As we approach the end of 2024, it’s natural to reflect on what the year has brought — both the victories and the challenges. But God’s Word reminds us not to dwell on the past, whether good or bad. Isaiah 43:18-19 (NLT) says, “But forget all that — it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it?” Reflection is good, but it should inspire hope for the future, not chain us to regrets or rest on past successes. God is always calling us forward, inviting us to step into something new with Him.

As we prepare for 2025, let’s commit to running the race with endurance, as Hebrews 12:1-2 (NLT) instructs: “Let us strip off every weight that slows us down … and let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.” This requires us to leave behind distractions, sin, and anything that weighs us down, including fear of the unknown. Just like a farmer must be patient to see a harvest, we must trust that God is working in the process. If 2024 didn’t go as planned, remember Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT): “For I know the plans I have for you … plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Hope isn’t just wishful thinking — it’s confidence in God’s promises.

So, as we close out this year, let’s embrace gratitude for God’s faithfulness, release anything holding us back, and trust Him with our future. Set spiritual goals that align with His Word, spend time in prayer, and lean into your church community for strength and encouragement. Whether 2024 felt like a mountain or a valley, God’s mercies are new every morning — and every year.

Let’s finish this year well and step into 2025 with faith, courage, and a renewed commitment to live for Him.

Just a thought,

PSS

Christmas is a season of joy, hope, and peace — a time to reflect on the profound truth that Jesus, the Savior of the world, was born. In the familiar carol, “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” we are reminded of the angels’ announcement of great joy: “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior — yes, the Messiah, the Lord — has been born today in Bethlehem” (Luke 2:10-11, NLT). This message wasn’t just for the shepherds that night; it’s for all of us today. The birth of Christ is a declaration of God’s love and His desire to bring salvation to everyone who will receive Him.

The angels also proclaimed, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased”(Luke 2:14, NLT). Jesus came as the Prince of Peace, offering a peace that transcends circumstances and fills our hearts even in uncertain times. This peace isn’t something the world can give — it comes from knowing that through Jesus, we are reconciled to God, forgiven, and loved. It’s a peace that strengthens us, gives us hope, and reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas.

As we celebrate this season, let’s respond to the angels’ message with joy and worship, letting the good news of Jesus’ birth fill our hearts. His glory has come near, and through Him, we can have true peace with God. May this Christmas be a time of renewed hope and gratitude as we reflect on the gift of Christ. Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas!

Just a thought,

PSS

Christmas is more than a celebration of Jesus’ birth; it is a reminder that the Light of the World has come to dispel darkness and bring hope. John 8:12 (NLT) says, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” In a world filled with despair and uncertainty, Jesus’ light shines as a beacon of truth and salvation. His presence drives out darkness, offering clarity and direction to all who follow Him.

One of the most striking aspects of the Christmas story is the Star of Bethlehem, which guided the wise men to Jesus. This star symbolizes the guiding light of Christ — a light that not only reveals the way but also fills us with joy. Matthew 2:10 (NLT) tells us, “When they saw the star, they were filled with joy!” Just as the wise men followed the light to the Savior, we are called to seek and reflect His light in our lives. This light is for all people, a reminder that Jesus came to bring hope and salvation to the entire world.

As followers of Christ, we are called to carry His light into the world. Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT) reminds us, “You are the light of the world — like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden … let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” This Christmas, let us shine brightly in a world that often feels dark and hopeless. The light of Christ within us can transform lives, bringing hope and pointing others to the Savior.

Darkness cannot overcome light — because the Light of the World, Jesus, has already won.

Just a thought,

 PSS

Faith without works is dead — not dormant, not waiting for the right time, but lifeless. The Greek word for “dead,” nekros, signifies something utterly useless, like a body without breath. True faith is not simply believing in God’s existence; even demons do that (James 2:19). True faith goes beyond belief to action — visible, tangible evidence of a transformed life. Without works, faith is like a tree with no fruit, a lamp with no oil, or a car without an engine. It looks good from the outside but serves no real purpose.

The works James speaks of aren’t about earning salvation but about demonstrating it. The Greek word ergon refers to deeds that flow from obedience, love, and service. Abraham proved his faith by his willingness to sacrifice Isaac, and Rahab by hiding the spies (James 2:21-25). Their actions didn’t save them; their faith did. But their actions revealed the reality of their faith. Works are the natural result of a heart surrendered to God and a life filled with the Spirit.

Faith is alive when it produces change — in our character, our relationships, and the way we serve others. A living faith bears fruit, not for our glory but for God’s. As Jesus said, “By their fruit you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:20). Let’s take a moment to examine our lives. Is our faith active and alive, or has it grown stagnant? True faith doesn’t just believe; it moves, it loves, and it serves.

Let’s not settle for faith that looks alive but is dead. Let’s live out what we believe.

Just a thought,

PSS

Fear of man is defined as an epidemic of the soul that can be characterized by peer pressure, worry, and codependency. It is the act of placing others before God in one’s life.

Being robbed:

We all deal with this at some point in our lives — fear of man vs fear of the Lord. Whom do we want to please more? That is the million-dollar question. Whom do I fear the most, reverence, or trust, man or God? The fear of man will rob us of what God really wants for us. 

Pleasing people:

Surely we want, at times, to please others; but never at the expense of serving God. Being a people pleaser is fear of man — being so afraid of being rejected by people to the point that we reject God and His word, that we put someone else’s opinion above the word of God. This hinders so many from honoring God in their lives.

Pleasing God:

So, today we need to ask God to help us recognize if we truly fear man more than God, and ask Him to help us to overcome the fear of man. Let's purpose to do the will of God, the word of God, regardless of what others think. Why? Because we consider what God thinks more than what anyone else thinks.

Let’s develop a fear of God that leads to peace and prosperity in our lives over anything and anyone else.

Just a thought,

PSS