It’s a new year, and to some people, it’s just another day, with a different date. Whatever it is to you, it could be another opportunity to get some things right, to change some things in our lives, and to make even better decisions. Something that we can learn to do, is to be content with our lives. Contentment isn’t laziness, but a conviction of the heart where we make the best of every situation; an internal satisfaction which doesn’t demand changes in external circumstances. It’s a heart attitude that says, “Whatever state I find myself in, I’ll trust God and have a good attitude and a grateful heart.” Discontent means dissatisfaction with one’s circumstances; displeasure; a restless longing for something better. Never be satisfied with what you have. Contentment allows you to be peaceful and not to compare what you have with someone else’s possessions. It basically says, “God, no matter what, I trust you to take care of me.” Let’s allow ourselves to learn this attitude of contentment.

Just a Thought,
PSS
Legacychurch.com

What a year!! The Mayan calendar proved to be false, and I even heard that they want to extend it. I’d find the Mayan Apocalypse more believable if they had also predicted they wouldn’t be around for it! There was an election at a time when the economy isn’t improving and indications show that it doesn’t look like it will get any better. Our country is the most divided that I’ve ever seen in my lifetime. It seems bad news is all around us.

Here is the good news: this week we celebrate Christmas. The whole world takes a moment to acknowledge the Savior, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Whether they believe in Him or not, the world knows that this holiday is about Jesus Christ. Some groups are trying to silence those of us who believe and understand that the real reason for the season is to acknowledge the truth that Jesus is the only way to Heaven. He gives us a hope and a future. Before opening the presents, let’s do our best to teach our children for a few minutes that the greatest gift ever given to humanity was Jesus. Christmas is really all about Him. From my family to yours – we do wish you a very Merry Christmas.

Just a Thought,
PSS
Legacychurch.com

Here we are, with Christmas right around the corner, and thoughts of turkey, family and presents filling our minds. However, we should be reminded of the real reason we celebrate Christmas. We celebrate the greatest gift ever given to mankind: the Lord Jesus Christ. With all of the hustle and bustle of the season, let’s keep the focus of this season on Him. Before we open the presents, let’s talk about the true meaning of Christmas. Let’s recall His birth, His life, death for all mankind and the forgiveness we can receive if we believe in Him.

We should remind our families that God so loved the world that He gave His only son. This is the true message of the Christmas season. The world has made it out to be about Santa, gifts and family. We should stand up and boldly proclaim that it’s about Jesus and no one else! Let’s remind people how much God loves us and came to earth to help us. I pray that you have a Merry Christmas and take a moment to be thankful to God and to honor Him for His gift of Jesus.

Just a Thought,
PSS
Legacychurch.com

When you look at the power of forgiveness, it really does free us to move forward and releases us from repeating the sins of our parents. It frees us from the control of the one who has hurt us.   One of Jesus’ last words was, “Forgive them, for they know not what they do.” He knew that mankind’s greatest need was forgiveness. It is important for us to understand that as we need forgiveness, there’s also a need for us to forgive.

Think about it: holding a grudge against someone is restricting God from being able to help and guide you. That reason alone should be enough for you to be able to forgive. Forgiveness is not something you feel, it is something you choose to do. It’s not earned or deserved, it’s a decision you make. One preacher said it like this: “Forgiveness is a gift I give myself”. One of the greatest benefits for forgiveness is mental and physical healing. It releases God in our lives to deliver, to comfort, and to strengthen. As we approach Christmas, I believe forgiveness will allow God to comfort us, especially for those who have bad memories or feel so lonely. God is willing and able to turn things around, all He needs from us is to believe.

Just a Thought,
PSS
Legacychurch.com

This is the season we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. As believers, we need to keep it about that. The actual gifts and the act of giving are fun and okay as long as we recognize the greatest gift ever given to mankind: Jesus the Savior. I’ve noticed that when I go to stores that people are saying “Happy Holidays” more often instead of “Merry Christmas.” The national holiday that we celebrate is called CHRISTMAS and I believe the reason for some of this is that Christians don’t stand up. We have been taught for too long that being passive and uninvolved is somehow being Godly or being a Christian. It is wrong teaching and very misguided. It’s easier to go along to get along, but that’s not what we are called to do. This Christmas Season I hope we find ourselves in a place where we are doing that. When you go to the stores, I hope you keep it about Christmas. Let’s make sure we greet people with “Merry Christmas” and be proud to celebrate the One who has made a difference in our lives: Jesus.

Just a Thought,
PSS
Legacychurch.com