Slow Tempo

Deborah and Barak's ancient song gives all the glory to God in a time of national revival and victory; it proclaims the sovereignty of God over all rulers of earth. Notice too: "when the princes in Israel take the lead and the people willingly offer themselves..." - what a beautiful model of servant leadership and harmonious submission. One that we can apply in the Church today.

In this beautiful psalm of comfort, the psalmist points out three faith actions and their sweet rewards: trusting in the Lord fosters security; delighting in the Lord leads to deep satisfaction; and committing your way to him builds a pure life that shines like a long-awaited dawn. Commit to the Lord in these things, and your security, your desires, and your testimony will increasingly align with Him. No matter what life throws at you, He'll satisfy your needs and your actions and attitudes will glow with His truth.

Wow! We may say, "I'd rather be a lowly doorkeeper in the house of my God, than dwell (presumably richly) in the tents of the wicked." Or prefer to taste a single day with God's presence rather than a thousand elsewhere! The Psalms and Proverbs tell us why we may count this as true: the wicked may seem to prosper, but they live with internal strife, uneasiness, and adversity. That life is no match for the "sun and shield" protection and embrace of the Lord Most High!

"To us a child is born, to us a son is given..." It's a frequently repeated passage during the Christmas season. This joyful anticipation of Christ is a great reminder both of prophesy past, and the supremacy of Christ in the present and future as well.

Here is a touching and compelling account of our Saviour's sacrificial life and death for us, written a full 700 years in advance! The awesome truth is that Jesus came to give his life, a perfect life that deserved no punishment. It was our punishment, the price of our sin, that he took upon himself. The only allowable price - death - was paid on our behalf on the cross. His wounds bought our peace with the Father and with our risen Savior!

If the whole of Ephesians focuses on the importance of the Body's unity, then Ephesians 4:1,2 is a great passage that tells us how, individually, to promote that unity. It is also the set of characteristics that are worthy of our calling. If with the Spirit's help we practice complete humility, gentleness, and patience, then our differences won't divide us, and the world will see believers with that true hallmark of Christ - an unwavering love for one another.

When Paul says "do not be anxious about anything," he's not just saying, "don't worry, be happy," or "what, me worry?" This is no empty promise, but the secret to a peace so powerful it will guard our hearts and minds against any circumstances. What do we need to do? Practice placing our trust in God, presenting our requests to Him and then-with thanksgiving-trust Him for the results. Whenever we feel anxious, it should be a reminder to exercise verse 6, and place our cares into God's loving hands.

This is a great passage for the Thanksgiving season, or any time. We're encouraged to continue In Christ Jesus, rooted and built up in him, and overflowing with thankfulness.

Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances" - this Is God's will for us in Christ Jesus. This passage Is a very important reminder that thankfulness, joy, and prayer are expected and natural for The Christian at all times - regardless of our circumstances!

Imagine the kindness and love God bestowed on us, when Jesus appeared to take away our sin. As these verses remind us, it wasn't any righteous act that we did, but simply God's mercy, that led to salvation. Just think: the salvation task is complete! He saved us through rebirth - a completed act! And now He pours out his Spirit generously through Jesus Christ our Savior. Rejoice in Him through this comforting passage!

The apostle John so vibrantly describes why he believes - he was there, witness to the Word of life in the flesh as Jesus. We sing this with the same conviction, because we have seen him at work in our lives.