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As believers, we are God’s children. A child of God will reflect His character. Each week, we focus on one scripture while highlighting a declaration (Who God is) and affirmation (Who we are as believers).
This week’s scripture is:
Of course, they didn’t know that Joseph understood them, for he had been speaking to them through an interpreter. Now he turned away from them and began to weep. When he regained his composure, he spoke to them again. Then he chose Simeon from among them and had him tied up right before their eyes.
Genesis 42:23-24 NLT
Declaration
God grants insight.
Affirmation
I will look beyond the surface into the deeper meaning.
Has someone ever done you wrong or treated you poorly, then later you find out some detail that gives you insight into why they acted the way they did? Oftentimes on the surface level we’re over it, but deep down we still have scars and unresolved issues. Let’s look at Joseph, he was sold into slavery by his brothers, yet God’s hand was on him and now he’s married with two sons and in a prominent position. Decades have passed, yet when faced with his brothers again there are residual feelings. His observation of their discussion in their native language gives him insight. Their hearts had softened and they were remorseful. God allows us insight too. It’s an opportunity for us to look beyond the surface whenever we get frustrated or done dirty by someone. We can always take a moment to look for a deeper meaning and seek clarity from God.
A Prayer Starter…
Heavenly Father, You know all things. You give insight to things going on around me. Lord, help me to look beyond the superficial and into the deeper meaning. Grant me clarity, so that my heart doesn’t harbor ill feelings… In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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I know that most people are in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the season, but December always reminds me to slow down and reflect. It’s something about the cold weather that forces me to cozy up and sit still… I believe the stillness opens
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In a culture that values purpose and spiritual gifting, it’s interesting how quickly we toss them to the side when we’re fatigued or distracted. We yield to the flesh instead of the Holy Spirit’s guidance. We abandon how we show up out of convenience; missing opportunities to share the Gospel or be the hands and feet of Christ. Simply put, we fail to finish well.
El Roi. The God who sees me. When we talk about Hagar, we often refer to this tender exchange. This exact moment in the wilderness when she encounters God… when she accepts correction and instruction to return to a tense situation… when she receives the promise concerning the son in her womb… when she recognizes that she is seen and known by name. Yes, this is a pivotal moment, marked with such a significant name, and as I began to walk through Hagar’s story, to be seen, is so much deeper than watching someone visually.
“Are you going to try for another one?”
The ink on our marriage certificate wasn’t even dry before people began to ask when my husband and I were planning on having children. This seemingly innocent question was often met with ‘we don’t know’ outwardly, but inwardly it reinforced the shame of not being able to conceive a child.
I am the one in four.
If you or someone close to you is in need, we would be honored to lift you up in prayer. We believe in the power of prayer to bring peace, comfort, and reassurance during times of hardship. Our community is ready to join together and pray as we trust in God’s love and unending grace.
