And Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?”

Matthew 9:28

You’ve probably heard it said by well-meaning Christians and non-Christians alike: “God won’t give you more than you can handle.” Really? What about all the mindless escapism into social media or binge-watched shows? What about the rampant alcohol and drug abuse in an effort to numb the pain of overwhelming circumstances? What about the growing number of people who feel they absolutely cannot “handle” their situation, so much so that they choose to permanently end the pain and take their own life? (Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Americans age 10-34—those are pre-COVID lockdown stats too. Let that sink in.)

In fact, during my adult life—even my Christian adult life—I’ve been through a lot of very, very hard things. Many of which, frankly, I could not handle. They were simply unbearable. But I am 100% certain that every person reading these words can say the same thing. We have been spiritually, emotionally, psychologically (and, for some of us, physically) pummeled. The storms of this life have brought immeasurable pain to our very souls. 

Brothers and sisters, as we walk through this fallen world, our steps will take us through plenty of things we cannot handle ourselves. But you know what? There is no circumstance, struggle, or storm too hard for the Creator of the universe (Jeremiah 32:17). When we recognize (and dare I say, admit) that we are not able, but HE IS ABLE, and we surrender the unbearable, a beautiful thing happens…God takes on what we cannot. When we ask, He will answer. Sometimes He floods the darkness with light, so we can see the way…other times, He just carries us through the blackness until we come out the other side.

We will experience a lot of things in life that are not only more than we can handle, but impossible for us to handle. But “is anything too hard for the Lord” (Genesis 18:14)? No! Nothing is too hard for Him (Jeremiah 32: 27). And when we do get through those impossible, unbearable times, it will be unmistakable Who got us though. And all the praise and glory will go to our Lord. After all, that is the point.

In fact, if you are a Christian, then you know a deep Truth about God’s ability to do the impossible (Matthew 19:26). Through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, you were saved. On the cross, He took on your unbearable sin to pay the penalty for you. And if He is able to do that, then how can we think anything is too hard for Him?

Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, And whose hope is the Lord. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters,Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit.

Jeremiah 17:7-8

When a new year comes, many of us (in lieu of or in addition to resolutions) choose a word for the year—a singular focus with great depth and width of meaning to us. A simple reminder to think, feel, and do in a way that captures that intention. Simple, yes…easy, not so much.

As 2020 was upon us, I had been in a new community for six months. And although I’d already been digging in at church, I had a desire to establish roots that spread wider (volunteer work, friendships, activities) in order to truly connect and make that town home. The word I chose made sense and carried layers of meaning for me: ROOTED.

Of course, come March, activity—and thus connectivity—ceased. I’d been working remotely since we’d moved, and I’d even quit my job just before COVID hit the proverbial fan, so I could pursue work that would allow me to be among people and not sit alone all day in my house. (Ironic, no?) Needleless to say, rooting in became a bit more difficult. 

Fast forward to January 1, 2021. Interestingly, my word for 2021 is the same as for 2020. Here I sit, in another new town where I know no one. My mind and heart are once again intent on establishing friendships, a church family, etc. I need to get ROOTED. So, it makes sense that ROOTED is my focus word for the new year, right? It is, but I chose it for very, very different reasons. 

Friends, I am confident that the year(s) ahead will hold many more challenges than did 2020. Our nation founded on liberty and freedom—specifically the freedom to worship God outside the mandates of the government—is quickly changing. The Truth of God’s Word held by believers is increasingly being mocked, suppressed, and outright erased. Christians are being shut up and shut out—even out of our own houses of worship. 

For believers in the U.S., storms are fast approaching. So, our roots must be deep. For me (and I pray for you), being rooted takes on Biblical proportions. Literally (Mark 4:1-20; Matt 13:1-23). We must hold fast to God’s Word and His Truth, trusting and hoping in Him alone. We must stand firm on the promises of God while the wind and waves try to blow us over. Brothers and sisters, unless we are deeply rooted in the Word and in a faithful community of believers, we may easily topple under the cultural pressure. 

Roots not only keep trees standing securely, roots nourish for sustenance and fruit-bearing. Similarly, staying in God’s word and connected with other believers will feed our souls and allow us to bear sweet fruit to a hungry world. So, whatever your resolution or word-of-the-year, I hope you add “ROOTED” to the list.

Lord, I pray that I—and fellow believers in our nation—get firmly rooted in the Truth, so the lies of the enemy will not prevail.

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!

1 John 3:1

I’m not a social media person (or, for that matter, media in general). In fact, I am completely disconnected from all things Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Snap Chat, etc. (It makes me a much happier and calmer person, truth be told. And it helps preserve my friendships—I know you know what I mean.) That being said, I am aware of the all-important “status” setting of some platforms. It’s a key acknowledgment of personal identification, upon which others can make assumptions and take particular actions. And it’s a big deal when one’s status changes. Going from “single” to “engaged” or to “married” are significant milestones in our social-media-driven culture.

But, friends, do you know that when you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you undergo an immediate status change? We are born into this world as slaves to sin (John 8:34). We are not all “good” to be corrupted by the world, as some might say. We are corrupt by a fallen nature and sinning is our human nature. (We don’t have to teach a toddler to lie, now do we?) 

When He chose to die on Calvary, Jesus purchased us with His precious blood—He gave His life for ours. The price of our sin has been paid in full. So, when we surrender our life to Jesus and live by His Word, we are set free from this bondage (John 8:31-32; 36)! Our focus shifts from serving our fleshly desires to willfully serving the Lord and glorifying God in all we do. Going from “slave” to “free” is a pretty cool status change, 

But wait! There’s more!

But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. God sent Him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that He could adopt us as His very own children. And because we are His children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, “Abba, Father.” Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are His child, God has made you His heir.

(Galatians 4:4-7 NLT; see also Romans 8:14-17)

Christ did not just come to this earth to free us…He came to make us children of God (John 1:12). And, as heirs, we will abide in the Father’s house forever (John 8:35), with an indescribable inheritance awaiting us in Heaven. Brothers and sisters, upon salvation we are not only freed by God’s amazing grace, we become a new creation altogether (2 Corinthians 5:17). We are brought into the family of God. 

We go from “slave” to “child”—and this is the ultimate status change.

Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?  What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever? What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, “I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Therefore, go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you.” 

2 Corinthians 6:14-17

Much like the ominous novel 1984 by George Orwell, truths are becoming lies and lies truth. Right is wrong and wrong is right. History is being rewritten, and—most frightening—freedom of speech (even thought) is being squelched (i.e., “cancelled”). Although Christians in our beloved nation have not suffered the level of persecution known daily around the world for centuries, our values, morals, and beliefs have certainly been subject to suppression more and more over the past 50 years. The intensity and severity, however, has been growing exponentially over the past decade. And, it is common knowledge, that during the past 12 months alone, God’s Church has been relegated to “non-essential,” while liquor and weed stores, strip clubs, and abortion clinics are deemed necessary entities to effectively cope with the pandemic. (It wasn’t long ago that when any time our nation was in crisis, people flocked into churches from shore to shore to weep and pray together.)

Brothers and sisters, now more than ever, we must step away from this world to be different. Within the ever-deepening darkness, we must think differently, act differently, speak differently. The god of this world (Satan) knows his time is waning, and he is working overtime to gain more of a foothold while he has the chance. And this is becoming more evident daily. 

It is time to stand firm. To draw a line in the sand. We must decide, today, not to conform to this world (Romans 12:2). This is not our home, as we are not citizens of earth, but of heaven, from which we eagerly await our Savior, Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:20). James clearly states that friendship with the world is enmity with God—that is, it makes us God’s enemy (James 4:4)! 

So, what is “friendship” with the world, and what does it mean to be “worldly”? Throughout God’s Word, the inspired writers talk a lot about this—just read through 1 John, Titus, or 2 Peter, or James. Bottom line? It’s putting anything before the Lord. Selfish desires, fleshly pleasures, wealth obsession, social media idolatry, political preoccupation, etc. This is status quo for unbelievers. But Christians too, even after having been transformed into a new creation (2 Cor 5:17), will also struggle against our natural desires until the time of our perfection. It’s a battle, for sure.

But what’s imperative to note is how the world has crept into the Church as well, condoning immorality as merely “culturally modern.” So instead of the Church body helping to sanctify believers, it instead waters down—or twists—the Word, deceiving people into thinking their actions are “holy” when they are not. This makes standing firm in our faith even more of a challenge! A reality since the first century, this is nothing new, as evidenced through the Apostle Paul’s letters and even in Jesus’ Revelation letters to the seven churches. But in our country, it is certainly worse than it’s been in my lifetime.

What’s the point here? Well, there are three things I’d like for us to take away: (1) Let’s choose to be different and stand firm on God’s Truth, which can only happen if we know the Truth—the Bible; (2) Let’s be sure that the church we attend is rooted in God’s Truth, teaching pure Scripture and not adding to it or taking from it—and believing that the gathering together of the body is “essential,” especially in a crisis; (3) Persecution—not just suppression—is coming, so the first two things are non-negotiables.

Lord, help me stand firm in Your Truth amid the shifting—and pelting—sands of this world.

“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I hope in Him!”

Lamentations 3:24

We were all waiting for 2020 to be over, as if by magic all the insanity and uncertainty and strife of the year would disappear. We thought that turning that calendar page would lift the fog to a new, bright day. We put our hope in 2021 for healing, happiness, and hope.

To quote Dr. Phil, “How’s that working for you?”

After merely a handful of days, it’s clear that this new year will most likely be another insane and uncertain season. It’s hard to believe that just one short (or endless, depending on how you look at it) year ago, there seemed to be a feeling of peace and clarity. As for me, our family members and friends were doing well, the economy was strong, and there was a sense of calm assuredness within the constant surrender to God’s will. My kids had a vision for the future and accompanying plans. Even amid the challenges of the initial months of 2020 (and there were plenty), we saw blessings and trusted that the Lord’s ultimate plans were for our good and His glory. 

Today, however, I look ahead to 2021 like a big blurry face—you know, like when someone doesn’t want to be identified on TV, so their image is blurred and pixilated. The months—and years—ahead at this point seem completely unknown. When I look around and try to envision the future (especially for my children), I can feel despondent and, if I’m totally honest, somewhat hopeless. 

But, in talking with a beloved sister of mine the other day, she reminded me of a Biblical mandate—a simple exhortation that’s easy to forget when we get caught up in the things of this world: As Christians, we are to HOPE IN THE LORD. 

It’s not “hope in the Lord, AND…” or “hope in the Lord, BUT…” We are to hope in Lord. PERIOD.

So, brothers and sisters, where is our hope? If we have been trusting in any person or entity other than the Lord, know this: They will fail us, forsake us, abandon us. God will not. He is trustworthy all the time. (Don’t get me wrong, He hates evil and will judge and punish people and nations who have turned away from Him—but that’s another blog.)

So, whatever 2021 brings, let us decide to hope in the Lord. Period. As the Psalmist writes, “Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the Lord” (Psalm 31:24).

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not see.

Hebrews 11:1

At first glance, this verse from the author of Hebrews sounds confusing. How is faith “substance” and “evidence”? Isn’t faith just a belief or trust, usually in someone or something? And wouldn’t “evidence” or proof come not from the belief itself but from the actions/outcomes of that thing or person in which (or in whom) we’re placing our faith?

Well, yes and no. Faith is belief and trust…but faith is also substantive evidence. 

When you walk into a restaurant, a waiting room, or someone else’s kitchen, and are asked to sit down, you probably don’t think twice as you glance at the empty chair and move to place your backside upon it. You have faith it will support you. Your faith is evidence that you trust the chair…and your faith is evidenced by your sitting down. Your faith is the evidence of things not seen—in this case, the unseen structure of the chair.

Faith is also the “substance of things hoped for.” This is exemplified every time you get in an automobile and drive down the road, hoping that the vehicles traveling in the opposite direction adhere to the unspoken instruction of that little yellow painted line. Your faith is the stuff of hope that others follow driving rules. And, again, your faith is evidenced by the fact you’re driving at all.

The list of illustrations goes on and on. But, as Christians, the meaning of “faith” as “substance” and “evidence” is pretty powerful. Our faith in Jesus Christ—and what He accomplished on our behalf, and how we are changed because of it—is the stuff of our hope! We know our future comes from our faith. And our faith is the evidence of what we cannot see with our eyes. We haven’t yet seen, but we have experienced the miracle of salvation, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and the Providential answers to prayer. This is all evidence of our faith! (It’s mind-boggling and mind-blowing at the same time, I know.)

But let’s take one more step into the depth of this heady verse. Since faith is evidence (proof) of our belief, and our faith is evidenced (proven) by the One in whom we are placing our trust, a question bubbles up to the surface: How are we giving evidence of this faith? Do the people with whom we interact see our faith in action? Do we show love to our neighbors (Mark 12:31)? Are we kind, patient, good, gentle, and self-controlled (Gal 5:22-23)? Do we shine in all we do, glorifying God (Matt 5:16)? 

As Believers, we have faith in our Lord Jesus Christ—by His grace through our faith we are saved (Eph 2:8-9). But if that’s what it’s all about, why doesn’t God just scoop us up into Heaven at the moment of salvation? Because we are called to walk in and by faith, taking action to demonstrate our faith to a fallen and broken world (James 2:14-26). We are called to give evidence of a Holy God and mighty Savior. How will they know of His love and mercy if we don’t tell them (Rom 10:14)—and show them?

You may be a lawyer, or perhaps you’ve been on a jury. (Maybe you’ve been in court for other reasons, but I won’t ask.) But all of us have at least seen courtroom dramas on television. You know that the ultimate verdict demands strong evidence. And I just love what I heard someone once say: If you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence of your faith in Jesus to convict you?

Lord, I have faith in You and am grateful for your grace, mercy, and love. Let me give evidence daily to this through my words and actions…let me sway the jury of my peers to the Truth of Who You are.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

Ephesians 6:10-13

Ah, that time has come once again. A look back in assessment and a gaze forward with pivots and plans for the 12 months ahead. New Year’s resolutions. There are various approaches to this undertaking, from outlining life areas and delineating specific achievements with associated dates, to simply contemplating “more of/less of” actions and attitudes—and everything in between.

For me, like all of you, this past year was filled with the cultural, political, and economic challenges that hit home amid our nation’s response to COVID-19. But I also experienced several huge life changes in 2020, some of which include one son’s marriage, the other son withdrawing from college and moving out on his own, physical struggles, new job for hubby taking us 800 miles away from both kids, selling a house, moving where we know no one…are you getting the emotional picture? Suffice it to say, this year has resulted in “COVID-10” to my body…10 added pounds, that is. And I am determined to lose them—it’s one of my top New Year’s resolutions.

What about you? Is fitness on your resolution list? Reconnecting with friends? Serving more? Or are you, like many others, merely committed to making 2021 better than 2020 (as much as it depends on you)?

Whatever our focus in the year ahead, determination is the key to accomplishment.

Did you know, brothers and sisters, that as followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to live a life of determination—not just when heading into a new year? I love the word “resolute” (although it’s not used much anymore). It’s defined as: marked by firm determination; bold; steady. And this is a beautiful and powerful way to describe our Christian walk. In fact, the Bible is steeped with exhortations to stand firm in our faith and be bold. Here are just a few verses to meditate on:

• It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1
• And if what was transitory came with glory, how much greater is the glory of that which lasts! Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold. 2 Cor 3:11-12
• Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 1 Cor 16:13
• You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. James 5:8
• You will be hated by everyone because of Me (Jesus), but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. Matthew 10:22

So, friends, whatever our 2021 resolutions may be—or even if you’re not making any—let’s all commit to be resolute in our faith this year. Let’s be steadily determined, because sin can so easily distract and ensnare us (Hebrews 12:1). Let’s stand firm, because the enemy is doing some serious prowling and devouring (1 Peter 5:8). And let’s be bold, because our culture is on the attack to silence us (Acts 4:29).

I pray that 2021 brings you a peace that passes understanding—a result of resting in the love, mercy, and grace of the Prince of Peace.

Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Romans 12:13

Let’s be completely honest here. For all the “merry” and “happy” proclamations we give and receive this holiday season, merriment can be far from a reality. In fact, for many of us, depression and despair mark our world during this time much more profoundly than joy. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, an unexpected medical report, or an emptier nest than you anticipated, grief and sorrow can fade the festive colors to a dull gray.

Brothers and sisters, the truth is, depression is fed by focus. When we stare at and consider the darkness, it grows deeper and blacker. Like water to a garden, washing our fear, sadness, and grief with attention makes them bloom—so they cast a shadow over anything else that may be trying to push through the soul’s soil.

So, what do we do to win the battle of the blues (and grays and blacks)? Stop. Feeding. It.

Firstly, as the old hymn proclaims, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus.” Throughout the Bible (from Job and Nehemiah through Paul’s exhortations), we are encouraged to focus on God and take our attention off what ails us. Nothing makes our seemingly huge troubles shrink more than comparing them with our immense and awesome God.

Secondly, get involved in the life of others. Serve. Help. There is no doubt a richness of opportunity right in our own communities—especially with so many struggling through our nation’s response to COVID-19. We can start close to home and make a meal for a neighbor, or perhaps join a local outreach organization for an activity or two…maybe even volunteer at an animal shelter. And, certainly, our own respective churches have serving events throughout the year. Giving to others—of our time, talents, or resources—takes us out of ourselves and focuses our mind, heart, and spirit away from the dark chasm within.

C. H. Spurgeon, in talking to his congregation about his own ongoing battle with depression, eloquently described this very anecdote: He said that he needed to “stop gazing into the black hole of his own soul.”

Are you entrenched in the darkness—whether from being isolated this Thanksgiving and Christmas or from the immense challenges of 2020 in general? Know that you’re not alone. You have a gracious Savior who loves you. Look up. Reach out. And step out of the darkness. As you serve, joy will break through the clouds, and you’ll feel the smiling face of God.  

“Lord, help me focus on You, despite my circumstances, and lift me from the mire of sadness as I reach out to show Your love to others.”

[If you, or someone you love, suffers from depression, reach out to your church pastor for help.]

But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.

Galatians 4:4-5

Research from Gallup last year (Dec., 2019) revealed that although 93% of Americans celebrate Christmas, only 35% of those do so in a “strongly religious” way.^*  But without the Reason for the season, Christmas is just a decorated tree, gifts, and some time off from work. Despite all the carols and twinkly lights, without belief in Jesus, the day is meaningless.

On that first Christmas, the world had not heard from God in about 400 years. People were doing their own thing, and probably just a small percentage of dedicated Jews were clinging to the promises of the prophets for a Messiah. 

But Christmas.

The silence was broken as two heavenly birth announcements were made, one to Zacharias (regarding his son, John the Baptist) and the other to Mary, a young teenager yet to be married. In fact, as the Bible’s New Testament opens, it initiates the fulfillment of 456 Messianic prophecies of Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection. (Let that fact sink in for a minute. If someone told you a thing would happen to you tomorrow, and it happened, you’d think, “Huh, that person got lucky.” But if that same someone told you 50 things that would happen—and they did—you’d be hard-pressed not to believe the source was sound. But what if that person told you 100 different things that would happen—and they did? What about 200? 300? 456? Who would doubt the veracity of that source? OK, I digress.)

Into that dark world over 2000 years ago burst the Light of the world. He came to be the final sacrificial Lamb—the One who would pay the final price of sin, removing the separation between men and God. He came to save us, justify us—by faith—so we can have peace with God (Romans 5:1). If we believe.

Today, the world is dark. (I can’t say it’s “darker than ever” with perfect certainty, but I can declare that it’s the darkest of my lifetime.) There is tangible fear, divisiveness, unholy self-gratification, and rampant foolishness. 

But Christmas.

We don’t have to wait for a heavenly announcement or a burst of light in the dark sky. It has come—He has come. Jesus. Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). The greatest Gift has been delivered. If you haven’t already received this amazing, eternity-changing free gift of saving grace, won’t you make 2020 the year? 

Lord, Christmas has been watered down and secularized, losing it’s meaning. I pray that the Scriptural songs of the season and my words (and actions) reflect the Son and turn others to You.

Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.  

Matthew 5:16

Some of you may agree with me when I say that “It’s a Wonderful Life” is not only the best Christmas movie out there, it’s also the best movie ever. We’re inspired by George Bailey’s constant selflessness and perseverance despite obstacles. We adore the love he and Mary have for each other. And of course, we’re brought to tears when George’s slightly dimwitted guardian angel shows him what life would look like if he was never born. And by unveiling the voids of his life unlived, Clarence (the angel-sans-wings) reveals the astonishing impact George has made on the lives of others—and how their respective lives then made additional impact.

For me, it’s not just the joyous Christmas Eve conclusion that gets me every time…I am repeatedly convicted about the way I live my own life all year long. See, like George, we each have daily opportunities to touch the lives of other people and make a difference. Sometimes, we receive immediate “feedback” as to the effect—a grateful smile for a simple kindness (perhaps amid the Christmas shopping chaos) or the knowledge of practical needs met (like with an Angel Tree contribution).

But more often than not, like George Bailey, we don’t recognize the incredible impact that our actions—small and large—make in life. In fact, the effects may not be revealed to us until we’re standing in the Lord’s presence. But know this: Every word and deed do have a ripple effect.

And friends, it’s not just the good stuff. (Ouch. But that’s another blog altogether.)

So, during this Christmas season—and all year long—let your light shine as you bear the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control). You’ll be making a powerful, positive impact on those around you…and, with every ripple, to the whole world. Even if you don’t see it.

Plus, as Christians, when we shine, we magnify our Namesake, Jesus Christ, and glorify God. And, ultimately, this brings joy to our own souls in knowing we’ve brought a smile to the Audience of One. 

What could be more wonderful than that?