December 31
Please read today’s scriptures out loud. I inserted the Old Testament scriptures for you to go back and read.
Matthew 2:13-23 (NKJV) Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him.” When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt I called My Son.” (Hosea 11:1) Then Herod, when he saw that he was deceived by the wise men, was exceedingly angry; and he sent forth and put to death all the male children who were in Bethlehem and in all its districts, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the wise men. Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying: “ A voice was heard in Ramah, Lamentation, weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, Refusing to be comforted, Because they are no more.” (Jeremiah 31:15) Now when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the young Child’s life are dead.” Then he arose, took the young Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea instead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And being warned by God in a dream, he turned aside into the region of Galilee. And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, “He shall be called a Nazarene.”
Jesus is the fulfillment of all the law and prophets (See John 1:45; Acts 28:33; Matthew 5:17). Our amazing God became Man to save, rescue, heal, deliver, preserve and help you and me. This makes me so thankful ~ stop right now and thank Him for all He has done for you.
Tonight is New Year’s Eve ~ a time of celebration. Many people tell their loved ones, “If you are going out tonight, please, be safe.” Did you see the great lengths God went to to provide safety for His Son? He knew what was going to happen when His Son came into the world. He knew all this before the foundation of the world and He planned out every detail then ~ none of this is a “Plan B”. (See 1 Peter 1:20) He told the prophets.
In dreams He warned Joseph (Three times in this section of scripture) about what they needed to do right when they needed to do it. Our God is great and greatly to be praised!
Let this New Year be a year of seeking God’s wisdom and direction for you and your family. Then walk in it, praising and thanking Him every step of the way. He will lead you and guide you into all truth and make known to you the way you should go ~ because He loves you so much!
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year ~ Laurie Kay
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 30
December 30
Luke 2:36-38 (NKJV) Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
This is an amazing section of scripture in so many ways. This is the only scripture in which the Prophetess Anna is mentioned, but it speaks volumes about her.
Notice the scripture says she was “of a great age”…and the math equals about 91 years past her virginity…so she’s gotta be older than 100, right!!??!! Our culture is very disrespectful of the elderly in our communities. We don’t want to “hangout” with them, learn from them, or even think they do anything fun or important. It is so sad.
I have a lot of sweet sistas who are of retirement age.
If you are an older woman I hope you are encouraged that your best days are not necessarily behind you, but they can be in the now and also in the future. If God can bless Anna in her “greater” years…He can and wants to bless you as well! We do not hit a certain age and then poof we are no longer valuable or useful in His kingdom…that, my sistas, is a lie from the enemy ~ so don’t listen to it or think it!
From what this scripture says about her and from what I have read about biblical widowhood, Anna is a faithful woman of the Lord. She lived her life in His service ~ for His glory. It says, “…who did not depart from the temple”. From that I take that she clung to God ~ He really was her life and length of days ~ her all in all.
“And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord,” …this makes me think that the Spirit told her who Jesus was. He was Who she was looking and longing for. She was blessed to live and see Him.
It also says, “and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” Can you imagine all the people she would tell? It says she was at the temple serving God day and night. I have to think, with her being a woman, that she could not contain herself but told everyone she saw.
Can you even imagine it, you are going about your day, serving God and then there He is, the One prophesied about is right before you. She was blessed indeed!!
So, where are you right now? What might you need to do with this lesson? Has God convicted you of anything? Have you been encouraged by this scriptural glimpse into the life of Anna? If you have been convicted, then be quick to repent and obey what He is saying to you. If you are encouraged ~ bless Him.
Let’s all praise Him for His goodness, faithfulness and love. He is so good to us and just like Anna ~ we are blessed indeed!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 2:36-38 (NKJV) Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
This is an amazing section of scripture in so many ways. This is the only scripture in which the Prophetess Anna is mentioned, but it speaks volumes about her.
Notice the scripture says she was “of a great age”…and the math equals about 91 years past her virginity…so she’s gotta be older than 100, right!!??!! Our culture is very disrespectful of the elderly in our communities. We don’t want to “hangout” with them, learn from them, or even think they do anything fun or important. It is so sad.
I have a lot of sweet sistas who are of retirement age.
If you are an older woman I hope you are encouraged that your best days are not necessarily behind you, but they can be in the now and also in the future. If God can bless Anna in her “greater” years…He can and wants to bless you as well! We do not hit a certain age and then poof we are no longer valuable or useful in His kingdom…that, my sistas, is a lie from the enemy ~ so don’t listen to it or think it!
From what this scripture says about her and from what I have read about biblical widowhood, Anna is a faithful woman of the Lord. She lived her life in His service ~ for His glory. It says, “…who did not depart from the temple”. From that I take that she clung to God ~ He really was her life and length of days ~ her all in all.
“And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord,” …this makes me think that the Spirit told her who Jesus was. He was Who she was looking and longing for. She was blessed to live and see Him.
It also says, “and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” Can you imagine all the people she would tell? It says she was at the temple serving God day and night. I have to think, with her being a woman, that she could not contain herself but told everyone she saw.
Can you even imagine it, you are going about your day, serving God and then there He is, the One prophesied about is right before you. She was blessed indeed!!
So, where are you right now? What might you need to do with this lesson? Has God convicted you of anything? Have you been encouraged by this scriptural glimpse into the life of Anna? If you have been convicted, then be quick to repent and obey what He is saying to you. If you are encouraged ~ bless Him.
Let’s all praise Him for His goodness, faithfulness and love. He is so good to us and just like Anna ~ we are blessed indeed!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 29
December 29
Luke 2:25-35 (NKJV) And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said: “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.” And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
I love Simeon.
This portion of scripture is such comfort for me. There is so much to share and you need to do a lot of work today, so, start out in prayer. Ask God to enlighten the eyes of your understanding so that you would see wonderful things in His Word. Ask Him to help you gain a heart of wisdom from His Word. Ask Him to speak fresh and new to you during this time.
Things to notice and ask for God’s wisdom and guidance:
*Simeon was just and devout ~ what does that mean?
*He was waiting for the Consolation of Israel ~ what does that mean?
*The Holy Spirit was upon Him ~ why is this specifically mentioned?
*The Holy Spirit revealed to him that he would see the Lord’s Christ before he died ~ how does that make you feel?
*He went to the temple that day led by the Spirit ~ do you think that the Spirit told him that Jesus would be there or just that he needed to go; and why do you think that?
*Simeon took Jesus up in his arms and blessed God ~ he held Him…it makes me cry…how precious that is to me…to hold Him ~ embrace Him…did he hold Him like we do with our little baby…nuzzling Him in love and affection ~ what do you think about this?
*To thank God for letting him depart in peace ~ what a way to live before you die…he beheld God’s Son ~ what are your thoughts?
*Salvation for all peoples ~ all peoples ~ light of revelation for Gentiles and glory of Israel ~ what does that mean to you?
*Simeon’s words made Joseph and Mary marvel ~ how much marveling can one person take ~ think about all the Lord had done for them.
*He says to Mary ~ not Joseph ~ about the piercing of your own soul…I would love to know why not Joseph too ~ what are your thoughts?
These will be great things to learn from Him face to face! Praise Him for His Word, girls, and the time you spent with Him!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 2:25-35 (NKJV) And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said: “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.” And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
I love Simeon.
This portion of scripture is such comfort for me. There is so much to share and you need to do a lot of work today, so, start out in prayer. Ask God to enlighten the eyes of your understanding so that you would see wonderful things in His Word. Ask Him to help you gain a heart of wisdom from His Word. Ask Him to speak fresh and new to you during this time.
Things to notice and ask for God’s wisdom and guidance:
*Simeon was just and devout ~ what does that mean?
*He was waiting for the Consolation of Israel ~ what does that mean?
*The Holy Spirit was upon Him ~ why is this specifically mentioned?
*The Holy Spirit revealed to him that he would see the Lord’s Christ before he died ~ how does that make you feel?
*He went to the temple that day led by the Spirit ~ do you think that the Spirit told him that Jesus would be there or just that he needed to go; and why do you think that?
*Simeon took Jesus up in his arms and blessed God ~ he held Him…it makes me cry…how precious that is to me…to hold Him ~ embrace Him…did he hold Him like we do with our little baby…nuzzling Him in love and affection ~ what do you think about this?
*To thank God for letting him depart in peace ~ what a way to live before you die…he beheld God’s Son ~ what are your thoughts?
*Salvation for all peoples ~ all peoples ~ light of revelation for Gentiles and glory of Israel ~ what does that mean to you?
*Simeon’s words made Joseph and Mary marvel ~ how much marveling can one person take ~ think about all the Lord had done for them.
*He says to Mary ~ not Joseph ~ about the piercing of your own soul…I would love to know why not Joseph too ~ what are your thoughts?
These will be great things to learn from Him face to face! Praise Him for His Word, girls, and the time you spent with Him!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Monday, December 28, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 28
December 28
Matthew 2:1-12 (NKJV) Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: ‘ But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’” Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also.” When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way.
Today is a fun lesson!!
We are just going to raise questions for you to think about and answer…so have fun! If you need help, do searches on the internet…use a variety or sources – put in the questions; look up this section of scripture in commentaries. You will not be disappointed in the time you spend searching for answers.
*Do you notice that this scripture uses the term wise men and not kings ~ they were Magi ~ which are astrologers. Why do people think they are kings? Who are they really?
*They go to Herod thinking that they would find the newborn King. Do you think that they may have thought that Herod had a son who was to rule?
*It says men but no number is given…many people believe there to be three because there were three gifts given. What do you think?
*They came to worship Him. Why?
*Why didn’t Herod send any of his own men with the wise men?
*The star is not still…"it went before them and stood”, why was the star moving?
*At some point they did not see the star because it says, “when they saw the star they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy"? Why are these Magi so joyful?
*It says, “they had come into the house,” why not stable, cave or barn?
*Why are gold, frankincense and myrrh the gifts?
*Who warned them in a dream and why?
I hope you had a great time thinking through this scripture. Did it come alive in a new way for you? I pray it did and I hope you have a great day!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Matthew 2:1-12 (NKJV) Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: ‘ But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.’” Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also.” When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way.
Today is a fun lesson!!
We are just going to raise questions for you to think about and answer…so have fun! If you need help, do searches on the internet…use a variety or sources – put in the questions; look up this section of scripture in commentaries. You will not be disappointed in the time you spend searching for answers.
*Do you notice that this scripture uses the term wise men and not kings ~ they were Magi ~ which are astrologers. Why do people think they are kings? Who are they really?
*They go to Herod thinking that they would find the newborn King. Do you think that they may have thought that Herod had a son who was to rule?
*It says men but no number is given…many people believe there to be three because there were three gifts given. What do you think?
*They came to worship Him. Why?
*Why didn’t Herod send any of his own men with the wise men?
*The star is not still…"it went before them and stood”, why was the star moving?
*At some point they did not see the star because it says, “when they saw the star they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy"? Why are these Magi so joyful?
*It says, “they had come into the house,” why not stable, cave or barn?
*Why are gold, frankincense and myrrh the gifts?
*Who warned them in a dream and why?
I hope you had a great time thinking through this scripture. Did it come alive in a new way for you? I pray it did and I hope you have a great day!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 27
December 27
Luke 2:21 (NKJV) And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Today let’s focus on Jesus…who is He? Start in prayer and ask God to open your eyes so that you would see wonderful things from His Word today. Read these scriptures out loud ~ sometimes we “see” new things when we read and hear them at the same time. Then let the Words sink into your soul.
John 1:1-5 (NIV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.
Isaiah 60:1(AMP) ARISE [from the depression and prostration in which circumstances have kept you--rise to a new life]! Shine (be radiant with the glory of the Lord), for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you!
Psalm 119:105 (AMP) Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
John 8:12 (AMP) Once more Jesus addressed the crowd. He said, I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not be walking in the dark, but will have the Light which is Life.
Isaiah 9:2 (NIV) The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.
Isaiah 42:6 (AMP) I the Lord have called You [the Messiah] for a righteous purpose and in righteousness; I will take You by the hand and will keep You; I will give You for a covenant to the people [Israel], for a light to the nations [Gentiles],
Isaiah 60:3 (AMP) And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 2:21 (NKJV) And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Today let’s focus on Jesus…who is He? Start in prayer and ask God to open your eyes so that you would see wonderful things from His Word today. Read these scriptures out loud ~ sometimes we “see” new things when we read and hear them at the same time. Then let the Words sink into your soul.
John 1:1-5 (NIV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.
Isaiah 60:1(AMP) ARISE [from the depression and prostration in which circumstances have kept you--rise to a new life]! Shine (be radiant with the glory of the Lord), for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you!
Psalm 119:105 (AMP) Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
John 8:12 (AMP) Once more Jesus addressed the crowd. He said, I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not be walking in the dark, but will have the Light which is Life.
Isaiah 9:2 (NIV) The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.
Isaiah 42:6 (AMP) I the Lord have called You [the Messiah] for a righteous purpose and in righteousness; I will take You by the hand and will keep You; I will give You for a covenant to the people [Israel], for a light to the nations [Gentiles],
Isaiah 60:3 (AMP) And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 26
December 26
Luke 2:8-20 (NKJV) Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
I really love that God chose to announce His only Begotten Son’s birth to shepherds first. These shepherds were “living out in the fields”. They were not the wealthiest people; they were also not in the most sought after job position. What are your thoughts about God’s choice?
We have seen a lot of encounters where an angel appeared to a human…but here it also adds that “the glory of the Lord shone around them”. After the angel gave the news and what the sign was to be ~ it says, “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” It was not just one angel that came down for this announcement…but a multitude of heavenly host.
I love that, after the angel and multitude of heavenly host leave, the shepherds make haste to see this Babe that they are told about in such a dramatic and fabulous way. They make it all known and all marvel. “Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.”
Oh my gravy, what a night they had! I would be on cloud nine for years from that experience…it would consume my thoughts…how amazing to even try and imagine it all! I can be pretty creative in my day-dreams, and I still think that even what I imagine can’t compare with what really happened…I don’t think Hollywood could even come close to illustrating this scene…what do you think? Can you even imagine this majestic scene? Glory to God in the highest!!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 2:8-20 (NKJV) Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
I really love that God chose to announce His only Begotten Son’s birth to shepherds first. These shepherds were “living out in the fields”. They were not the wealthiest people; they were also not in the most sought after job position. What are your thoughts about God’s choice?
We have seen a lot of encounters where an angel appeared to a human…but here it also adds that “the glory of the Lord shone around them”. After the angel gave the news and what the sign was to be ~ it says, “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” It was not just one angel that came down for this announcement…but a multitude of heavenly host.
I love that, after the angel and multitude of heavenly host leave, the shepherds make haste to see this Babe that they are told about in such a dramatic and fabulous way. They make it all known and all marvel. “Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.”
Oh my gravy, what a night they had! I would be on cloud nine for years from that experience…it would consume my thoughts…how amazing to even try and imagine it all! I can be pretty creative in my day-dreams, and I still think that even what I imagine can’t compare with what really happened…I don’t think Hollywood could even come close to illustrating this scene…what do you think? Can you even imagine this majestic scene? Glory to God in the highest!!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 25
December 25
Luke 2:1-7 (NKJV) And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Merry Christmas!! It is Christmas Morning! All our devotional time has been working up to this very day. I pray you have a very merry and blessed day in Him, beloved. As you face your day, remember the greatest gift ever given ~ Jesus.
We have spent so much time in His Word and in prayer ~ seeking Him for help, wisdom and strength ~ that you should be “armored up” and ready to face anything that comes your way. When you are faced with “that relative” who may be a thorn to you ~ be a blessing. Show the love and grace that you have been shown. All the patience He has had with you ~ give that out.
In fact, pray for your day right now. Pray for the things/people/situations that have been difficult in the past. Pray that those people come to know Jesus and live for Him. Pray that today would be so different from every other time your family gathered that it be a “day only God could have made” kind of day.
Seek peace. Seek love. Seek Jesus.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 2:1-7 (NKJV) And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Merry Christmas!! It is Christmas Morning! All our devotional time has been working up to this very day. I pray you have a very merry and blessed day in Him, beloved. As you face your day, remember the greatest gift ever given ~ Jesus.
We have spent so much time in His Word and in prayer ~ seeking Him for help, wisdom and strength ~ that you should be “armored up” and ready to face anything that comes your way. When you are faced with “that relative” who may be a thorn to you ~ be a blessing. Show the love and grace that you have been shown. All the patience He has had with you ~ give that out.
In fact, pray for your day right now. Pray for the things/people/situations that have been difficult in the past. Pray that those people come to know Jesus and live for Him. Pray that today would be so different from every other time your family gathered that it be a “day only God could have made” kind of day.
Seek peace. Seek love. Seek Jesus.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 24
December 24
It’s Christmas Eve ~ it’s finally here! All that we have been working towards is coming tomorrow. So today we are going to have another Selah Day. Please take as much time as you can to go and reread each Day from Day 1 to Day 23. You can read just the scriptures that we looked at, or read the whole BLOG.
Please remember: don’t skip over today. Yes, this is a busy time of year for all of us and, yet, taking intentional pauses and reflecting or meditating on His Word can yield great profit for your inner man.
It is very helpful to take this time and allow it to be a checking point for you…how are you doing with applying what you are learning to your life? How is the stress level in your daily life? Are you finding yourself talking more with God and listening to what He is trying to tell you as you go about your days? Are you being revived and blessed in Him?
Spend some time in prayer with God ~ thank Him for all the things you have learned and seek Him about how you answered your check point questions. Ask Him for the help you need…He is a good Daddy and wants to help you and lead you in the way you should go.
Enjoy this new day in Him!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
It’s Christmas Eve ~ it’s finally here! All that we have been working towards is coming tomorrow. So today we are going to have another Selah Day. Please take as much time as you can to go and reread each Day from Day 1 to Day 23. You can read just the scriptures that we looked at, or read the whole BLOG.
Please remember: don’t skip over today. Yes, this is a busy time of year for all of us and, yet, taking intentional pauses and reflecting or meditating on His Word can yield great profit for your inner man.
It is very helpful to take this time and allow it to be a checking point for you…how are you doing with applying what you are learning to your life? How is the stress level in your daily life? Are you finding yourself talking more with God and listening to what He is trying to tell you as you go about your days? Are you being revived and blessed in Him?
Spend some time in prayer with God ~ thank Him for all the things you have learned and seek Him about how you answered your check point questions. Ask Him for the help you need…He is a good Daddy and wants to help you and lead you in the way you should go.
Enjoy this new day in Him!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 23
December 23
Micah 5:2 (NIV) "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."
John 7:42 (NIV) Does not the Scripture say that the Christ will come from David's family and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?"
1 Samuel 16:1 (NIV) The LORD said to Samuel, "How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king."
I can’t help but think of the Christmas carol O little town of Bethlehem.
O little town of Bethlehem / How still we see thee lie / Above thy deep and dreamless sleep / The silent stars go by / Yet in thy dark streets shineth / The everlasting Light / The hopes and fears of all the years / Are met in thee tonight / For Christ is born of Mary / And gathered all above / While mortals sleep, the angels keep / Their watch of wondering love / O morning stars together / Proclaim the holy birth / And praises sing to God our King / And Peace to men on earth / How silently, how silently / The wondrous gift is given! / So God imparts to human hearts / The blessings of His heaven. / No ear may his His coming, / But in this world of sin, / Where meek souls will receive him still, / The dear Christ enters in. / O holy Child of Bethlehem / Descend to us, we pray / Cast out our sin and enter in / Be born in us today / We hear the Christmas angels / The great glad tidings tell / O come to us, abide with us / Our Lord Emmanuel.
I like that this song mentions the real reason we celebrate Christmas. I do not see this song as “worshipping the town”; rather, it is just an acknowledgement that, though Bethlehem was small, it was chosen by God to be the city for the birth of His only begotten Son.
It also reminds me that God does not pick out only the rich of the world, the wisest, or the sharpest dressed to become His children ~ He opens the invitation for us all to come to Him. We all can bend our knee to Him ~ believing in our heart and confessing with our mouth the Lord Jesus ~ and, by so doing, we shall {not might or maybe, but shall} be saved.
Look at David, he was the youngest and not in the line-up of sons before Samuel, the prophet; he was out tending the flock. God says none of the sons in the line-up are to be the new king ~ but, when David comes in; God says he is the one.
How does this make you feel that God is not looking at things the way that we sometimes do…or that He doesn’t pick things the way that we would?
He is amazing in His love for us all. Praise Him for calling you out of your sinful life to be His daughter…I am so glad that you bent your will to follow His. Keep seeking God’s will & walking in His path.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Micah 5:2 (NIV) "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."
John 7:42 (NIV) Does not the Scripture say that the Christ will come from David's family and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?"
1 Samuel 16:1 (NIV) The LORD said to Samuel, "How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king."
I can’t help but think of the Christmas carol O little town of Bethlehem.
O little town of Bethlehem / How still we see thee lie / Above thy deep and dreamless sleep / The silent stars go by / Yet in thy dark streets shineth / The everlasting Light / The hopes and fears of all the years / Are met in thee tonight / For Christ is born of Mary / And gathered all above / While mortals sleep, the angels keep / Their watch of wondering love / O morning stars together / Proclaim the holy birth / And praises sing to God our King / And Peace to men on earth / How silently, how silently / The wondrous gift is given! / So God imparts to human hearts / The blessings of His heaven. / No ear may his His coming, / But in this world of sin, / Where meek souls will receive him still, / The dear Christ enters in. / O holy Child of Bethlehem / Descend to us, we pray / Cast out our sin and enter in / Be born in us today / We hear the Christmas angels / The great glad tidings tell / O come to us, abide with us / Our Lord Emmanuel.
I like that this song mentions the real reason we celebrate Christmas. I do not see this song as “worshipping the town”; rather, it is just an acknowledgement that, though Bethlehem was small, it was chosen by God to be the city for the birth of His only begotten Son.
It also reminds me that God does not pick out only the rich of the world, the wisest, or the sharpest dressed to become His children ~ He opens the invitation for us all to come to Him. We all can bend our knee to Him ~ believing in our heart and confessing with our mouth the Lord Jesus ~ and, by so doing, we shall {not might or maybe, but shall} be saved.
Look at David, he was the youngest and not in the line-up of sons before Samuel, the prophet; he was out tending the flock. God says none of the sons in the line-up are to be the new king ~ but, when David comes in; God says he is the one.
How does this make you feel that God is not looking at things the way that we sometimes do…or that He doesn’t pick things the way that we would?
He is amazing in His love for us all. Praise Him for calling you out of your sinful life to be His daughter…I am so glad that you bent your will to follow His. Keep seeking God’s will & walking in His path.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 22
December 22
Matthew 1:22-23 (AMP) All this took place that it might be fulfilled which the Lord had spoken through the prophet, Behold, the virgin shall become pregnant and give birth to a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel--which, when translated, means, God with us.
Isaiah 7:14 (AMP) Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign: Behold, the young woman who is unmarried and a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel [God with us].
John 1:14 (NIV) The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
Emmanuel or Immanuel means God with us. Let these words sink in. God with us ~ He is not far off ~ He is not with us sometimes ~ He is not with certain believers or special Christians ~ He is God with us.
According to some dictionaries, the word “with” is a function/action word and so He is not just present with you, in you, or being with you. He is for you ~ actively working or participating with you. You are the object of His attention and affection because of Jesus ~ not just for your good but for His glory. He is over you ~ your ruler and watchman. He is on your side. You are in His possession and in His care. He is with us in spite of us.
Now, you may be asking how can you get all that out of that phrase…well, that is what the blessed dictionaries and concordances are for, my friends…I took what I found in them and reworded it here for you. All of these statements can be backed up with scriptures. He is not just present or dwelling inside us…He is active in us for our good and for His glory!!
What does that do for you? Does it make your heart sing? Does it give you hope, peace, or strength? Since God is with you ~ present and active, how might that affect your present situation? How can these scriptures become alive in your daily life?
Find some other scriptures that confirm these truths. Ponder them as you go about your day.
Praise Him today that He is with you ~ He is in you and actively moving in your life! Glory to His name!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Matthew 1:22-23 (AMP) All this took place that it might be fulfilled which the Lord had spoken through the prophet, Behold, the virgin shall become pregnant and give birth to a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel--which, when translated, means, God with us.
Isaiah 7:14 (AMP) Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign: Behold, the young woman who is unmarried and a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel [God with us].
John 1:14 (NIV) The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
Emmanuel or Immanuel means God with us. Let these words sink in. God with us ~ He is not far off ~ He is not with us sometimes ~ He is not with certain believers or special Christians ~ He is God with us.
According to some dictionaries, the word “with” is a function/action word and so He is not just present with you, in you, or being with you. He is for you ~ actively working or participating with you. You are the object of His attention and affection because of Jesus ~ not just for your good but for His glory. He is over you ~ your ruler and watchman. He is on your side. You are in His possession and in His care. He is with us in spite of us.
Now, you may be asking how can you get all that out of that phrase…well, that is what the blessed dictionaries and concordances are for, my friends…I took what I found in them and reworded it here for you. All of these statements can be backed up with scriptures. He is not just present or dwelling inside us…He is active in us for our good and for His glory!!
What does that do for you? Does it make your heart sing? Does it give you hope, peace, or strength? Since God is with you ~ present and active, how might that affect your present situation? How can these scriptures become alive in your daily life?
Find some other scriptures that confirm these truths. Ponder them as you go about your day.
Praise Him today that He is with you ~ He is in you and actively moving in your life! Glory to His name!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Monday, December 21, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 21
December 21
Luke 1:67-80 (NKJV) Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:“ Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David, As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham: To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life. “ And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us; To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace.” So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
John 1:6-8 (NIV) There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.
Isaiah 40: 3 (AMP) A voice of one who cries: Prepare in the wilderness the way of the Lord [clear away the obstacles]; make straight and smooth in the desert a highway for our God!
Yesterday we talked about what it might have been that Zacharias shared with the people that they then discussed…I gave a few thoughts about this. Now let’s look at what happens next.
The wording within these two sections of scripture makes me think that “the sayings” and “Zacharias’ prophesying” are two different things. Yesterday, it said, “and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings (so what did he speak??) were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him. (And today) Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied,” (emphasis mine)
If we think about this it is awesome that the story of God reaching down in Elizabeth and Zacharias’ life touched so many people and brought people closer to God. Elizabeth and Zacharias’ reproach among the people was taken away so much so that God then used Zacharias to prophesy about his son who would eventually testify to the Light.
Praise your God that you are His child and He is your God. Reread the scriptures and have a blessed day!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 1:67-80 (NKJV) Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:“ Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, For He has visited and redeemed His people, And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of His servant David, As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, Who have been since the world began, That we should be saved from our enemies And from the hand of all who hate us, To perform the mercy promised to our fathers And to remember His holy covenant, The oath which He swore to our father Abraham: To grant us that we, Being delivered from the hand of our enemies, Might serve Him without fear, In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life. “ And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; For you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, To give knowledge of salvation to His people By the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God, With which the Dayspring from on high has visited us; To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace.” So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
John 1:6-8 (NIV) There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.
Isaiah 40: 3 (AMP) A voice of one who cries: Prepare in the wilderness the way of the Lord [clear away the obstacles]; make straight and smooth in the desert a highway for our God!
Yesterday we talked about what it might have been that Zacharias shared with the people that they then discussed…I gave a few thoughts about this. Now let’s look at what happens next.
The wording within these two sections of scripture makes me think that “the sayings” and “Zacharias’ prophesying” are two different things. Yesterday, it said, “and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings (so what did he speak??) were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him. (And today) Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied,” (emphasis mine)
If we think about this it is awesome that the story of God reaching down in Elizabeth and Zacharias’ life touched so many people and brought people closer to God. Elizabeth and Zacharias’ reproach among the people was taken away so much so that God then used Zacharias to prophesy about his son who would eventually testify to the Light.
Praise your God that you are His child and He is your God. Reread the scriptures and have a blessed day!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 20
December 20
Luke 1:21-22 (NKJV) And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
Luke 1:57-66 (NKJV) Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her. So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
I used to be puzzled as to why Zacharias was made mute…and then it hit me…God was not just punishing his unbelief…He was using it for His Glory and to bless those who knew Zacharias and Elizabeth. Notice it says that, after he wrote down what the baby was to be called, everyone marveled. Then God opened his mouth and loosed his tongue.
The first words out of his mouth were praises to God…then fear came on all. Also notice that the sayings Zacharias shared were discussed throughout all the hill country. It seems to me that they truly understood all that had happened and that is why fear came upon them. Could this be what Zacharias shared with them?
1. That all the things that had happened in Elizabeth and Zacharias’ life leading up to the birth of their son had happened for a reason.
2. That their son was the one to prepare the way of the Lord and that he had been prophesied about over 400 years before.
3. Every detail of the angel’s announcement.
4. That the Messiah was coming.
God used Zacharias’ muteness and his “sayings” as the means to spread the news that the Messiah was near. God was on the move again. It had to be an exciting time for them…something to be talked about and discussed. I can see people asking questions like this, “So what exactly was prophesied about this child and the Messiah?”
What are your thoughts about this portion of scripture? Spend time in prayer and rejoice in God for today and for the blessed fortune that you have to be able to read His Word and learn from Him ~ He loves you.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 1:21-22 (NKJV) And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple. But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
Luke 1:57-66 (NKJV) Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her. So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias. His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.” But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.” So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled. Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God. Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea. And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
I used to be puzzled as to why Zacharias was made mute…and then it hit me…God was not just punishing his unbelief…He was using it for His Glory and to bless those who knew Zacharias and Elizabeth. Notice it says that, after he wrote down what the baby was to be called, everyone marveled. Then God opened his mouth and loosed his tongue.
The first words out of his mouth were praises to God…then fear came on all. Also notice that the sayings Zacharias shared were discussed throughout all the hill country. It seems to me that they truly understood all that had happened and that is why fear came upon them. Could this be what Zacharias shared with them?
1. That all the things that had happened in Elizabeth and Zacharias’ life leading up to the birth of their son had happened for a reason.
2. That their son was the one to prepare the way of the Lord and that he had been prophesied about over 400 years before.
3. Every detail of the angel’s announcement.
4. That the Messiah was coming.
God used Zacharias’ muteness and his “sayings” as the means to spread the news that the Messiah was near. God was on the move again. It had to be an exciting time for them…something to be talked about and discussed. I can see people asking questions like this, “So what exactly was prophesied about this child and the Messiah?”
What are your thoughts about this portion of scripture? Spend time in prayer and rejoice in God for today and for the blessed fortune that you have to be able to read His Word and learn from Him ~ He loves you.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 19
December 19
Luke 1:46-56 (NKJV) And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.” And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her house.
This is Mary’s response to Elizabeth after she said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.” Luke 1:42b-45 (NKJV)
Elizabeth ends by saying, “blessed is she who believed”. Then Mary goes right into praising God for who He is not just for what He had done for her. To be used by God in such a way, Mary must have had a humble spirit and strength of character because those attributes shine forth in Mary’s response. She says who she is ~ His maidservant and, by praising God first, she shows that her heart’s desire is for Him to be magnified. She is blessed, happy, and fortunate ~ because He who is mighty has done great things for her.
Mary models how we should respond to the mighty acts that God does for His children. Praise Him…give Him the glory and honor due His name…tell others what He has done with humility so that He alone is magnified. This is such a good lesson for me…I want all I do and say to bring Him glory and honor…I want Him to be praised by my life ~ through my deeds and my words & for Him alone to be magnified.
Help us, O Lord, to live lives that are worthy of You ~ fully pleasing to You. Help us to walk in the path You have laid out for us and be glorified. Help us to learn and grow in You for Your glory and honor, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 1:46-56 (NKJV) And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.” And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her house.
This is Mary’s response to Elizabeth after she said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.” Luke 1:42b-45 (NKJV)
Elizabeth ends by saying, “blessed is she who believed”. Then Mary goes right into praising God for who He is not just for what He had done for her. To be used by God in such a way, Mary must have had a humble spirit and strength of character because those attributes shine forth in Mary’s response. She says who she is ~ His maidservant and, by praising God first, she shows that her heart’s desire is for Him to be magnified. She is blessed, happy, and fortunate ~ because He who is mighty has done great things for her.
Mary models how we should respond to the mighty acts that God does for His children. Praise Him…give Him the glory and honor due His name…tell others what He has done with humility so that He alone is magnified. This is such a good lesson for me…I want all I do and say to bring Him glory and honor…I want Him to be praised by my life ~ through my deeds and my words & for Him alone to be magnified.
Help us, O Lord, to live lives that are worthy of You ~ fully pleasing to You. Help us to walk in the path You have laid out for us and be glorified. Help us to learn and grow in You for Your glory and honor, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Friday, December 18, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 18
December 18
Luke 1:39-45 (NKJV) Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
I love that Mary goes with haste to see Elizabeth. Is she running off to see someone who might understand her situation and encourage her? Or maybe she just wants to see for herself that Elizabeth is indeed with child and rejoice with her that she is no longer barren. Or is she just staying there a while to be out of sight while she is pregnant? We will see tomorrow that Mary stays with Elizabeth about three months and leaves right before Elizabeth delivers. So, whatever the “exact” reason…Mary goes in haste and stays to help for a while. As a woman, I like that she goes and I have to think it is a good thing for both women. What are your thoughts about this?
Now let’s look into this part: when Elizabeth hears Mary, the baby leaps in her womb. This is so sweet to me. If you are a mother you can relate to the excitement over your baby moving inside of you. Did your baby ever move at the sound of someone’s voice as if they were happy to hear from him or her? I am thinking of the times when my husband could finally feel the baby’s movement and it seemed that the baby was “playing” with him as he talked and touched my belly.
Think about this for a moment. This is the first time that Mary sees Elizabeth while she is pregnant, and so, little John moves to the voice of a stranger. Now that makes the whole event even more miraculous to me. It’s as if God-inspired knowledge was given to this developing 6 month old baby in utero.
Recall with me it says Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit at her greeting as well. What are your thoughts about this? What do you make of this greeting, their first encounter after being with child? Talk out your thoughts prayerfully with God and pray for this new day ahead of you…I hope it is amazing for you, beloved!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 1:39-45 (NKJV) Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
I love that Mary goes with haste to see Elizabeth. Is she running off to see someone who might understand her situation and encourage her? Or maybe she just wants to see for herself that Elizabeth is indeed with child and rejoice with her that she is no longer barren. Or is she just staying there a while to be out of sight while she is pregnant? We will see tomorrow that Mary stays with Elizabeth about three months and leaves right before Elizabeth delivers. So, whatever the “exact” reason…Mary goes in haste and stays to help for a while. As a woman, I like that she goes and I have to think it is a good thing for both women. What are your thoughts about this?
Now let’s look into this part: when Elizabeth hears Mary, the baby leaps in her womb. This is so sweet to me. If you are a mother you can relate to the excitement over your baby moving inside of you. Did your baby ever move at the sound of someone’s voice as if they were happy to hear from him or her? I am thinking of the times when my husband could finally feel the baby’s movement and it seemed that the baby was “playing” with him as he talked and touched my belly.
Think about this for a moment. This is the first time that Mary sees Elizabeth while she is pregnant, and so, little John moves to the voice of a stranger. Now that makes the whole event even more miraculous to me. It’s as if God-inspired knowledge was given to this developing 6 month old baby in utero.
Recall with me it says Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit at her greeting as well. What are your thoughts about this? What do you make of this greeting, their first encounter after being with child? Talk out your thoughts prayerfully with God and pray for this new day ahead of you…I hope it is amazing for you, beloved!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 17
December 17
Luke 1: 23-25 (NKJV) So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Today we see that after Zacharias finished his time of service, his wife Elizabeth did indeed conceive and was no longer barren. She is quoted as saying that the Lord took away her reproach among the people. It was a big deal to be barren in those days…you were looked at as being one who was not receiving God’s blessing or one who was being disciplined for some sin you had committed.
I minister to a lot of women who have suffered with infertility issues, miscarriages, stillbirths, SIDS and infant loss ~ and this is a very hard portion of scripture for them to hear or read. But think about this for a moment…Elizabeth was barren and advanced in her years when God sent an angel down to announce that she would conceive a son…and not just any son…but the one who had been prophesied about some 400 years before and who would prepare the way of the Lord.
Do you think that she would be going crazy with awe and love for the Lord? All glory goes to God here because there was no way for this to have been accomplished without divine intervention. I look at her barrenness not as a punishment, but as a blessing. Think of all the things she learned and the strength she gained in Him before she conceived which prepared her to raise John.
What have you faced this year that was huge? Is there a promise from God’s word that you are clinging to, a desire you are hoping is fulfilled? Does it seem like God is far away from you? Do you feel alone, depressed, forsaken, abandoned, or hopeless?
He loves you so much. I do not know why things are the way that they are now, but be assured, if you are a child of God, you are not forsaken, abandoned or alone ~ He is right there with you. He wants you to take hope in Him and trust fully that He will work your situation for good because you love Him. It may not be exactly how you want it…but it will be that which is best for your life both now and in the future. I know when you are in the heat of the trial or trouble that this is the last thing you want to hear or believe, but it is true. Hold tight to Him, trust Him, and abide in Him.
Ask God for strength, wisdom, and discernment to do His will ~ then do what He says. Keep yourself in prayer and His Word because He will lead you and help you. He loves you so much and calls you His own.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 1: 23-25 (NKJV) So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house. Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
Today we see that after Zacharias finished his time of service, his wife Elizabeth did indeed conceive and was no longer barren. She is quoted as saying that the Lord took away her reproach among the people. It was a big deal to be barren in those days…you were looked at as being one who was not receiving God’s blessing or one who was being disciplined for some sin you had committed.
I minister to a lot of women who have suffered with infertility issues, miscarriages, stillbirths, SIDS and infant loss ~ and this is a very hard portion of scripture for them to hear or read. But think about this for a moment…Elizabeth was barren and advanced in her years when God sent an angel down to announce that she would conceive a son…and not just any son…but the one who had been prophesied about some 400 years before and who would prepare the way of the Lord.
Do you think that she would be going crazy with awe and love for the Lord? All glory goes to God here because there was no way for this to have been accomplished without divine intervention. I look at her barrenness not as a punishment, but as a blessing. Think of all the things she learned and the strength she gained in Him before she conceived which prepared her to raise John.
What have you faced this year that was huge? Is there a promise from God’s word that you are clinging to, a desire you are hoping is fulfilled? Does it seem like God is far away from you? Do you feel alone, depressed, forsaken, abandoned, or hopeless?
He loves you so much. I do not know why things are the way that they are now, but be assured, if you are a child of God, you are not forsaken, abandoned or alone ~ He is right there with you. He wants you to take hope in Him and trust fully that He will work your situation for good because you love Him. It may not be exactly how you want it…but it will be that which is best for your life both now and in the future. I know when you are in the heat of the trial or trouble that this is the last thing you want to hear or believe, but it is true. Hold tight to Him, trust Him, and abide in Him.
Ask God for strength, wisdom, and discernment to do His will ~ then do what He says. Keep yourself in prayer and His Word because He will lead you and help you. He loves you so much and calls you His own.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 16
December 16
Today we are having another Selah Day. Please take as much time as you can to go and reread each Day from Day 9 to Day 15. You can read just the scriptures that we looked at, or read the whole BLOG.
Don’t skip over today. Yes, this is a busy time of year for all of us but taking intentional pauses and reflecting or meditating on His Word can yield great profit for your inner man.
It is very helpful to take this time and allow it to be a checking point for you…how are you doing with applying what you are learning to your life? How is the stress level in your daily life? Are you finding yourself talking more with God and listening to what He is trying to tell you as you go about your days? Are you being revived and blessed in Him?
Spend some time in prayer with God ~ thank Him for all the things you have learned, and seek Him about how you answered your check point questions. Ask Him for the help you need…He is a good Daddy and wants to help you and lead you in the way you should go.
Enjoy this new day in Him!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Today we are having another Selah Day. Please take as much time as you can to go and reread each Day from Day 9 to Day 15. You can read just the scriptures that we looked at, or read the whole BLOG.
Don’t skip over today. Yes, this is a busy time of year for all of us but taking intentional pauses and reflecting or meditating on His Word can yield great profit for your inner man.
It is very helpful to take this time and allow it to be a checking point for you…how are you doing with applying what you are learning to your life? How is the stress level in your daily life? Are you finding yourself talking more with God and listening to what He is trying to tell you as you go about your days? Are you being revived and blessed in Him?
Spend some time in prayer with God ~ thank Him for all the things you have learned, and seek Him about how you answered your check point questions. Ask Him for the help you need…He is a good Daddy and wants to help you and lead you in the way you should go.
Enjoy this new day in Him!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 15
December 15
Revelation 1:4-6 (AMP) John to the seven assemblies (churches) that are in Asia: May grace (God's unmerited favor) be granted to you and spiritual peace (the peace of Christ's kingdom) from Him Who is and Who was and Who is to come, and from the seven Spirits [the sevenfold Holy Spirit] before His throne, And from Jesus Christ the faithful and trustworthy Witness, the Firstborn of the dead [first to be brought back to life] and the Prince (Ruler) of the kings of the earth. To Him Who ever loves us and has once [for all] loosed and freed us from our sins by His own blood, And formed us into a kingdom (a royal race), priests to His God and Father--to Him be the glory and the power and the majesty and the dominion throughout the ages and forever and ever. Amen (so be it).
Oh, God is so good to you and me!!! Look back at Revelation…it says, “…Who ever loves us and has once [for all] loosed and freed us from our sins by His own blood.” Jesus is the Who and He ever loves us…pause and think this over…He ever loves us. Now look at “once for all” ~ His one time sacrifice was good enough for all ~ for every one and for all times. There is no need for another sacrifice. The scripture in (Hebrews 10:3-5) is referring to the sacrifices for sins, as directed by the Law in the Old Covenant, and, in the Law, the sins were not taken away by the blood of animals. But we, under the New Covenant, are blessed to have our sins taken away because of the precious blood of Jesus…and that once for all. We have been loosed and freed from them ~ from their grip on us.
Have you been freed from sin? Have you had any sins loosed over your life…ones that were once controlling or overpowering you that now have no grip over you? What a blessing it is indeed ~ to be freed by Jesus and to walk in that freedom.
Hebrews 2:17 (NIV) For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people.
Jesus had to be made like us ~ to come down to earth and be born as a human. He became a high priest and made atonement for our sins. Now think about this ~ in the Old Testament the high priest offered the sacrifice for atonement and, in the New Testament, Jesus offered Himself as the sacrifice…He was the High Priest and the Lamb for the sacrifice. What does that do for your soul? What kind of comfort do you gain from knowing that Jesus had to become a human baby to then become our sacrifice? It may seem crazy to think about this “Easter” message at Christmas…but, just as it was announced by the angel, that is why the Baby came…the two messages really do go together…the Baby Jesus is the Lamb of God!
Spend time in prayer and enjoy your forgiven-in-Christ-Jesus day!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Revelation 1:4-6 (AMP) John to the seven assemblies (churches) that are in Asia: May grace (God's unmerited favor) be granted to you and spiritual peace (the peace of Christ's kingdom) from Him Who is and Who was and Who is to come, and from the seven Spirits [the sevenfold Holy Spirit] before His throne, And from Jesus Christ the faithful and trustworthy Witness, the Firstborn of the dead [first to be brought back to life] and the Prince (Ruler) of the kings of the earth. To Him Who ever loves us and has once [for all] loosed and freed us from our sins by His own blood, And formed us into a kingdom (a royal race), priests to His God and Father--to Him be the glory and the power and the majesty and the dominion throughout the ages and forever and ever. Amen (so be it).
Oh, God is so good to you and me!!! Look back at Revelation…it says, “…Who ever loves us and has once [for all] loosed and freed us from our sins by His own blood.” Jesus is the Who and He ever loves us…pause and think this over…He ever loves us. Now look at “once for all” ~ His one time sacrifice was good enough for all ~ for every one and for all times. There is no need for another sacrifice. The scripture in (Hebrews 10:3-5) is referring to the sacrifices for sins, as directed by the Law in the Old Covenant, and, in the Law, the sins were not taken away by the blood of animals. But we, under the New Covenant, are blessed to have our sins taken away because of the precious blood of Jesus…and that once for all. We have been loosed and freed from them ~ from their grip on us.
Have you been freed from sin? Have you had any sins loosed over your life…ones that were once controlling or overpowering you that now have no grip over you? What a blessing it is indeed ~ to be freed by Jesus and to walk in that freedom.
Hebrews 2:17 (NIV) For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people.
Jesus had to be made like us ~ to come down to earth and be born as a human. He became a high priest and made atonement for our sins. Now think about this ~ in the Old Testament the high priest offered the sacrifice for atonement and, in the New Testament, Jesus offered Himself as the sacrifice…He was the High Priest and the Lamb for the sacrifice. What does that do for your soul? What kind of comfort do you gain from knowing that Jesus had to become a human baby to then become our sacrifice? It may seem crazy to think about this “Easter” message at Christmas…but, just as it was announced by the angel, that is why the Baby came…the two messages really do go together…the Baby Jesus is the Lamb of God!
Spend time in prayer and enjoy your forgiven-in-Christ-Jesus day!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Monday, December 14, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 14
December 14
Matthew 1: 18-21 (NKJV) Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.”
There are many good things in this portion of scripture. There isn’t much mentioned about Joseph in the Word of God and it’s good to get any info on him that we can. I love that this text points out to us that Joseph was a just man. He also doesn’t seem to be rushing into things but he is instead very thoughtful. I also love the fact that an angel of the Lord appears to him and speaks to him. These are all some great things to think about and dive deeper into ~ so please do so, it will be fun homework for you.
I feel that for today, however, that we are to dive into the last part, “…you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” Two scriptures come to mind about this ~ please read them out loud and let their words sink into your soul.
Psalm 32:1 (AMP) BLESSED (HAPPY, fortunate, to be envied) is he who has forgiveness of his transgression continually exercised upon him, whose sin is covered. Romans 4:7 (AMP) Blessed and happy and to be envied are those whose iniquities are forgiven and whose sins are covered up and completely buried.
Jesus came to save you and me from our sins ~ does this make you happy? Can you rejoice in this? Are you like, as these scriptures say, “Blessed, happy, fortunate, to be envied?” It’s pretty huge ~ all not just some, all of your sins ~ past, present, and future ~ are forgiven. All your sins are covered up and completely buried by His blood. Linger over this and think about what this means to you.
Spend some time in prayer after pondering these great truths and we will meet right back here tomorrow about this very subject…"for He will save His people from their sins.”
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Matthew 1: 18-21 (NKJV) Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.”
There are many good things in this portion of scripture. There isn’t much mentioned about Joseph in the Word of God and it’s good to get any info on him that we can. I love that this text points out to us that Joseph was a just man. He also doesn’t seem to be rushing into things but he is instead very thoughtful. I also love the fact that an angel of the Lord appears to him and speaks to him. These are all some great things to think about and dive deeper into ~ so please do so, it will be fun homework for you.
I feel that for today, however, that we are to dive into the last part, “…you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” Two scriptures come to mind about this ~ please read them out loud and let their words sink into your soul.
Psalm 32:1 (AMP) BLESSED (HAPPY, fortunate, to be envied) is he who has forgiveness of his transgression continually exercised upon him, whose sin is covered. Romans 4:7 (AMP) Blessed and happy and to be envied are those whose iniquities are forgiven and whose sins are covered up and completely buried.
Jesus came to save you and me from our sins ~ does this make you happy? Can you rejoice in this? Are you like, as these scriptures say, “Blessed, happy, fortunate, to be envied?” It’s pretty huge ~ all not just some, all of your sins ~ past, present, and future ~ are forgiven. All your sins are covered up and completely buried by His blood. Linger over this and think about what this means to you.
Spend some time in prayer after pondering these great truths and we will meet right back here tomorrow about this very subject…"for He will save His people from their sins.”
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 13
December 13
Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
Read the scripture again and out loud this time. Let’s dive into verse 7 now.
*Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end ~ Luke 1:33 (NIV) and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end."
*Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom ~ Luke 1:32 (NIV) He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David,
*To order it and establish it ~ 1 Peter 5:10-11 (AMP) And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace [Who imparts all blessing and favor], Who has called you to His [own] eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will Himself complete and make you what you ought to be, establish and ground you securely, and strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the dominion (power, authority, rule) forever and ever. Amen (so be it).
*With judgment and justice ~ Revelation 19:11 (AMP) After that I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse [appeared]! The One Who was riding it is called Faithful (Trustworthy, Loyal, Incorruptible, Steady) and True, and He passes judgment and wages war in righteousness (holiness, justice, and uprightness). Revelation 16:7 (NIV) And I heard the altar respond: "Yes, Lord God Almighty, true and just are your judgments."
*From that time forward, even forever ~ Hebrews 13:8 (NIV) Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
*The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this ~ John 2:17 (AMP) And His disciples remembered that it is written [in the Holy Scriptures], Zeal (the fervor of love) for Your house will eat Me up. [I will be consumed with jealousy for the honor of Your house.] Isaiah 55:11(AMP) So shall My word be that goes forth out of My mouth: it shall not return to Me void [without producing any effect, useless], but it shall accomplish that which I please and purpose, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
WOW ladies! We spent three days on this one scripture and read many wonderful words of life that helped deepen our understanding of it. I hope it wasn’t too much, but rather, that it inspires you to want to dive deeper into His Word and learn from Him. Enjoy your day in Him, beloved, He is faithful.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
Read the scripture again and out loud this time. Let’s dive into verse 7 now.
*Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end ~ Luke 1:33 (NIV) and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end."
*Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom ~ Luke 1:32 (NIV) He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David,
*To order it and establish it ~ 1 Peter 5:10-11 (AMP) And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace [Who imparts all blessing and favor], Who has called you to His [own] eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will Himself complete and make you what you ought to be, establish and ground you securely, and strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the dominion (power, authority, rule) forever and ever. Amen (so be it).
*With judgment and justice ~ Revelation 19:11 (AMP) After that I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse [appeared]! The One Who was riding it is called Faithful (Trustworthy, Loyal, Incorruptible, Steady) and True, and He passes judgment and wages war in righteousness (holiness, justice, and uprightness). Revelation 16:7 (NIV) And I heard the altar respond: "Yes, Lord God Almighty, true and just are your judgments."
*From that time forward, even forever ~ Hebrews 13:8 (NIV) Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
*The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this ~ John 2:17 (AMP) And His disciples remembered that it is written [in the Holy Scriptures], Zeal (the fervor of love) for Your house will eat Me up. [I will be consumed with jealousy for the honor of Your house.] Isaiah 55:11(AMP) So shall My word be that goes forth out of My mouth: it shall not return to Me void [without producing any effect, useless], but it shall accomplish that which I please and purpose, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
WOW ladies! We spent three days on this one scripture and read many wonderful words of life that helped deepen our understanding of it. I hope it wasn’t too much, but rather, that it inspires you to want to dive deeper into His Word and learn from Him. Enjoy your day in Him, beloved, He is faithful.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 12
December 12
Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
Today we are going to finish up the second half of verse 6 and, girls, it is pretty deep and oh so good for us to hear!
*Wonderful ~ Judges 13:18 (AMP) And the Angel of the Lord said to him, Why do you ask my name, seeing it is wonderful?
*Counselor ~ Romans 11:33-35(NIV) Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! "Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?" "Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?” Isaiah 28:29 (AMP) This also comes from the Lord of hosts, Who is wonderful in counsel [and] excellent in wisdom and effectual working.
*Mighty God ~ Rev 4:8 (NIV) Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under his wings. Day and night they never stop saying: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come." Zephaniah 3:17 (AMP) The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior [Who saves]! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest [in silent satisfaction] and in His love He will be silent and make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]; He will exult over you with singing.
*Everlasting Father ~ Psalm 90:2 (NIV) Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. Isaiah 63:16 (AMP) For [surely] You are our Father, even though Abraham [our ancestor] does not know us and Israel (Jacob) does not acknowledge us; You, O Lord, are [still] our Father, our Redeemer from everlasting is Your name.
*Prince of Peace ~ Ephesians 2:14a (NKJV) For He Himself is our peace, 2 Thessalonians 3:16 (AMP) Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant you His peace (the peace of His kingdom) at all times and in all ways [under all circumstances and conditions, whatever comes]. The Lord [be] with you all. Hebrews 7:2 (AMP) And Abraham gave to him a tenth portion of all [the spoil]. He is primarily, as his name when translated indicates, king of righteousness, and then he is also king of Salem, which means king of peace.
You covered a lot today in your devotional time…praise Him for who He is ~ He loves you.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
Today we are going to finish up the second half of verse 6 and, girls, it is pretty deep and oh so good for us to hear!
*Wonderful ~ Judges 13:18 (AMP) And the Angel of the Lord said to him, Why do you ask my name, seeing it is wonderful?
*Counselor ~ Romans 11:33-35(NIV) Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! "Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?" "Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?” Isaiah 28:29 (AMP) This also comes from the Lord of hosts, Who is wonderful in counsel [and] excellent in wisdom and effectual working.
*Mighty God ~ Rev 4:8 (NIV) Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under his wings. Day and night they never stop saying: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come." Zephaniah 3:17 (AMP) The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior [Who saves]! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest [in silent satisfaction] and in His love He will be silent and make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]; He will exult over you with singing.
*Everlasting Father ~ Psalm 90:2 (NIV) Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. Isaiah 63:16 (AMP) For [surely] You are our Father, even though Abraham [our ancestor] does not know us and Israel (Jacob) does not acknowledge us; You, O Lord, are [still] our Father, our Redeemer from everlasting is Your name.
*Prince of Peace ~ Ephesians 2:14a (NKJV) For He Himself is our peace, 2 Thessalonians 3:16 (AMP) Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant you His peace (the peace of His kingdom) at all times and in all ways [under all circumstances and conditions, whatever comes]. The Lord [be] with you all. Hebrews 7:2 (AMP) And Abraham gave to him a tenth portion of all [the spoil]. He is primarily, as his name when translated indicates, king of righteousness, and then he is also king of Salem, which means king of peace.
You covered a lot today in your devotional time…praise Him for who He is ~ He loves you.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Friday, December 11, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 11
December 11
Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
I love this scripture. So much hope wells up in me when I read it ~ every time I hear it! As we break down this scripture over the next few days it will look like this: my comment on a specific portion of this scripture, then one or more supporting scriptures. May these words be stepping stones for God to reveal His Word to you in a deeper way.
*For unto us ~ a Child is born, a Son is given ~ that “us” is you and me ~ See John 3:16 (AMP) For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.
*Government upon His shoulder ~ Matthew 2:6 (AMP) And you Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, you are not in any way least or insignificant among the chief cities of Judah; for from you shall come a Ruler (Leader) Who will govern and shepherd My people Israel.; Matthew 28:18 (AMP) Jesus approached and, breaking the silence, said to them, All authority (all power of rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.; Revelations 12:5 (AMP) And she brought forth a male Child, One Who is destined to shepherd (rule) all the nations with an iron staff (scepter), and her Child was caught up to God and to His throne.
*His name will be called ~ notice it says name, not names…think about what is wrapped up in that one name ~ Jesus…here are a few things that are said about “that one name” ~ John 20:31 (AMP) But these are written (recorded) in order that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ (the Anointed One), the Son of God, and that through believing and cleaving to and trusting and relying upon Him you may have life through (in) His name [through Who He is].; Philippians 2:10 (AMP) That in (at) the name of Jesus every knee should (must) bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,; 1 Corinthians 6:11 (AMP) And such some of you were [once]. But you were washed clean (purified by a complete atonement for sin and made free from the guilt of sin), and you were consecrated (set apart, hallowed), and you were justified [pronounced righteous, by trusting] in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the [Holy] Spirit of our God.
For unto you, beloved, God gave Jesus. That is reason to rejoice.
Spend some time in prayer thanking God for who He is, for what He has done, and then seek Him for help in your daily life and any trials or hardships you may be in. He cares about each detail of your life…take it to Him and seek His will ~ He loves you so much ~ so very much!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Isaiah 9:6-7 (NKJV) For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
I love this scripture. So much hope wells up in me when I read it ~ every time I hear it! As we break down this scripture over the next few days it will look like this: my comment on a specific portion of this scripture, then one or more supporting scriptures. May these words be stepping stones for God to reveal His Word to you in a deeper way.
*For unto us ~ a Child is born, a Son is given ~ that “us” is you and me ~ See John 3:16 (AMP) For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.
*Government upon His shoulder ~ Matthew 2:6 (AMP) And you Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, you are not in any way least or insignificant among the chief cities of Judah; for from you shall come a Ruler (Leader) Who will govern and shepherd My people Israel.; Matthew 28:18 (AMP) Jesus approached and, breaking the silence, said to them, All authority (all power of rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.; Revelations 12:5 (AMP) And she brought forth a male Child, One Who is destined to shepherd (rule) all the nations with an iron staff (scepter), and her Child was caught up to God and to His throne.
*His name will be called ~ notice it says name, not names…think about what is wrapped up in that one name ~ Jesus…here are a few things that are said about “that one name” ~ John 20:31 (AMP) But these are written (recorded) in order that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ (the Anointed One), the Son of God, and that through believing and cleaving to and trusting and relying upon Him you may have life through (in) His name [through Who He is].; Philippians 2:10 (AMP) That in (at) the name of Jesus every knee should (must) bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,; 1 Corinthians 6:11 (AMP) And such some of you were [once]. But you were washed clean (purified by a complete atonement for sin and made free from the guilt of sin), and you were consecrated (set apart, hallowed), and you were justified [pronounced righteous, by trusting] in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the [Holy] Spirit of our God.
For unto you, beloved, God gave Jesus. That is reason to rejoice.
Spend some time in prayer thanking God for who He is, for what He has done, and then seek Him for help in your daily life and any trials or hardships you may be in. He cares about each detail of your life…take it to Him and seek His will ~ He loves you so much ~ so very much!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 10
December 10
Luke 1:26-38 (NKJV) Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.” Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
We are going to look at a different aspect of this scripture today…angels…and, in particular, Gabriel. Does it seem to you that Gabriel was very excited to be sharing this news with Mary? With his first word being “rejoice,” I get the feeling that he was; also, blessed is used, and his news is all summed up with an exclamation point ~ which is not something you see just thrown about in scriptures.
All this then makes me wonder: do angels have feelings…Think about it: they longed ~ according to the NIV; the NKJV says desires ~ to look into these things (1 Peter 1:12); there is joy in the presence of angels…over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:10 NKJV); and Devil…is said to have great wrath (Rev 12:12 NKJV) ~ remember he was a fallen angel. The angels in heaven worship God day and night…and I don’t think that they are robots “just doing their job”…or why would so many have sided with Lucifer and become “fallen angels”? Just makes me think…does it make you think too?
Anyway, back to Gabriel…he was sent to Mary to tell her that she was to carry the “Son of God” ~ did you notice that he “came in” and “departed”. When he came to see Zacharias…it doesn’t mention that he came in or departed…it just said appeared (see December 6). This wording today seems so mannerly and respectful. It just leapt off the page at me and it inspired me! Gabriel had the blessed privilege of giving the news to Mary that she was to carry the “Holy One” and the “Son of God”. I get the feeling that Gabriel is showing reverence for His God. What are your thoughts about his behavior?
I just have to praise Him ~ we serve a great, loving, and mighty God! He is so good to you, beloved…enjoy this day that He has made…rejoice and be glad in it!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 1:26-38 (NKJV) Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.” Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
We are going to look at a different aspect of this scripture today…angels…and, in particular, Gabriel. Does it seem to you that Gabriel was very excited to be sharing this news with Mary? With his first word being “rejoice,” I get the feeling that he was; also, blessed is used, and his news is all summed up with an exclamation point ~ which is not something you see just thrown about in scriptures.
All this then makes me wonder: do angels have feelings…Think about it: they longed ~ according to the NIV; the NKJV says desires ~ to look into these things (1 Peter 1:12); there is joy in the presence of angels…over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:10 NKJV); and Devil…is said to have great wrath (Rev 12:12 NKJV) ~ remember he was a fallen angel. The angels in heaven worship God day and night…and I don’t think that they are robots “just doing their job”…or why would so many have sided with Lucifer and become “fallen angels”? Just makes me think…does it make you think too?
Anyway, back to Gabriel…he was sent to Mary to tell her that she was to carry the “Son of God” ~ did you notice that he “came in” and “departed”. When he came to see Zacharias…it doesn’t mention that he came in or departed…it just said appeared (see December 6). This wording today seems so mannerly and respectful. It just leapt off the page at me and it inspired me! Gabriel had the blessed privilege of giving the news to Mary that she was to carry the “Holy One” and the “Son of God”. I get the feeling that Gabriel is showing reverence for His God. What are your thoughts about his behavior?
I just have to praise Him ~ we serve a great, loving, and mighty God! He is so good to you, beloved…enjoy this day that He has made…rejoice and be glad in it!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 9
December 9
Luke 1:26-38 (NKJV) Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.” Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Notice with me some key points: Gabriel is the angel sent by God; a city in Galilee named Nazareth is the destination; Gabriel is going to a virgin who is betrothed or promised to a man named Joseph; this man Joseph is of the house of David; the virgin’s name is Mary; she is troubled by the manner of greeting; Gabriel tells her that she will have a Son; this Son will be great and reign forever; she is confused because she has not been with a man; Gabriel explains that this Child will be called the Son of God.
Something that hit me in a new way was that Gabriel did not stop there with those things. To further encourage Mary he told her that her relative who once was barren or unable to conceive had indeed conceived and was in her sixth month. He then said, “For with God nothing is impossible.” He was encouraging her that if God was able to open Elizabeth’s womb then God could fulfill what he had just spoken to her.
She may not fully understand what was happening to her or recall all the prophesies of old, but she knew Elizabeth could not have a child and this angel, Gabriel, said she was now with child. What she says next now makes sense to me…it’s like saying, “I do not understand, but I trust the Lord and so then let it be how you have said.” She yields to God’s will without needing to understand it all.
Is there anything that you have been trusting God for that seems miraculous? Trust in the Lord with all your heart; lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path…He is faithful and trustworthy ~ and He loves you! Give thanks and praise Him!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 1:26-38 (NKJV) Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.” Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
Notice with me some key points: Gabriel is the angel sent by God; a city in Galilee named Nazareth is the destination; Gabriel is going to a virgin who is betrothed or promised to a man named Joseph; this man Joseph is of the house of David; the virgin’s name is Mary; she is troubled by the manner of greeting; Gabriel tells her that she will have a Son; this Son will be great and reign forever; she is confused because she has not been with a man; Gabriel explains that this Child will be called the Son of God.
Something that hit me in a new way was that Gabriel did not stop there with those things. To further encourage Mary he told her that her relative who once was barren or unable to conceive had indeed conceived and was in her sixth month. He then said, “For with God nothing is impossible.” He was encouraging her that if God was able to open Elizabeth’s womb then God could fulfill what he had just spoken to her.
She may not fully understand what was happening to her or recall all the prophesies of old, but she knew Elizabeth could not have a child and this angel, Gabriel, said she was now with child. What she says next now makes sense to me…it’s like saying, “I do not understand, but I trust the Lord and so then let it be how you have said.” She yields to God’s will without needing to understand it all.
Is there anything that you have been trusting God for that seems miraculous? Trust in the Lord with all your heart; lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path…He is faithful and trustworthy ~ and He loves you! Give thanks and praise Him!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 8
December 8
Today we are doing something a little different. We’ve covered so many things on this journey together (through Christmas Time Is Here) that I think it would be greatly beneficial to go back and do a review. So, today we are having a Selah Day! For us girls, a Selah Day is a holy pause where we intentionally stop, reflect, and meditate on His Word. Please take as much time as you can to go and reread each Day. You can read just the scriptures that we looked at, or read the whole BLOG for that Day.
Don’t skip over today. Yes, this is a busy time of year for all of us but taking a Selah Day can yield great profit for your inner man.
It is very helpful to take this time and allow it to be a checking point for you…how are you doing with applying what you are learning to your life? How is the stress level in your daily life? Are you finding yourself talking more with God and listening to what He is trying to tell you as you go about your days? Are you being revived and blessed in Him?
Spend some time in prayer with God ~ thank Him for all the things you have learned, and seek Him about how you answered your check point questions. Ask Him for the help you need…He is a good Daddy and wants to help you and lead you in the way you should go.
Enjoy this new day in Him!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Today we are doing something a little different. We’ve covered so many things on this journey together (through Christmas Time Is Here) that I think it would be greatly beneficial to go back and do a review. So, today we are having a Selah Day! For us girls, a Selah Day is a holy pause where we intentionally stop, reflect, and meditate on His Word. Please take as much time as you can to go and reread each Day. You can read just the scriptures that we looked at, or read the whole BLOG for that Day.
Don’t skip over today. Yes, this is a busy time of year for all of us but taking a Selah Day can yield great profit for your inner man.
It is very helpful to take this time and allow it to be a checking point for you…how are you doing with applying what you are learning to your life? How is the stress level in your daily life? Are you finding yourself talking more with God and listening to what He is trying to tell you as you go about your days? Are you being revived and blessed in Him?
Spend some time in prayer with God ~ thank Him for all the things you have learned, and seek Him about how you answered your check point questions. Ask Him for the help you need…He is a good Daddy and wants to help you and lead you in the way you should go.
Enjoy this new day in Him!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Monday, December 7, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 7
December 7
Luke 1:18-20 (NKJV) And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
Zacharias ~ you just have to love him! His response reminds me of Abraham and Sarah…they too were “older than baby age” and were blessed with a child. And the angel’s response is so funny to me…can I say it like this? “Dude…don’t you know who I am…I’m Gabriel…I live in the presence of God. If I say it is so…it’s gonna be so…cuz I get my orders straight from God and He happens to be The Omniscient One!! And just so there isn’t any question in anyone else’s mind…you’re gonna be mute till it happens! Glory Be to God ~ Peace ~ Out!” And now He’s gone…he came fast and is gone fast!
Yesterday we learned that Zacharias was frightened when he first saw Gabriel. So one has to think that angels don’t look “just like humans” or why would he have been frightened. So I have to wonder, why didn’t he think it would be possible to have a baby? He just beheld an angel! Both are pretty amazing; it’s not every day one sees an angel and it is not every day someone older has a baby. Remember, from what we know in scripture God had been essentially silent for 400 years ~ not sending angels or men to prophesy.
Can you see how the birth of John is so important to the Story of Christmas? His destiny is amazing and vital…I just had to share it with you for these devotions, because I feel this section often gets overlooked. This was important to God. He had it to be prophesied about and then sent Gabriel to tell John’s parents that they had been chosen to parent this child…instead of letting it just happen and them finding out later on…God chose to do it all in an amazing and awe inspiring way.
Let God amaze you today, beloved. He is amazing! He is awe–full ~ or should I say what He does and who He is makes my heart full of awe and wonder! Praise Him, thank Him, and enjoy this day!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 1:18-20 (NKJV) And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
Zacharias ~ you just have to love him! His response reminds me of Abraham and Sarah…they too were “older than baby age” and were blessed with a child. And the angel’s response is so funny to me…can I say it like this? “Dude…don’t you know who I am…I’m Gabriel…I live in the presence of God. If I say it is so…it’s gonna be so…cuz I get my orders straight from God and He happens to be The Omniscient One!! And just so there isn’t any question in anyone else’s mind…you’re gonna be mute till it happens! Glory Be to God ~ Peace ~ Out!” And now He’s gone…he came fast and is gone fast!
Yesterday we learned that Zacharias was frightened when he first saw Gabriel. So one has to think that angels don’t look “just like humans” or why would he have been frightened. So I have to wonder, why didn’t he think it would be possible to have a baby? He just beheld an angel! Both are pretty amazing; it’s not every day one sees an angel and it is not every day someone older has a baby. Remember, from what we know in scripture God had been essentially silent for 400 years ~ not sending angels or men to prophesy.
Can you see how the birth of John is so important to the Story of Christmas? His destiny is amazing and vital…I just had to share it with you for these devotions, because I feel this section often gets overlooked. This was important to God. He had it to be prophesied about and then sent Gabriel to tell John’s parents that they had been chosen to parent this child…instead of letting it just happen and them finding out later on…God chose to do it all in an amazing and awe inspiring way.
Let God amaze you today, beloved. He is amazing! He is awe–full ~ or should I say what He does and who He is makes my heart full of awe and wonder! Praise Him, thank Him, and enjoy this day!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 6
December 6
Luke 1:11-17 (NKJV) Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
This section of scripture shares God’s plan for John the Baptist’s life ~ he was to turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God; he was to go before Jesus in the spirit and power of Elijah; to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children; and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; and to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
The angel of the Lord essentially tells Zacharias that his son is the fulfillment of the prophecy in Malachi 4:5-6. It is amazing to me that not only was God granting Zacharias a son…He chose to tell him about it through an angel…and also that his son ~ would not be just any son ~ but would be a fulfillment of prophecy. If he wasn’t frightened by “seeing an angel”…how about “hearing” that he had to raise a child who is the fulfillment of a prophetic word that people had been waiting for ~ for over 400 years…now that might be frightening.
The prophecy was given 400 years before and the people of God were watching and waiting for the One who had been promised. To be Zacharias and to receive this announcement from the angel, it would become clear to him that the One promised is coming ~ The Messiah.
What do these truths spark in you? Do they spark thankfulness to God for His fulfilling of promises? Do they comfort you in that, just as He was faithful to send The Messiah all those years ago, He will be faithful in your life today?
Spend the remainder of your time in prayer ~ praise Him for who He is ~ thank Him for what He has done ~ thank Him for speaking to you through His Word ~ ask for any help you may need from Him. He loves you so much and He is faithful to you.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Luke 1:11-17 (NKJV) Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth. For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,’ and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
This section of scripture shares God’s plan for John the Baptist’s life ~ he was to turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God; he was to go before Jesus in the spirit and power of Elijah; to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children; and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; and to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
The angel of the Lord essentially tells Zacharias that his son is the fulfillment of the prophecy in Malachi 4:5-6. It is amazing to me that not only was God granting Zacharias a son…He chose to tell him about it through an angel…and also that his son ~ would not be just any son ~ but would be a fulfillment of prophecy. If he wasn’t frightened by “seeing an angel”…how about “hearing” that he had to raise a child who is the fulfillment of a prophetic word that people had been waiting for ~ for over 400 years…now that might be frightening.
The prophecy was given 400 years before and the people of God were watching and waiting for the One who had been promised. To be Zacharias and to receive this announcement from the angel, it would become clear to him that the One promised is coming ~ The Messiah.
What do these truths spark in you? Do they spark thankfulness to God for His fulfilling of promises? Do they comfort you in that, just as He was faithful to send The Messiah all those years ago, He will be faithful in your life today?
Spend the remainder of your time in prayer ~ praise Him for who He is ~ thank Him for what He has done ~ thank Him for speaking to you through His Word ~ ask for any help you may need from Him. He loves you so much and He is faithful to you.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 5
December 5
Yesterday we talked about preparing for Christmas and doing our best to not be stressed. Today I want to talk about a different kind of preparing. Check these scriptures out:
Revelation 21:4, 18-21, 23 (NIV) He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”, The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. 19The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, the fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of pure gold, like transparent glass., The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.
John 14:1-3 (NKJV) “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.
Look at these preparations which God Himself has made ~ He is so good to us! We can spend a lot of time trimming our trees and decking our halls, but the beauty they reveal when done are nothing in comparison to the beauty that awaits us in heaven.
We are blessed to see God’s creative handiwork all around us on a daily basis. Our world has been made very wonderfully. It is October as I am writing this and the colors outside are breathtaking. I love living in Pennsylvania and being able to enjoy this scenery year after year. Each year my appreciation of it grows ~ it deepens and I see new wonders in the same places. The other day a tree beckoned me to come and sit a spell. I could not because it was in a complete stranger’s yard, but it called nonetheless! Its leaves were billowy and bright. The yellow, orange and green mix was just so, that it appeared to be perfectly shady and brilliantly bright all at the same time. I will look for the splendor again next year.
I will deck my halls this Christmas, because I think it is beautiful. I will enjoy decorating year after year knowing that, when I am blessed to celebrate Christmas in heaven, it will be far worth the yearly hassle of tangled lights and the not–quite attainable perfection that we seek in our decorating.
Deck your halls, put up a beautiful display and, in so doing, remember what a beautiful display awaits you in heaven. That is reason to rejoice and celebrate…our names are written in heaven and it is our blessed destination ~ our homeland.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Yesterday we talked about preparing for Christmas and doing our best to not be stressed. Today I want to talk about a different kind of preparing. Check these scriptures out:
Revelation 21:4, 18-21, 23 (NIV) He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”, The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. 19The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, the fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of pure gold, like transparent glass., The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.
John 14:1-3 (NKJV) “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.
Look at these preparations which God Himself has made ~ He is so good to us! We can spend a lot of time trimming our trees and decking our halls, but the beauty they reveal when done are nothing in comparison to the beauty that awaits us in heaven.
We are blessed to see God’s creative handiwork all around us on a daily basis. Our world has been made very wonderfully. It is October as I am writing this and the colors outside are breathtaking. I love living in Pennsylvania and being able to enjoy this scenery year after year. Each year my appreciation of it grows ~ it deepens and I see new wonders in the same places. The other day a tree beckoned me to come and sit a spell. I could not because it was in a complete stranger’s yard, but it called nonetheless! Its leaves were billowy and bright. The yellow, orange and green mix was just so, that it appeared to be perfectly shady and brilliantly bright all at the same time. I will look for the splendor again next year.
I will deck my halls this Christmas, because I think it is beautiful. I will enjoy decorating year after year knowing that, when I am blessed to celebrate Christmas in heaven, it will be far worth the yearly hassle of tangled lights and the not–quite attainable perfection that we seek in our decorating.
Deck your halls, put up a beautiful display and, in so doing, remember what a beautiful display awaits you in heaven. That is reason to rejoice and celebrate…our names are written in heaven and it is our blessed destination ~ our homeland.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Friday, December 4, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 4
December 4
I started yesterday off with Merry Christmas! And, gee, I want to say it again, Merry Christmas! Today I wanted to talk about preparing for Christmas ~ after all, it is December 4th. There is so much to do and such little time in which to do it. Right!???!
I want you to think about your Christmas “To Do List” and consider it carefully. Why do you feel that you need to do all the things that you have on this list? Are they a family tradition, passed down many generations? Is it something that you enjoyed since your youth and you want your children to experience the same? Is it just how your mom always did it? Or mother in law? What motivates you to make “The List” and force yourself to do it?
Are you stressed out year after year trying to accomplish “The List”? Do this for me, please. Write out your list and at dinner talk with your husband about it and see whether this is really what you want your Christmas to look like. Is there any way of combining jobs? Can you get any friends to help you so it is not so overwhelming? Pray about this as well. God does not want you to be stressed out at Christmas ~ He wants you to be refreshed. Let Him direct your family into a refreshing Christmas Season. Stop trying to make it happen on your own. He does the refreshing. What can you do that isn’t a burden but is rather a blessing to your family?
This is a touchy subject for some people…you do not “mess” with their personal traditions and warm fuzzy memories. And that is not my intent…my intent is for us to do our best and not be stressed…however…if God is urging you to do something different, then obey Him because His ways are best!
Example: deck your halls (house) not stressfully, but joyfully. If you normally experience fighting and frustration during this part of the preparations…then this year pray first. If some members do not want to participate, could it be because they do not like the tension of the task? We put on Christmas movies and deck our halls…yes, we need to stop and pray “during” the task but that is “just going to happen” in a family of 6 sometimes! Let’s do our best to not be stressed!
Philippians 4:6,7 (NKJV) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Offer up to God a specific prayer about your “To Do List”. Seek Him for strength, wisdom, direction and peace ~ so that you and your family will have a Merry Refreshing Christmas and not a Frustrating Stressful Christmas. He loves you so much so let’s do our best to not be stressed!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
I started yesterday off with Merry Christmas! And, gee, I want to say it again, Merry Christmas! Today I wanted to talk about preparing for Christmas ~ after all, it is December 4th. There is so much to do and such little time in which to do it. Right!???!
I want you to think about your Christmas “To Do List” and consider it carefully. Why do you feel that you need to do all the things that you have on this list? Are they a family tradition, passed down many generations? Is it something that you enjoyed since your youth and you want your children to experience the same? Is it just how your mom always did it? Or mother in law? What motivates you to make “The List” and force yourself to do it?
Are you stressed out year after year trying to accomplish “The List”? Do this for me, please. Write out your list and at dinner talk with your husband about it and see whether this is really what you want your Christmas to look like. Is there any way of combining jobs? Can you get any friends to help you so it is not so overwhelming? Pray about this as well. God does not want you to be stressed out at Christmas ~ He wants you to be refreshed. Let Him direct your family into a refreshing Christmas Season. Stop trying to make it happen on your own. He does the refreshing. What can you do that isn’t a burden but is rather a blessing to your family?
This is a touchy subject for some people…you do not “mess” with their personal traditions and warm fuzzy memories. And that is not my intent…my intent is for us to do our best and not be stressed…however…if God is urging you to do something different, then obey Him because His ways are best!
Example: deck your halls (house) not stressfully, but joyfully. If you normally experience fighting and frustration during this part of the preparations…then this year pray first. If some members do not want to participate, could it be because they do not like the tension of the task? We put on Christmas movies and deck our halls…yes, we need to stop and pray “during” the task but that is “just going to happen” in a family of 6 sometimes! Let’s do our best to not be stressed!
Philippians 4:6,7 (NKJV) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Offer up to God a specific prayer about your “To Do List”. Seek Him for strength, wisdom, direction and peace ~ so that you and your family will have a Merry Refreshing Christmas and not a Frustrating Stressful Christmas. He loves you so much so let’s do our best to not be stressed!
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Christmas Time is Here ~ Day 3
December 3
Merry Christmas! I wish for your Christmas Season to be a joyful time ~ the whole season, not just December 25th.
Christmas Day is special to me…no doubt about it & we make it a big fun family day! My family celebrates Christmas Day just like we do any other family member’s birthday…but then again it is a whole lot different. When one member has a birthday, we tell them Happy Birthday in the morning ~ with a hug and a kiss. Then in the evening, we put out a few decorations (this varies by person), share an awesome meal together, give gifts to the birthday person and then share some sweet dessert & sing Happy Birthday.
On December 25th, we wake up in celebration mode. Jesus is a member of our family and we all get to celebrate Him and His birthday. We wait on the stairs and we talk about Jesus’ birthday to help the littlest ones remember why we celebrate Christmas. Next we sing Happy Birthday to Jesus, and pray. We then come down the stairs and share presents. When the opening of presents is over, we hug and thank one another and play for a while. Finally we share a fun special breakfast. When our bellies are full we get to play and inspect our gifts some more. Some time during all of this I have to sneak into the kitchen to make my dish for the big family dinner at Grandma’s house. In the afternoon, we go over to Grandma’s to see all of the family, where we spend time playing and chatting. We share a nice meal together and then there are gifts to open. We play and chat some more and then we share some dessert together. We end up leaving there really late at night ~ tired and blessed. We have so much fun Christmas Day. My children know it is Jesus’ Birthday. We are thankful that He has allowed us to celebrate it ~ in honor of Him and to show each other how much we love them because of the great love He has shown us.
Think about what Christmas means to you: why you do the things you do, and are you honoring Him in them. What does your Christmas day usually look like? What do you want Christmas day to look like this year? Spend some time in prayer ~ share with God your hopes and desires about this year and seek what He would have you do. I want to leave you with a few scriptures to ponder.
Proverbs 17:22 (NIV) A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. {NKJV – uses the phrase merry heart; AMP – uses happy heart}
Nehemiah 8:10 (AMP) Then [Ezra] told them, Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet drink, and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. And be not grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and stronghold.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
PS ~ someone asked...when are you getting to the actual story of Christmas??? Well...it is coming...we are laying a foundation the first few days...because once we get into the story it is jam packed with scriptures...and we have to be able to receive it and soak it all in :o) Let the anticipation build...what am I going to learn...what is God going to personally speak to me about? What is the new thing that I will learn this year? Can I really learn something new...I heard this story hundreds of times? Are you hungry for God's Word?
I would love to know what you are thinking :o)
Merry Christmas! I wish for your Christmas Season to be a joyful time ~ the whole season, not just December 25th.
Christmas Day is special to me…no doubt about it & we make it a big fun family day! My family celebrates Christmas Day just like we do any other family member’s birthday…but then again it is a whole lot different. When one member has a birthday, we tell them Happy Birthday in the morning ~ with a hug and a kiss. Then in the evening, we put out a few decorations (this varies by person), share an awesome meal together, give gifts to the birthday person and then share some sweet dessert & sing Happy Birthday.
On December 25th, we wake up in celebration mode. Jesus is a member of our family and we all get to celebrate Him and His birthday. We wait on the stairs and we talk about Jesus’ birthday to help the littlest ones remember why we celebrate Christmas. Next we sing Happy Birthday to Jesus, and pray. We then come down the stairs and share presents. When the opening of presents is over, we hug and thank one another and play for a while. Finally we share a fun special breakfast. When our bellies are full we get to play and inspect our gifts some more. Some time during all of this I have to sneak into the kitchen to make my dish for the big family dinner at Grandma’s house. In the afternoon, we go over to Grandma’s to see all of the family, where we spend time playing and chatting. We share a nice meal together and then there are gifts to open. We play and chat some more and then we share some dessert together. We end up leaving there really late at night ~ tired and blessed. We have so much fun Christmas Day. My children know it is Jesus’ Birthday. We are thankful that He has allowed us to celebrate it ~ in honor of Him and to show each other how much we love them because of the great love He has shown us.
Think about what Christmas means to you: why you do the things you do, and are you honoring Him in them. What does your Christmas day usually look like? What do you want Christmas day to look like this year? Spend some time in prayer ~ share with God your hopes and desires about this year and seek what He would have you do. I want to leave you with a few scriptures to ponder.
Proverbs 17:22 (NIV) A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. {NKJV – uses the phrase merry heart; AMP – uses happy heart}
Nehemiah 8:10 (AMP) Then [Ezra] told them, Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet drink, and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. And be not grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and stronghold.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
PS ~ someone asked...when are you getting to the actual story of Christmas??? Well...it is coming...we are laying a foundation the first few days...because once we get into the story it is jam packed with scriptures...and we have to be able to receive it and soak it all in :o) Let the anticipation build...what am I going to learn...what is God going to personally speak to me about? What is the new thing that I will learn this year? Can I really learn something new...I heard this story hundreds of times? Are you hungry for God's Word?
I would love to know what you are thinking :o)
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 2
December 2Psalm 119:25 (NKJV) My soul clings to the dust; revive me according to Your word.
Psalm 119:37 (NKJV) Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in Your way.
Psalm 119:40 (NKJV) Behold, I long for Your precepts; revive me in Your righteousness.
Psalm 119:88 (NKJV) Revive me according to Your lovingkindness, So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.
Psalm 143:11 (NKJV) Revive me, O LORD, for Your name’s sake! For Your righteousness’ sake bring my soul out of trouble.
My prayer for you for this Christmas Season is that you have a time of blessing and revival ~ not just survival. So many of us have our plates full during the holidays with places to go, people to see and money to spend! There are many more of us who are dealing with a rough past year ~ a year when hopes and dreams were shattered ~ a year when a loved one passed on.
Life can be so busy, painful and lonely. I have had a few Christmas Seasons where I wanted to retreat under my blankets and not emerge till January 2nd! During those times I cried out those scriptures to the Lord daily…and let me tell you, sweet sistas…He was faithful each time to come to my rescue.
What does the word revival mean? I found many definitions from various resources (dictionaries and concordances) and here’s what I found ~ in my own words ~ to come back to life in your heart and mind from heartache, devastation, depression and wrong thinking ~ stop walking in death and walk in life.
Be with Him. Look for Him in your everyday life. Seek Him for help and wisdom for every day. Thank Him for His loving-kindness and faithfulness. He wants you brought back to life in Him. He is the way, the truth and the life.
Pray to our Daddy with me...Dear Father, I thank you so much that You love me. Please come to my aid this Christmas Season and revive me. Revive me, O God, according to Your word …revive me in Your way…revive me in Your righteousness…revive me according to Your loving-kindness…all for Your name’s sake. Help me to live like You and be glorified in my life, O God. Amen
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Psalm 119:37 (NKJV) Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in Your way.
Psalm 119:40 (NKJV) Behold, I long for Your precepts; revive me in Your righteousness.
Psalm 119:88 (NKJV) Revive me according to Your lovingkindness, So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.
Psalm 143:11 (NKJV) Revive me, O LORD, for Your name’s sake! For Your righteousness’ sake bring my soul out of trouble.
My prayer for you for this Christmas Season is that you have a time of blessing and revival ~ not just survival. So many of us have our plates full during the holidays with places to go, people to see and money to spend! There are many more of us who are dealing with a rough past year ~ a year when hopes and dreams were shattered ~ a year when a loved one passed on.
Life can be so busy, painful and lonely. I have had a few Christmas Seasons where I wanted to retreat under my blankets and not emerge till January 2nd! During those times I cried out those scriptures to the Lord daily…and let me tell you, sweet sistas…He was faithful each time to come to my rescue.
What does the word revival mean? I found many definitions from various resources (dictionaries and concordances) and here’s what I found ~ in my own words ~ to come back to life in your heart and mind from heartache, devastation, depression and wrong thinking ~ stop walking in death and walk in life.
Be with Him. Look for Him in your everyday life. Seek Him for help and wisdom for every day. Thank Him for His loving-kindness and faithfulness. He wants you brought back to life in Him. He is the way, the truth and the life.
Pray to our Daddy with me...Dear Father, I thank you so much that You love me. Please come to my aid this Christmas Season and revive me. Revive me, O God, according to Your word …revive me in Your way…revive me in Your righteousness…revive me according to Your loving-kindness…all for Your name’s sake. Help me to live like You and be glorified in my life, O God. Amen
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Christmas Time Is Here ~ Day 1
December 1
Can you believe it? Christmas time is really here! Are you excited? Are you looking forward to all the great times with family and friends? Are you excited to eat all the special holiday foods ~ foods your mom would never make in April or May? Are you excited to bring out all the decorations and deck your halls? Yippee…now is the time for special family traditions! Are you anticipating a season of joy? Is Christmas like a great vacation at home? A time to watch special, fun, and timeless movies with the family…ones I am only allowed to start watching Thanksgiving Day ~ anyone else with me on this one!!??!! Don’t you just love the hustle and bustle out in the streets and stores? People everywhere are a little nicer ~ a little more patient ~ a little more generous.
Are you thinking that anyone with this attitude might be off her rocker? Be honest.
Are you crazy and off your rocker too? Or are you waiting for all the holiday hustle and bustle to be over and done with already? Have you had quite a year and are now just waiting for a new one to start ~ hoping it will be better than this past year?
I am hoping that the time you spend in this BLOG ~ with a good cup of coffee & time in God’s Word and in His presence ~ will change your hearts and minds. Think about this scripture, girls ~ you can insert “daughter” for “son”. Remember the scriptures themselves are the words “to listen closely to”. And then below it is my prayer for each of you.
Proverbs 4:20-23 (NIV) My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body. Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
Father, I ask in Jesus’ name that You come and bless on these dear women. Help them to have an amazing Christmas ~ the whole season long. May this year be a time of fresh revelation of You and Your ways. I pray that Your love abounds in their hearts and they are changed to be more like You. I ask that you open the eyes of their understanding that they would see wondrous things from Your Word. I thank You that You love them and will for them a future and a hope. Be glorified in them in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
Can you believe it? Christmas time is really here! Are you excited? Are you looking forward to all the great times with family and friends? Are you excited to eat all the special holiday foods ~ foods your mom would never make in April or May? Are you excited to bring out all the decorations and deck your halls? Yippee…now is the time for special family traditions! Are you anticipating a season of joy? Is Christmas like a great vacation at home? A time to watch special, fun, and timeless movies with the family…ones I am only allowed to start watching Thanksgiving Day ~ anyone else with me on this one!!??!! Don’t you just love the hustle and bustle out in the streets and stores? People everywhere are a little nicer ~ a little more patient ~ a little more generous.
Are you thinking that anyone with this attitude might be off her rocker? Be honest.
Are you crazy and off your rocker too? Or are you waiting for all the holiday hustle and bustle to be over and done with already? Have you had quite a year and are now just waiting for a new one to start ~ hoping it will be better than this past year?
I am hoping that the time you spend in this BLOG ~ with a good cup of coffee & time in God’s Word and in His presence ~ will change your hearts and minds. Think about this scripture, girls ~ you can insert “daughter” for “son”. Remember the scriptures themselves are the words “to listen closely to”. And then below it is my prayer for each of you.
Proverbs 4:20-23 (NIV) My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to a man's whole body. Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
Father, I ask in Jesus’ name that You come and bless on these dear women. Help them to have an amazing Christmas ~ the whole season long. May this year be a time of fresh revelation of You and Your ways. I pray that Your love abounds in their hearts and they are changed to be more like You. I ask that you open the eyes of their understanding that they would see wondrous things from Your Word. I thank You that You love them and will for them a future and a hope. Be glorified in them in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Merry Christmas ~ Laurie Kay
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