Our Father

It's Father's Day! It is time to show appreciation for dad with handmade and store bought gifts, cards, and meals. Really though, most dads just appreciate spending time with their kids, especially dads with young adult and older adult children. It is often difficult for dads to spend time with their children because work and life get in the way for dad's and for their adult children.

Just like our earthly father enjoys time spent with their children, our Heavenly Father does as well. He wants nothing more than to have a close relationship with each one of them. He wants them to be healthy, happy, and to live life to the fullest. He sees the potential in each one of his children and longs for them to live up to the potential they have. If you are one who spends time with him, you undoubtedly know the sounds of his voice, the tender touch of his embrace and long to spend time with him each day.

Our Father is gracious; he is tender hearted, kind, patient and loving. Our Father is available, able and strong. He knows you. In fact, he created you. Our Father wants to hear from you daily and often. He loves when you check in to just say thank you and tell others about all he has done for you. He is interested in you and watches over you. Even when you are too busy for him, he thinks about you and wonders when you will be spending time with him. After all, he has provided you with all you have and he loves you so very much. Earthly fathers are wonderful but none can compare to our Heavenly Father the Most High King of Kings.

For the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. John 16:27

First Place

If you have ever watched a sporting event, young children playing a game or any competition you know the reality of individuals wanting to be in first place. First place means being the best. It signifies success and importance. People make huge sacrifices in an attempt to achieve first place. There is a lot of significance attributed to to being first. In fact, it is the most important thing to chase after and aspire to for many people. For some, being number one can become a life goal that monopolizes their time and energy.

Your life will become one of balance and purpose when Jesus Christ is your first priority. With Jesus as your #1 focus you will find that everything falls into place. Set him as your true north and remarkably, you will never be lost. He will meet your needs and lead you.  Let's face it, you are God's top priority. After all, Jesus gave his life for you. What more can someone do to prove just how important you are to them?  

No matter what life throws your way, keep your eyes and heart set on the Lord. When you do you will be sure to achieve the first place prize of an eternity with Christ.

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33

Running the Race 

Are you the athletic type or do you prefer armchair sports viewing? Either
way, if you are a sports enthusiast  you understand the focus and sacrifice required by athletes to compete and win. It takes training, constant
practice, energy, and unrelenting determination to endure to
the point of victory. 

The same holds true for running the Christian race. In order to run the race you will need energy, commitment, perseverance, and mental fitness. It is not always
easy or fun. Sacrifice and persistence are required. The rewards for running the race, however, far exceed anything you could imagine. Have you the stamina, and determination to make it to the finish line? Don't give up and never give in. The race is challenging but you can finish in style as long as you stay on track. Don't worry. Jesus Christ is your personal coach. He will be right beside you all the way and will even cheer you on. Ready? Set?

Okay, off you go!

I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith! 2 Timothy 4:7

By His Grace

Grace is God's divine solution to provide you the comfort and blessing you need while you are here on earth. It is God's unmerited favor or kindness that you are given even though you don't deserve it. Those that love and follow Jesus are granted grace that abounds. It is said that GRACE stands for God's Riches At Christ's Expense. What an incredible blessing for those that love the Lord! 

God has a way of  extending his hand in your life in big and small ways.So had do you know when God's grace is on display? It happens every day. You may not notice it but then again you may. Perhaps you have found yourself in life situations saying "Thank God" such and such occurred or "that happened by the grace of God". When you have those experiences, God's grace had been poured out for you. 

The next time you find yourself feeling worried, scared, or unworthy remember that you are a child of the Divine King of Kings and therefore have the gift of God's grace in all situations. Knowing this should allow you to realize you are a one of a kind treasure
 to your Heavenly Father. Wishing you days and nights filled to the brim with God's grace.

 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16

Glory

Webster's dictionary defines "glory" as honor or heavenly bliss. Many today seek their own glory. They pursue fame, fortune, and riches.  There is a lack of understanding of the things of God or for serving and following God.  Sadly, many deny that God even exists and see no reason to glorify anyone but themselves and those they idolize. They fail to realize that God is in control and so they live for themselves and chase shallow dreams and empty promises. Glory achieved this way is short lived and results in disappointment and despair. 

This is so very far from what God intended. The truth is that loving God and living for Him is truly glorious! When you live to glorify God, He responds by providing overwhelming joy. 
 When you know His Son Jesus Christ, and have the Holy Spirit within you, His glory shines through. His glory is great, bold and heavenly. Nothing can compare! Nor can anything compare to the gifts He bestows on us when we live to glorify him. 

"Not to us, O Lord, not to us but to Your name give glory, for Your mercy and loving-kindness and for the sake of Your truth and faithfulness!" Psalm 115:1