A few years ago, I compiled the blogs I had written up to that point, into two volumes. These encouragements from God’s Word are as true today as back then–and they will remain so throughout all eternity. For God’s Love never changes. (Available at Amazonbooks.com and also archived on my website, brendapoulosauthor.com and archived on spiritual snippets.com
John 3:16- “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believes in him will have everlasting life.”
Ecclesiastes 4:12- “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
In elementary school, I had two best friends. We did everything together. We defended and protected one another. We were a living example of a cord of three strands.
I have two sisters. We have always been close. When my parents passed away, we were able to support and comfort one another. Another example of a cord of three strands.
I am married to a good Christian man. We take care of, encourage, comfort, and uphold one another. Together, we are a cord of two strands. However, because we share a common faith, God forms the third cord in our relationship.
When hard times come, when sorrow invades our lives, when physical ailments might otherwise tear us apart, the strong bond of three strands preserves us because…
A CORD OF THREE STRANDS IS NOT EASILY BROKEN.
James 4:10- “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”
The Bible tells us that each of us is uniquely gifted by God. I have a brother-in-law who is a genius. I know a couple of people who are hysterically funny. I have a friend whose smile is a wonder to behold. Several others are gifted public speakers/teachers. My great niece is a remarkable artist.
Politicians, celebrities, sports stars, singers, models—even authors—often get attention that makes it difficult to remain humble. Sometimes those receiving attention get caught up in the “glory” of the moment, forgetting the One who blessed them with their good looks, talent, or unusual skill.
However, there have been times I have seen a football player or a contestant on a talent show, look up or raise their hands, giving God the glory for their performance. My heart swells in gratitude for them because their small gesture speaks volumes.
Even though we may not be the recipients of public acclaim, we can be assured that when we recognize God’s hand in our accomplishments, He sees our hearts.
It is God whose voice will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
2 Corinthians 4:6- For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.”
Yesterday, I got a surprise visit from my sisters on FACETIME. Seeing them really made my day. It was almost as good as physically being with them, except that our conversation didn’t end with a hug!
I look forward to the day when I stand in the presence of our Lord and see him face to face. I cannot even imagine what it will be like to actually see him!
Now, Christians, we see him with eyes of faith, but one day his promise to us will be fulfilled and we will see him glorified!!!!
1 Samuel 16:13- “Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers.”
Tomorrow
MLK Day
Inauguration Day
The American President is not a king, and an inauguration is not a coronation, but it does spark a memory of kings in “Bible Times.”
Specifically, I recall how God chose David to be King from among his eight older brothers.
David was called a man after God’s own heart. He was obedient, had great faith and trusted God. Those qualities made him the leader God wanted for Israel.
Like David, each of us has been chosen by God—created for a specific purpose. And once His plan has been discovered, faith and trust in God is essential in carrying it out.
Are you facing a crossroads today? Are you unsure what God’s perfect plan is for your life? Or, do you even question whether there is such a plan at all?
The answer is in the Bible. He desires to work in the world through us.
Let His Word lead you to a New Beginning.
Acts 4:32- “All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.”
The fires in California have dominated the news the last ten days or so. Our hearts and prayers go out to those who have lost homes and loved ones.
Just as in the wake of other disasters (tornados, hurricanes, flooding, and so on) a common thread runs through many of the stories.
Neighbor helping neighbor.
It is a beautiful thing to see, isn’t it?
The verse in Acts 4 tells us of a time when pooling of resources was common place. The people shared everything they had with one another.
Let’s not wait for disasters to strike. Let us take up the mantle of caring for our neighbors in times of our own prosperity.
Let us be of “one heart and one mind.”
2 Corinthians 9:7-“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
On December 26th, our granddaughter had an emergency c-section to deliver her twins at 24 weeks. It was a rough start and one of the girls has since died. The second twin is holding her own in St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona.
This is a devastating and costly situation for the baby’s parents, since she was born weighing one pound and may need to be in the hospital for several months.
They have started a GoFundMe webpage, asking for donations to help with the astronomical costs they are facing in the days and months ahead. If you are able to help by donating any amount, would you please consider doing so? Although the site lists the donation amounts, you are able to remain anonymous from everyone but the parents.
I have placed the link for Skylare, Jason, and baby Sage here:
Don’t feel obligated to give, but I understand that these GoFundMe sites are used quite commonly nowadays and are very secure. None of your financial information is saved, but please know how much even a small donation will help.
Thank you!
Brenda
Isaiah 66: 12a, and 13a– “For this is what the LORD says: ‘I will extend peace to her like a river… and as a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you’…”
Have you had the experience of reading Bible verses which seemed to be direct messages of encouragement for you at a specific time in your life?
That’s what happened to me this week.
I had been reading a chapter a day in the book of Isaiah for the past 65 days. Sitting down to read the final chapter on day 66, I read the verses I am sharing with you today.
But before I opened my Bible, we got a phone message.
Our great-granddaughters (twins) were born on Christmas at 24 weeks. They were 1 lb each. We prayed, immediately. However, it wasn’t until a few hours later that I read the message of peace and hope in Isaiah.
I texted my granddaughter with the words of encouragement.
If you are going through something today that seems to be overwhelming, remember that God is good. He is with you. He will make a way.
Matthew 2: 1,2- After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”
A couple of years ago, I joined a number of my author friends in writing short stories with a Christmas theme. If you are in need of a heartfelt gift for a special friend who enjoys reading, I recommend Christmas Tapestry. It is available in paperback and e-book from Amazon.
Romans 5:8- “But God demonstrated his love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
I have read comments about the recent pardoning of criminals, politicians, and so on.
This post is NOT to state my opinions on them.
It is simply a post on the subject of pardoning, which means to remove the punishment for crimes or wrongdoing.
EVERY SINGLE PERSON THAT HAS EVER LIVED HAS COMMITTED SINS.
But Jesus died on the cross in our place, taking upon himself our punishment. He didn’t do it because of our innocence. (If we had been innocent, there would have been no need for him to become a sacrifice for our sins)!
This verse in the book of Romans tells us that He didn’t pardon us based on merit or because He believed we were innocent.
By pardoning us, God demonstrated His love for us.
He pardoned us without condition. Without us deserving it.
Because of His Great Love.
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