Thursday, December 22, 2016

Jesus Calling: December 22

Come to Me, and rest in My Presence. As you ponder the majestic mystery of the Incarnation, relax in My everlasting arms. I am the only Person who was ever sired by the Holy Spirit. This is beyond your understanding. Instead of trying to comprehend My Incarnation intellectually, learn from the example of the wise men. They followed the leading of a spectacular star, then fell down in humble worship when they found Me.
     Praise and worship are the best responses to the wonder of My Being. Sing praises to My Holy Name. Gaze at Me in silent adoration. Look for a star of guidance in your own life, and be willing to follow wherever I lead. I am the Light from on high that dawns upon you, to guide your feet into the way of Peace. 
Luke 1:35
English Standard Version 
And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God."

John 1:14 
English Standard Version
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Matthew 2:9-11
New King James Version 
When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. 11 And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Luke 1:78-79
Amplified Version
78 
Because of the tender mercy of our God,
With which the Sunrise (the Messiah) from on high will dawn and visit us,
79 
To shine upon those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,
To guide our feet [in a straight line] into the way of peace and serenity.”


My Prayer
[Take 3 minutes, close your eyes, and be quiet before the Creator.]

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Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.


Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

189 comments:

  1. god help me please just protect my home and family

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    1. Fear not, unknown unknown, for you have found favor with God...(though it may not be evident in the moment, God is working all things for your salvation)...for nothing is impossible for God. (Luke 1:30,37)

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    2. Amen! This is the day that the Lord has made! Let Us rejoice and be glad in it!
      Psalms 118:24
      Love, Prayers and Blessings

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    3. Still praying for you Unknown.
      Amen Bob! And Brandy! Be blessed in this new day and continue rejoicing and singing His praises!

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  2. Father, in the name of Jesus I ask for protection and safety on this persons family. Lord only you can keep this family from harm. Put a army of angels around this home and prtect all who live there. In Jesus name... Amen

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    1. Praying for you and your family unknown
      Lifting up our JC family in prayers
      Love you all
      Merry Christmas week
      Jesus is the reason ❤️🙏

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  3. I sing praises to your holy name! Thank you for the blessings of your spirit. Help me to strengthen my efforts at silent adoration as well. Silence helps me to hear you O lord! Amen.

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  4. A song that has become a blessing amidst all the music of the season is “Mary Did You Know?” My own feeling is that no, Mary didn’t know what the child she was carrying would do but she did have confidence in God that God was doing something marvelous in what she didn’t know. Her song, Luke 1:46-56, expresses so wonderfully the deep abiding faith in her soul.

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    1. I agree, Bob! And I pray you are deep in relationship with our Father this Advent season. Miss you! ♥️✝️🙏

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    2. Me too. Bob, I pray all is going well. Your posts are gifts to me always.

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    3. My favorite song....no matter what time of year.

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  5. As I worship and search for Gods light to guide my path,I wonder do any of my fellow believers embrace and experience the gifts of the holy spirit to help during times of grief loss and sorrow?gifts such as prophecy,speaking in tongues,comforting visions.Are these things of God?

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    1. Definitely. That is why God gave us the holy spirit. In times when we aren't sure how to pray he guides us with the spirit. As with all things of God if it is the spirit leading us it will coincide with his word. If it doesn't I would question it as not being the spirit.

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    2. Definitely. That is why God gave us the holy spirit. In times when we aren't sure how to pray he guides us with the spirit. As with all things of God if it is the spirit leading us it will coincide with his word. If it doesn't I would question it as not being the spirit.

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    3. PeterC, 2 years later, Absolutely, definitely! And more...in fact Words of knowledge, specific instructions together with images in the mind, that when carried out result in an unsaved stranger coming to faith. God hasn't changed. God is no respecter of persons. He will give freely to all who ask. Read and meditate on 1 Corinthians 12. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide YOU in all truth. The motive must be of love towards God first then towards others.

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    4. This is truth, Peter! "The motive must be of love towards God first then towards others."

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  6. Heavenly Father, I open my heart and mind today to receive your unconditional love ♥. Thank you for this LOVE ♥ and HOPE that keeps me going when faced with challenges. Please protect me from the evil one. Clothe me in the ARMOR OF GOD, clothe me with the helmet of salvation, the breastplate of righteousness. Protect me with the sword of the spirit, and the shield of faith, wrap me in the belt of truth and the shoes of the gospel. I bring the blood of Christ and the cross against the deception brought on by the evil one. Cleanse me LORD as I receive your love ♥. Loving ♥ and praying for Warriors as you pray for me.

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  7. Thank You for the gift of life, Thank You for the majestic mystery of the incarnation,
    Thank You for the Holy Spirit
    Thank You for Mary the mother of our Lord Jesus,
    Thank You for the wise men,
    Thank You for being the LIGHT from on high that dawn's upon me, to guide my feet into the way of Peace,
    Thank You for grace,
    Thank You for mercy,
    Thank You for peace

    Thank You for the Child that was born to be Holy, the Son of God, JESUS my Saviour!!!
    THANK YOU LORD for JESUS!

    I praise Your Holy name this day oh Lord, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

    Maplewood NJ

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    1. So much to be thankful for. Your prayer is my prayer. Sweet Jesus thank you for Maplewood.

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    2. Joining into your lovely prayer of thanks.
      Amen dear Loveconquersall. Joining in thanking Him for giving us dear Maplewood to lift and encourage us each day. Her prayers mean so much to me. 💗

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  8. Psalm 95:7b-8a: If today you hear the voice of the Lord, harden not your hearts... Mary heard the voice of the Lord through the voice of God’s messenger and in her heart, she said, “Yes”, in effect, she was willing to trust the voice of the Lord. The same was true of Joseph, when he heard the voice of the Lord in a dream, he said “yes” (evident in his immediate response) and proceeded in trust. Two people who trusted beyond any understanding what God asked of them and the world received its Savior. Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, if today you hear the voice of the Lord, harden not your heart for God is bringing salvation wherever and whenever we simply say “yes” and are willing to allow Him to invade our heart. God be with you!

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    1. I enjoyed reading your past posts and have responded, not knowing of you. Brought a big smile with this year's posts. The holy spirit shines through. Thank you Bob.

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    2. Missed you Bob. So great to read your comments. This is a wonderful gift. Yes Lord Yes. Thank you Holy Spirit. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family. God is.....

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    3. Thank you both. Your affirmation brings joy to my soul.

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    4. A year Later, I pray His Joy is still in your soul, BOB!
      We miss you.
      Blessings and Love, BRIE

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    5. Thank you Bob. May our Heavenly Father guide us all to soften our hearts always to receive Him, and to hear His small sweet voice.

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  9. Bob - AMEN!!!! PTL!! AND YES, YES, YES!!!!!!!

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  10. Amen and Amen! And, Bob - SO GOOD to see you on here! I have wondered so many times and prayed so many times for you, that you were fine and I see that you are! I read your post yesterday, but didn't realize it was this year's post until later, when I read so many 'welcome back's!
    Sassy Mom - I echo your prayers and Maplewood, your thankfulness.
    And, Peter C: yes, I do - so much to share on that topic. Speaking in Tongues is perfect prayer - God's spirit speaking to our spirit. When I don't know what to pray, I know that I can SIT and God knows my heart.
    I woke up very early this morning and knew I needed more sleep. I spoke in tongues and finally slept a peaceful sleep.
    God bless each and everyone of you on here and I thank you again, Peyton Family for this blog!

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  11. Please share more as you feel led, and when you have the time. I am so open to drawing closer to the Lord, as I grieve the loss my mother. She always spoke of the gifts of the Spirit. God bless you

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    1. Peter... heard this song and thought of you. Sanctus Real "Pray". That's what I'm doing for you now. I have other thoughts and will share later.

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    2. PeterC - Praying God's comfort for your loss.

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    3. I sure will, Peter. It may be a while but in the meantime, I will be praying perfectly for you.
      Norah

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    4. Peter; it's futile to talk about the gifts of the Spirit without establishing where you stand with God. Are you a child of God based on accepting Jesus' atonement for our sins which allows us fellowship with God? The gifts of the Spirit are given to His children. We are heirs to these gifts by Grace.

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  12. Update on Lisa - Biopsy results indicated breast cancer. Lisa will be having surgery tomorrow, Dec 23 at 8 AM. Lisa is in good spirits and said "God is in control."

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  13. Praying for Lisa and PeterC. Jesus we trust in you. Save us savior of the world for by your cross and resurrection you have set us free. Thank you Jesus for all you do for us. Please pray for my grandson Juan Carlos, 14 years, my daughter's (Magdalena) firstborn. Will be having a CT scan on the 26th. His blood work was all good. He had pain on liver area occasionally. Thank you JC Warriors.

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    1. Loveconquersall - Joining Warriors in prayer for your grandson Juan Carlos and Magdalena's first born.

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  14. Praying for Lisa, Sassy Mom,
    Loveconquersall, Magdalena, PeterC and all concerns of those visiting here and reading. The Lord knows your needs and concerns and I speak the Mighty Name of Jesus over each one. Great blessings and the Lord's favor upon each one! Believing for miracles!

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    1. CO--- Sendong prayers your way for you and your family. The Lord has a plan for you and it is a GOOD ONE!

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    1. O King of All the Nations;
      Only joy of every human heart;
      O Keystone of the mighty arch of man,
      O come and save us creatures You fashioned from the dust.
      O Light from on high that dawns upon us, would You guide our feet into the way of Your Peace? Amen

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    2. Hallelujah and Amen Brie 🙏.

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    3. Amen!😊💗🙏Beautiful Brie! Thanks dear Sister. Glory glory!!

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    4. I join with my Hallelujah and Amen! You sisters in Christ are wonderful. Thanks for this team Praise! AMEN

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    5. You are wonderful dear Kathy! God bless you my Sister.

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  16. Sharing A Christmas Prayer. BE WITH US THIS CHRISTMAS.
    In a world of disappointment, You are WONDERFUL.
    In a time of anxiety, You are our COUNSELOR.
    In a season of instability, You are our MIGHTY GOD.
    In a culture of great uncertainty, You are our EVERLASTING FATHER
    In a world of chaos, You are our PRINCE OF PEACE.
    IMMANUEL, GOD, be with us this Christmas. AMEN.

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    1. AMEN, AMEN, Sassy Mom!! Yes Lord, You are indeed "our PRINCE OF PEACE, IMMANUEL, GOD, be with us this Christmas."

      Blessings.

      Maplewood NJ

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    2. Love your prayer snd love you Sassy Mom! Amen Amen Amen!
      🙏💝🙏🙌🌟

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    3. Thank you for that lovely prayer Sassy Mom. Joining in it! Much love and blessings.

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    4. Thank you Sassy Mom and Peace be with you!!

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    5. Joining in this prayer for THIS year's CHRISTMAS, THIS year's challenges, THIS year's chaos. Come Holy Spirit!

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  17. Most Loving Father, I am thanking You for Your hands of protection that will be on me, the doctor, nurse and anathesiologist tomorrow morning as I head in my procedure. Thank You for working on the me and brining me out safely to once again testify to Your glory! I am going to rest in Your presence tonight and tomorrow morning, trusting and knowing that I have nothing to fear because I am covered in the Blood of Jesus. Thank You for the gift of Salvation! Jesus paid it all for me. I am saved, healed and thankful that You are the ‘Light from on high that dawns upon me, to guide my feet into the way of Peace.’ Thank You Father, in Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

    JC family- I meant to ask for prayers in my 12/21 posting as I undergo a very early morning emergency procedure on 12/22. I know some will get this tonight and prayers will be lifted up for me tomorrow (will repost for tomorrow). Thank you and God Bless.

    Blessings and Peace.

    Maplewood, NJ

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    1. Father, please give Maplewood Your love, peace, comfort, and strength to endure this emergency procedure this morning. Let Your healing hands be upon the surgeon's and Your glory fill the atmosphere. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen 🙏. Thank You Jesus. Praise the Lord continually and always.

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    2. Dear Heavenly Father God,
      May Your Light surround our Maplewood NJ;
      May Your Love enfold her;
      May Your Power protect her;
      May Your Presence watch over her;
      Wherever our dear sweet Maplewood NJ is, GOD IS;
      She is safe, and secured in the cradle of Your Loving and Merciful Arms. Amen.

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    3. Echoing the prayers above for your procedure dear Maplewood.

      Blessings from France

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    4. Dear Lord in heaven, we thank You for Your daughter, known as our dear Maplewood here. We thank You for who she is in Your kingdom, thy good & faithful servant. You love her with everlasting love and underneath are Your everlasting arms holding her through this surgery. Touch her body at this very moment to do Your bidding, to recover & heal quickly. Amen! Hallelujah!💖

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    5. Praying for you to have a successful procedure today Maplewood. Praying for the medical staff to be at their best as well. God speed.

      TJ

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    6. Maplewood, praying for you and the doctors and staff taking care of you. God is great and He will watch over you. JE

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    7. Joining prayers for you M N J!! ❤️

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    8. God be with you, twin bd sis. May the procedure serve its purpose for your wellbeing and wholeness. To God be the glory!

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    9. Joining in prayer for MNJ and thanking God for his protection, healing and healthy restoration for our sister in Christ.

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    10. Father I thank you for your faithfulness to our dear Maplewood. Guide the doctor’s hands to do just what they must to bring her to perfect health. Surround her with a hedge of protection and keep her from getting Covid.
      Trusting in your promises and mercy. Thank You Jesus!🙏💗

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  18. Father, please let the Holy Spirit lead me along the path You have prepared for me and let me be of good courage and passion to do what You created me to do. You are my reason for being Lord. Let me be Your witness in the world and share You and Your amazing word with others Lord. Thank You Jesus. I will bless, praise, and rejoice in the Lord continually and always.

    Father, bless, comfort, and love all Your children. Draw them near to Your heart and hold them in Your loving arms Lord. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen 🙏.

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    1. Amen amen ❤

      Blessings from France

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    2. FROM ROMANS 8
      THE AWESOME POWER OF GOD FROM WITHIN!
      And when The Spirit of God,  Who raised up Jesus lives in us, then He will make our bodies live again afterwards, by means of this same Holy Spirit now living within us!

      Dear Heavenly Father God,
      Thank You for Your Grace and The Awesome Power we have because of God's Holy Spirit Power living within us. You always have peace and joy, and because You live within us and we live within You, we can enjoy the same things You enjoy! Empowered by You, Would You Please help us persist when we feel like quitting? In Jesus' Name. I ask. I seek. I knock. I praise. I thank.

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    3. Amen dear Sisters.
      Joining in your prayers.
      Father, Thank you for pouring out you Spirit I to use. I’m so grateful You abide in us as we abide in You. Your Spirit is always working in us and strengthening us as we prepare to celebrate You on Christmas.,Guide us to produce abundant fruit and serve You today as best we can for your glory. Thank you for the words to say and for guiding us to do Your will. Help us to stay in Your presence and guide us to rest in Your love. In the Name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

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  19. The Holy Spirit just asked me to bow my head in prayer for all those who are depressed, and to tell them It's OK. You're OK. Everything is going to be OK.
    I am praying now for all those who have the blues, light blues, navy blues, and dark black and blue blues. In Jesus' Name. Amen

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    1. Amen. Joining in prayers for everyone ❤

      Blessings from France

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    2. Joining with my dear sister, Blessings from France! Amen!

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    3. Joining in this prayer right now. So much blue light I see. Take our worries Lord, replace them with the joy of knowing and celebrating that we have YOU in our lives, and you have us in your arms.

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  20. You say to me it's all okay
    You say to me to pray
    You tell me it's not hard to do
    Just open up and say
    Father I have come to You
    I'm down on bended knee
    I'm tired,shamed, and lost my way
    I'm not sure what to say
    I'm sorry for the things I've done
    And the words I've said
    I can not take them back and so
    Into Your arms I fled
    You comfort, love, and hold those
    In their times of need
    You forgive,renew, restore
    All forever more
    You are the truth, the life, the way
    There's not much more to say

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    1. Amen! Thank for sharing dear Janet💕.

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    2. Oh, how I needed to read those words, Janet! Thank you. Was just rereading Philippians 3:13...Forgetting what lies behind and straining towards what lies ahead. I struggle with forgiving myself for past (bad/wrong) decisions. I believe God has forgiven me but I have a difficult time doing that for myself. Some days are better than others with regards to that. I've recently been saying, 'I'm deserving of God's blessings' and that has helped but the self-guilt and condemnation can creep back in. Thanks, again Janet, for your entry today. Cannot express enough how much this site and this family helps me grow in love & relationship with God. Blessings one and all!
      NJS

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    3. Thanks so much Janet. I needed this. I shall print it out, take it like a prescripture as often as needed, and whenever I need a refresher. Thanks again. Love to my JC family!

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    4. Thank you so much dear Janet. I needed those words too. I will share them with my Mom and Sis. God bless you always. Much love to all!

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    5. Dear NJS, my heart is with you. I did the same thing for years. I couldn't forgive myself even though I knew I was forgiven. Then I heard a sermon that said if we don't forgive ourselves we are hurting Jesus. I'm not saying you are hurting Jesus, but I know I was because I realized I wasn't accepting the work he did for me. I sure didn't want to hurt Jesus. I heard another sermon later regarding sin where the preacher was saying God has forgotten our sin like He said, however satan, the accuser who works day and night, has not forgotten our sin and will keep accusing us to break us. I struggle but am getting better all the time to realize -- Oh there's evil accusing me again. I hope this helps for you. If you want me to find the sermon, I can try. Just let me know. It was from a couple years ago but may still be there. I wish you peace. We have to work and not give up to fight back to evil. I've heard repeatedly that you are being attacked because you are doing something right... so be encouraged that you are already a threat to evil or else they'd leave you alone.

      I'm really hoping and praying for you to find peace.

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    6. Thank You Holy Spirit. It's true that the Lord knows what is needed most. God bless you all.

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    7. Kmertens, I'd love to read that sermon if you can find it. (njschreibs@gmail.com) If you can't locate it, don't stress. Your words give me hope as well as clarity. Appreciate you taking the time for me and the subject matter. Be blessed and happy in Jesus's name!

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  21. I'm asking this morning for a new awareness of His Peace in our lives. Peace that is and has been present without us perceiving it.

    Lifting your requests as I again ponder Jesus' words, "My Peace I give to you".

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  22. Blessings and Peace to All. Special prayers for you, Maplewood...All is Well.

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    1. Amen dear Keith! His peace is always there blanketing us and restoring us. Peace and blessings to you and Bright Star.
      Praying with you and my family here for Maplewood’s successful procedure and for her perfect recovery. Thank You dear Jesus!

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  23. Thank you Paytonfamily for the prayer..."Take 3 minutes, close your eyes, and be quiet before the Creator...." I need to develop my quiet time with our creator, God the Father. Most of my devotions are a time of reading, and talking and asking, almost "checking the boxes" and zoom onto my day. I understand these actions are an important part of my prayer time! But I also think I need to "listen" more! Just being. In Gods presence. Quietly being grateful for HIS many blessings, listening and discerning Gods will for me. Responding to those thoughts and nudges in my daily life. Dear Lord help me to be quiet. To keep my heart open to You in all things. Amen.

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    1. I was also blessed by those beautiful words and stopped and spent those 3 minutes with the Lord.
      Amen dear ABC! Quiet my heart Lord at this busy time. You are the reason for the season. I love you Lord.

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    2. Loved the invitation to take three minutes and be still before the Lord this morning!

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  24. Praying for each of you, this morning. Lifting your procedure, Maplewood, which hopefully, is over by now. Praying all is well. Love and Blessings on this day that the Lord has made.

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    1. Joining Nora in interceding in each JC WARRIOR's need and journey. And Maplewood, JC WARRIORS have such confidence in the Lord's grace and mercy, we know He is TRUSTWORTHY! We thank you Lord for Your promises of healing and restoration and we thank you for the miracles You still perform today. In Jesus' precious name, AMEN and AMEN

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  25. Thank you Father for showing your faithfulness to dear Maplewood, Praying all went well today and that we will soon be putting on our dancing shoes.Thank you for healing all of us and all our loved ones, and guiding them to surrender to You. Bless all those who are sick, depressed, discouraged, lonely and brokenhearted. Open up their eyes to see all they need is You. Bless and heal our dear MadFox and bless Bob in all things. Thank you for lifting and strengthening us all. In the Name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

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  26. Father, help me find a star that will lead me to Your perfect peace. I will follow You all the days of my life Lord. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen 🙏. Praise the Lord continually and always. Thank You Jesus.

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  27. Fourth Wednesday in Advent

    Bethlehem…though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel.  (Micah 5:2)

    Bethlehem is within sight, just a couple of days away. The excitement in little children is almost uncontainable, as it should be for all of us for more reasons than children are able to grasp.  

    The most famous carol focusing on Bethlehem is O Little Town of Bethlehem. It was written by Phillips Brooks, a great preacher out of the Episcopalian tradition.  The inspiration for his poem came from his own travels to Bethlehem and the opportunity to attend the five hour Christmas Eve service at the Church of the Nativity.  Looking back on that visit, Brooks is quoted as saying, “I remember standing in the old church in Bethlehem close to the spot where Jesus was born, when the whole church was ringing hour after hour with splendid hymns of praise to God, how again and again it seemed as if I could hear voices I knew well, telling each other of the wonderful night of the Savior’s birth.” 

    Three years later, Brooks wanted to write an original Christmas hymn for the children of his church for the Christmas pageant. With that precious memory of Bethlehem in mind, he drafted a poem. Turning to the organist of the church, Lewis Redner, Brooks asked Redner to come up with an original tune to which the poem could be sung. Little inspiration came to Redner at first but the night before the children’s program, he awoke with a tune ringing in his soul.  He got up and quickly wrote down the tune he was hearing.  The next night in 1867, O Little Town of Bethlehem had its own birth and has become a staple among Christmas carols.  

    The beauty of the carol is its peaceful humble tone which captures the essence of the Micah passage above. In the first two verses, Brooks shares the essence of what he felt that night in Bethlehem.  Then, as in any good sermon, Brooks gets to the heart of it all in the last three verses which is the necessity of receiving the dear Christ into one’s heart.   There is a fourth verse which is rarely heard.  O Little Town of Bethlehem concludes with a prayer for Christ, to be born in us today. Angelus Silesius (German writer, 1624-1677) has said,  Christ could be born a thousand times in Bethlehem – but all in vain until He is born in me.“[1] The very last line is the cry of the heart, the core of who we are O, come to us abide with us, our Lord, Emmanuel.  

    Here is a beautiful rendition by the late great Nat King Cole.  His voice and spirit capture the beauty of the first two verses: Nat King Cole - O Little Town Of Bethlehem
    https://youtu.be/EHKORmpW4Cg

    The last three verses are left for each of us to sing (you know the tune) but more importantly, pray.  Here is a link to them: O Little Town of Bethlehem
    https://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/o_little_town_of_bethlehem.htm

    With love, Bob

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    1. From Suzie,long time reader,first post. I loved reading this about Bethlehem, I had the pleasure of going 7 years ago. I'm so happy to learn about the song written years ago.I'm thankful for all on
      this
      blog.

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    2. Dear Suzie --- Welcome, to this awesome JCFAMILY/WARRIORS! I am thankful for you, and ask my Papa God to bless you richly! This is Holy ground we stand on.
      "And Jacob awakened out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the LORD is in th his place; and I knew it not." Genesis 28:16
      In His Grip of Grace. JJ

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    3. THANK YOU BOB for taking me on this ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL ADVENTure.
      Many thanks to you for allowing God's Holy Spirit to work overtime within and through you. You are such a big blessing to us throughout this ADVENTure!

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    4. Welcome to the posting/praying side of JC, our dear Suzie. We are thankful to have you praying, and now posting with and for us.

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    5. Welcome my sister Suzie! How blessed you were to visit Bethlehem. I'm sure you are cherishing the memories.

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  28. Thank you dear Lord. I praise and worship you in all I do today. Please be with me very step of the way. Continue to help me build my quiet time of adoration before you, listening to Your call. Amen.

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    1. Amen dear ABC! We must be still to hear His voice. Right now, He's telling me to Rest.

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  29. Yet again Jesus words on His last day before his crucifixion are stirring within me; "My Peace I give to you".

    May we come to know Peace (Him) more intimately.

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    1. Amen! Peace with with us all. The offer always stands, just be still and receive. 3 minutes is a good start and investment 😉

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  30. As I make my way into my kitchen to begin the preparations for my family today, remind me dear Lord, " the reason for it all". 🙏💕

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    1. So true dear Jan. I spend so much time in the kitchen I think I should have a bed in there. But I am blessed to be able to cook and bake for the ones I love. God is glorified by my good fruit. Just baked apple muffins that my family will enjoy, thank God.

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  31. Praying for all of you and giving thanks for this lovely morning which is off and running! Nonnie duty with the boys and their dog and then into the office to get our cable.
    Praying for you in the Kitchen, Jan and for each of you on here or off!
    Let us be your Light, Lord!

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    1. Enjoy your time with your dear grands and Congratulations Nonnie!

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  32. Those 3 minutes turned into 10. What an amazing time! My thoughts were drawn to those who came to worship the newborn King. The Shepherds (who told other people,) the 'wise men' who brought gold frankincense and myrrh. Scripture does not tell us but there were probably more folk who came to see, servants who came to feed animals etc.
    Then, my thoughts turned to the descendants of those who saw Jesus as a small baby who are alive today. Do they know Him? I pray that they do or will while there is yet time.

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  33. https://youtu.be/_RVaiZlQIog be blessed

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  34. CALLING ALL JC PRAYER WARRIORS: Our little Kaia has high bilirubin counts. I was told this at 2:52 and we started praying. As of 40 minutes ago she is still listed as "intermediate to high," so they will do another test at 6:00 p.m. EST. Please pray with us that this count goes down and they can all go home. Mommy an Daddy are worn out and want a shower, their own bed and home, which I tidied up for them today (they had hired someone to clean it b/4 family arrived and the cleaning service got stuck on the highway due to an accident - prayed for them too!). Anyway, I have 3 Grands waiting to make the Cookie House we've been talking about for a week. So, please pray for Nonnie too - this is NOT my specialty, but it needs to be now. :)
    Thank you, Family, in advance for praying and believing with us! I know someone will see this.

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    1. Praying for your little Kaia to be restored to perfect health. God will make all things come together and your cookie house will be a masterpiece!

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  35. They are on their way home! Thank you, Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ! Thank you, JC Family, for your prayers.

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    1. It is great to ABP (always be praying) whether reading your posts or not. Praise be to God for our Kaia and her parents and grands! In Jesus' Name. Amen

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    2. Halleluia! We sure do serve a faithful God! Praise Him with every breath. Thank You Jesus!

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  36. MADFOX (or anyone who finds it)
    Would you mind reposting your 3 step plan?
    Step 1 Trust God.
    Step 2 ?
    Step 3 Repeat Step 1

    Blessings JC Family as we look for a star of guidance in our own life, and be willing to follow wherever He leads. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

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    1. See below. Praying you see His hand as you move through these challenging times. Godspeed.

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    2. Thanks MadFox! I am trusting in promises and His guiding Hand. Praying always for you dear brother.

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  37. Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and His greatness is unsearchable. (Psalm 145:3). Let my mouth be filled with Your praise and with Your glory all the day. (Psalm 71:8). O LORD, You are my God, I will exalt You, I will praise Your name, for You have done wonderful things; Your counsels of old are faithfulness and truth. (Isaiah 25:1).

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  38. You always feed me well. Thanks dear sister. You lift my soul and soothe my heart. Getting my stitches out today. God is good and He’s in charge. .

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  39. JC Warriors: I told a friend who has just been diagnosed with very advanced prostate cancer that faith and positivity, have been statistically proven to improve survival rates by 50 to 100%.

    As Brie has asked, I've adapted several different "steps" from other cancer patients and books into just 3. I share them with folks that have asked how am I dealing with my circumstances. These steps could be for any challenge: business, relationships, family, or health issues.

    Step 1. Deepen or develop your faith in God through prayer about your specific challenge.
    Step 2. "Trust but verify" your professional team (doctors, lawyers, therapist, etc.). Educate yourself on your challenge. Ask intelligent questions.
    Step 3. Stay Positive, and at times when you can't (sometimes, its truly difficult), then head back to Step 1 and pray.

    Hope the above helps, and that you and yours have a Merry Christmas. Godspeed and Amen.

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    1. Thank you MadFox- this is so helpful. God bless you and all our JC brothers and sisters. You can count on my prayers ❤️🙏

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    2. Thank You our dear dear brother friend in Christ, Madfox!
      This is exactly what THE DOCTOR ordered!
      Blessings to you and yours at Christmas Time and All Times.
      With much love and many prayers, Brie

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    3. Madfox, thank you for sharing. Blessings to you and your family.

      SC Anonymous

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    4. Wonderful advice dear MadFox! Thanks for posting this. Much love.

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    5. Thank you, Mad 🦊 for the steps to walk through challenges. Your experience and sharing has taught us much. Christmas blessings to you and yours! ✝️♥️

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  40. Amazed, humbled and so very very thankful for God's plan of Salvation. Jesus Christ, Savior, Son of God, Bethlehem Babe, born to to reconcile mankind to God through His death and resurrection. Thank You Jesus, You are the reason for the season.

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    1. Amen Peter 🙏

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    2. Yes Peter! I have a little plaque that says that and I always put it near my Nativity. Amen!

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  41. Such an encouraging prayer you write last night Janet and one I needed to hear, along with that’ todays devotion and especially the verse from Luke.

    As family have arrived already for Christmas, it is a blessing to have them here. I should just focus on that and not the chaos it brings. I need to remind myself if I am going to be a Martha or a Mary! I’m praying for understanding and wisdom and peace and that I may just love like Jesus. Lord please “guide my feet in the way of peace and serenity” and bless all in need of your grace, mercy and love.
    Shalom🙏

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    1. Have a blessed Christmas with your family dear Rich! The chaos is a normal part of it. But put God in the center and all things will come together. I too hope to be a Mary instead of a Martha.

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  42. Replies
    1. Thanks! God bless you and yours sweet Jan!

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  43. Let kindness be your gift to distribute in all your encounters this season.

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    1. That’s beautiful, sweet Audra! Thanks

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  44. My God and my LORD, You have been a present help in times of our need. I so want to give You praise for the miracles, breakthroughs, deliverance, healings, open-doors, promotions, appointments and blessings this JCFAMILY and loved ones have received through the years. My Gracious God, You have time and time again turned our trials into triumph. HALLELUJAH!!! I Declare and Decree: You, my God and my LORD, will set up a standard and fight against the wishes, desires, decrees, activities, agreements, covenants, curses and plans of our enemies to materialize in our lives and the lives of our family and loved ones, in Jesus' mighty name. Thank You, my God, you are Fighting and Winning battles for us. My Father God, we Glorify Your name for releasing Your angels to minister to us in every way and protect this JCFAMILY and loved ones.
    Heavenly Father, we honor You for Your Love, Kindness and Compassion You bestowed upon this JCFAMILY and our loved ones. In The Mighty, Glorious and Wonder-Working Name of Jesus Christ, AMEN and AMEN.

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    1. Amen dear JJ! Gathering into your powerful prayer! He is mighty to save and strengthen and guide and comfort and encourage us! What a blessed assurance!! Thanks for lifting me so high with your Spirit guided words dear sister. I love you!! Thank You Jesus.

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  45. Dear JC Warriors, please pray for those of us who are in the path of minus degree winter weather prediction that covers our country. The wind is predicted to be 40 to 90 miles an hour with temps predicted to be minus10 degrees or more below zero during the early hours of morning in my state ofTennessee. Thank You Jesus for a hedge of protection for our country.

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    1. Praying with and for you, Sassy Mom, and for our entire JC Family. Lord have Mercy on us Who would be alone except for the fact that we have YOU to protect and guide us. THANK you for this blessing, in JESUS' Name. Amen

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    2. Papa God --- Interceding for Sassy Mom, Tennessee and all those in the path of of this extreme cold weather and wind. All the elements of nature obey Your command. Help us in this time of trouble; calm the cold and wind that threatens us. Thank You for Your deliverance, grace and mercy. We Praise You for Your Goodness. Your steadfast love and protection is always with us. In Jesus' name,
      JEHOVAH--SABAOTH ---The Lord of Hosts, our Protector, AMEN and AMEN.

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    3. Joining all prayers for you and all those in your area dear Sassy Mom!!
      Father God, cover them with Your hedge of protection, and guide them to shelter from the wind and cold. Carry them through this difficult time as they trust in you and give them comfort and healing of body, mind and spirit. Surround them with Your peace and love. Keep them warm in Your Arms. Thank You for this in the Name of Christ Jesus our Risen Lord. Amen

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  46. On this day I gift my Lord the "V" word VOICE. There is a song from Cast Crowns ( The Voice of Truth) that has been a great uplift for me. I want to share a verse and chorus that leads me to the word VOICE:

    Oh what I would do to have
    The kind of strength it takes
    To stand before a giant
    With just a sling and a stone
    Surrounded by the sound of a
    thousand warriors, shaking in their armor, wishing they'd have the strength to stand.

    But the giant's calling out my name
    And He Laughs at me
    Reminding me of all the times
    I've tried before and failed
    The giant keeps on telling me
    Time and time again, "Boy you'll never win!" "You'll never win!"

    But the VOICE of Truth tells me a different story
    The VOICE of Truth says, "Do not be afraid!"
    And the VOICE of Truth says, "This is for My Glory"
    Out of ALL the voices calling out to me
    I will chose to listen to the VOICE of Truth.
    The Great I AM ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS WINS!!! Satan the scumbag, wannabe liar, ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS, LOSES!!!

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    1. Beautiful VOICE of Truth, JJ.
      https://youtu.be/0CsiBjc0UIA?si=uYvSCvV2lIgE8G6i

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    2. Today's devotion reminds us to Look for a star of guidance in our own life, and be willing to follow wherever God leads. He Is The Light from on high that dawns upon us, to guide our feet into the way of Peace and VICTORY!
      1 Corinthians 15 reminds us to thank God for all of this! It is He who makes us VICTORIOUS through Jesus Christ our Lord!
      To celebrate Advent on the 22nd day of this celebratory month, I plan to give JESUS "V" gifts of:

      Thankfully Remembering all the days I prayed for all the VERY things I have right now!

      And VICTORY IN JESUS!
      https://youtu.be/9cO3h7KsDR0?si=cuJ2vBAxVIky85jh

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    3. Oh, Brie, best word and the song ever, VICTORY in Jesus. I just love saying that. Thank you for posting the Voice of Truth. Not sure how to make that happen from my phone, but my Lord God ALWAYS makes sure you are in the right place at the right time! HALLELUJAH!!!

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    4. Amen and Hallelujah JJ and Brie! Wonderful words to lift us up today in Jesus! As we praise the LORD with our VOICE in His VICTORY, may we VALUE Him VIVACIOUSLY! And may His glory shine VERY VIBRANTLY!

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    5. Thanks JJ, Brie and Janet! All great "v" gifts to the Lord. And I absolutely loved the song. I choose to listen to the Voice of Truth that tells me not to be afraid. I have a lot on my plate but God is greater. My brother and his family just lost their dog to a kidney failure and my other brother's dog is going blind from diabetes. Praying for God to cover them both with comfort and guidance. May He comfort Tommy and his family and heal Frankie's dog, little Domino and restore her sight in Jesus' Name. Amen Trusting in our Way Maker and leaning on His Word and Promises. He is faithful and we put our trust in Him. We are of great VALUE to Him so we are blessed. Enjoy your new day. God will give us the strength we need to accomplish all we must. Thank You Jesus.

      Psalm 46:1
      “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

      Psalm 34:17
      “When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.”

      Isaiah 40:31
      “But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

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    6. No worrries JJ. Glad I could be of VALUE to you. Just passing along the VALUE that Audra was for me when she posted links to songs I referred to, until I learned to do it from my cell!
      We have one another as Our Father has us. I am just trying to VALIDATE today's devotion, "Singing praises to My Holy Name." And sing I did!
      Thanks for the original songs found in the Psalms, Jeanne!
      Along with Janet, I am using my VOICE to VOCALIZE songs that VERY VIBRANTLY VALUE Him VIVACIOUSLY. Another gift I can bring to Him on V-day.

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  47. A great hymn that came to my mind is:
    Victory in Jesus, my Savior forever. He sought me and bought me with His redeeming blood...

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    1. I was thinking this morning we are made Victorious in Him! You made me smile because we are of one accord. Love you, Sis.

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    2. Yes Janet, and here is the link to one of the many recorded VERSIONS of that song🎵
      May it bless us all as we 'sing praises to His Holy Name':
      VICTORY IN JESUS!
      https://youtu.be/9cO3h7KsDR0?si=cuJ2vBAxVIky85jh

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  48. Dear Heavenly Father, my efforts continue at developing contemplative prayer. Sometimes I think I need to "show up, listen up and shut up" ! I spend so much time in prayer talking and asking for blessings (which is good, I realize this) but sometimes I need to wait for a response. My heart needs to be open and just "be" in HIS presence. An open heart for God's response. When I follow God's will/path, my path is already blessed! Thank you Jesus. Amen.

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    1. Gathering in with you, ABC, and with Chris Payton's Prayer
      [Take 3 minutes, close your eyes, and be quiet before the Creator.] I Can Only Imagine, if we all silence our VOICES for 3 minutes, There'll be A Quiet Hush All Over The World. In Jesus' Name.AMEN!

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    2. ABC, the same discussion/prayer I was having with a friend yesterday. May we all find our way in solitude to VISIT with our friend and Savior Jesus!

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  49. Sometimes after pouring out my heart to Him, I rest and feel His understanding and peace surround me and that is His response. Kinda like a big warm tight hug from above. I have felt Him say: All is good, stay with Me.

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  50. Jus watched a rerun of King of Kings, and although it is Christmas time, it was a good reminder that each of us is like Barabbas; Jesus paid the price for his freedom.

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  51. Taking time to hop on here with all of you VIVACIOUS Believers! My heart swells with love for this blog that Chris Peyton started so many years ago. THANK YOU!!
    I am praying for all of you and with all of you, as we celebrate our loving Father and His Son Christ Jesus. I thank you for your prayers and kindness to me and my Dear Husband (ie Best Man). He is feeling so good and his surgery has been rescheduled for January 17th, 3 days after his 80th birthday which I shared a few days ago. My evaluation was postponed until after the new year and God only knows - maybe Christ will return before all of that!
    Merry Christmas, loved ones. I thank each of you for all you contribute on these God Blessed pages. Merry CHRISTmas!

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  52. Replies
    1. Mery Christmas to you, Norah and to ALL this AWESOME JCFAMILY. Speaking Love, Life, and Abundant Blessings over all!

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  53. With my soul I have desired You in the night, yes, by my spirit within me I will seek You early; for when Your judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness. (Isaiah 26:9).

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    1. Good food, dear Janet. Thank you. Seeking Him early with you and our dear family here.

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  54. Being still in the morning, giving thankfulness for this day, gratitude for the days ahead. May my soul and spirit continue to feel His presence and listen as He speaks. Amen 🙏

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    1. Amen! This morning I woke to the bright sun shining and I thanked God for all He has set before me and all He was preparing for me. . I was up too late being the Christmas elf and God helped me get a lot done. I prayed while I wrapped. I’m so sad because my grandson was very sick yesterday and last night with a stomach bug. I’ve been praying for a miracle. I know we can’t have a sick child here on Christmas Eve and my other sonsc can’t come till the 28th. When I posted about it, I was so sleepy that I posted it in tomorrow’s blog. Oh well. God can do anything so I asked Him to heal him, keep everyone from catching it and keep him from being contagious. I’ve been looking forward to being with Greg’s family and my grands for weeks. Giving it all to God! Remaining hopeful because He can do all things. Thank You Lord.

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  55. Christmas blessings to each of the JC family….may you be filled with the very nature of God. We are thankful for good reports at Mayo for both my daughter (3 month scan), and husband (hip replacement). God is SO SO good and worthy to be praised, and he hears our prayers. Blessings to you all!

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    1. Praise God! And what a wonderful time of year to receive ‘good news’. ❤️

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    2. Good of SO, SO GOOD! Christmas blessings to you and your family, Ellen thank you for the praise report! 👍🙏👏✝️⭐🎄♥️

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    3. Amen dear Ellen! God is so good! I have kept you and your husband and daughter in my prayers and I’m so thankful for this good news. May God continue to cover you and your family with His faithfulness! Thank You Jesus!

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    4. I have kept you and yours in continual prayer, Ellen. Thank you for telling us the GOoD News!

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    5. Just praising the Lord, Ellen, for your praise report. Our Lord is watching over His Word to perform it. NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST US SHALL PROSPER AND BY HIS STIPES WE ARE HEALED!
      HALLELUJAH!!!

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  56. Thank you for your prayer directive today. Wonderful. He is the light and in Him is no darkness at all. May He breathe life into every person we are praying for and those we have prayed for in the past and those we will pray for in the future. God bless you all. Merry Christmas.

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    1. Amen dear Anonymous! Beautiful and heartfelt prayer! May God answer your prayers and bless you and your dear ones in all ways.

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  57. AMEN! Thank you for your all inclusive prayer this morning!

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  58. Please pray with me, JC Family. Feeling a little under the weather and I have NO time for this! Sore throat, achy, little cough - but SO much to do for Fam on 12/24 and 12/25. Praying for all of you and thanking God for healing. Praying for you little grandson, Jeanne!! And giving thanks for your good news, Ellen.
    Sleep sweet, Dear JC Fam...God is on the Night Watch.

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    1. Love,
      Norah! (as if you didn't know!) :)

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  59. Father God, Thank You for healing our dear Norah in every way! Take away her sore throat and cough! May she wake up in the morning feeling better than ever with a thankful heart. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen

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