor of his name. “They will be my people,” says the LORD of Heaven’s Armies. “On the day when I act in judgment, they will be my own special treasure. I will spare them as a father spares an obedient child. Then you will again see the difference between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.”

            I have often looked at this passage, even including it in many of my previous writings. However, it never ceases to amaze me what new things I can add to my understanding when I look carefully. This morning I discovered at least two points of interest.

            First, did you notice the people were speaking amongst themselves; but the LORD listened to what they said. This is a great reminder to each of us that we may not be speaking directly to our Heavenly Father...but he is always listening, not only to our spoken words, but to the words in our hearts.

            Another interesting point concerns the scroll of remembrance. This list of names wasn’t created to help God remember because his memory is without flaw. The list was created to help the people remember their commitment to obey, honor, and serve the LORD God Almighty and him alone. God knows each of us. He will not forget his faithful people. It is we who need to remember our pledge to serve him in all that we think, in all that we say, and in all of our actions. When we are obedient to God, when we fear him, and when we always think about the honor of his name, then we are his treasure—something of great value to him—something he will keep as his own.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Forgive us when we forget you are always listening to our words and to our hearts. Remind us that we are your valued treasure and you will not forget us. Create in us a new resolve to honor you with our thoughts, our words, and our service.

                                                            In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional TREASURE—something of great value appeared first on Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Walk in the Light

1 John 1:5-9 (NLT)  This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all. So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness; we are not practicing the truth. But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin. If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth. But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.

            When we think of sin, we often only think of really atrocious things like murder, theft, and other things obviously abhorrent in any normal society. However when we consider that sin by definition is “missing the mark”—ANY thing that leads us away from God’s light—the light we have through salvation in Christ—then we have much more thinking to do.

If we agree that the Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (cf. Galatians 5:22-23); then we must also agree that sin is anything that misses the mark and leads to hatred, bitterness, discontentment, rudeness, those things questionable or objectionable, harshness, even undisciplined actions. It includes things like malice, but also envy. It includes hatred, but also gossip. It includes rudeness, but also snippy or insulting remarks. This puts things in a little different perspective for us. I think that is one reason I appreciate the reminder, “If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth.”

            Wonderful news! There is salvation through Christ that cleanses us from all of our sins and failures leading us away from God’s light. Through Christ we can have the light of God’s Word in our hearts. What a beautiful light it is! In closing, I would like to share the words from an old familiar hymn:

“Walk in the Light” (words by Asa Hull, 19^th century)

Walk in the light the Lord hath given, to guide your steps aright;

His Holy Spirit sent from heaven, can cheer the darkest night.

Walk in the light of gospel truth, that shines from God’s own Word;

A light to guide in early youth the faithful of the Lord.

Walk in the light! tho’ shadows dark like spectres cross your way;

Darkness will flee before the light of God’s eternal day.

Walk in the light—the beautiful light of God.

 

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Forgive those things in our lives that lead us away from you. Guide us to show the light of your Word to a world still living in darkness.

                                                            In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

The devotional Walk in the Light appeared first on Write From My Heart at 

https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com

Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.